Comapred to others who can't speak German,will German-speaking tourist feel better when travelling in Germany?

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Alwin E

I always feel better when I travel to a foreign country if I know a few words of the language. In my opinion, you should learn (at least) how to say hello and goodbye, yes and no, please and thank you, how to say "sorry", and "I'm sorry, I don't speak [language], do you speak [languages you know]", and "please, can you help me?". It will increase your chance of survival.

It's true, most of us Germans here speak English to some extent, but there might be a situation where there are only older people around who haven't ever learned English. Like my mother, for instance. She doesn't speak a single foreign language. That's alright; she never needed to. I learned English, know some French, and the above phrases (and a few more) in Italian, Spanish, Dutch and Czech. Why? Because I've been to those countries.

And that's what I really want to tell you: You don't learn from books. You learn once you're in the country, and it's easy in Germany, as most younger people speak English, and if you show some interest in the German language, they'll be ready to teach you. And it'll be fun. Just don't fall in on the "Oachkatzlschwoaf", a Bavarian tongue twister even the northerners can't get right. (The word means "squirrel's tail", just in case someone asks you.)

minearchy

Of course it makes a difference. First of all, you will have the confidence that you can communicate, which the other travelers will lack. Second, the germans you attempt to speak to will have more respect for you because you at least try to speak their language. Because of this they usually try harder to communicate with you.

Also, german is an anglo-saxon language so for an english speaker it is relatively easy. I recommend 'German with Michel Thomas' (this guy taught french to a group of sixth graders in a week!)

calapuno

A lot of older people donÂ´t speak English and if they do itÂ´s a low standard because they learned it at school but never needed it again. I suggest you do your best to learn at least some german (the common things) because as it was said before we appreciate it very much when foreigners speak german.
You will have an advantage when going by taxi and youÂ´re able to speak german (and have a map with you) because if a taxi driver recognizes that youÂ´re foreign it could be that he doesnÂ´t take the shortest /fastest way. But I think thatÂ´s the same in every country.
If you want to go to a restaurant itÂ´s also convenient to speak german because you can read the menu and you can avoid the things you donÂ´t like.
But if youÂ´re friendly to the people they will do their best to help you even if you donÂ´t speak german or understand their english. at the end you can still use body-language

Zoe Dot

Yes, of course it is easier. You also get more out of your experiences.
It isn't easy to learn the language though over-night. I have been learning Germany for about 15 years. I have lived there for 7 years and have travelled back and forth and am fluent essentially, but it takes practice and hard work to become really proficient.

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