Asking for Directions

Use maps and local sources of information to navigate around cities and towns. Maps can be purchased at newspaper stands or bookstores. It is also perfectly acceptable to stop someone on the street to ask for directions. Other good sources are the local post office, police station, or a police officer on the street (it is fine to talk to police on duty). When speaking to an adult (anyone college age or older), it is important to remember to use the formal form of address unless invited to use the informal. Streets are labeled with white signs on posts at intersections, whereas the signs for cities are in blue. Buildings and houses in the larger cities are numbered with an even/odd numbering system. The numbers are either at the corner of the building or above the main door.