Paris Scene 2

Well, that was a nice hotel. I slept really well.

Me too. OK, time to see more of Paris. Is there anything especially you want to see?

Everywhere! I’d love to see Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe. Let’s go. This way, I think.

C’est combien, s’il vous plaît? Merci. See, Ashlie, I told you I can make myself understood. It’s all about confidence. I’m going to keep practising and I’m not going to worry about making a few mistakes. People understand me and that’s the main thing.

Yeah, right, and you’re confident, OK. Now listen, we’ve done some touristy places. Now it’s time to do some shopping!

I read on the internet about a great area. It’s where you can meet artists. It’s near the river. I think it’s called the Left Bank?

Hey, why don’t you ask someone for directions? Remember, it’s all about confidence.

Excusez-moi. Bonjour.

Bonjour.

Combien le portrait?

Cent cinquante.

Cent cinquante ah, a hundred and fifty euros.

That’s right. One hundred and fifty euros. Your French is pretty good.

Thank you. Well, I’m trying my best. Your English is very good.

Well, I’m French but I use English a lot. English is a really useful language. Around here there are a lot of tourists so they often speak to me in English.

Yes, I guess we’re lucky that some people speak English but today I’m hoping to improve my French. I need to speak more and not worry too much about making mistakes.

Ah yes, you can always improve. You never stop learning. I always pick up new words talking to tourists and learning a language is so important, I think.

I know what you mean.

So would you like to buy a painting? I mean, voudriez-vous

Thanks, but it’s a bit expensive.

Hi, Stephen.

Oh, hi, Ash. Good luck with your practice!

You too.

Right, I’m almost done with my shopping.

Wow, you have been busy.

Yes, and my French is really improving. I bought all of these using your phrase book. I just need to get something else. I need to get something from that shop over there. Look, you wait here and I’ll be back in a moment.

OK, Stephen, I wanted to get you something special, something to remind you of our trip to Paris.

Oh, that’s nice, Ash. What’s that?

Oh, you look great, Stephen!

Merci beaucoup.

And now I know that that means ‘Thank you very much’ in French.