Are people where you're from chatty with strangers, or is small talk with someone you don't know a bit unusual?

A natural way to answer

It varies enormously by region. In smaller towns, striking up a chat with a stranger is completely normal, almost expected. In busier urban areas, everyone rather keeps themselves to themselves, and an unsolicited chat can feel a little out of place.

Key phrases to use

• chat your ear off — talk to you for a very long time without stopping“My neighbour will chat your ear off given half a chance.”
• keep themselves to themselves — stay private and not mix much with others“City people often keep themselves to themselves.”
• out of place — not fitting in or not appropriate for the situation“A friendly chat there felt a bit out of place.”
• catch visitors off guard — surprise people who aren't prepared for it“The friendliness catches visitors off guard.”