On 26 Mar, 11:50, Graeme Wall wrote:
Generally, you don't have to know the local language to buy
something, gestures of yes and no, indicating numbers by figures or
the amount of money would be enough.

And especially in a supermarket you don't talk to the shelves but
take what you want.

And speaking some other language than German might be an advantage
when the sales personnel originates from a country whose language you
master.

You don't have to take everything quite so literally...

As for your last paragraph, I speak rather less Turkish than German.

Oddly enough, I've just successfully purchased six months' supply of
contact lenses [at 1/3 of UK opticians' prices for the same brand made
in the same US factory. Can we wind up that cartel next please?], some
groceries and toiletries, and a toasted sandwich - all from people who
speak Turkish and no English.

I'm in Istanbul rather than Frankfurt though

--
John Band
john at johnband dot org
www.johnband.org