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YouTuber’s Welsh Language Skills Earn Him Freebies in Wales
A video creator known as Xiaomanyc discovered the advantages of linguistic courtesy while travelling in Wales. His ability to converse in Welsh, a language with ancient roots in Britain, impressed locals so much that they offered him complimentary items and experiences. This occurred despite English being widely spoken across the UK, highlighting the enduring importance of regional languages like Welsh and other Celtic tongues, including Cornish and Scottish Gaelic.
Welsh Hospitality and Linguistic Appreciation
In a video documenting his visit to a Welsh-speaking community in north-west Wales, Xiaomanyc recounted receiving numerous free items due to his efforts to speak Welsh. He explained, “There’s nothing more British than tea, crumpets, and the English language. Well, unless you count the Welsh language, which has been spoken in Britain for millennia, predating English.” He embarked on this linguistic adventure to engage with the “ancient tongue” in a region where Welsh remains prevalent.
His experiences included interactions with various groups:
- A rugby team
- A rowing team
- A sheep farmer
Despite acknowledging the pronunciation challenges of the language, Xiaomanyc emphasized that “it’s well worth the effort” to communicate in Welsh.
Encounters and Generosity
Initially, the language learner’s efforts faced a minor setback when he inadvertently used an inappropriate word with his guide. However, the situation quickly improved. In one instance, a local woman, having seen his social media, pursued him to offer a complimentary coffee. Subsequently, a bakery gifted him an assortment of goods, including traditional Welsh Cakes.
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“Everything is free in Wales, when I speak Welsh,” the surprised YouTuber declared.
Despite attempting to pay for food later, he was repeatedly met with “Welsh hospitality,” being told the items were complimentary.
“No one lets me pay for food in Wales,” Xiaomanyc observed.
Scottish Dialect and Pub Reactions
In a separate online video, Xiaomanyc explored Scotland, venturing into a pub where he ordered whisky using an old Scots dialect. This linguistic attempt was met with enthusiastic approval from the pub patrons.
Exploring the Doric Dialect
Xiaomanyc described his journey through the Scottish countryside, “learning and speaking the ancient and increasingly rare dialect known as Doric.” He noted its unique character, influenced by Viking and Old Norse origins, distinguishing it from other dialects he had encountered.
His linguistic exploration led him to the Balaclava Bar in Fraserburgh, where he ordered whisky in Doric.
A fellow patron helpfully pointed out a more economical whisky option.
Xiaomanyc admitted to occasionally missing parts of the local conversations, remarking, “I like how the people speak here. But it’s hard to understand, if you’re not from here,” acknowledging the challenges yet appreciating the distinctiveness of the Scots dialect.