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Should foreigners that retire in the Philippines learn Filipino? What are your thoughts on foreigners that come retire in the Philippines and only speak English?
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This depends on where you are in the country. Most Filipinos pleasantries will be understood universally, but if you end up in the provinces of a Bisaya speaking area you will be really sorry you spent your time learning Filipino rather than Bisaya. Outside of Luzon you will be much better off knowing Bisaya rather than Filipino. As for Foreigners who speak English Only and can’t or won’t use any local lingo, even just the pleasantries they are a sad sorry lot, but not nearly as bad as those who don’t even speak English and rely on Google translate to get by with your girlfriend. I get more than a little frustrated with the Dutchman down the street who speaks no English or any Filipino language. I figure if he can afford the three college girls living with him he can afford my translation serviced since he does speak German and Danish.
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I think Americans should try to learn foreign languages wherever they go but most educated people around the world speak English as a second language particularly young people. It is the language of commerce throughout the world. There are many call centers in the Philippines and India because there are so many qualified intelligent young people who can speak English very well. They are also hired to work in UAE and other crossroads of commerce. I can say hello and good bye and ask how much something costs and understand most numbers in at least five or six languages. I am in awe of you and others who speak English, Tagalog and usually something else. I would hope foreigners would learn Thai in Thailand or Tagalog in the PI or Japanese in Japan but I am grateful that if I get lost in Asia and pull out a map. Almost immediately some one usually comes and asks if they can help and then they usually walk with me to my destination. Thank you for hospitality and care. I love Asia