A Word about Foreign Languages

A delegate asked: “When we are in countries where English is not the most common language, how will we be able to buy things, order food at restaurants, etc. Will the delegation manager be able to translate for us?”

Ah yes, the question of languages. As Steve Martin once observed, "It's like those French have a different word for everything!" Yes, our delegation manager will be able to assist in translations when he/she is available. However, much of your souvenir shopping will be done in smaller groups, when the D.M. won't be with you. If you have a phrase book, that will be helpful. In all cases, if you attempt to use "their" language, they'll appreciate your attempt (far too many Americans don't even try) and will meet you at least half way. Sign language/body language also helps a lot.

That having been said, most people in Ireland speak only English. Welsh was a dying language, is making a resurgence, but almost everyone in Wales speaks English as their primary tongue. England is the home of English, but as George Bernard Shaw put it, "England and America are two nations separated by a common language." By that he meant there are differences in how we use some words and phrases. For France, I took three years of French in high school, have been to France many times, can read most signs, practice my French before each trip, but frequently still have waiters hand me an English version of the menu rather than try to understand my accent. However, I can get by, and you can too, if you try. I've only ever passed through Belgium, and have never attempted Flemish. Dutch is very similar to German, but the Dutch like to encourage tourists, and they understand far more people in the world speak English than Dutch.

So the bottom line is, try to learn at least a few words in each of the major languages, and you'll be amazed at how well you'll be able to communicate!