I just had my first conversation in Esperanto. It was with a non-native English speaker, and it was 'real', not 'practice,' as we were arranging a time to meet. I was pretty hopeless and I kept mixing up Esperanto words with words of other languages I've studied, which always happens when I start out using a new language (the Korean word for yes - 'ne' - was slightly more problematic as it means the opposite in Esperanto). However, it was a great feeling. Highly recommended, if you haven't done it yet yourself.

That's cool. I haven't had my first conversation yet, but I'm hoping to do so soon. And man, do I know what you mean about another language study getting in the way. Spanish, which I studied, but never learned well, keeps creeping in and bugging the hek out of me when I say or read certain Esperanto words. But, I'm overcoming it now, thankfully.

Starkman

My first conversation (not really arrange, more accidental) was similar - you kind of sort through words in your head and hope the other speaker understands, they wait a second, and then respond - at first it felt like "Oh well, lets just go back to speaking English" but then you go "holy :::: this is actually flowing somehow.

I have minor problems with my French and Esperanto - I pronounce some things too clearly in French
(Je ne sais pas = ĵe ne se pa instead of ĵ' n' se pa). But Esperanto's been exceedingly useful in helping me recognise French words that aren't already in English (along with my pathetic knowledge of German surprisingly)

My first was during my trip to Japan when I and some local young Esperantists were arranging for our schedule! I totally understand the feeling, and specifically since it was on the phone, I need to listen really carefully. Later my father (family trip) said I was nervous like crazy.

But it's really good experience, and the only way too, I supposed.

At first it didn't flow either. And I heard a lot of "Vole" which I later suppose was actually "Bone". XD