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How to talk to a total stranger
It made me
happy 
"Its easy and I do it all the time - look for common ground even if it is justto compliment them in their hair"
How I did it: Found something we have in common - usually a compliment works or a you look .... (tired, happy).
Then you just speak. Ask a question - certainly in my part of the world people are a bit friendlier. It did not work as well in London except with the foreigners and the elderly. Thankfully there were loads of those.
Lessons & tips: Dont be afraid of people
