ChezDaJez
Posts: 3436
Joined: 11/12/2004 From: Chehalis, WA Status: offline
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quote:
how many languages can you be fluent in You don't need to be fluent, not even conversant. But if you know you're going to a certain country where English isn't the native language, why not learn how to say "hello", "goodbye", "please", "thank you" and a few basic phrases such as "Wo ist der Badezimmer, bitte?" or "Una cerveza mas, por favor."? Might not be exactly correct but it works. And people appreciate the effort. I have visited 47 countries in my Navy travels and have lived in places like Sicily, Iceland, Spain and Japan for at least 1 year. I knew at least the basic phrases. One of the best I learned was, "Can you help me, please. I don't speak your language." You'd be surprised how willing people are to help if you just show a little courtesy and effort. Chez
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Ret Navy AWCS (1972-1998) VP-5, Jacksonville, Fl 1973-78 ASW Ops Center, Rota, Spain 1978-81 VP-40, Mt View, Ca 1981-87 Patrol Wing 10, Mt View, CA 1987-90 ASW Ops Center, Adak, Ak 1990-92 NRD Seattle 1992-96 VP-46, Whidbey Isl, Wa 1996-98
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