Mr. W
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of course, I spoke English only when I first came and it was frustrating at times but no problem, lots of young people speak English, signs are usually in Chinese and English, welcome to China! |
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aNgRy YoUnG pOeT
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it's safe. |
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me_onlyz
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It's not so much of a yes and no answer. Frankly, if you are a courageous and outgoing person who dare to ask and talk to strangers, I am sure a little practice (on the basic conversation), you will have a good experience in China. Bring along a English -Chinese dictionary or print out some basic conversation lists from the internet. This will definitely come in handy.
I saw a documentary on TV showing that how enthusiastic the Chinese are learning English in preparation for the Beijing 2008. I am sure you will meet more people who are able to help you.
I know how difficult it is not being able to speak their language. The last trip I took to a foreign land which don't speak much English, I had a hard time trying to get my message across. But what I learn from it is, no matter how hard it is, as long as you are friendly and open, a lot of people are willing to help. |
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We are not terrorists يا عيني
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I have traveled all over China since 1984 and despite the fact that I cannot speak the language (except a few useful words...) I never had problems whatsoever. Sometimes it can be a little challenging especially when trying to find your way around or to purchase a train ticket, but otherwise people are exceptionally helpful and eager to help, and those who speak a little English will be more than happy to practice with you.
And as everywhere, a smile and an open mind not only open doors but make a trip more enjoyable and memorable. |
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Phil McCracken
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Yes very safe. China is a wonderful place full of very welcoming people, and they want your £££s. |
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misskitti7®
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yes, a lot a people their speak English
regards x Kitti x |
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Newlenston
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for the most part,you're safe,but you'd suffer a lot if you know nobody there.
I live in China,and I'm ready to answer any of your questions. |
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¡quésuerte!
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Learn Chinese! In a month or so you could pick up good conversational skills; the grammar is quite easy compared to English. (The writing is very complex however and will take you a while to learn) |
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brainstorm
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I should think so. The Chinese are excellent at english |
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Megan
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I don't speak chinese and I LIVE here, you'll be find. Learn numbers and things (yes, no, thank you) brush up on your miming skills, bring a dictionary with you. But in general you can just point or act out what you want and you'll be find. The chinese in general are wonderful they're very friendly and want to help, at least outside of the major major cities. In the BIG cities they want your money (although they're unlikely to rob you they can't have guns) but they're going to constantly try to sell you things or overcharge you. But there a lot of them WILL speak english. But in the smaller cities, they're really nice and they like lao wai, they're excited to see and knowing a little chinese is good because they're always delighted when you speak it. But they WON'T speak english. As long as you're willing to go with the flow you'll be fine, if you're uptight and nervous don't bother. |
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Sarah
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learn the basics of chinese
like where the washroom is, help, etc.
but most people in china are very eager to practice their english with you =] |
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Q Q Baloch
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yes you can vist china even you dont know chinees .the govt. is providing guides with little cost. thy people of china are very good |
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gordonmother
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Why not, as long as you are sensible and plan everything before you go. |
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Russell B
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I think if you can speak English you can travel the world there is somebody in that country who will understand you.
People overseas take time out to learn English not like the English who can only speak one language!! |
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Littlestar
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Language is not a problem. Every country has nice and bad people, just be careful not to go to quiet place and don't get in stranger's car. |
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Emma H
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yea...i think so, i am chinese, there are so many chinese ppl speak english, but i think you still should learn some basic chinese like: "nee how(hello)",“bang tsu war(help me)”,“see show jian(bathroom,its ok if you say W.C. in China)”...its much safer to visit the biggest cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen... |
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amhomes
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Hey you, a lot of people speak English nowadays in China, especially with the Olympic coming up. But learn to speak a few phrase such as 'Hello' and 'thank you so much' and 'excuse me' etc. They are sure to appreciate it. Where are you planning to go in China? I am very familiar with the country - if you are worry then stick to the larger cities like Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing. Make sure you get your via prior to travelling. Have fun! |
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Hookie22
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You can cope with only speaking English. A lot of people in China speak English and most signs have english on them too. The people are very friendly and even if they don't understand english will try and understand and are very helpful. |
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cutie
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so many ppl have answered u and i guess u already have had an idea. I'm Chinese and I have to tell you it is very safe in China. You can contact me thru yahoo answers email system if you have any problems. Im willing to help you. Good luck. |
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Aoi S
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I think if you can only speak english and not chinese, don't go alone there, except you're on tours (with other travellers and the guides). Not everyone can speak english, especially in small cities. However, if you insist to go there alone, at least bring a dictionary. |
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tidelin
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It depends on where you go and how much money you have. You can hire people to protect you and translate for you. |
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albusdumbledore1992
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No problem! You can hire a tour guide who is the native and knows English.
I'm a Vietnamese and I live in Dalat city. My English is rather bad so I need a foreign friend to improve my English skill. If you come to Dalat, Vietnam, I'll very happy to take you to some interesting places.
Good luck to you. |
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ileerchina
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If you are afraid,then dont come.If you are not afraid then come. |
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Sylvia R
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no unless it's a place where alot of english is spoken, but no where else you can't get anywhere if you cant speak to anybody. and if you need help you won't be able to get it. just make sure you go somewhere alot of other americans are. |
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you
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Well yea if you are going to Hong Kong or Shanghai |
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laotzu4272
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It is funny how only tourists say it is safe. Most Chinese won't travel outside of the cities for fear of crime. They are right the Chinese want your money anyway they can get it. |
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Mos Def
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no it is not safe |
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Nancy
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Buy an English / American dictionary and study it really well.
Brush up on Help, 911, etc.. |
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