Originally Posted by
Tanya934
Having just returned from a trip to The Black Forrest area using my limited German language skills I found that a little goes a long way. When I found myself in a situation where i didn't know the correct German word for something i would smile sweetly, apologize for being English and having poor language skills and normally receive a lot more help from people. Even in the hotel we stayed in, the staff spoke very little English so please do not believe the myth that everyone in the travel business will speak English, particularity in areas where German speakers tend to go on holiday.
I agree. I find that German speakers genuinely tend to appreciate my efforts to speak to them in German. If they speak good English, thry will generally switch when they realize that im not fluent, but the effort goes a long way.