Did You Know # 2
- It is usual and considered polite by Xhosa people to seat yourself quietly and unobtrusively, rather then wait to be asked to sit – standing in someone’s home on arrival is considered impolite, aggressive and implies that you have come to pick a quarrel.
- This is interesting in its contrast to western culture, where it is considered good manners to wait until you are asked to be seated or offered a seat.
- So next time you interview or host a Xhosa person, make sure to have a seat available as soon as they enter.
The Travel Blog Editor says:
" From a personal point of view I had a Xhosa family of 4 visit me a few months back and when I opened the door they all walked in directly and sat down on the couch without waiting to be invited - this struck me as very unusual compared to my own culture of waiting to be offered a seat, but in every other way the members of the family where completely polite. I then found out this fact that what they did is considered very good manners and it all made sense! It is so interesting and also important to understand one another before jumping to conclusions!"
The above fascinating fact comes from UBuntu Bridge, a website dedicated to helping English speakers learn Xhosa, as well as educating users on South African cultures.
UBUNTU BRIDGE
UBuntu Bridge also offers beginners and advanced courses in conversational Xhosa in Cape Town. Herewith info on the next beginners' course starting this coming Monday.
BEGINNERS (LEVEL 1 AND 2 - Newlands Evening Class)
Description:
Twice weekly 12 lesson course (6 weeks), covering the Beginners CDs 1 and 2. Taught by Harrison Makubalo and/or Craig Charnock.
Times and Dates:
Classes are on Mondays and Thursdays, 18h30 - 20h00.
From Monday 19 July - Monday 30 August 2010. (No class on Monday 9th August - Women's Day)
Venue:
Lesley Charnock's Art studio/gallery in Montebello Design Centre, off Newlands Avenue, Newlands, Cape Town.
Investment: R1350
Early Price R1250, if paid before or on Wednesday 14 July.
Students/People younger then 25 and older then 60 - R1200.
12 lessons, email support, culture lessons, 2 Audio Cds and 2 A5 Manuals included. Complementary Xhosa Phrases and Pin-up phrases emailed to you.
More information of visiting townships in South Africa
South African Township Accommodation
- Spend the night in a township and experience the warm and welcoming hospitality at one of Portfolio Collection's recommended Township Bed and Breakfasts in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
South African Township Activities
