First Time Overseas Experience

There are dozens of languages in use in the countries of Europe. People you come in contact with at airports, exchange offices, hotels, and some restaurants, in Europe often speak English. But occasionally, the people you would really want to speak with know only broken English. Learn a few simple language phrases in the country that you are visiting. For instance, learn to say hello, goodbye, please and thank you in their language. When you start speaking in English and they don't understand, you'll get a frown. When using English, speak clearly and slowly and keep your ear open because the response could be quite difficult for you to understand. 

After you leave the airport you will meet with your team and or team officials.  They will take you to your destination the best thing to do although someone will speak English learn a little of their language before you meet them.  This is a sign of respect to them.  They will see that you care about them and there culture to at least try.  

Go to the library or to the Internet before you leave and learn common words or phrases.  A helpful website is www.travlang.com.  You can pick any language that you speak and the language you want to learn and it will give you the basic information you need. 

Another option is to go to a bookstore and get a translation dictionary.  Every bookstore has one, English and the primary language of that country.  This is good and inexpensive.  It is probably best to get one when you get to your destination.  It will help you with a lot of your activities that you do outside of basketball.  Show the word or phrases put together and your request will be easier than trying to describe it and speaking in English.