I've found that the most useful phrase to memorize is 'Excuse me - could you help me find a policeman?'. This will help you out of almost any difficulty you get into, as cops in most places (but by no means all) are always anxious to help tourists and give a good impression. Especially true in the Scandinavian countries and Japan.
Boru
Boru
‘I can’t be having with this.’ - Esmeralda Weatherwax