Blog
Being a Polyglot and the Subtle Art of Cultural Switching
Ever met someone who can translate perfectly but still misses the vibe of what’s being said?
It got me thinking — are we cultural chameleons, adapting seamlessly to different worlds? Or are we just translating parrots, repeating words beautifully without truly absorbing the culture behind them? 🦜
But beyond the words, there’s something deeper: every language brings out a slightly different me
The Real Intercultural Experts? Tour Guides building trust
After traveling for two weeks through Vietnam and Cambodia, I realized something unexpected: The real intercultural experts aren’t consultants or researchers they’re tour guides.
Think about it: A good tour guide meets people from dozens of nationalities, spends hours (or entire days) with them, and knows that, in the end, it’s all about those tips. 😉
Time isn’t neutral. It’s cultural: Both approaches work, just differently
1- ROLEX cultures (very punctual, very structured):
Time is precise. Meetings start when scheduled, end when planned, and calendars are commitments. If it’s in the calendar, it’s basically a contract. Changing plans at the last minute? That can feel disrespectful, chaotic, or… mildly alarming.
GOLDEN RULE: Time is money = be efficient.
When Time Speaks Louder Than Words: What Your Calendar Reveals About Culture
What does your calendar say about your culture? And no, I’m not just talking about being “on time.”
Growing up German–Colombian, I learned early on that time means very different things depending on where you are in the world. I can navigate German precision with ease—schedules are sacred, punctuality is respect. But I can just as naturally interpret what’s really behind a simple word like “ahorita.”