I really appreciate this story! I have always loved to take the role of the International BA even though travelling to some countries can be a bit dangerous.
I absolutely agree with you that embracing the culture is very important for the international BA as it helps the customers/client become more comfortable. My observation is that International customers (this is my bias because I am also a non-US citizen) are easier to deal with and will easily give you the information that you want. However, just like in the US, they have their business politics and theirs are a bit different. To some countries, gift exchange is the key to breaking the ice, while in others they bow politely to show respect, and that does it.

Once, on my way to elicit requirements from an icelandic customer (who by the way was not pleased with our services so far) I learned few icelandic words as I thought, “I must find a way to break the ice”. So when greeted by the customer in English, I responded in their native tongue. Their eyes looked sparkly as if they had seen the solution to their problem and the ice melted instantly. They proceeded to teach me other words (Don’t ask me if I remember any of them) and the rest of my journey with them was a breeze.

For the BA who is interested in international customers, I strongly encourage that you pick up the book: Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands: The Bestselling Guide to Doing Business in More Than 60 Countries.

Thats an interesting story..! Sure it would have been difficult initially but you need to get your job done. I guess I am going to keep this in mind when I work with a client with a different cultural background.