Domifletch, I know a lot of English guys, and generally I get along with them very well! In Phuket most of my BM's were English Or Norvegian.
But, I don't know for you, I speak English quiet well. In some countries, they ask me if I am English!
I have to admit that a Frenchman, would not even bother to speak another language most of the times, but is that not the same with English
I am always happy that I speak 3 languages quiet good! Never have problems to comunicate! I am sorry that you had bad experience with people, from the country I am living now! Again except the what older people from the village, my fellow citizens are very nice, wouldn't like to live anywhere else!
A amusing thought to end this story!
I was in Karon, with the most beautiful girl I was with in Los. She was flirting with me on the beach. She was 20, but have to admit, looked 17 (wich pi**ed her off btw!) In the water, she kept looking for my di**.
Next to us, a couple of Parisiens, my age, mid 40'ies. As I don't have a French accent at all speaking English, a little bit Dutch maybe, she started to talk with her husband:
"Have you see that guy (en Franรงais dans le texte original)". But look at it! This girl must be 16! With such an old man, this is disgusting! My brain cannot understand this! Dreadfull! What a disgusting man! :bangin:
I did not say anything, but kept on playing with my Tg!
At a certain moment, they made themself to get ready to go to the hotel.
When they passed behind my chair , I said in perfect (Belgian) French!
Bonne journรฉe ร vous, Monsieur, Dames (Have a nice day)
I thought the woman was strucked by lightening! She became as red as "une tomate", and stumbled :"you too Sir" in French!
Ah French, they have so manny faults, but they are "real" people being what they are, and not what you want them to be!