In general the French were very open and pleasant people, Many loved having an english speaker to practice their English with...

I've never been blown off by a Korea like that, that does seem pretty funny, especially from an older woman.

Here, while not so open, they are sometimes desperate to talk native english speakers.

I am linguistically challenged- I can read french but it is VERY difficult to speak or understand it- my ear just doesnt catch the words...

I understand, and am in the same boat. Have you tried conversation through MSN Messenger to help with conversation skills? its helped me more than anything else, but listening still leaves more to be desired. Right now I am watching cartoons and soap operas to supplement listening comprehension . . .

I once asked a Peurto Rican in basic training "how did you learn english?" he said "cartoon network". . . Hey if it works for them it'll work for me!