When you are waiting around for somebody at a station it seems like a waste of time. But it isn't. You can be learning the names of main roads through the city, observing the opening hours of shops and malls and banks and food stalls, and reading all kinds of directions, from the numbers on bus stops, to what worries local people.
Answer
If you need a topic of conversation for small talk when meeting new people, you can admire the local trees or buildings, discuss wild and tame animals, the success and problems for local business, even whether people seem well dressed or in need of help.
If you are in a foreign country, or even your own, looking at local shops, buildings and architecture, people, food, posters, invitations and offers, and warning, and statistics, can provide useful information on the local area, health, safety, finance, and lifestyles and life in all parts of the globe.
Story
I was waiting to be collected from a station in Singapore, which seemed like a waste of five minutes of time, when I made good use of the time by going up to the nearest window and reading the poster. I saw this poster about Rabies.
Tips
The poster reminded of advice I read years ago about not approaching stray dogs (unless you are a vet or RSPCA or similar professional and wearing protective clothing). The advice included warning children not to approach stray dogs.
More information from:
www.ava.gov.sg
Author
Angela Lansbury, travel writer and photographer, author and speaker.
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