I fail to understand how those who choose to live in foreign countries can do so without learning the language.  It may well be possible to do so, but it shows great ignorance. Without knowing the language of the country one lives in one is not showing respect to the local people, and in turn how can one expect to be respected. The locals will be happy to deal with them as a source of income but can they truly feel welcome within the culture if they can’t be bothered to learn to communicate with the people around them.

As a foreigner no one expects ones use of the language to be perfect. What is important is that they are making the effort to use it to communicate. When English is ones first language it is easy to assume that as some of the locals they will encounter can speak some English, that that is the acceptable language to get by in. These foreigners will encounter a huge difference in attitude though if they approach someone and ask “do you speak English?” rather than approaching them and asking them to speak slowly, for a better understanding.

One thing to notice about those foreigners who don’t bother to learn the language of their host country is that they tend to only socialise with those who share their common language. This immediately labels them as outsiders, rather than people who really want to join the local community. Maybe some people are happy to live like that but they are missing out on a rich experience. The longer they continue like that the less likely they are to be accepted. Everyone appreciates friends they can communicate with in their own language, but shouldn’t miss out on making new friends because of the language difference. Learning the language expands horizons.

Some foreigners are always reliant on one or two people they know to translate for them when dealing with anything which requires the local language. Having at least the basics in place, and learning more, helps them immensely in day to day life as they will be able to deal with things themselves instead of constantly needing help. It could well reach the stage where they end up paying for someone to translate for them, if the person they usually rely on isn’t available. The longer one lives in a foreign country without making any effort to learn the language the less likely they are to be happy long term, as they really are going to be living on the periphery of the local community. What if a hospital stay is required away from the area one lives in and the hospital personnel don’t speak English? Dealing with local regulations becomes a burden rather than a normal part of life. Telephone communication is an impossibility.

If ones attitude is that the locals ought to speak English then life in a foreign country is probably not a good choice for them. For those who realise that it is an essential part of the full cultural experience of living in a foreign country, learning the language will gain them respect, friendships and ease of living.