For any self-respecting globetrotter, discerning scholar or shrewd layman seeking to impress their mates down the pub, a second language is a must. It's good to wear a few different hats. And God knows the French like their hats. And berets. And headgear in general.

There are plenty of reasons to learn to speak French. For one, it's a beautifully rich, romantic and genuinely useful language. Second, it's spoken fluently worldwide by over 130 million people in more than 50 countries. And finally - drum roll, please - you may be genuinely surprised at what you already know. Really.

A wise man once said: "A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." I'd tend to agree with him. So, whether you're a newcomer to the language or a one-time connoisseur looking to dust-off the cobwebs, let Flyover French be your au fait concierge.