Mind your Language: Words and Phrases To Learn When Travelling to a Foreign Country

written on April 19th, 2016 by Rafia Abubakar

While there is beauty in mystery and puzzles, getting lost in translation is not always how you want your adventure to begin. Language barriers can be crippling. Travelling to new places with people speaking a whole different language from your own can be daunting. But skipping a country just because their language seems alien to you is no fun either.

While no one expects you to be fluent, knowing the basics can do wonders for your trip. It will be more fulfilling, so give it a try.

To start off, here are some of the most common phrases you should learn. Even if you say only a few words these phrases can go a long way.

• Hello – Or the local form of greeting. Consider learning Good morning, good evening, or good day.

• My name is… – Should you want to follow the greeting by an introduction.

• Do you speak English? – If there’s a chance the locals you meet understand and speak English, this will help.

• Goodbye – Bid farewell as you politely part ways.

• Please / Thank you – Being courteous and polite never hurt anyone.

• I’m sorry / Excuse me – Along with please and thank you, these should prove valuable for your shortcomings whilst being humble and polite.

• How much is this / that / for? – If you intend to spend any money, you’ll need this phrase.

• Numbers and basic monetary terms – To help with the shopping/bargaining, best to know the basic numbers.

• Where is the toilet? – You can’t undermine the importance of knowing how to ask for the public restroom.

• Where is? – So you can be pointed in the right direction of course.

• I do not understand – When all else fails, no shame in admitting you don’t understand.

• Help! / Emergency! – While we always hope for a safe journey and travels, emergencies can happen or you may want to help someone in an emergency. Learn how to ask for help, call the police or call for an ambulance/doctor.

You might even surprise yourself and opt to really learn a new language. To give you a head start on some of the most common languages, try French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), German, Japanese, Portuguese or Hindi/Urdu. These languages are widely spoken or understood in most countries.

Locals appreciate it when visitors are trying to communicate with them in their own tongue. It shows respect and the willingness to know more about their place and culture.