Talking to strangers

Boadicea

When we lived in rural France it was normal to say "bonjour" to everyone in general when going into a shop or bakery - if you didn't they would pointedly say it to you. The same when passing a stranger in the street.
Moving back to England I would do the same at first but often got funny looks or people would just put their heads down and avoid eye contact. Very sad.
I often end up in conversation with strangers and "oversharing". It's common with ADHD!

When I went on holiday to visit an Italian friend of mine I was informed by her that shopkeepers would be expecting me to greet them when I walked into their shop. I'm not sure how often I remembered - but I tried to make sure I did....

I always acknowledge the person behind the counter when I go into a small shop. I thought most people did? Then a quick thank you when I leave. Same when getting on and off a bus. I must say I’ve rarely come across anyone putting their head down and avoiding eye contact in this country.

Oh my goodness, how dreadfully sad Primrose52 ….☹️🥰

Maremia

On buses, yes, also trains, but never planes. Wonder why not?
More stress, being on a plane?

@#££"

I have spent whole flights chatting to the person next to me. Actually one was quite annoying as I hadn't had much sleep an was hoping for some shuteye. Once I was talking to someone who had just opened a guest house in the black forest. He told me the name but I stupidly forgot it. Shame, it would have been ideal for a weekend away.

Another time I sat next to a lady who was flying to England to interview Ken Follett for a magazine. I didn't know who Ken Follett was! (But I have enjoyed his books since.)

Can't remember any interesting conversations on trains or buses.

Yes happens again lot.
My husband said once that if I stood next to a lamp post there would be a conversation

For many years I worked with people who had a learning disability, just about every time I was out and about someone with learning disability would come and chat to me. Even away from home on holiday it happened, my family thought I had some sort of welcome aura.

Yes I have found that strangers will strike up a conversation and almost tell me their life history. I think sometimes some people just want to be listened to.

Yes I do come across this, my issues are probably more than theirs, however, they just probably want to chat. Can't we just afford them some time to chat. No criticising, no judgement. We can't change the world but we can listen