Learning a foreign language opens new doors and new perspectives in life. Did you know that among the benefits of language learning is the ability to manage problem-solving tasks easier or the strengthening of your memory function and creative thinking?

In France, the vast majority of native citizens speak French. This fact causes many English-speaking foreigners much anxiety, as the French have a long-held and a rather unfair reputation for not liking to speak English. In reality, plenty of French people, particularly in large cities such as Paris, speak English well and enjoy doing so. But, on the whole, French people dislike being addressed in English by foreigners without first being asked whether they speak English.

Solve this problem by mastering the phrase: Parlez-vous anglais? (Par-lay voo anh-gleh)–Do you speak English?–and use it before initiating a conversation with a French person. You’ll find that this small effort will be greatly appreciated. If you’re moving to France or intend to stay for a long period, however, it’s smart to learn the basics of French before heading over. Not only will it make life easier, but it’ll also open a whole new world to you.