I don’t speak the language, will it be difficult to get around?
Pompous Rhombus, Sep 22, 2007 22:36
If a place gets tourists, they can usually speak English. It can get a bit tricky off the beaten track, but charades and patience can overcome a lot of linguistic barriers. It helps to at least learn the numbers though. It’ll come in handy, and it’s not that hard.
Rheumy Sven July 05, 2005
Thailand: English Everywhere
Cambodia: English in Populated Areas
Vietnam: English Everywhere in the South, Populated Areas in the North
China: English Spotty Even in Populated Areas, Common in Major Cities
Touristy Shit Everywhere (net cafes, hostels, border crossings, airports): English Ubiquitous
Pompous Rhombus, Sep 22, 2007 22:36
Few tourists can speak Thai, it’s not a big deal. I’m finding that a little Thai will get you a long way, but the tones keep most people from being able to pick it up too easily. If you want to try, pick up something like “Thai for Beginners” by Benjewan Poonsam Becker or Pimsleur tapes and start learning before you come. (If it doesn’t have audio it’ll be nearly useless.) I wouldn’t bother with the writing.
