Quote:
Originally Posted by Oilers
Yes sir. Too bad I didn't take Spanish in High school instead of French. Time to register for Spanish 101 I guess  |
As long as you show some effort, the locals will appreciate it. You can learn the basics in a week.
The first time I went anywhere was to Havana, and spoke three words in Spanish. It was embarrassing
So when I got home, I started studying and now speak a fair bit so I can carry on casual conversations.
But Google basic Spanish, learn greetings, please, thank you, where is stuff, etc. Cuba is de nada for you're welcome vs con gusto in other countries. Papaya is a bad word and do NOT use it outside of the buffet at the resort
most other stuff is generic. A popular tourist phrase is "mucho bueno" which means nothing in any proper form
Those were 2 of my three words my first trip -lol And spending the week with a family that spoke 2 words in English made it very interesting. Actually one of my most memorable vacation times, but I felt bad for assuming everyone in a foreign country would speak my language. They don't!