I will always advocate travels outside of your comfort zone. My mother was originally from the States, so I did want to familiarize myself with it. I was also raised bilingual, so knowing the language here helps very much.
It's a very possible thing to encounter. And a very irritating thing. Those who are picky and dare I say anal retentive about reciting certain prayers and song verses. Sometimes it was less about the love and forgiveness, and it bothered me.