People keep asking if I'm learning a new language while in Malaysia. My answer: YES! I'm learning British English. Since Malaysia was colonized by Britain in the 18th century, Malaysian English is descended from British English. Here's what I've learned so far:
Ezra wears nappies.
I use our pram most days.
Ella uses rubbers everyday for her school work. (She wouldn't need them if she didn't make mistakes.)
I use a trolley at the grocery store.
Case's car has a bonnet.
A few weeks ago, the kids and I took a taxi to meet a friend for a playdate. Taxi drivers have been known to rip off unassuming expats, so when my fare differed from what the meter said, I immediately questioned him. He told me that there was a one ringgit boot fee. I didn't think the charge was fair, but I immediately knew what he was talking about and paid it. So, here's a little contest. The first person to leave a comment with the correct answer to why he charged me a boot fee will get a Malaysian souvenir sent to them. Be specific.
5 comments:
Did he charge you because you had something in the trunk?
i'm too guessing that it was a fee for having stuff in the trunk...
I'm guessing the item in the trunk was a stroller. I mean...the item in the boot was a pram. :-)
The Nugents got the answer I was looking for. I had to put my pram in the boot, thus the 1rm boot fee. One Ringgit is less than 30 cents, so it isn't a big deal and I am always willing to tip extra when the driver is helpful. In this case, however, he just popped open his trunk. I had to have Ella hold Ezra, so that I could put my stroller in there.
Haha. I like this game. Let it keep coming!
Karina
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