When spending time in property in France – or any other non-English-speaking country – budding linguists can simply ask to communicate in French, it is noted.
Tamzin Caffrey, head of marketing, press and publishing at CILT, the National Centre for Languages, explains that many areas will cater for English tourists.
If your property in France is in an area where many Britons visit, this could include signs written in English.
Meanwhile, outside of the main tourist areas, it is still likely that many people will speak English as a second language.
In order to overcome this, Ms Caffrey advises those keen to learn the local language to make sure they know how to ask – politely – if the conversation can be held in the appropriate country's mother tongue.
"Try to learn the basics for politeness – such as please, thank you, et cetera," she adds. "These foster good relationships."
