How A Passing Star Lit Up The Ancient Sky


By Judith E Braffman-Miller

For millions of years all human beings, both early and modern, had to find their own food, and were forced to spend most of each day gathering plants and hunting animals in order to survive. Then, within only the past 12,000 years, our species made the revolutionary transition from being hunters and gatherers, to being able to produce our own food. Nevertheless, about 74,000 years ago, modern humans almost became extinct as a result of dramatic climate changes, and the human population may have been reduced to only about 10,000 adults of reproductive age. It was around this time, approximately 70,000 years ago, that a small reddish star floated close to our Solar System and gravitationally shook up comets and asteroids--sending them screaming inward towards our young Sun. In March 2018, a team of astronomers from the Complutense University of Madrid in Spain and the University of Cambridge in England announced that they have verified that the movement of some of these comets and asteroids was effected by that close stellar encounter.

At a time when modern humans were first beginning to migrate from Africa, and Neanderthals were dwelling with them on Earth, Scholz's star--named after the German astronomer who discovered it--floated less than one light-year from our Sun. Currently, this little red star is almost 20 light-years away, but 70,000 years ago it created a disaster when it wandered into our Solar System's Oort Cloud, a remote reservoir of trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs) located at the outer limits of our Solar System. TNOs are icy and dusty comet nuclei that dwell in the distant dark deep freeze of our Sun's region of gravitational influence.

This discovery was first made public in 2015 by a team of astronomers led by Dr. Eric Mamajek of the University of Rochester in New York (USA). The details of that catastrophic stellar flyby, the closest documented so far, were published in the February 10, 2015 issue of The Astrophysical Journal Letters.

Stellar Ships That Passed In The Night

Our Sun is a solitary star, but even though it lives alone, it sometimes has visitors. Such a visitor was the dim and alien Scholz's star when it paid our Solar System a visit. This faint, small stellar invader is thought to have skimmed through the Oort Cloud--the remote shell of comet nuclei that surrounds our entire Solar System.

Scholz's star is a low-mass red dwarf star that is a member of a binary system, and it sports the puny mass of merely 8% that of our Sun. The other member of the duo is a brown dwarf, a failed star, that is even smaller than Scholz's star with a mass of only 6% solar masses. Red dwarf stars are the smallest true stars in the Cosmos, as well as the most numerous and longest-lived. In contrast, puny little brown dwarfs are fascinating little stellar failures. This is because, even though brown dwarfs are likely born the same way as true stars--from the collapse of an especially dense blob of material embedded within one of the many giant, dark, and frigid molecular clouds that haunt our Milky Way Galaxy--they never manage to gain sufficient weight to ignite their nuclear-fusing star-fire. Even though puny little brown dwarfs never acquire sufficient mass to begin the process of nuclear fusion, they are still more massive than gas giant planets, such as our own Solar System's spotted and banded behemoth, Jupiter. Red dwarf stars, in contrast, did manage to acquire enough mass to begin the process of nuclear fusion--which produces sufficient pressure to battle against the force of gravity, thus keeping the star bouncy against its own fatal collapse. Radiation pressure pushes the stellar material out and away from the star, while gravity tries to squeeze everything in. The two warring forces help a star maintain stellar equilibrium--but the end must come, sooner or later. As soon as the star finishes burning its necessary supply of nuclear-fusing fuel--whereby it fuses heavier atomic elements out of lighter ones--gravity wins the war against its rival, and the star collapses. However, it is likely that there are no dead red dwarf stars in the Cosmos--yet. Small stars take their stellar "lives" easy and burn their fuel--very, very slowly. Indeed, it probably takes trillions of years for a red dwarf to perish, and our Universe isn't even 14 billion years old yet. In contrast, massive stars live fast and die young, and some may only "live" for millions, as opposed to billions--let alone trillions--of years. Our Sun is a small star, but it is much more massive than a red dwarf. Our Star is approximately 4.56 billion years old, and it has about another 5 billion years to go before it blows off its outer gaseous layers, leaving its relic core behind in the form of a tiny dense object called a white dwarf.

Scholz's star is an inhabitant of the Monoceros constellation, which is located about 20 light-years from Earth. However, when the tiny faint red dwarf closely brushed our young Solar System in Earth's prehistory thousands of years ago, it would have appeared as a 20th magnitude star. This is about 50 times more faint than can usually be seen with the naked human eye at night. However, Scholz's star is very magnetically active, and this can make it "flare". For one brief shining moment on a cosmological time scale, Scholz's star can potentially become thousands of times brighter. This means that it is entirely possible that Scholz's star was visible to our prehistoric ancestors 70,000 years ago--for minutes or hours at time during its rare episodes of flaring.

Scholz's star is more formally designated WISE J072003.20-084651.2. It derived its less technical nickname to honor the astronomer Dr. Ralf-Dieter Scholz of the Leibniz-Institut fur Astrophysik Potsdam (AIP) in Germany. Dr. Scholz is the first to have announced the discovery of the dim little red dwarf star late in 2013. The WISE component of Scholz's star's formal name refers to NASA's Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) mission, responsible for mapping the entire sky in infrared light in 2010 and 2011. The J part of the formal designation refers to the red dwarf's coordinates.

The little star's trajectory suggests that 70,000 years ago it floated about 52,000 astronomical units (AU) from Earth (0.8 light-years)--which is equal to 5 trillion miles. One AU is equivalent to the average distance between the Sun and Earth, which is about 93,000,000 miles. The authors of the 2015 paper noted that they are 98% certain that Scholz's star skimmed the Oort Cloud, a mysterious and unexplored domain situated at the edge of our Solar System. The Oort Cloud is generally thought to be the home of trillions of frozen, glittering, icy comet nuclei that are about a mile--or more--across. This distant cloud is also thought to be the origin of long-period comets that swing into orbit around our Sun after their orbits have been gravitationally disrupted.

The Oort Cloud is named for its two discoverers, the Dutch astronomer Jan Oort (1900-1992) and the Estonian astronomer Ernst Opik (1893-1985). This spherical shell is the habitat of icy planetesimals, left over from our Solar System's formation more than 4.5 billion years ago. Icy planetesimals were the building blocks of the quartet of giant gaseous planets inhabiting the outer Solar System--Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. In contrast, the asteroids--mostly found inhabiting the Main Asteroid Belt between Mars and Jupiter--are the relic population of rocky and metallic planetesimals that built up the quartet of solid inner Solar System planets--Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars. In the primeval Solar System planetesimals--both icy and rocky--collided with one another and merged to create ever larger and larger bodies, thus forming the familiar planets of our Sun's family. The Oort Cloud is thought to surround our Solar System at a distance of as much as 100,000 AU, which situates it half-way to the nearest star to our Sun, which is Proxima Centauri.

The Kuiper Belt and Scattered Disk--which also house frozen comet-like objects--are less than one thousandth as far from our Sun as the Oort Cloud. The outermost edge of the Oort Cloud marks the boundary of our Star's region of influence. It is the boundary of our Sun's gravitational dominance.

The Oort Cloud is generally believed to be composed of two regions: a disk-shaped inner cloud called the Hills cloud, and a spherical outer cloud. Most of the remote, frozen inhabitants of the Oort Cloud are made up of ices, such as water ice, methane ice, and ammonia ice.

Our Sun was probably born as a member of a dense open stellar cluster containing thousands of sibling stars. Many astronomers believe that our newborn Sun was either unceremoniously evicted from its natal cluster as the result of gravitational perturbations caused by other stars, or that it simply floated away of its own free will about 4.5 billion years ago. Our Star's stellar siblings have long since wandered off to more distant regions of our Milky Way Galaxy, and there very well may have been as many as 3,500 of these nomadic solar-siblings.

Today, our Sun is in active mid-life. It is a main-sequence (hydrogen-burning) star on the Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram of Stellar Evolution. As stars go, our Sun is not particularly special. Our Solar System is located in the far suburbs of our majestic--though typical--barred-spiral Galaxy, the Milky Way.

Shining In The Prehistoric Sky

Two astronomers from the Complutense University of Madrid (Spain), the brothers Dr. Carlos and Dr. Raul de la Fuente Marcos, along with their colleague Dr. Sverre J. Aarseth of the University of Cambridge (UK), have now analyzed, for the first time, the nearly 340 objects objects dwelling in our Solar System with hyperbolic orbits (very open V-shaped, as opposed to the typical elliptical). In the process, the three astronomers discovered that the trajectory of some of these objects are influenced by the passage of Scholz's star.

"Using numerical simulations we have calculated the radiants or positions in the sky from which all these hyperbolic objects seem to come," explained Dr. Carlos de la Fuente Marcos in a March 10, 2018 La Ciencia es Noticia (SiNC) Press Release.

"In principle, one would expect those positions to be evenly distributed in the sky, particularly if these objects come from the Oort Cloud. However, what we find is very different, a statistically significant accumulation of radiants. The pronounced over-density appears projected in the direction of the constellation of Gemini, which fits the close encounter with Scholz's star," he continued to note.

The exact time in which Scholz's star passed close to Earth, as well as its position during prehistory, coincide with the date determined in the new investigation--and also with those calculated by Dr. Mamajek and his team. "It could be a coincidence, but it is unlikely that both location and time are compatible," Dr. De la Fuente Marcos continued to explain in the March 10, 2018 SiNC Press Release. He further pointed out that their simulations indicate that Scholz's star approached even closer than the 0.6 light-years proposed in the earlier 2015 study as the lower limit.

This close brush with the little red star 70,000 years ago did not disrupt all of the hyperbolic objects in our Solar System, only those that were closest to it at that time. "For example, the radiant of the famous interstellar asteroid Oumuamua is in the constellation of Lyra (the Harp), very far from Gemini. Therefore, it is not part of the detected over-density," Dr. De la Fuente Marcos added. He further said that he is confident that new studies and observations will confirm the idea that Scholz's star passed close to us in relatively recent times. Indeed, it is likely that are ancestors, gazing up at the sky, saw its dim reddish light in the dark nights of prehistory.

Judith E. Braffman-Miller is a writer and astronomer whose articles have been published since 1981 in various newspapers, magazines, and journals. Although she has written on a variety of topics, she particularly loves writing about astronomy because it gives her the opportunity to communicate to others some of the many wonders of her field. Her first book, "Wisps, Ashes, and Smoke," will be published soon.

Discover Things to Do In Frankenmuth, Michigan


By Sherry Trautman

Frankenmuth, a Bavarian themed town, is unlike any other city in Michigan. It feels like you have stepped back in time to when things were simpler, perhaps a little more peaceful. It's a place where families can enjoy quality time together while forgetting the outside world. I enjoy visiting Frankenmuth throughout the year, not just in the summer.

Within about one square mile, this quaint town offers visitors a taste of Bavaria as they wander in and out of shops, enjoying chocolates, tasting wines, sampling cheeses and of course, dining on delicious famous chicken.

Speaking of chicken, it is impossible to talk about Frankenmuth without mentioning its world-famous chicken! Zehnder's and the Bavarian Inn are owned by brothers, Mr. William Zehnder and Mr. Edwin Zehnder. The restaurants are located across the street from each other with both offering all-you-can-eat chicken dinners with all the trimmings in a beautiful Bavarian themed atmosphere. Consistent with the theme, cheerful servers dressed in Bavarian style uniforms deliver your hearty meals.

The Bavarian Belle Riverboat is another Frankenmuth favorite. For just a few dollars (cash only), you can sit back and relax as the river boat captain guides the beautiful covered boat down the Cass River. As a bonus, the Bavarian Belle is a family owned and operated business. As such, the father and sons operation strives to offer you the best possible experience with every trip down the river. Oh, and they pop delicious popcorn for each trip down the river!

As you take in the sights, the river boat captain will point out wildlife along the shore, sneak in witty jokes and share informative history about the area. There is never a dull moment as he points out homes of prominent Frankenmuth residents and discusses the Star of the West Milling Company as you catch sight of their operation near the river.

Wandering along Main Street is a feast for the eyes and stomach. Frankenmuth Cheese Haus attracts visitors young and old for a photo opportunity standing next to a huge wedge of bright yellow cheese with a mouse popping its head out at the top. Handmade candy, sausage and chocolate shops with large open windows draws in curious visitors. Don't miss the hidden Castle Shops located on the lower level of the Bavarian Inn Restaurant.

South of the Bavarian Inn Restaurant toward the east is the nostalgic Covered Bridge. Vehicles and pedestrians alike can cross this bridge with safe walled pedestrian walkways on either side of the bridge. Be sure to walk on both sides of the bridge to enjoy the scenic view of Heritage Park and the beautiful downtown area. It's especially exiting to cross the bridge as the Bavarian Belle glides below.

Lastly, the River Place Shops located at the south end of Main Street offers culinary delights such as SugarHigh Bakery that won Cup Cake Wars in Season 7, The Popcorn Wagon for 40 flavors of yummy popcorn and La Crepe du Jour for sweet and savory handmade crepes. River Place Shops contain oodles of family owned businesses catering to our taste buds, beloved pets and children. Clothing stores, wineries, a distillery and leather goods are sure to delight shoppers of all ages. Not to mention a small river meanders through the shopping area.

In closing, Frankenmuth contains more than meets the eye. Take the day or the weekend to explore this city rich with history and charm. Frequent festivals and events will bring you to Frankenmuth time and time again. You'll be amazed with the hidden gems you discover during each visit!

Discover a few more off-the-beaten-path things to do in Frankenmuth, Michigan at   https://www.travel-mi.com/Frankenmuth.html. Lots of tips and ideas so you are in-the-know as you plan your trip to Frankenmuth!

Quick Fixes To Planning Your Trip to Boston, MA


By Pamela Lawson

This article is perfect for those looking for quick tips to traveling in Boston, MA, the place where most people would say the history of America began. Below, you'll find useful tips and points to keep in mind and prepare before and during your trip to this New England peaceful paradise.

Boston Is Of Resolutions, Culture, Traditions, and History

The reason why Boston remains to be a popular tourist destination is that it is undeniably one of the most revolution-rich cities in the United States. Deep within its history, there's a mishmash of tradition, culture, constructive transformations, new-found freedom, and revolutions. It was home to some of the most inspiring and forward-thinking thinkers of our time and broke barriers historically and culturally.

Here's the thing about a trip to Boston, MA - much of what you do and what you experience depends on the time of the year. The city boasts of historic indoor and outdoor shopping destinations like Faneuil Hall to make your heart skip a beat, giant ocean tanks and aquariums like the New England Aquarium, museums of fine art like the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, theaters, legendary grand homes of renowned historical and public figures strewn throughout its unprecedented landscape.

Easy Transit In and Out of Boston, MA

It takes less than an hour's flight from New York City and about one hour and a half from Connecticut by Amtrak. Of course, with a charter bus, making pit stops in between is a must. It offers opportunities to savor the mysteries of old towns, soak in the untainted countryside, explore uncharted landscape... and, of course, let's not forget that selfie.

Tips For Planning Your Itinerary in Boston, MA

First up would be finding the most affordable and convenient flight into Logan International Airport in East Boston, Worcester Regional Airport, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport or the T.F. Green Airport in Warwick in neighboring Rhode Island. Ironing out how you're getting into the city will always be the most important item on your agenda.


For those who are traveling in a large group, suffice to say, Charter Bus Boston would be more than happy to be at your service! Getting a group in and out of Boston would be a breeze with a bus at the ready, complete with chauffeurs and experienced staff at hand. This way, you wouldn't be flying blind... and in this case, it would be driving blind.


Where to stay in Boston, MA? Next up would be a place to catch the important shuteye in between trips to museums and a place to call home for a while. Research reveals that staying in the midst of Boston, MA can cut a big chunk out of your budget so, if you're looking to save a buck or two, try looking for accommodation on the outskirts of Boston. The ride in and out of the metropolis might take approximately 30 to 40 minutes per trip but with a well-planned itinerary, it won't matter much. After all, it sounds like a great time to catch a quick nap on the charter bus too.


Things to do in Boston, MA - planning and putting together your travel itinerary could be fun and simple if you're traveling in a small group or as a couple. However, for large groups with people of varying preferences and differences of opinion, the better idea would be to group your friends up in accordance with their interests. For instance, list down attractions categorically for the foodies, art lovers, shoppers, fitness enthusiasts, history lovers, kids and the elderly. Our tip would be to keep things flexible and loose. Having a good idea of what you want to do is different from being unable to shapeshift according to current situations. If it's raining, hiking should, needless to say, be struck off the list. Another tip would be this - book admission tickets ahead of time and note down the opening hours.


Checking the weather channel. With four very clear, distinct seasons, Boston's weather has a reputation for being more than a little dramatic. Winters sees snowfall throughout December right through to March; spring is growing season which means you can ditch the jacket; summers are humid but completely in control; while fall weather makes it seems like it is the best weather on earth. This is particularly important if you have young children or elderly travelers with you. Knowing what to bring ahead of time will save you a headache or hunting things down in the middle of a city you're unfamiliar with.

Keeping Everyone On The Same Page, On The Same Bus

Moving around in a large group can take a toll of just about anyone and we're here to make the trip more memorable. Once you've got your trajectory planned out, get in touch with our friendly customer service personnel and we'll hook you up with the best Boston charter buses in the market. Relax in the comfort of the bus while getting the chance to bond with your fellow travelers is literally priceless in every way.

Pamela Lawson of Charter Bus Boston is a long-time fan of traveling, and Washington D.C. is merely one of her stomping grounds. She contributes regularly to Charter Bus Boston when she is in between breaks. Find out more about Boston and the wonderful things to discover on Bus Charter Boston or book a quick charter bus right now! Find out more about the affordable rate at http://www.charterbusboston.com today.

Foodie Adventures in Downtown Washington DC


By Brian Gate

The food-ventures that you can experience in downtown Washington DC is, literally, endless. Whether you're wishing for a waterfront dining experience, would like to experience fine dining in a five-star hotel, or sample an exquisite, innovative culinary concept, it's all right here in DC. 'Chocolate City', as it is sometimes fondly called, has seen a rush of incoming International-style diners in the past decade and some would argue that no other city within its vicinity has seen the same level of explosion.

Here, you'll find hip renaissance-style eateries, local pop-ups, unique coffee shops and creative cafes dotting the downtown dining scene. This says a lot about the growth the historic city's experienced through the years.

Below is a short list of favorite diners and restaurants located in various neighborhoods in D.C.

Georgetown - At The Intersection Of The Old And New
Boasting of a unique historic charm, Georgetown, one of Washington DC's oldest neighborhoods, has a smattering of chic locations throughout. Upscale, modern bars along M Street, quaint cafes are strewn across Wisconsin Avenue, while celebrated diners with five-star ratings to their names have diverse menus of options for people of all ages.

There are indoor and outdoor seatings overlooking the stunning Potomac River, Kennedy Center, Watergate and Key Bridge available at the Sequoia Restaurant, traditional American fares at the family-owned Nick's Riverside Grille, and a delightful experience to be had at the award-winning, flagship restaurant of Founding Farmers. The restaurants have the ability to attract tens of thousands of regular locals and new tourists rain or shine. Some charm the socks off their patrons with delectable dishes, while others leave a lasting impression because of its authentic, family-friendly urban farmhouse feel.

Sequoia Restaurant

The Washington Harbour

3000 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007

(202) 944-4200

Highlights: Sunday brunch buffet, wedding venue, and live jazz entertainment

Nick's Riverside Grille

3050 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007

(202) 342-3535

Highlights: relaxing atmosphere, authentic pasta dishes, fresh-out-of-the-water seafood and scrumptious steaks

Founding Farmers DC

1924 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20006

(202) 822-8783

Highlights: authentic recipes, farm-to-table feel, classic and chic atmosphere

Shaw - A Conglomeration Of Hip Foodie Stops

It's been a long time coming that Shaw made a name for itself as one of the chicest neighborhoods in Washington DC. Charged with an eclectic feel, the streets are lined with raved-about restaurants, brag-worthy bars, and cool jazz lounges. If you're looking for fast food and quick eats, you'll soon be disappointed. Because it caters to foodies who demand exceptional service, florid designs, and slates of culinary masterpieces, it has a mish-mash of must-visit neighborhood restaurants that are all unique in their own ways.

Rows of 19th-century buildings now house family businesses, modern retail outlets and swanky theaters like Lincoln Theater and Howard Theater. It was, after all, famously called the 'Black Broadway'. While rustic 'The Pig' has walls lined up with fun pig-centric and historic signs, there are also quaint eateries at The Shay apartment building. The iconic Old Ebbitt Grill with its mahogany woodwork and classic beveled glass decor, located merely steps away from the White House, you'll get to sample authentic traditional American saloon food.

The Pig

1320 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005

(202) 290-2821

Highlights: delicious sandwiches and large portions of food, a full bar with happy hour, and kid-friendly menu

The Shay

1924 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20001

(855) 419-4683

Highlights: wide variety, chic atmosphere, kid-friendly cafes and bakeries

Old Ebbitt Grill

675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005

(202) 347-4800

Highlights: patronized by President Grant, Cleveland, Theodore Roosevelt and Harding, journalists and celebs alike. Serves the best traditional upscale American saloon food that will bring you back in time

Diners and Restaurants Near The National Mall
Seeing The Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and the U.S. Capitol Building will evoke all types of patriotic emotions about the country's history. Even when you're surrounded by such majestic structures around America's front yard, tourists in their Washington D.C. charter buses are easily tempted with delicious aromas wafting in from neighboring restaurants, diners, and cafes. The iconic structures' weight of importance are not outdone by but are complemented by the vast array of available memorable meals in town.

With Taylor Gourmet offering freshly-baked loaves and starters, fire-roasted meats, home-grown vegetables and ingredients and off-the-wall desserts to satisfy every palate, Occidental Grill & Seafood Restaurant, a walk from The White House, has everything from fresh oysters to classic traditional American cuisine. Occidental dates as far back as 110 years ago when it was founded by Henry Willard and it has become a staple stomping ground for foodies since then. You'll also be sending your taste buds on an adventure with a trip to China Chicano, or while savoring the diverse soul food offered by Sweet Home Cafe which is a fancy food court located on the grounds of the National African-American regional museum.

Taylor Gourmet

1116 H St NE, Washington, DC 20002

(202) 684-7001

Highlights: delicious sandwiches, seasonal ingredients, gluten-free options, freshly-tossed salads

Occidental Grill & Seafood Restaurant

1475 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004

(202) 783-1475

Highlights: romantic, high-end ambiance, delicious wines, a short distance from The National Theater, is wheelchair-accessible and is perfect even for Presidents

China Chilcano

418 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004

(202) 783-0941

Highlights: an authentic cuisine that reflects Peruvian culture and traditions with a touch of influence from Chinese and Japanese cooking styles. Delicious cocktails, flexible menu and kid-friendly.

Sweet Home Cafe

at The National Museum of African American History and Culture

1400 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560

(202) 633-4751

Highlights: moderate prices, a wide selection of dishes, sides, and desserts based on various regions in the United States.

There is plenty more where that list came from and we'll definitely be writing up more about the new finds as we go along. Even as you get on and off the rented charter bus from museums to art galleries, historic sites to iconic landmarks all around Washington D.C., there are quaint gems to be found at every corner. When they say you'll be spoiled for choice, they're right.

Brian Gate is passionate about food, traveling, yoga, running, writing, music and art. This, he shares with everyone he can, whether in person or in writing. In writing for Bus Charter Washington D.C., he's benefited many. On top reading his articles, you can also rent a professionally-driven Bus Charter Washington DC on the website!

Popular Second Languages in Europe


By Marina Ivanova

Within the U.S., a growing number of people are beginning to speak more than one language. While it's still quite common to run into U.S. citizens who speak only one language, slowly but surely more and more people are becoming bilingual. In our digital age, where globalization and Ecommerce is the norm, speaking more than one language is increasingly helpful and even necessary for people in the U.S., which could explain why more of our citizens are becoming bilingual. This may sound like quite an accomplishment on the part of the American people. But the truth is that people from other parts of the world often speak at least two languages and many times more than that. Europe is one good example.

There are, as of the time of this writing, 24 officially recognized languages spoken in European countries, but there are an additional 60 "unofficial" languages that are commonly spoken by both European citizens and migrant populations. It is estimated that over half of all Europeans can effectively communicate in one other language, and about one-quarter of Europeans can speak two languages in addition to their native tongue, while a smaller number (estimated to be about 10%) speak at least three different languages. There are a variety of reasons why speaking other languages is more common in Europe than in the U.S., but perhaps the most significant is the fact that European countries are smaller overall than the U.S., sharing a continent in which people commonly travel back and forth from one country to another and do business with people from different nations. The U.S., on the other hand, is insular simply by virtue of its size and location - it's quite easy to live inside the U.S. and never travel to another country.

Whatever the reasons may be, there is no doubt that the majority of Europeans speak at least one other language. Perhaps not surprisingly, the most popular second language among residents of Europe is English. This is understandable considering the fact that English is widely recognized as one of the official languages of the European Union and remains so even after Britain's withdrawal from the EU. Coming in second as the most popular second language in Europe is French; third is German; fourth is Spanish; and fifth is Russian. It's interesting to note that in many of the smaller European countries - the Netherlands, Sweden, and Luxembourg, to name a few - an estimated 90% of all residents speak a second language, and many speak more than two.

Although English may be the most widely spoken second language in Europe, as we stated earlier the EU actually has 24 official languages. Among those, the three most commonly spoken and considered to be "procedural" - i.e., those languages in which the EU conducts business - are English, French and German. The remaining languages spoken in Europe are classified as "working languages."

The residents of Europe have good reasons to be multilingual, but speaking more than one language can benefit people inside the U.S. as well. Learning another language not only provides advantages for business people who are likely to encounter associates or customers who speak a different language; it also benefits individuals on a personal level since learning another language is a healthy mental exercise that keeps our minds active. But perhaps the greatest benefit of learning another language is how it creates empathy with people from different cultures, and gives us a deeper understanding of the diversity of the world in which we live. Globalization, after all, does not simply impact trade and commerce; in fact, we are all more closely connected thanks to technology. And we cannot think of a more rewarding and appropriate way to celebrate that connectivity than by learning another language.

At MI Translations, our commitment to our customers is as unwavering as our dedication to providing accurate, precise translation services. We have been able to distinguish ourselves because of our team and the processes we employ to guide our work.

We're committed to excellence in everything we do. It's that simple.

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Kenneth Davids 'bapak baptis kopi' mengunjungi Taipei

Penulis empat buku tentang kopi dan editor Coffeereview.com, Kenneth Davids, menghadiri Pameran Kopi Internasional Taiwan 2024 pada Sabtu (...