FYI-

Many of the cops do speak english but have yet to understand or comprehend that we joined the EU two years ago. So in an apparent effort to come off even more ignorant you can expect to be given the reply of, "I don't have to speak english, or French or German."

What a shame.

I think that's shameful that the policemen do not speak ANY language at all. The problem appeared during the last two days, when lots of tourists tried to get help from them (as there were a lot of them around the whole city as the Pope's visit were to begin) and they couldn't help. The only sentence they are familiar with is ,,I don't speak English". It shameful, regarding the fact that Warsaw is a capital of an european country, after all

Markski, it's not about the words my friend, it's about the approach. Cutie, huh? Thems fightin words!!!

Jak Powiedzieć "your full of it" po polsku? You've been avoiding our Polish lessons for weeks now. :)

Uczy się

Although what you said is true about the younger generation knowing a bit more English, German, French, etc. they are also the least likely to help in many ways; English usage has become more of a stigma than an aid. Such things you learn after much travel. First of all, it's more about the approach than about what language you use. I've observed the scouring look on more than one occassion simply by beginning a sentence with 'Do you speak English?' The first thing people need to learn is not that other cultures understand other languages, but that, being within their home country, they shouldn't have to cater to your language barrier. The wiser course of action would be for traveling peoples to get off their lazy butt and study at least a bit of the language before venturing off into unfamiliar territory. Show them you are trying to learn their language. Second, throw out the tour guides. If you want to know a city or country talk to the people; they know whats goin on and you become less of a tourist and more of a visitor ;)