[kiteflyer]

I have to design a website in two languages...
primary though is french (as this is the greatest client base) - the second is english.
I am not sure whether I should have a splash page that gives the language choices or have the page go directly to French with an english link.

thoughts anyone?

[oli]

How about a language page when they first visit which lets them choose a language, then store a cookie based on their choice so you know which version to serve in future ?

[steveb]

I prefer splash pages because they load very quickly (unless you stuff them with Flash) and after the initial selection, internal linking is easier.
I created a site for a friend years ago, sorely in need of an update, but the splash page/language selection looks OK. Afterwards, he asked me to also add internal language links, as if it were some kind of language lesson, but that's beside the point.

[datahound]

Either works I guess. Here's one I did which is mostly UK but with French, Dutch and German versions.
SELF-CATERING HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION NEAR BENODET & BEACHES

[steveb]

Flags are handy indicators but they can just as easily be replaced with the name of the language as a link. That way, the language choice isn't "country specific" - who's ever seen a Canadian flag used as an indicator for English, for example, or the Austrian for German?!

[Dusteh]

I think this is one of the few instances where a splash page is a valid option.

[kiteflyer]

thanks for all the advice you guys....

[.Ryan]

A splash page is fine in this case,
I do prefer little flags though so you go straight to the content, just change the language (make it set a cookie as well, like Oli said) if needed.

[solix]

Me, I don't really like splash pages. Especially not at big (commercial) websites.

Why not check the visitor's hostname with PHP, it'll probably say where he/she comes from. If English and else than French, show English text, if French.. you know. Though there'd be an option at the website to change the language, in my opinion.

[WeeJames]

Last multilingual site i did checked the browser for the language and applied that. There was was also a dropdown that allowed users to select a language prominently displayed on the homepage.

You could also try looking up their IP against a list of countries. Theres a site somewhere which lets you download that info so you can dump it into a db table for doing a lookup.

I say all this because personally i hate splash pages.

[pgo]

Originally Posted by oli

How about a language page when they first visit which lets them choose a language, then store a cookie based on their choice so you know which version to serve in future ?

This.

The splash/entry page is acceptable on a multilingual site, but a cookie should definitely be used to minimize future interruptions of the user experience.

[Monkey_Business]

entry page with language selector with cookie is a good solution. Definitely acceptable for a multilingual site.

See:
bonjourquebec.com or aircanada.com
Both implement a similar solution.

[timotool]

Homepage (index, the first page) is the most important page when it comes to SEO. You need to use that page for a lot of keyword rich contents and etc.. But, maybe your website doesn't need SEO help. (personal websites, invitation only websites, BIG~ brand-name websites..)

[joey]

In this case, a splash page is probably fine. Read PGO's comment.

In any other case, NEVER EVER EVER use a splash page, they bug the crap out of me.

[dcypher.co.uk]

Originally Posted by Dusteh

I think this is one of the few instances where a splash page is a valid option.

The man is bang on the money