Buzz
Many individuals enjoy solo international travel but worry about their limited English proficiency. However, there are ways to ensure your journeys go smoothly, if you apply the following skills.
Preparing basic phrases beforehand
Basic greetings and communication such as: “Please take me to…”, “Excuse me. Which way to X?”, “I'm lost. Is there a route to X?”, “How much is this item? Is there any discount?”, “I'm a tourist. I'd like to try local specialties here”... Once you've planned your backpacking trip, you know exactly what English phrases you need to “cram” for.
Maximizing body language
Don't hesitate to gesture. Locals in the place you're traveling to will always be eager to assist you. Their English might not be perfect, but they're accustomed to tourists asking for directions or inquiring about restaurants, hotels. When you can't articulate verbally, use your hands or point to objects to signal.
Traveling with different companions
When you travel with someone else, the difficulties diminish greatly. You can travel with someone who shares your passion for travel, a foreign friend who isn't proficient in English, or someone who is proficient in English. If both of you travel together, many risks can be avoided. Conversations or expressions will be easier. Not to mention, locals won't feel hesitant to respond to you, because when both of you think of ways to communicate, it can create a better impression.
Don't fear making mistakes when speaking
You might speak English with grammatical errors, wrong vocabulary... That's fine, make the most of your vocabulary. Locals will try to understand and help you. If you're not proficient in English and you're shy to speak, you won't improve. Many people initially aren't proficient in English but after a period of making mistakes, speaking nonsense, they gradually become accustomed to thinking and expressing themselves.
Always prepare for the worst-case scenarios
Consider scenarios like getting lost, being overcharged by a taxi, not having enough money to cover expenses, not finding your way back in a remote area... These are common situations when backpacking. If you're not proficient in English, think of ways to save yourself before these situations actually occur. Always carry items to prevent risks. Some seemingly useless items can actually 'save' you: matches, a raincoat, flip-flops, matches, scissors, a blanket, a tarp, some light snacks, a bottle of water... Depending on where you're backpacking and what kind of trip it is.
By Muctim
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Reference: Travel Handbook from Mytour
MytourJune 18, 2014
