Various sources have reported that a sign with the following message once appeared in a hotel in Acapulco, Mexico.

The manager has personally passed all the water served here.

Native English speakers quickly realize that the word “approve” would have been a better choice than its synonym “pass;” however, that may not be so obvious to a native Spanish-speaking hotel manager.  The resulting translation of the Spanish word “aprobada” still leaves us asking an important question: is the water safe to drink?

The British Council used this popular blooper in an add to promote English course.  The ad was reprinted in Gentleman magazine in June 2000, in a piece called “Humour in Advertising.”

Companies in the hospitality and tourism industry can contact GGI for translation of any documents and notices aimed at communicating the quality of their service to their guests.