Meet people from
other countries.

Go beyond “Where are you from?”

A country name tells you less about a person than a conversation does. Ask about something they enjoy: a local dish, a celebration they like or a place they would recommend to a visitor. Let them decide how much location information to share.

Be careful with assumptions. One person’s experience does not represent an entire country, and a familiar stereotype can make an introduction uncomfortable. Questions such as “What is that like for you?” invite a personal answer.

Make the language gap easier

Use short sentences, give each other time and rephrase when something is unclear. Avoid several questions at once. If a joke or expression does not translate well, explain it simply rather than repeating it louder.

You can ask “Would you like me to say that another way?” or “How would you describe it?” The goal is to understand each other, not to test someone’s fluency. HIYAK is a social service; this page does not promise a language tutor, a native speaker or a translation feature in every web version.

Try one of these cross-cultural topics

• Food: What meal reminds you of home?
• Free time: What do you enjoy doing on a quiet weekend?
• Music: Which song would you recommend to someone who has never heard it?
• Traditions: Is there a celebration you especially look forward to?
• Travel: What kind of place would you like to visit next?

Share your own answer too. A conversation feels more equal when both people get to be curious.

Time zones and availability are part of the experience

If you would both like to talk again, agree on a time and include the time zone. Avoid assuming that your evening is theirs. Availability changes, so a specific country or language cannot be guaranteed whenever you open a service.

To begin on HIYAK, open the web service, sign in and review the available call options and coin costs. Keep the first call simple: one new perspective is already a worthwhile start.