Travelling to France or Spain offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, and one of the best ways to enhance your experience is by speaking the local language. Here are my thoughts on why speaking French in France and Spanish in Spain or Latin America can make your journey more enjoyable, how it helps in finding things out, and how to navigate situations where locals might speak English to you.
Enhancing your travel experience
Building connections: When you make an effort to speak the local language, people appreciate it. In both France and Spain, locals often respond with warmth and friendliness when visitors attempt to converse in French or Spanish. It shows respect for their culture and a willingness to engage, which can lead to more meaningful interactions. Whether you’re asking for directions, ordering food, or simply chatting with a shopkeeper, speaking the local language can transform a transactional exchange into a pleasant conversation.
Finding information easily: Navigating a new country can be challenging, but speaking the local language can make it easier. Need to find the nearest metro station, a good restaurant, or the best local attractions? Asking in French or Spanish often results in more detailed and helpful responses: in my experience, locals are more likely to go out of their way to assist you if they see you're making an effort to speak their language.
Handling English responses
Despite your best efforts to speak French or Spanish, you may find that some locals respond to you in English. This can happen for several reasons:
- They want to practise English: Many locals see interactions with tourists as an opportunity to practice their English skills.
- They want to be helpful: Sometimes, locals assume it’s easier for you to understand and communicate in English, aiming to be accommodating and ensure you get the information you need.
- Perception of fluency: Your accent or hesitation might lead them to believe you’re more comfortable in English.
If you’re keen to practice your French or Spanish, here are some tips:
1. Politely persist: If someone switches to English, you can politely continue in French or Spanish. For example, say “Merci, mais j'aimerais pratiquer mon français” (Thank you, but I would like to practice my French) or “Gracias, pero me gustaría practicar mi español” (Thank you, but I would like to practice my Spanish).
2. Combine languages: Use a mix of both languages. Respond in French or Spanish, even if the other person speaks English. This often encourages them to switch back to their native language; and, if not, a "melting pot" conversation such as this can be great fun.
3. Stay positive: Appreciate the effort they’re making to help you. Smile and enjoy the exchange, regardless of the language.
In my personal experience, speaking French, Spanish or the language of your host country opens doors to richer, more engaging travel experiences. I love to "have a go" even if I'm no expert. It fosters friendlier interactions, provides easier access to information, and deepens your cultural immersion. While you may encounter locals who respond in English, politely persevering in using French or Spanish can enhance your language skills and your overall journey. On a recent trip to Paris to keep my own language skills up to date, two separate serving staff complimented me on my French but also pointed out how unusual it was for a Brit to even attempt to speak French. They were definitely all for it. Be brave, embrace any nervousness, and enjoy the connections you make along the way.
Cate is a qualified teacher with more than 20 years of experience teaching in schools and she has most recently dedicated her time to tutoring both online and face to face. She currently has a few spaces remaining during the UK school day - ideal for adult language learners or iGCSE or IB students in time zones such as Hong Kong.
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