Slovakia Tourist Traps

Most of folks - I met during my trips to Slovakia - could speak only Slovak, especially in the countryside. Although it goes slowly better and better nowadys. I mean that more young Slovaks learn foreign languages, mainly English and German.
Older folks can speak usually a little Russian as Russian language was obligatory in Czechoslovak schools till, I think 1990 or so. Add folks who speak Hungarian that is Hungarian minority - approx. 10% of population - esp. in southern and southwestern Slovakia.

Slovak language is similar to Polish and Czech. The three languages form Western Slavic language group. And it's similar - although less - to other Slavic languages. But it didn't mean I could communicate fluently with my Slovak friends. Don't ask me how many times I ordered "wrong" food in Slovak restaurants, haha!

IN POINTS OF TOURIST INTEREST
There were info signs in foreign languages (usually in English/German, Hungarian and Polish) in most touristy places (castles, museums etc.) I visited. Add leaflets/books in foreign language available in bookstores or tourist informations points where staff usually (but not always!) could speak German and/or English. There were foreign language guides to hire at some catles as well - but usually in advance and exclusively for groups.

IN RESTAURANTS
Waiters could speak German/English exclusively in most touristy restaurants placed in centers/downtowns of cities/towns or close to most visited castles, museums etc. And... not always. But there was often menu in foreign languages available there - esp. in Bratislava. In areas adjacent to Poland there was sometimes menu in Polish available.

IN RAILWAY STATIONS
There was nobody speaking English in Zilina railway station in late 90' :-(((.

IN STORES
Do not expect knowledge of any other language than Slovak except young sellers and few tourist gift stores.

Try to ask yonger folks, up to, say 25, or even children.
No way: learn at least basic words in Slovak. Ask for correct pronauncation the first Slovaks you meet. Buy English-Slovak dictionary easy available in most bookstores.
Always keep smiling and have your... hands and face ready :-)))
Always carry a piece of paper and a pencil to draw/write what you mean.

Take a tour package to Slovakia with a guide in your language. Not my recommendation (I love more freedom :-) although if you like more comfort... your choice.

Slovakia Tourist Traps

Visiting Slovakia?

Visiting Slovakia?