The International Couple

From the table next to me came a booming voice: “I bet you’re the best at speaking Japanese at your company” said the Japanese boyfriend with his mouth full of food. I should note that he referred to his girlfriend as omae which is the impolite version of “you.” It’s common to use this version of “you” with friends and partners if you’re particularly close, but it can still be seen as rude or a bit rough.

“Not at all,” answered the non-Japanese girlfriend, “everyone speaks quite well.”

“Oh really, who’s the best? Come on, come on tell me”, continued the boyfriend whilst chewing with his mouth open.

The girl seemed to be feeling increasingly embarrassed by the power of her boyfriend’s voice as they were beginning to attract a few stares.

Without waiting for the girl’s answer, the young man moved on to his next question. “I really do wonder, why do so many foreigners come to eat food in IKEA? I mean it’s foreign food isn’t it haha, they can get it in their own countries. Are they like addicted to IKEA food in foreign countries haha?” I should add that he kept looking at me whilst speaking to his girlfriend, all while laughing and spraying his food across half the table. He continued addressing his girlfriend, “you’re foreign, you should know! Come on, why don’t you know?” The girlfriend smiled and shrugged her shoulders.

We all have different romantic tastes, but girl, really? This guy? At least find thee a man who chews with his mouth closed.

Note: Personal theories as to why the IKEA canteen is popular with international residents and tourists.

1. Swedes like me who crave the taste of meatballs and lingon.
2. Lost tourists who simply want to enjoy a cinnamon bun and the drink bar in a well-ventilated open space.
3. Salaries in Japan have been stagnant for 40 years. IKEA is cheap!
4. Where else can you overhear such exciting conversations?
5. Seriously though, it’s cheap.