Pro tip: you donโt have to learn an entire language when you visit another country. But when you travel to a destination where you donโt speak the language, I suggest you always learn a few words or phrases. It doesnโt need to be complicated (by the way, Google translate is pretty lovely!).
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Words and phrases to learn:
- Hello
- Good bye
- Good morning / day
- Good night / evening
- Thank you / no thank you
- How much
- Where is a taxi?
- Directional words (i.e., right, left)
- Where is the bathroom / nearest bar or pub / restaurant?
- May I have more, please? (Iโm all about the food and use this often lol)
- One or 2 curse words. Why? โCause you never know when youโll need to throw one or 2 out there.
- And, according to a client of mine:ย Whereโs the ice cream?
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Obviously there are tons of words in everyoneโs language but itโs good to have a few basics to get started. When you have a guide in the various places you go to, use them as a language resource. They will be more than happy to help.
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Ok, grab your Google translate next time you travel to another country. Because, why not speak to the folks in their language? Itโs a sign of respect. I find the relationships I have fostered developed a lot easier when I was able to break the ice by speaking the language.
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Go forth, yโall, and travel!
