Asia nuances

Kimberly Edwards’ letter “Tips for Communicating in Japan” (Nov. ’10, pg. 12) contains a lot of good advice, much of which is applicable throughout Asia. From my own experience, I would add an additional suggestion: never ask a question that can be answered with a ‘yes’ or ‘no.’

The person behind the desk often will have no clue about what you are asking, but his or her response will almost invariably be ‘Yes,’ because a ‘no’ or a request for clarification would be insulting to the distinguished foreign visitor (that’s you!).

For example, if you are trying to find out whether a reservation has been made for your return trip, ask a question which requires a specific answer: ‘What is the number of my flight?’, ‘When does the flight depart?’ or ‘What is my assigned seat?’ Do not simply ask, ‘Do I have a seat assignment?’

It is almost like a process of cross-examination, but, I have found, it is the only way to get reliable information.

IRVING E. DAYTON
Corvallis, OR