When in America

You would think that travelling to a country where we speak the same language, we would not have to worry about language barriers, but on the contrary I have quickly become aware of my South African accent, and more so, aware of the words and phrases I use. Try asking for the toilet! The look of confusion, then a giggle, and finally 'oh, you mean the bathroom?'. No I don't mean a bathroom, I've showered already today thanks, i just need to use the toilet!!! Ok, so after asking a few people and reading a few 'Restroom' signs, I've come to the conclusion that I will have to use the word 'restroom' in future. When asking for a glass of water, I have learned that it saves a lot of time and confusion if I put on, to the best of my ability, the American accent and roll my r's. It still baffles me that not many people I have met here have ever heard the word 'nappy', even though it is the only country that I know of that uses the word 'diaper', so I am having to use the word 'diaper'. Phrases like 'hey he's just pooped in his diaper' just seem so stereotypical of an american sitcom, but it has to be said! So to avoid confusion, when in America use words such as fries, soda, gas, store, shopping cart, yard sale, blinkers, baby carrier, charlie horse, and of course ... SUPER-size!