Everywhere I go, I work at the language.  I've never really mastered a second language mind you, but my few functioning neurons are crowded with a confusing array of foreign phrases learned by rote and used at the slightest provocation.  It's more about good will than communication. When you at least attempt to speak their language, even if you butcher it in the process, people are friendlier.

Language was most difficult in China, where my garbled efforts often evoked bemused looks, concealed smiles, or outright laughter. I didn't mind really. A person laughing at you will soon be laughing with you if you join in. And besides, there were any number of Chinese eager to perfect their own fractured English on me.

Shanghai has a booming market for translators. English signs are all over the place, often with a mixed message. Like those on a nearby restaurant. The place was named "Smart Noshery," in an apparent bid for the western expat trade, and an English slogan graced the marquee and was repeated on all three large windows.  (In case the two foot high letters on the marquee were too subtle, I suppose.)

I think the intended sentiment was, "try our mouth-watering food."  The result was a bit different.

Disclaimer: I have a lot of these pictures, and Adventures in Chinglish may become a regular feature here.  However, in the interest of fairness, I should point out that I'm sure my own cultural mistakes were as comical to the Chinese as any photos you will see here.