No local language for European GP...

[mx_tifoso]

If one were to go to a non-English speaking country such as Germany or Belgium, and not be able to speak the language, would getting around and taking part of the Grand Prix be difficult?

Or do the events successfully cater to those who don't speak the local language? And if so I'm assuming English is second main language right?

Another thing I've noticed is that a lot of the European members here speak English really well, is this the case for the general population? I wouldn't know what to expect .

I am fluent in Spanish and English BTW, and am proficient with some of the French I learned back in high school (although I really need some refreshing and practice).

[WhiteBlue]

That will get you around in Europe really well. English is the preferred second language wherever you go and there is only one major Nation which is anti English, the French. At least you will be able to get by there. Most other countries have adopted English as the language of tourism and business. Having fluent Spanish will also be a help. I would not be concerned to pick the GP you most favour.

[Scotracer]

Everyone in Spain (well, a lot anyway!) speaks English even if you didn't speak Spanish. The French can be a bit picky when it comes to speaking in English. The Germans I have found are actually hit-and-miss. I've travelled down a lot of the west border of the country and some places they almost felt insulted if you assumed they didn't speak English (hey I have to practice German somewhere!) but some places very few people ever spoke English to me. Although I am mistaken for German A LOT of the time; blonde and green eyed.

At the races the commentary is always broadcast in the native tongue and English alternating, so you will always know what's going on.

[mx_tifoso]

Thanks for the replies guys, very much appreciated. More are definately welcome .

And I mentioned the German and Belgian GP's for a reason, as those along with the Italian are the ones I'm most interested in.

I don't have any specific plans yet, as my funds are tied up in school and somewhat frequent visits to my region in Mexico (this week!). But hopefully my GP experience materializes somewhat soon.

[ISLAMATRON]

Forget Europe... BRAZIL!!!!!! thats my next GP

[Shrek]

Well I did take Spanish 1 for a year not spanish 2 because that was on the same block with mechanics and right now i wish i could take spanish 2

[mx_tifoso]

Well I did take Spanish 1 for a year not spanish 2 because that was on the same block with mechanics and right now i wish i could take spanish 2

Y eso que tiene que ver con mi tema?

Sorry Islamatron, my heart is set on Europe. If I was going to a South American race it would only be in Argentina. And I would meet up with Belatti for some beers

[astracrazy]

I went to Italy last year, i thort the standard of the facilities was crap compared to silverstone this year. Didnt see one proper toilet there all weekend. You have to walk 1-1.5 miles to the track from the bus that drops you off. And as it rained, i was covered in mud. Path to the grandstand? What path!!! And it seemed like that for most around my area i was at. The bridge over the track aswell, you can just stand there and watch people slip down the stairs when it rains. I wasnt near the grandstand so i can not vouch for there.

I have to say outside the track (in the hotel) the italians were ok. I dunno if i stayed in the wrong area but nuthing to do! lol. At the race though, im not so sure. I think they took the piss and just spoke italian and just ripped me off on food etc.

Not good when you get that vib!

[kilcoo316]

I am fluent in Spanish and English BTW, and am proficient with some of the French I learned back in high school (although I really need some refreshing and practice).

Should be enough to get by on.


In my experience, if you at least try to speak french, the french are much more forgiving when the conversation eventually has to switch to english.

[mikhak]

Went to the Belgian GP 2 years ago with not a word of French (or Dutch!). Locals in the tiny village beside the race track didn't speak english but we got by using hand gestures and lots of pointing! Getting around wasn't a problem if you ask in the main cities and towns there'll always be someone who speaks english. Out in the countryside where Spa is, the main thing we had to ask for was food and drink which involved pointing at a menu! Nothing to do in Spa once the racing finnishes for the day.