I’ve had quite a few awkward conversations while I have been here. The ones below are the most recent ones that stand out in my mind.

CONVERSATION 1. Occurred with Dr. RRK and Dr. Oden nearby at the Gaborone Sun… I’m not completely sure these are the exact words; the entire conversation was so confusing. Also, Sanitas Restaurant is very well known.
Taxi driver: (random guy in a suit who came up to us with a full glass of milk tea in his hand) Where to?
Dr. RRK: Sanitas
Taxi driver: Where to?
Dr. Oden: Sanitas Restaurant
Taxi driver: Eh?
Dr. RRK: Are you a taxi driver?
Taxi driver: Yes! I have been driving for six years! I was just ordering this drink when this man came in and told me you need a driver. Six years of driving experience! Where go?
Me: We’re going to Sanitas. It’s in the Garden Center.
Taxi driver: Eh, *says something very fast with a thick accent*
Me: Sorry?
Taxi driver: Ah! DO YOU SPEAK ENGLISH?!
(Dr. RRK & Dr. Oden decided that we should not use him as a taxi driver.)

 

CONVERSATION 2. At Bontleng clinic, when I first met one of the nurses in the See-And-Treat room.
Susan (the nurse): You have an African body.
Me: Huh? How so?
Susan: (she pats her hips)
Me: Oh, haha………… yeah, I’m supposed to be like this (I put my arms straight down parallel to each other)
Susan: That is why I say you have an African body.

 

CONVERSATION 3. Outside the restrooms in the IDCC. I was waiting for the one that’s “Staff Only,” and there was another lady waiting for the one that’s “Patients Only.” Another lady comes up and says something to the first one.
Woman 2: Ahyuindacue. Hello? I am speaking to you.
Me: Oh! Sorry, what did you say?
Woman 2: Ahyuindacue.
Me: I’m sorry, I don’t speak Setswana.
Woman 2: Aie! I am not speaking Setswana. I am speaking English to you! I said, “Are you in the queue?”
Me: OH! No, I’m not. Sorry, I’m not used to hearing the word “queue” in American English..