Language barriers?

[lowrie333]

This is going to sound a stupid question but it one of those that really puzzles me! I would love to travel a lot more than i can afford to, but if i did go to somewhere like Prague for instance (or anywhere else for that matter, except America) are there any language barriers? What i mean is - is it easy to get by and get what you want? At the moment i go to France and can speak some French so it isnt a problem. But what is it like going to a country where you dont know any of the language? Or do so many people speak English (not that i think they should have to) that it isnt the problem i am thinking it is? Any experiences/tips greatly received!

[bernardo]

If it's Prague, then lots of people would speak or understand English or German. Otherwise, when I was in the USSR I found that it was more useful to have a dictionary than a phrasebook - just look up one key word and make it sound like a question, rather than spending time struggling to find the nearest phrase in a book.

[mikewall01]

I've spent 40 years travelling to over 110 different countries and never had any major problems. Generally in the cities and at bigger hotels you will find someone who can speak English. In the villages and often in smaller hotels you will have a problem, but a dictionary and phrasebook (and many hand gestures) will allow you to get by. My biggest problem has always been where menus are only in the native language which has lead to some very interesting meals.

[andy hughes]

We are fortunate (and lazy!) as a nation, because most European countries speak English as a second language. For travel, I would be inclined to learn Spanish as a second language, which will help you master the roots of most European languages, and you can use it in Mexico, South America, and a number of other areas. Most foreigners are far more patient with people who don't speak their language - get a phrase book, and memorise 'Yes', 'No', 'Please' and 'Thank You' and they will be thrilled that you make the effort, and be happy to help you out. The English are unjustifiably snooty about foreigners who don't speak English, even when the average English person can't say the previously recomended words in more than two languages, including their own! Make up for linguistic shortfalls with a winning smile, patience, and a willingness to learn, and you'll be fine.

[sddsddean]

I used to drive a truck on the continent and I can speak a bit of 'schoolboy' French and German. With that you can go anywhere. The vast majority of places people speak English, or know someone who does. Best combination I have had is me (English), my brother in law (English), a Slovenian, a Latvian, an Italian, all speaking German(with different accents!) in a bar in Austria. The beer breaks down all language barriers!!!