The Americanization of Asia

English Language Sign Example - Monkey EncountersBefore setting off on this trip we were most concerned about the challenges we may encounter in Asia.  Language seemed to be the biggest worry; we envisioned signs displayed in unfamiliar characters and inevitable impasses of communication.  What we encountered surprised us.

English is prevalent from spoken language to street names and store signs.  We always learn key phrases in the local tongue (hello, please, thank you, where do you keep the penicillin, etc.) and residents seem to appreciate our efforts, but we haven't really had to rely on this as much as we originally anticipated.

Having previously visited Europe and now Asia, we think it may actually be more difficult to communicate in some European countries.  We'll verify if this is really true when we head back to Europe this Fall.