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Two new bars have opened in Japan that help customers improve their English conversation skills — by banning the Japanese language. The new bars opened on October 1, 2022, in Tokyo and Osaka, and are receiving very positive reviews.
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The new bars are both called “Sick!” and are designed to have a fun atmosphere where people can practice speaking English while enjoying a few drinks. First-time visitors don’t need to worry about their English ability, because the English-speaking bar staff will encourage them by chatting at their level.
(1)How often do you get a chance to speak English in your day-to-day life?
(2)Do you have a favorite bar or pub? How often do you go there?
3. However, customers at Sick! are only allowed to speak English. If they speak Japanese, they will be shown a yellow card. After that, if they continue to speak Japanese, they have to buy an extra drink as a punishment.
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Both bars have an all-you-can-drink system where customers pay for the time they spend in the bar. The Tokyo branch costs 3,000 yen — or around $20 — for 30 minutes, and the Osaka branch costs 1,500 yen, or around $10.
(1)What are your thoughts on Japan’s Sick! bars?
(2)Do you ever feel nervous when speaking English? Why do you think that is?
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Although this may look a little expensive for a few drinks, it does include English conversation practice that would cost as much or more at the average language school. And the new bars’ customers have been very happy. In a Google review of the Tokyo bar, one customer wrote that it was a fun place to speak English with friendly people.
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And writing about the Osaka bar, another customer said they had not expected to have such a great time speaking English, and added that they can’t wait to get drinks there again.
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