Do you need to know the language of the country you visit or English would do?

Question

I've heard that some peoples-like the French-don't answer back unless you speak to them in their language. Is that true?

Answer 1

I travel a lot and my take on it is that when I'm in a country where I know only a smattering of their language, it almost seems a bigger mistake to use it than to just speak English and let them know I can't speak their language. When you know just a little bit of a language, the people you're speaking with assume you know more and begin answering you as if you are fluent. Unless you are, you get lost very quickly.

Some French can be quite haughty about this, but as a tourist, I've found that most restaurants and shops are very willing to help you out when they see you've got money to spend and an itch to spend it. They may laugh at you behind your back or once you leave, but that doesn't bother me because I'm usually doing the same thing when I leave.

Answer 2

It does depend on the country you are visiting and the individuals you encounter. Some French people are very friendly and very helpful. Some aren't. It always helps to know some of the local language and try to use it, people tend to appreciate it. In some European countries English is taught as a second language and almost everybody speaks at least some of it. Not so in Latin America or Asia of course. Learning languages is rather fun.

Answer 3

Well a lot of people in different countries see us as conceited as we will not learn other languages...but then look at our own culture...how often do we hear "speak English".

You do not have to know a language to visit another country and personally I feel it is worse to mangle a language rather than admit I cannot speak their language. I always bring a English to another language with me for key phrases. But most hotels and attractions have English speaking workers.

Don't let a lack of another language scare you from visiting other places...just try to have some words and expect to have to search at times to find an English speaking person.

And yes in France some will not talk to you....but you will get that everywhere....even here in the states.

Answer 4

English is spoken everywhere, but not by everybody.

So, if you go to a major city, or you only want to do 'tourist' activities, then you can deal with english-speakers only.

Everywhere else in a country, and if you want to experience 'real life' & genuine local culture, you will be expected to at least try to speak the local language.

And why wouldn't you, if you're genuinely interested in the place and the people? If you seem uninterested, then there are people who will make you feel unwelcome.

But if you TRY to use the local language, you will usually be helped and welcomed. It doesn't matter how BADLY you speak it; you are signalling to people that you want to communicate with them, and they will often return the favour (even if that means finding somebody locally who speaks english).

Answer 5

I was in Paris a few years ago. I learned a few simple phrases, and a list of the foods I might order in restaurants. That way there were no surprises when it came to what I was getting for dinner. In any language, learn to ask questions. Where is? How much? Do you accept Visa/MasterCard? Learn as many numbers as you can. At least learn 1-20. If you are not adventuresome in what you eat, learn the names of foods. Good luck, and have a fun vacation.

Answer 6

If you want to communicate with the everyday people you meet in other countries then you will need to know the basics of the language, however most hotels will be able to deal with you in English - particularly if tourism is big in the country you are going to. You are correct about the French though, they will not make an effort to speak English to you, who'd want to visit that smelly country full of serial surrenderers anyway...

Answer 7

Take a look around dear. How many people live in the US and can't speak english and don't even try to. My friend's dad has lived here for 40 years. That's kind of a slap in the face to english speaking americans.

Answer 8

it help if know the Local language of the county, at least a few words, it does help,but english will do as well. I think french will reply to you in english if you spoke if with nice attitide

Answer 9

You should know some of their language. In Europe, English might be understood. If you go to tourist places, there will be people who understand english. e

Answer 10

I always hire a local interpreter to go everywhere with me when I go abroad. That way I can never get stuck with language.