Segment 65 – Boots On The Ground

As I shuffled the kids off to school this morning, I felt a damp morning chill in the air...” You’ll need your jacket… and maybe your boots,” I mused.

Segment 64 – Interesting Facts About Chinese New Year

Chinese Lunar New Year is right around the corner!  I am so excited to be able to experience the year of the pig in Asia! 

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM HT LOCALIZATION!

Farewell 2018! It has been a memorable year, to say the least... This past year was another record breaking year for HT LOCALIZATION!

Segment 63 – Giving Thanks!  

Happy Thanksgiving!

¡Feliz día de acción de gracias!

感恩节快乐！

Joyeux Action de Graces!

Segment 62 – I Can’t Believe It - Our Dog Is Multi-Lingual!  

Raising a multi-lingual dog is much like raising multi-lingual kids...

Segment 61–  Many Spoken Variations But Only One Written Language  

Have you ever read the 1932 Pulitzer Prize winning novel - The Good Earth, by Pearl S. Buck?  In our modern day, where culture and language intersect, this novel has taken me back to a time when distant travels were just a few miles beyond a town wall...

Segment 60 –  2018 Resolution: Learn A New Language  

Welcome 2018! So here we go, a few weeks into the New Year… do you even remember your resolution for this year? 

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM HT LOCALIZATION!

Wishing you a Happy Holiday as we close another year - We wish you a warm and prosperous 2018 ahead!

Segment 59 – In which language will you watch Star Wars: The Last Jedi?  

Last year when Rogue One was released, I was in Bangkok. I really wanted to see the new Star Wars, but it was tricky being abroad...

Segment 58 – Do you need a translator or an interpreter? 

You are traveling to Asia for a business trip (and cultural exploration), and don’t speak the local language - How will you get by? 

Segment 57 – International Translation Day

September 30th has been declared by the UN Department for General Assembly as International Translations Day. 

A big “Thank You!” to our clients for participating in our survey and taking the time to provide valuable feedback.

Segment 55 – Happy Birthday to HT Localization! Be Bold for Change

We’re excited to celebrate our company’s anniversary this March. As every year, the timing couldn’t be better, as we also celebrate International Women’s Day.

Segment 54 – Does Globalization Still Matter?

Welcome to 2017! Or year 4715, according to the Chinese Lunar New Year calendar

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM HT LOCALIZATION!

Farewell 2016! It has been a memorable year, to say the least... This past year was another record breaking year for HT LOCALIZATION.  Unbelievable!  

Segment 53 – Localization and Graphics – Websites Matter

“If you can’t beat them, hire or acquire them.”

Segment 52 – I Like Your Look! Websites Matter

Remember that old adage “Imitation is the highest form of flattery.”  

Segment 51 – What’s All This Clown Fuss About? 

With Halloween around the corner, everyone is preparing for scary and thrilling festivities...

Segment 50 – September Morning! Welcome to our 4th Blog Season!

“September morn… Do you remember how we danced that night away?
Two lovers playing scenes from some romantic play;
September morning, still can make me feel that way…” – Neil Diamond

Segment 49 – Chinese New Year 2016 – You’ve Been Invited

What if you were suddenly invited to celebrate the holiday with a Chinese friend?

The Year of the Monkey is upon us - the 9th animal in the Chinese 12 animal zodiac cycle. People born in the Year of the Monkey are said to be quick-witted, curious, innovative and mischievous...

Segment 48 – 6 Tips To Help You Learn A New Language In 2016!

Welcome 2016! So what’s your New Year Resolution? How about learning a new language?

I mean really embracing a new language... Yes, of course every New Year, we start with the ambitious endeavour of bettering oneself, with a New Year’s resolution to be healthier, smarter, richer, nicer, calmer, happier, etc. but somehow, by year end – that initiative seems to fade away...

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM HT LOCALIZATION!

Where did 2015 go?  It seems that we were just asking this very question not to long ago...a year ago, to be exact! This past year was another record breaking year for HT LOCALIZATION.  Unbelievable! Not only did we accomplish our business goals, we've managed to focus on organic growth, while facing new challenges and deepening relationships along the way...

Segment 47 – Hug A Zombie  – Happy Halloween!

I received a text last week from the mother of my daughter’s friend, who wanted to invite my girl to a Halloween Party.  I asked my daughter whether or not she wanted to go to her friend’s house for Halloween, or would she stay and celebrate Halloween with me.  Most moms would expect that their 10 year old would want to go and celebrate Halloween with their friends – but not mine...

Segment 46 – It’s True at Walt Disney World, Magic Knows No Boundaries

Welcome Back! In the last segment, I talked about Walt Disney World and their commitment to multicultural diversity and efforts towards reducing communication barriers… hence making it the “most welcoming place on Earth.”  Naturally, I had to test that claim, first hand...  

Segment 45 – "Our Magic Knows No Boundaries"

Segment 44 – And They Say I Speak Fast! Speech Tempo

Have you ever been in a foreign country, armed with your pocket dictionary, and a few years of high school foreign language classes… and been lost? What do you do? Just pop into that little store and ask someone for directions… 

Segment 43 – In the Name of Quality

Quality is a very intriguing concept. Everyone has a perception or understanding of what quality is or should be.

A quick Google search for quality brings up these descriptions...

Segment 42 – HT Localization Anniversary: World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS)

It’s been a while since I’ve written the last blog segment. Wow, now here we are - already in March 2015!  This week marks our company’s anniversary.  A few short years ago, we opened our doors and began operating, with one client and few laptops, and literally a handful of translators.  My partner was a seasoned localization professional with multiple notches in his belt from a variety of senior C-level roles within the industry, and me, well I was – a recently re-entered-the-workforce-mom with young kids (who were finally school age)...

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM HT LOCALIZATION!

How time flies…where did 2014 go?  This past year was another record breaking year for HT LOCALIZATION.  For once, I’m speechless, not only did we accomplish our business goals, we’ve conquered new challenges and made many new friends along the way.

We are honored to work with some of the world’s top global brands, as well as some of the most exciting up-and-coming companies that the world will soon know.

Thanks again for being there with us and spreading the word. We wish you and your family a wonderful Holiday Season, and a Happy New Year 2015!

Best Wishes from our family to yours,
The HT LOCALIZATION family 

Segment 40 – Should Local Partners Translate Materials?

Businesses that are serious about attracting local clients abroad will always localize.  English may be the lingo franca for business or technology; however consumers tend to trust information presented in their own language.  Consider the U.S., while most people speak English fairly well, companies and governments continue to provide information in Chinese, Spanish, etc… because it is simply easier for consumers to understand and trust...

Segment 39 – 10 Problems of a Language Lover

A few weeks ago, I ran across a blog discussing issues of polyglots and language lovers. Can you relate?

While I can’t claim to be a polyglot, I could relate to a few of the issues discussed including the struggles and triumphs of people like us.  I've decided to compile a few of my own top ten...

Segment 38 – Guide To Pronunciation: How Do You Say Moët?

A few weeks ago, one lovely Sunday afternoon, we were at a friend’s house having lunch.  We’d all just gotten back from summer break, so we were quite happy to see each other, catch up and recount our holiday.  

We pulled out some champagne to celebrate and I was pleased to hear the proper pronunciation of the famous Moët champagne, 'mo-wett' – with a hard 't'.  I used to cringe when I heard some of my native English speaking friends pronounce it as 'mo-way'...  

Segment 37 – This Summer Has Brought Another Anniversary - HT Localization’s International Blog!

These past weeks, kids across the country embrace the back to school ritual. Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end to summer… a return to crisp autumn mornings, school day routines, and the packing away of summer clothes.  Reflecting on this past summer, I fondly recount the days visiting museums, parks, beaches, family, friends and those lazy pool filled days (and evenings) – catching a cool splash.  This summer closes with another successful vacation, two taller kids, and more frequent flyer miles…but also, another anniversary year of our successful international blog...

Segment 36 – Is it Good Practice to Ask Bilingual Employees to Translate Materials? 

There are so many advantages to having bilingual people on board.  Having bilingual employees can bring huge advantages to global companies in today’s business environment.  Bilingual employees can bring fresh perspective to business practices and can help execute business interactions with more geographically and culturally diverse clients.  Many companies have discovered the value in having a varied workforce and actively seek bilingual employees.  

Now here’s a common question, clients and friends often ask... "Can't we have our bilingual staff translate business materials and documentation?” 

Segment 35 – What should I absolutely NOT do when visiting your country? Part 2

Are you itching to travel yet? This is where I plan to spend my next dream trip...Here are more good cultural "Don't" nuggets to tuck away...

Segment 34 – What Should I Absolutely NOT Do When Visiting Your Country?

With spring break right around the corner (and hopefully summer in a few short months), thousands of folks are gearing up for the travel bug! Whether it’s a quick jet across Europe to the sunny beaches of Spain or Italy, or a more adventurous trip to Thailand or New Zealand, we are ready for a break...

Segment 33 – Which Languages Do You Speak At Home?

Language and multicultural topics are always an interesting conversational subject in international circles.  From San Francisco to New York to London to Paris to Bangkok to Hong Kong, the international community is rich with diversity from many corners of the world.  Globalization has transplanted families and individuals across the world allowing social integration amongst the foreigners and locals. My life can pretty much be summed up as such...

Segment 32 – Client Satisfaction Survey: The Results Are In! 

The Results Are In!  This blog post is devoted to our beloved clients, with a big “Thank You!” for taking the time to provide valuable feedback regarding our client services.

This March marks the beginning of our third year of operations for HT LOCALIZATION.  We are honored to work with some of the world’s top global brands, as well as some of the most exciting up-and-coming companies that the world will soon get to know. See Testimonials below from a few of our clients...

Segment 31 – Coca-Cola’s “America the Beautiful” Super Bowl Sunday

During this week’s NFL’s Super Bowl’s Sunday game, Coca-Cola debuted the controversial “America the Beautiful” TV commercial featuring majestic American landscapes set to the beautiful “America the Beautiful” song, sung by Americans in 7 different languages.  

According to the Coca-Cola Company, the ad “was created to celebrate Coke moments among all Americans who together enjoy ice-cold, refreshing Coke. The ad provides a snapshot of the real lives of Americans representing diverse ethnicities, religions, races and families, all found in the United States.”  

However, the commercial sparked outrage and controversy throughout the nation.  Some people even began boycotting of Coca-Cola products...

Segment 30 – Happy Chinese New Year! - Are you part Chinese?

The Chinese Lunar Festival, aka Chinese New Year, starts today! Festivities all over the world are ringing in the lunar New Year; the Year of the Horse will be celebrated not only by the Chinese but also by many other Asian and non-Asian cultures.  While much fanfare is within mainland China, no doubt that some of the biggest celebrations are also held outside of China.  Of course in other large Asian cities such as Bangkok, where there is a strong Chinese heritage, but also in Western cities (such as London and Paris), where global businesses are actively wooing Chinese business and visitors...

Segment 29 –Top New Year’s Eve Destinations

As the clock struck 12 this past New Year’s Eve, I looked around at my dear family and friends feverishly gulping down seedless grapes – one by one, trying not to choke, while keeping up with the ringing clock of Puerto del Sol in Madrid.

It was indeed a wonderful sight to see; we weren't the only ones, our Spanish counterparts – grapes in one hand, a flute of cava in the other, all eagerly waiting for the last ring to sound marking the New Year 2014.       I ♥ New Year’s Eve...

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM HT LOCALIZATION!

And we thought last year was great…2013 was even better for HT LOCALIZATION!  Since hanging our "Open for Business" sign a few short years ago, we've had a great time. Not only have we marked the year with exceptional growth, we’ve reached several important milestones that make us proud.

You’ve helped us spread the word about our firm, and we appreciate it. We wish you and your family a wonderful Holiday Season, and a Happy New Year 2014!

Best Wishes from our family to yours,
The HT LOCALIZATION family 

 Highlights in 2013...

Segment 27 –Everything Is Perfect In The Land Of Beer And Sausages

Typically when I walk around town speaking English with my family or friends, locals hear me; look at me; are either interested in speaking with me; or look away shyly when I say “Hola.”  If there are kids around, they love to speak English with me; their parents are typically pleased with demonstrating their own proficiency in front of their kids.  Sometimes, strangers come up and tell me about their experiences or family member who lives in the U.S. or the U.K.  It’s rather nice, as I might normally not get to know as many interesting people otherwise. 

Recently, I've noticed a changing of the winds…

Segment 26 – My Teacher Says “Ladybird, But She’s Wrong, It’s Really Ladybug”

Segment 25 – Do you have a Love-Hate Relationship with the question “Where Are You From?”

“A Third Culture Kid (TCK) is a person who has spent a significant part of his or her developmental years outside the parents' culture. The TCK frequently builds relationships to all of the cultures, while not having full ownership in any. Although elements from each culture may be assimilated into the TCK's life experience, the sense of belonging is in relationship to others of similar background.” – Dr. David C. Pollock.

I was recently at a friend’s BBQ party with my family. The food was great, the music was lively, the children were having a blast and the most common question one could hear in virtually every corner of the garden was “Where are you from?"...

HT Localization Blog Anniversary! A Year of Language Translations for Real Life

This month marks the first year anniversary of HT Localization’s Blog Series: Language Translations for Real Life - A series articulating multi-lingual influences on the modern life.   

I can’t believe a year has passed since we started this series.   Some might say that…

• Heaven is where the police are British, the cooks are French, the mechanics German, the lovers Italian and it's all organised by the Swiss. 
• Hell is where the chefs are British, the mechanics French, the lover's Swiss, the police German and it's all organised by the Italians.

I remember when we first decided to launch this blog series; we had been living in Spain for about 3 years, being recent expats to this foreign environment with my young family and newly found international friends, every day was a new adventure... 

Segment 23 – More Themes You Just Can’t Find the Words to Translate!

In Segment 11, I wrote about my top 10 favorite difficult to translate themes.  Needless to say, I received lots of feedback, comments and more examples to share.  Thank you my readers for your support and suggestions.  So back by popular demand…a few more Themes You Just Can’t Find the Words to Translate...

Segment 22 – Read This Before You Go On Vacation This Summer!

With summer here, folks all over are preparing for their annual trek across the US, Europe Africa or Asia. 

Last night, as I was having a tinto de verano, with my Spanish friend, who now lives in Lisbon, she says: Amiga, come visit us in Lisboa! Es muy preciosa. La gente are very nice, and they speak many languages there since they don’t translate any of the programs on TV; kids grow up hearing shows and movies and celebrities speaking in their native language.  So I asked her, can you speak Portuguese yet? Nope, only Spanish, but close enough…

Segment 21 – Do Multilingual People Have Split Personalities: "Cuando tu hablas en inglés es como que no eres mi mami"

Yes, I know you want to read more about localization and business, but since the season of summer, graduation, and kids wrapping up school is upon us, I want to discuss a slightly different language theme...people and language personalities.

 ¡Hola Hombre! K’tal?  I was at my children’s school summer reception and saw one of my son’s little friend, when I loudly shouted to him with glee...

Segment 20 - Getting Back to Business for International Success – Last Week My Laptop Died

Last week my laptop died. I woke up Friday morning, went to log on, and to my dismay, my trusty old laptop just could not fire up.  Don't get me wrong, my old faithful digital friend served me well, sticking with me through the years maintaining its American keyboard and U.S. configured digital formats...  

Segment 19 - Getting Back to Business for International Success – Website Localization: Done Right!

In last week’s segment we discussed some good reasons why a company would want to go global and localize their content for a broader audience. While it may be easy to say that one should avoid this or that, or one should do this or that; it is just not always simple...

Segment 18 - Getting Back to Business for International Success – Website Localization: Going Global

“We are ready to go global" said the voice at the other end of the phone. This phrase is “music” to every localization agency’s ears (well, except the “Hello” part – that part would be tailored to the actual recipient of the call – in this case it is me)...

Segment 17 - To Tip or Not to Tip - Avoid an International Incident!

In this segment, I want to explore a slightly different topic than the normal translation across borders topics discussed in this blog series. Oh don’t worry; I’ll continue to give professional advice and personal experiences relating to best practices in business and international topics in later blog posts. However today, I’d like to discuss the “art” or “faux pas” of tipping, while not exactly a topic of international business or globalization, attitudes about tipping are critical to most people who navigate around the world, albeit for personal or business travels...

Segment 16- Getting Back to Business for International Success - Chinese Markets Part 2 

In the last segment, we began a discussion around the classic 4 P’s of product marketing to understand how Western businesses can more successfully expand their market share in the Chinese Markets? 

We looked at the first two P’s: Product and Promotion. Two key take-aways were:

1. Do your homework. Know which languages your Chinese markets speak and read, and localize your product and marketing initiatives accordingly.  Focus on the local aspects and benefits of your product.

2. Understand the value of relationships within the Asian society, and leverage regional social media and blogging platforms – in the local language. Narrow in on local promotional platforms to disseminate information about your product.

This segment, I'll continue with Pricing, Placement and Position as it relates to the global Chinese markets. But before we jump in, I want to share a little story...

Segment 15 - Getting Back to Business for International Success - Chinese Markets  

On February 5th, I started receiving emails from business associates in Asia, stating that they would be unavailable from the 8th through the 18th.  A few days later, I started seeing commercials for Chinese cultural documentaries and specials on TV.  

Later over that weekend, I was speaking with my mother and she said that she would be very busy in the upcoming weeks due to several Chinese banquets and parties over the period (she’s not Chinese either)…then it dawned on me, it’s the season for Chinese New Year... 

Segment 14 - International Success - eLearning Localization    

Now that 2013 is in full swing, it is time to get into gear. You’ve put away your Christmas decorations, reviewed your personal goals for the New Year, and are now roaring to get your life in order.   How about your driver’s license?  Have you looked to see if it expires this year? 

If you are living abroad, have you checked to see if the laws permit you to continue driving with your foreign or international driver’s license?  The peril of life as an expat once again emerges…

Segment 13 - New Year Resolutions for 2013 – Estoy Constipada

Why do people make New Year Resolutions?  We all know that well over 85% of all New Year Resolutions fail.  People across the world embrace the New Year, promising and hoping for something that will deliver a better tomorrow for themselves, family, friends, neighbors, country and/or the world.  

 “I want to obtain financial freedom/true love/better health... I’ll try to be a better...

Segment 12 - Santa Claus, Papa Noel, St. Nick & Los Reyes Magos

During this time, one can say Happy Holidays, smile and spread happy blessings of joy and peace to virtually anyone they meet in the street. No matter where you are from, most people are cheerful and welcoming of one another with positivity, good spirits and joy.  Whether you are celebrating the period for religious reasons or for family quality time or simply commercial reasons, it is simply a wonderful time of the year.  The day after Christmas, as we were walking back from the store with fresh bread and freshly made King’s Cake, my daughter asked me a very deep question…  

“Why does my friend, Maria, receive presents from the Three Kings, and we don’t?”  Ahh, the questions many expat kids living in Spain will eventually ask their parents, has finally arrived...

Segment 11 - Ten Themes You Just Can’t Find the Words to Translate

Well, it finally happened to me!  I was speechless… I was with some friends in Madrid, having fun light conversation, when one person told a story, and concluded with "No ande buscando tres pies al gato"...
He then turned to me and asked, “How would you say that in English?”  I stuttered, “Uh…I don't know something like...don’t walk around cats with 3 feet?"  A hearty laugh came from the group...

Segment 10 - Localization of Popular Legends - The Tooth Fairy, El Ratón Pérez or La Petite Souris?

My 7 year old daughter recently came home from her tennis lesson with her front tooth in her pocket.  Very excited she shouted, “Yay, I get money tonight!”, while waving her front tooth wildly in the air.  

Yes, even 7 year olds understand the value of a fallen tooth. That night, as we prepared the tooth in her special golden cloth pouch, and placed it under her pillow, an intriguing conversation unfolded...

Segment 9 - Localization of Colors Around the World – A Business Perspective

In the last article, I discussed the cultural influence of colors and why localization of colors should first be understood from a cultural perspective.  In this segment, I will elaborate on colors and share how the cultural factors have impacted business decisions. 

But before I begin, I want to answer a burning question from the last article: “Can we wear black to the wedding?”  

Segment 8 - Localization of Colors Around the World

Color is serious business.  Countless hours are spent thinking of which colors to decorate one’s home, office, studio, wardrobe, hair, store, business image, etc.  Millions of dollars are spent by advertisers to determine the perfect color or combination of colors for products, brands and images.  Even more millions are spent by the producers of colors (ie. paint manufactures, designers, artists) to develop the perfect color, shade, tint and hue to elicit the perfect emotions.  Color must first be understood as a human factor, and like words in a language, colors have a distinct meaning to different people and cultures... 

Segment 7 - Coffee Talk with International Mommies - Picking French Bones

One thing I’ve learned living here in the expat community in Madrid, is that everyone has a bone to pick about the “proper” way to speak a language.  In Madrid, English is an interesting concept, as discussed in my earlier post. Children are taught British English in school, but American pop culture seems to prevail...

Segment 6 - Coffee Talk with International Mommies 

So when we first moved to Madrid, I found life here very different than in San Francisco.  The people in Madrid are so relaxed, so casual, so interested in family and “non-work” talk. The women dress very nice.  Just to walk in the park with a baby stroller means being decked out in the latest fashion and high heels.  Hair is always styled and make-up always perfect.

When folks find out that I am American, they are excited to practice their English and ask me all sort of questions about the difference between American and British speak – localization of life...

Segment 5 – How to Raise Multilingual Kids

In my last segment I discussed how being multilingual makes one a better multi-tasker, a great problem solver, very creative, emotionally controlled, able to fight the effects of ageing, and more...  The benefits of being multilingual are compelling enough to make parents consider the notion of trying to foster an environment of “multilingualism” for their offspring...   

Segment 4 – Kids Growing up in a Multilingual World

 “If you know two languages, the level of your intelligence is multiplied a hundredfold in other people’s eyes.”  Bill Cosby, Actor.

• Madonna has two children Lourdes and Rocco. Both speak English and French some Spanish. 
• Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffith have a daughter Stella, who has grown up speaking English and Spanish.
• Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi have a son Jaden Gil and daughter Jaz Elle who are bilingual with German and English.
• Wesley Snipes and Nikki Parks have a daughter and a son, who are growing up speaking English and Korean.

Not a day goes by without another linguistic expert reporting new research about ...

Segment 2 – Love Language Translations: She’s got that “Je ne sais pas”

They say that the language of love transcends cultural borders.  Love can indeed be lost in translations, or at least confused in translations at times.  Sure men might be from Mars, and women from Venus, but imagine if they weren’t even from the same galaxy!  How do you localize a relationship? 

Segment 1 - Expats Have Translation Needs Too!