Is it common to ask for directions?
I was in Sydney recently, and my map was giving me some serious trouble. I ended up asking a few random people nearby for help with directions. Surprisingly, many of them looked quite taken aback. One guy even just stood there, frozen, staring into my eyes for a few seconds! I simply said, “excuse me” – of course, in a polite manner. What about me made them feel scared or uncomfortable? 😂
It’s not unusual to ask for directions! Many people do it when they’re lost or confused. However, cultural differences can play a role in how it’s perceived. In some places, people might not be used to strangers approaching them with questions, which can lead to surprise or hesitation. It’s possible that your friendly approach caught them off guard, especially if they weren’t expecting someone to engage with them. It might also depend on their personal experiences or comfort levels with strangers. Don’t take it too personally—sometimes, a simple request can just be a little unexpected!