u/AsparagusComplex4368

Just wondering since I've noticed many of my friends and I can speak some Chinese but can't read and write at all. Funny enough I have better chances reading from a Romanized language.

Taking classes in Chinese is awkward since the levels are quite beginner for listening and speaking but reading and writing is a challenge. I'm looking for - faster way to master the language, spending my hours effectively.

Lived there for a season and couldn't find a package like that elsewhere - ease of transport, beauty, social spontaneity, amazing food, deep traditions and culture. Of course there's cities that win on a certain dimension but altogether Madrid is incredible

Been here for the last month . Google Translate helped me read the menu but I still didn't really know what was actually worth ordering. Ended up pointing at random stuff half the time. I've also got some unique food preferences, so that was tough.
Curious what other people do in that moment - especially at local spots with no pictures and no English.