This is an interesting question, Ai.... Just how do you communicate to hams when you don't speak their language....?
I am going to suggest a few things, based purely on my own experiences and prejudices- for no-doubt there will be others that will have plenty of their suggestions too- and their criticisms.
Preface-- I speak Spanish.
I have lived and work'd in Central America where I spoke nothing but.
I have also been DX from many locations where I have been eagerly chased by non English/Spanish speaking hams. So I know well, the 'other side.'
Thus said, being on the other side of the 'chase,' -call it that term, if you like- Here is how to successfully 'catch' the me's.
Fortunately most of the scientific/technical world speaks some English. So don't be afraid to call these stations in English-
I'd first off, avoid any of the DX bands and their pile ups. Fighting those is a chore in any language-- so go looking for a conversation in the off-frequent'd bands and then Listen. Listen and Wait.
Hopefully this period will enable you to gather information about the Spanish speaking stations- like their callsigns, locations etc., but most importantly, the tone of their conversation- is it friendly ?.. Even if you can't understand them, are they the type of guys (or gals) that seem amenable to attempting a cross language contact ? Use your Sixth Sense on this one.
When you feel the timing is right, call them in both English and in Spanish- get your callsign down in Spanish ** and interject it in with your Short ! call. Remember, Latin culture is very polite; make your call accordingly.
"(Their callsign in Spanish, then Engligh) 'this is' (your callsign in Spanish then English) 'may I have a short contact ?.... ¿Puedo tener un breve contacto por favor?.. cambio"
You may be please if they answer you in English, or a mixture - perhaps in a halting mixture, but you have made contact... now you can take it from there.
Maybe something like;
"I have never spoken to Chille before...Nunca antes había hablado con Chile, quería saludar rápido ..."
("I have never talked to Chile before, and wanted to say a quick 'hello'...")
Once --(or If)-- you establish a repertoire, the words will flow, fear not. But keep your exchanges brief and use as simple a basic language as you can.
Maybe this is preaching to the choir- but I can't - won't- overstate the Politeness part.
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Some Real Life stuff--
When I'm in the Pacific on rare little sand pile, I can create a pileup in a heart beat; Its then my most favorite Hams in the World are the Japanese.
So many will politely wait the longest periods of time to exchange a signal report- which I usually never let them get away with-- for I want to talk to each and every one at length- And in my horrible attempts at Japanese, we have a wonderful time.
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Its important to keep a good sense of humour - and your perspective.
That is, I think my French is pretty good.......
Well, that's what I think.
My good friend and colleague is French. She thinks differently-------------------
"Goodness, Lauri-- you sound just like a Parisienne hooker !"
Lauri
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Spanish Alphabet Pronunciation | SpanishDict
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