Learn the Lingo, Gringo

‘Speak Spanish, you’re in Spain!’

The couple on the table next to us are in trouble with the waiter. They clearly left their guidebook at home, and have failed to utter a single Spanish word to him for the entire meal. He’s decided to give them a ticking off (in English, ironically), and although it’s said with a smile on his face, he’s obviously fed up with their lack of effort.

We’re in a pretty little square in Madrid, tucking into some tapas with our beers. Its mid afternoon, and the place is buzzing. Kids are running around while the grown ups relax and smoke. A man is playing acoustic guitar and his wife’s singing along.

It’s a very Spanish scene, but as we absorb the atmosphere it’s hardly surprising to hear English conversation.

About a quarter of the world’s population can communicate to some degree in English. And although it’s not the most common first language, it’s English that’s being taught in schools the world over.

As a result, we’re used to getting by in most places without trying too hard. No wonder English-speaking tourists have a reputation for being a little lazy.

But knowing the basics can really improve your experience as well as improving international relations. If you struggled with languages at school, there are plenty of other ways to absorb a few phrases that will help you get by. Download a podcast, check out videos on YouTube, or even meet a native speaker on Skype.

Nothing beats good old fashioned lessons, structure, homework and one to one lessons, but if time’s not on your side, devote your daily commute to teaching yourself the lingo.

Don’t be afraid to cheat a little. Write down phrase phonetically until they’re rolling off the tongue. It’s always better to have a go. Don’t be shy – after all, getting lost in translation is part of the fun.

As a last resort, you could buy a picture phrase book. It’s an ice breaker if nothing else…

Next time: A Lost Weekend in Brighton…