Tips for traveling without knowing the local language

Learning simple phrases and actively conversing with locals are the most effective ways for you to have a smooth journey.

The U.S. travel agency estimated that in 2013, over 29 million Americans traveled abroad, most of them to places where English is not the official language. However, many travelers said they still “live well” in countries where they don't even know the local language.

Here are some small suggestions you can apply from American tourists.

Know about the place you're going to

The most important thing is that you need to know what language is spoken where you're going: English, French, Spanish, or a local dialect. Then, instead of focusing on learning the grammar rules of the new language, you should join an intensive language class to learn simple words like “Hello”, “Goodbye”, “Thank you”, “Sorry”, “Please”, “Speak slower please”, and “How much”. These words will help you save a lot of time while communicating with locals. Additionally, asking “Do you speak English?” in the local language can also be very helpful.

To ensure your safety, you can learn some additional words like “help”, “call the police”, “emergency”...

According to the 2014 report from the reputable U.S. travel website Priceline, 53% of travelers have learned simple words in the local language to communicate better with locals.

Use a smartphone

Over 60% of travelers have used their phones to search for local restaurants, hotels, and 30% have used them as a translation tool into the local language, according to a report from Priceline. One of the most widely used automatic translation tools today is Google Translate. However, to use these utilities, you must ensure that your phone is connected to the internet.

Actively interact with locals

69% of locals are eager to help and give directions to tourists. Don't hesitate to communicate with them because of your insecurity about pronunciation. Locals don't mind this at all, and sometimes they even appreciate your communication efforts, even if you make mistakes.

Recording important information such as hotel addresses, necessary phone numbers in the local language... is also a way for locals to help when needed. Additionally, you can use hand gestures and body language to communicate. However, remember to research hand gestures that should not be used in the country you are visiting to avoid trouble.

Equip yourself with at least one foreign language

Chinese is the most spoken language in the world, but English is the language you can communicate with in most places. Therefore, equip yourself with sufficient English skills so that in case you cannot speak the local language, you can still seek help from locals who speak English.

According to Sotaydulich.com

***

Reference: Mytour travel guide