Locals Attitude towards Foreigners speaking Spanish

Ever since our class arrived at Cusco, we have met many individuals from the town whether it be the waiters at the restaurant, our tour guides, or even just people on the street, and the first words that come out of people’s mouths are words in English. This is understandable because we don’t necessarily look like we are from around here, however, lots of times we then speak to the townspeople in Spanish so that they know we speak Spanish, and we are met with two answers: they either continue speaking in English or they ask us whether we speak Spanish.

            When the people from the town continue speaking English after we respond in Spanish, I could see them doing this for one of many reasons: they don’t necessarily believe we speak Spanish, they want us to feel more comfortable, and they want to practice their English, etc. However, I believe it’s more so the first option than anything since I would ask or simply speak Spanish if I were in their situation. What do y’all think about this? What is the main reason for them continuing to speak English after we have spoken in Spanish?

            As for the other option that I have said which is when people ask if we speak Spanish, this I find it good to do since it’s good to not assume these types of things. I also find that when people ask the individuals, they seem to be friendlier since they want to learn more about the individuals even if it’s as simple as knowing whether we know how to speak Spanish. What is y’all’s attitude when someone asks y’all if y’all speak Spanish?