When in Rome....Don't Speak Spanish

I've never been in a situation before now where I've traveled outside of the country and couldn't communicate...until now. I am finding myself COMPLETELY outside of my comfort zone, as I don't speak a lick of Italian. Previous to this summer, my travels outside of the US consistently took me to South America, a continent I absolutely love. Though I am not bilingual, I speak a fair amount of Spanish and do not have a problem communicating and getting around. Puedo entender mas que puedo hablar. 

I am finding that somehow my mind isn't comprehending the fact that Spanish is not universal and is not secondary means to someone who doesn't speak English. "Parla inglese?" I ask them. They say say no, and automatically I start asking questions in Spanish. Their response - a blank and confused stare. My response - an "oops" moment. It's quite hilarious actually when this scene plays out in real time. 

I've even found great joy in running into  Spanish tourists here in Italy and being able to have a full blown conversations. Funny how that works. Two "foreigners" from two completely different countries bonded over language.

This should make Croatia very interesting........