Lost in translation. . .

France
   

June 16, 2008
By Kionna Comer

I have quickly figured out that one of the hardest challenges I have faced while traveling in another country is the language barrier. Things that once seemed easy in America are beginning to get oh-so-difficult for me here in France. Nodding and smiling has become my broken version of vocabulary.

On Friday, June 13th I visited Lyon and ate at a French café. Everyone always rants and raves about how amazing French cuisine can be so I was eager to finally get a taste of the delightful food I had heard so much about.

The restaurant was small and quaint, which I loved, but the menu was entirely in French, go figure. I decided to take a leap of faith and step out of my box, so I just ordered something random. Despite the fact that I could not read a thing, I ordered thinking that the long description must mean the meal would be delicious.

I anxiously awaited my plate and decided that since I'd be paying 20  for fabulous cuisine, I was going to eat it no matter what it was. I started with a small bite and convinced myself the meat portion was sausage because it looked just like a German bratwurst.

There were two sides served with the meat dish, including potatoes and a cheesy green onion mixture that resembled America's version of coleslaw.

Little did I know, the meat portion was not sausage. I was actually eating pig intestines in a dish the French call andouilette. What was I thinking? As surprised and disgusted as I was, I had to laugh at how great of a story my traumatic experience would make.

I am loving my visit to France and grateful for the experiences that each day brings but I must admit that the food and language barrier have been a bit intimidating. However, I won't be giving up just yet!

Until next time. . .Kionna Comer.