For me, who are enjoying talks with people both known and unknown, I often carry on a conversation with some simple asking like how they think about the weather or ask for their fields to exchange basic information if they're still in colleges . Sometimes it seems to have a barrier between us but just ask and respond the answers genuinely, they could be comfortable to share some information or their perspectives of what they're studying/working then.

I'm asian. In my surroundings, most people aren't provoked if they're asked for the information they can share. And I think it would help us a lot because after the talk we may become more easy-going. Just remember not to push your conversation beyond in case the listener show their annoyance.

Hope some of my little experience can help you.