Hola to all you Expats,
I have lived outside the USA for 20+ years and find my fellow Americans as interesting lot. The following joke contains more truth than humor. If you speak 3 languages you are tri-lingual, if you speak 2 languages you are bi-lingual and should you speak 1 you are likely an American. I lived and worked in México for 12 years and found most Americans living up to the joke. Gringos by the way are the only ones who call themselves gringos. The Mexicanos referred to us Gabachos and most Gabachos flocked to Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Puebla, San Miguel de Allande and other 'hot spots'. Occasionally when I was in or around a 'hot spot' of tourism a local would attempt to fleece me but I would turn-on my best street español and basically tell him to get lost. When in a foreign land all expats must remember that they are guests and self appointed ambassadors and must be on our best behavior at all times. Not knowing the language leaves you indefensible ... unable to understand or be understood. It is up to you to learn Español not up to the locals to learn English. Due to my language skills I hope to rent a $400 apartment for $200-$250 ... the normal rate.
Only time will tell for sure but I think I am correct.
Regards,
Tom aka Chema