language barrier

By: jé judson July 5, 2013February 26, 2020

Wanderinternational travel, language barrier, South Africa1 Comment

Language is a funny thing. You can say a lot in a few words, you can say nothing in a 20-minute speech, and you can even shout without even opening your mouth–with just a glance or a gesture. They say that some things are universal, like a smile, but even that can belie one’s true…

Meet the Parents; or My Unexpected Language Immersion Trip

By: jé judson June 18, 2013March 7, 2020

WanderEthiopian, ethnic cuisine, family, language barrier, relationships, road trip, South Africa, travel1 Comment

This is my third time visiting South Africa and this time I wanted to see the other side of the country; see Johannesburg. We could’ve flown, but I like road trips, so we packed up the car and made the 15 hour drive. Unfortunately, I couldn’t help Efrem drive because I can’t drive a manual…

The Importance of Language

By: jé judson July 20, 2012February 27, 2020

Wandercommunication, international travel, language barrier, South AfricaLeave a Comment

I’ve always had a real desire to learn other languages, and I think I have a pretty good knack for it when I actually get into intensive study. Over the course of my schooling, I’ve studied French (the most), Spanish, and Portuguese (while abroad). The only language I’ve really managed to retain is Portuguese given that…

Made in Taiwan

By: jé judson May 30, 2012March 1, 2020

Wandercultural exchange, international travel, language barrier, personal growth, public health, TaiwanLeave a Comment

(Written yesterday in Tokyo-Narita Airport) I am finally en route back to the United States and I will say my first excursion to the continent of Asia has exceeded all of my expectations. I never really cared too much about coming to this part of the world. My first priorities were always the continent of…