Another item that helps is an inexpensive electronic translator. We bought two of them before we made our first journey to Spain, and they work wonders. You can input your question in English, and translate it to Spanish (French also on one of ours), and people can enter info in Spanish and have it translate into English as well.

What we found interesting is that using the little gadgets actually helped us to learn enough Spanish as we went along so that we could eventually get by almost without it. But since they are so small, and can fit in a shirt pocket, they work very nicely when needed. In fact, with new found friends, who couldn't speak a lick of English, and us not being able to speak a lick of Spanish, we sat around a kitchen table and used the translators, hand gestures, and even small sketches on paper for endless hours, and were able to have a wonderful time.

What others have said, and I totally agree, Spaniards are more likely to work with us in translation, and help us, and be less offended when we butcher the language - but try, than any other people I have ever met. Even when we do terrible with it, they'll just smile, and help us get it right.

Anyway, in my opinion, you don't have to know any Spanish - assuming you have a translation book and electronic translator - and you can travel anywhere in Spain without a worry on your mind, unescorted by someone who speaks Spanish.

Wolf