How soon before I interact with others on new language?
I don't know if it's nerves or just because I'm still at the beginning level, but I'm afraid to start interacting with those who speak Spanish until I build up a big enough vocabulary, maybe a thousand words, 100 phrases, etc. Is this a good thing or should I just jump right on in? Beginner level = I've only completed the LEARN SPANISH ONE section. (And 30 lessons on a YouTube site with 5-10 minute classes) So basically, I know hellos, how are you's, clothes, food, professions. I can't imagine starting a conversation that way, LOL. 'm thinking about visiting a grocery or clothing store, but don't want to offend anyone or waste their time stumbling over the language when they are trying to work, you know? Feels disrespectful. Thoughts?
8 Answers
If you complete your profile , it will enable us to interact more readily with you,
and in the level best suited for you . Bienvenido amigo , y buena suerte .
If you want to try Skype take a look at this post.
http://www.spanishdict.com/answers/221196/skype-anyone#a724901
Hi and welcome! 
Since you haven't filled in your profile yet, I can't tell where you are located. It sounds like you're lucky enough in a place where you have the opportunity to practice - the American southwest, perhaps? (Like me!)
I've managed to practice here and there (a few words at a time) with people around my area and I've gotten nothing but big smiles and nice answers (usually in English). Today the sweet Mexican neighbors across the street came over today to give us an invite to their daughter's birthday party. I'm really looking forward to the cumpleaños celebration. The little girl is the only one in the family who speaks English, although I've spoken to her in my very broken Spanish so far.
So, for an answer - Go for it!! People really appreciate that you try, even if you goof up your words a bit. I'm sure I've pulled a few zingers already, but got positive responses anyway. Start interacting as soon as you can. I don't think it's disrespectful at all to try to speak someone else's language.
Other than filling up your proficiency language profile. You have to decide if you want to talk to only natives or only Spanish students or both types.
I would choose everybody, since each group can give you hints from their perspective.
Just jump in and DO it.
Few things please people as much as being able to correct someone who has made a mistake.
We all learn from mistakes and you will make a lot of people happy.
Enjoy it and laugh with them.
I am convinced laughter improves the learning experience.
Start at once!
Just say ¡ Hola! ¡ Buenas tardes! , just start with what little vocabulary you have, go for it. You can't start too soon, in my opinion, there is no treshold, just ask for coffee, whatever small and predictable interactions you can manage, to start with,.
It gives you conficence and a sense of purpose with the studies, it makes you want to be able to say more.
You have to start from somewhere.Most people will gladly encourage you,even when you make mistakes,knowing you are still learning.
When I first came to Costa Rica not knowing Spanish I interacted with a S-E dictionary in hand. I would say things like "donde baño?, yo querer esto, tú tener frío agua?" many would tell me what I should say. I never studied Spanish formaly. I learned Spanish through conversation and the dictionary. I know enough to communicate now but I still need to improve and SD is helping me by reviewing posts and the questions I answer.
Do not worry about mistakes they help you learn. Just do it, speak the best you can and you will find that many people will help you especally if you ask them to correct you.
Best of luck.
