This is how you can throw people off track in hashtag#Germany or hashtag#Switzerland. Believe me, it works every time.

Picture this: you’re entering a building or walking down the street. You notice someone holding a bunch of flowers, lost in thought – probably for themselves or as a gift for someone else. Definitely not for you.

The person might be preoccupied with thoughts like: Will the flowers arrive safely? Will the recipient like them? Did I choose the right color?

And that’s your cue to step in and disrupt their train of thought. Look them straight in the eyes and say, “Oh, thank you for the flowers! That wasn’t necessary!” You have to be convincing.

This trick also works perfectly with people carrying coffee: “Oh, is that for me? Thanks so much!”

While you’re at it, maintain eye contact and watch their facial expressions shift.

I’ve done this several times, and it never fails to be hilarious. I first learned this from a German colleague while working in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. She did it to me, and I couldn’t stop laughing. It was the start of a great friendship.

Now, I do it occasionally with strangers on the street. I know it might seem a little mean, but it’s also fascinating to catch people in an unexpected moment. Their reactions are priceless! I can’t help but laugh as I write this, remembering their reactions.

One time, someone carrying coffee insisted that I take it because he thought my comment was so funny and really worth the coffee. He couldn’t stop laughing either.

Do you have any other ideas for creating unexpected magical moments with strangers?

Let me know!