From the guy on the street to the White House politician, every American agrees that English is the language to speak. This general opinion, pushed by the media, has lead to the widespread idea that English is THE language to know and speak. Without it, they say, you are lost. Well, lost in America maybe but what about abroad?

Certainly, the fact that English is spoken across the continents cannot be denied, but countless other languages can make the same claim too. Countries such as China and Japan are racing ahead of the rest of the world in terms of the science, technology, and many other fields.

A recently published report commissioned by Michael Thomas, the Hollywood language teacher who has taught celebrities such as Doris Day, Emma Thompson and Woody Allen, highlights some interesting benefits brought to those who learn a foreign language.
According to the report, who learn a foreign language are richer, happier and are regarded as sexier than those who can only speak English.

Based on the opinions of experts, sociologists, linguists, English and non-English-speakers, the testimonials and experiences of travelers, students, teachers and professionals, we have selected some of the best arguments in favor of learning a non-English, foreign language.

1. 92 percent of the world (i.e. 5 billion people) doesn't speak English and 873 million people speak Chinese as their native tongue (as opposed to 340 million that speak English)

2. Linguistic skills are a vehicle for business opportunities and are vital for successful international negotiations. People who learn a foreign language earn an extra £3,000 a year - a total of £145,000 over their lifetime.

3. Languages improve learning ability and challenges keep us thinking!

4. You can read, watch, listen and enjoy foreign media, opening your eyes to different viewpoints and opportunities.

5. You can appreciate the subtleties and cultural references of foreign films without getting distracted by the subtitles. Furthermore, you appreciate literature in its original language - who knows, there may me a foreign author who you love (if only you'd learn their language!).

6. You can whisper sweet nothings into the ear of your date in foreign languages. On top of this, by being able to speak to more people, you'll have the chance of more dates on which you can whisper these sweet nothings!

7. The locals will let you in on where they're hiding all the incredibly cheap (yet deliciously rich!) food & wine.

8. You gain independence and learn skills of adaptation and appreciation skills that make any challenge seem conquerable.