Originally Posted by Bear96

Take some time and at least learn some basic phrases. Then try them out in the appropriate situations, as difficult and uncomfortable as that will be for you. If the person you are speaking with speaks English (which is likely in the places you are likely to go), s/he will likely very quickly switch to that because it will be much easier for both of you. But the fact that you at least tried to communicate in the local language will mean a lot and is nothing to be embarrassed about. (Remember, they had to learn English once too, and still may not be comfortable speaking it.)