Patrick Baughan asked if he would have to know any Spanish if he was spending some time in Buenos Aires before going on to Uruguay.

I have been living in Buenos Aires for two years and have travelled extensively around Argentina and Uruguay. You can get by with English in Montevideo, Buenos Aires and the main tourist spots. As in most major cities, you will always find someone who speaks English in hotels, restaurants and tourist services.

Those who speak English in Argentina and Uruguay often speak it very well, partly because of the British influence in their history (building the railway system, trading) and the bi-lingual school system they established, which is still held in esteem in the higher strata of society. But don't rely on being able to launch into English with taxi drivers, bus drivers, shop workers etc.
Meredith Sweeney

Having travelled to both countries, I would say that a Spanish course is definitely recommended. English is spoken in Buenos Aires and, to a lesser extent, in Montevideo, but in the more rural areas, it is unheard.

As a Spanish speaker, I found my time all the more rewarding because I could speak to anyone I met.
Nicola Pemberton

Berlitz produces a new easy course for learning Spanish called Rush Hour. It's a two-hour tape that will help you get by.
Julia Spence

I would suggest that Patrick Baughan doesn't bother learning Spanish before he travels to Buenos Aires. I would question whether he needs a week there. It's a very European city in style, with great food, gorgeous-looking women and friendly people, but we had done the major tourist attractions in three days and spun it out by a trip to Uruguay.
Dick and Clare Donovan

This week's question

I detest flying, or thinking about it and have not boarded a plane for five years. Has anyone got any unbiased/advice or experience to relate on how they conquered their aversion. I want to go to the Caribbean.
Jennifer Stuart

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