Language Barriers?

[candypants]

What have you ladies done about the language barrier? Did any of you know or learn the language before you went? I'm debating whether or not to buy a Rosetta Stone to learn some German before we move. I know that a lot of places speak English, but I'd like to make it seem like I've made some sort of effort.

So what were your experiences with the language barrier, if any? I'm mostly worried about shopping and eating out.

TIA!

[AshyMinx]

I have never lived overseas within a military community, but I have lived overseas in a foreign language country in my own capacity. From my experience I would recommend trying to learn a bit of the language. The local people will recognize and appreciate it and it may open doors for you for friendships and opportunities you would not have otherwise.

I also have Rosetta Stone, and I use it and I love it. I think it is worth the money, and beyond worth it if you have free access to it.

[laurak]

I bought a game called "My Japanese Coach" for Nintendo DS. Its been great. I have learned numbers, colors, and common phrases. Another good thing is it has a dictionary and common phrase dictionary. If I needed I could find the common phrase and it would say it for me. I will know if it really works in March, but I do think it is a good idea to learn some words. Even if you dont speak it well or barely at all at least you are trying.

[LT]

German's usually speak really good english, and you will pick it up pretty fast, plus i would love to help you learn if you would like!

[Songtan Sally]

They may offer language classes on base; take advantage of that.

Learn a phrase or word each day and you will soon have a good vocabulary. Learn the basics - hello, goodbye, thank you, please, bathroom - to get started and always carry a phrase book with you!

[Shaky]

I would try to learn the language as much as I could.
We are going to Italy and thankfully I'm intermediate in Italian so hopefully it wont be that bad.

[*tina*]

If you make an effort to try to learn the language before you go, it's easier to get your point across if you know a few basics. Most Germans DO speak English, but for some it's been a few years (at least in my family) since they've really had to stretch that English muscle.

[His*PITA*]

I learned some phrases and words from some ladies I worked with before we moved, but not much more... I have never been good with languages

[JK]

FYI, most base/post libraries have Rosetta Stone for FREE!!! Also, there will be newcomers orientation at most bases which can get you connected with language classes when you get there. It was soooo nice to know a few phrases to at least get through the first few weeks we were in Germany.

[sharine25]

if you have ako, (your DH) you can download rosetta stone for free. i just don't know where to find it but if u play around on army.com you can find it.
yes i would recommend you learn few german words/sentence..people tend to be nicer and helpful when you make an effort to learn the language..they do speak english but are shy to speak it..so when you make an effort in german they will make an effort in english...