Language?

meALEXb said:

I was wondering how much Spanish everyone knew before they went on their trip? I have been trying to learn over the past few weeks but I'm far from being able to speak fluently... so will you be able to still enjoy the trip knowing only basic Spanish?

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Hi, I managed fine on section from St. Jean in France to Santo Domingo with absolutely no Spanish at all ( apart from Buen Camino ). Be open and friendly, and trust the Spanish people you meet.
However, do continue in your efforts to learn some of your hosts language.

Buen Camino,

Brian

meALEXb said:

so will you be able to still enjoy the trip knowing only basic Spanish?

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The more you know, the easier you'll be able to interact with the locals - very key in stores and albergues when you're trying to buy something or obtain a service. I took 2 years worth in high school (forgot most of it), and to revitalize those neglected brain cells I spent a lot of time practicing with Pimsleur and Elisabeth Smith's One-Day Spanish during my daily car commute before I did the Camino last summer.

I'd say if you can master the content on Elisabeth Smith's CD (about 70 minutes worth of instruction - 50 words and some simple sentences), you'll do OK. The Spanish like it when you at least try to speak their lingo, and you certainly don't have to be fluent. But when you can speak well enough to make a harried bartender's life a little easier (ideally, know the product, be polite but confident, and know numbers for moneychanging) - well, that goes a long way... :arrow:

I agree with Vinotinto - it is respectful to at least learn some words when visiting another country - Spain is no exception and Spaniards will go out of their way to help if you make an effort.

You won't learn to speak Spanish in a short time but you can learn how to greet people politely, ask directions and order food - learning the basics of a menu and counting is always useful.

Have a look at the BBC's resources e.g:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/spanish/ ... rary.shtml

Turn up the volume and get practicing

Happy learning

John

I do not know spanish and am quite poor at learning languages. Having said that I was surprised at how well I got on with just a few words and phrases. I especially remember wanting to order something other than the menu of the day one day. As the wait staff approached I had no clue what I would say and then, as if the words came from somewhere else, I spoke and made myself understood! Wow, what a joy!

this year I will be traveling with a gps that has a language program. should be fun. At least I will know how to order ice cream! And, of course, "gin and tonic" is not language specific!

All:

I did some digging in iTunes, and I came across a set of free podcasts for learning Spanish called Coffee Break Spanish. It features some Scottish-sounding folks teaching/learning European Spanish. I listened to some of them, and they seem OK - especially for free (they offer bonus content for cash). Something to consider for those folks bringing an iPod to Spain... :arrow: