There are too many tourists who travel to foreign countries not having any knowledge of the local language because, “everyone else should be able to speak English, right?”.  Yet, I’ve found that one of the best ways to make a connection with the locals is to speak with them in their language.  Even if it’s a simple  “please” “thank you” or, they will be happy that you are making the effort, and overall, they’ll end up treating you better than those other tourists who simply don’t care.