Retire overseas? Do I have to learn another language?
Retire Overseas to Sun-drenched Beaches and Exotic Languages
But I only speak English. What should I do? Many would-be expats frequently consider being able to speak only English more of a problem than the locals do. Let me explain. If you approach it with a good attitude, English will suffice nearly everywhere. Considered to be the universal tongue, English is the preferred second language in a lot of countries. You may not understand or speak the native language at all, but if the inhabitants know that you are making an attempt, most of them will try to help you out.
For example, French people are said to be rather unfriendly – especially towards tourist who don’t even try to speak a lick of French. Well, I have to speak up for the French here. I imagine that, just like some of us are unfriendly, some of them are, as well. I spent some time in Paris when I studied there, and all of the French people I encountered were friendly and hospitable. This has been the experience of my children and their friends as well. I was not fluent in French at all upon my arrival. What little French I did know, I spoke to the locals right from the very beginning of my time there. Making that sincere attempt can make a big difference. I stumbled over my poor French vocabulary at first, struggling to communicate in an understandable manner. I can remember the amused expression on the proprietor’s face, as I mangled the language.
I had only uttered two sentences, and the gentleman praised me on my accent and said he liked the way I spoke French. He then informed me that he could speak English and welcomed the opportunity to practice his English on me. The relief I felt at having someone to speak English to was palpable. I visited his shop many times for animated conversations in both English and French, even after I had become a lot more adept in speaking French.
French people enjoy it when travelers make the attempt to speak in their native tongue. Your willingness to step out of your comfort zone and give it a try is truly appreciated. This is what makes international travel so much fun; you need to be adventurous enough to try things that are unfamiliar to you, to welcome the cultural differences, and to explore concepts and activities that you aren’t particularly comfortable with. The potential for personal growth and depth of education are incredible, and you will feel immeasurably enriched by the experience. Give it a shot; you won’t be disappointed!
Expatriates Can Always Benefit from Knowing the Language of Their Host Country
It is always beneficial to learn to speak the native tongue in a new country. It is a demonstration of respect for the local inhabitants, and one they truly appreciate. Your thoughtfulness will do wonders for your acceptance as a friend.
If you balk at the thought of retiring overseas because of the language barrier, this is something you may want to reconsider. It is relatively simple and inexpensive to learn another language. Retiring overseas doesn’t absolutely require you to learn to speak another language, but personally, I would make a determined effort to speak the language of a country I was going to live in. But, that’s me.
Living a life as an expatriate can be so much more fulfilling and enjoyable when you can speak and understand the native tongue. When you can speak the native language, you will have a deeper insight into the cultural nuances of the country in which you choose to live. Becoming immersed in another culture can be a very rewarding and fascinating experience. You wouldn’t want to miss out on that, would you? If you are living in the country, becoming fluent in the language is much easier and faster.
I could speak French fluently, and I was breathing, living, thinking, and even dreaming in French when I left. During my flight home on Air France, the flight attendant spoke English to me, and, without thinking, I answered in French. When I tried to switch back to English, I had to really think about the equivalent words in English. I continued to think in French. What a great experience. I still laugh when I remember that. I will never forget my treasured time in France and how learning the language deepened my pleasure in the experience.
Listed below are some of the language learning programs that I have tried and that I highly recommend.
Learn a language fast with Transparent Language software
Learn a language fast with Transparent Language software
Free BYKI Lite download by Transparent Language
Save 25% on powerspeaK12: Award Winning Online Language Programs Designed for K-12 Students
Visit this link for information on how toStart Learning a New Language in the Next 30 minutes ..