Pretoria Travel Forum

What are the most common languages spoken in Pretoria? Is English spoken by enough people for us to communicate easily or should we try to at least learn a little of another language? We will be traveling there in Dec. 2009, so we have some time to plan.

Even though it is not the predominant first language, I think it is still widely used and known.
It has been a number of years since I was there though.

English will get you around easily. No need to learn another language, nor would it be easy to suggest a particular alternative language. It would depend on which community you would be moving around with.

Hi...I live in Pretoria...English is the language spoken in all businesses,and is now the pedominant language used as a means of communication.There is absolutely no need to learn another language.
You will have a great time.

You will have no problems communicating in English. Having said that, it is always a good idea to immerse yourself in local culture as much as is possible and greeting someone in their own language, for example, is a sign of respect and good manners.
Afrikaans is a national language and spoken throughout South Africa, and very much so in Pretoria.
Zulu and Xhosa are also spoken by a significant proportion of people, even though these two ethnic groups are 'family' belonging to the Nguni people. Zulu emanates from KwaZulu-Natal and Xhosa from the Eastern Cape.
For a basic introduction to Afrikaans, do a search for Afrikaans lessons on You Tube or My Happy Planet.