Would it be considered impolite to ask... (shop, friendly)

[demtion35]

If you were sitting in a small coffee shop or some place small and quiet, and two people were talking in the table next to you, they have an accent and you cannot tell where or what it is, would you ask them where they were from> Excuse me, may I ask where you are from?

[StPaulGal]

Yes.

[Ghengis]

no

[drishmael]

I'd ask 'em.

[Brinson]

If you make it into a compliment might be borderline acceptable.

[StPaulGal]

If you just overhear their accent, it is completely rude to butt into their conversation to question them about it. If you are actually interacting with them for one reason or another that makes it somewhat more acceptable to drop the compliment-and-question like Brinson mentioned: "I love your accent! Do you mind if I ask where it's from?"

However, keep in mind that while the accent may be a novelty for you, it is how this individual sounds every hour of his or her life. I can guarantee that comments calling it out are NOT a novelty for that person. Also keep in mind that not everyone appreciates having you point out what an exotic "other" they are.

[MidwestRedux]

Let's reverse this one...

Have you ever been to a non-English speaking country and wandered outside of the tourist areas? If so, you've probably had people ask you about language, accent, nationality etc. Unless you generally hate people and human interaction, you probably weren't offended by a stranger's interest in you.

I don't think most people would be offended by your interest, as long as you're polite and friendly.

[bc7ate9]

It wouldn't offend me.

[kuan]

Please don't.

[montymontage]

Unless you are sure they are tourists, i would not ask. Even then, it's an odd question.