Thread: Is speaking more than one language ever helpful to you while cruising?

Around where I live, it's handy to know Spanish, Korean and Valspeak.

Originally Posted by *Lars*

Quote:
Originally Posted by Cruise Princess
Barcelona is in the region that speaks Catalan.
I know that, but what about all the other Spanish ports - Malaga, Seville, etc.?

***

They speak Castilian

But there are also of course Galician (spoken in Galicia) and Euscara (spoken in the Basque region)

Lars! Will I have a problem being understood and understanding Spanish in Barcelona?

In Mexico, Central America, and Spanish speaking places in the Caribbean ... normally, I have no problem. Sometimes, I do have to ask them to PLEASE tell me again slower because I don't understand Spanish very well. No real problem. They seem to always understand me just fine.

Originally Posted by LuLu

Have you ever found it helpful while cruising to be able to speak more than one language?

yes, i have ever found it helpful can speak more languages than one.
Most helpful is can speak english. Maybe german is also helpful on some cruises.

Spanish is always helpful when departing from San Juan. It seems that there are a lot of "locals" on board who prefer to use their native language.
In ports where Spanish is spoken, I've found it useful to barter in Spanish for souvenirs. Once they know you understand what they might be saying behind your back, there seems to be more cooperation (LOL)!

Originally Posted by LuLu

Lars! Will I have a problem being understood and understanding Spanish in Barcelona?

In Mexico, Central America, and Spanish speaking places in the Caribbean ... normally, I have no problem. Sometimes, I do have to ask them to PLEASE tell me again slower because I don't understand Spanish very well. No real problem. They seem to always understand me just fine.

Lulu, I am so sorry I didnt see this before now.

yes, even tho in Barcelona they swear by speaking Catalan they will speak and understand Castillian (i.e. Spanish)
You will have no problem what so ever

Thanks, Lars!