When I was in India I found not having the language very frustrating. It just doesn't feel right expecting the natives to speak English just because I do. Even in Europe it is nice to make an effort as the locals appreciate it. For sure Europe is much better educated and so it is typical that young people will have a very good knowledge of English but it shouldn't be an assumption on my part. The main reason to have the language is not just to ask for directions and for a big beer but to get closer to the people of the country. Travelling is as much about the people as the places you see and so to get a more complete picture it is a real advantage to have the language. People like to talk and when a random guy on a bike arrives into a small town people are naturally curious and happy to chat. Of course, when I mean getting to know the locals I mean the 'locals' too. It would be nice to meet Miss Universe and have a proper conversation with her ... probably about World Peace or whatever it is she is into.
I have completed two weeks of Castellano, one week in Buenos Aires and one week in Mendoza. It is not that difficult once one gets a grip of the pronunciation. It has been a great help so far and I know I need to learn a lot more as I'm still only at the asking for directions and for a big beer stage. Like any skill I will need to put more time into it but hopefully it will come with patience. For some reason I started babbling in French when I arrived. I wouldn't mind but for the fact that when I'm in France I babble in German. It was only when I was dreaming in Spanish (giving directions instead of asking for them) that I thought that perhaps I was getting somewhere. Now that I am on the road progress will be slow regardless of how fast progress is by bike.
Hasta Luego
Marco
ps - I finally found a connect fast enough to upload some photos of Buenos Aires. Please check the gallery to view.