Is there a practical point in learning foreign words while travelling?
It is frequently advised for travelers to learn the basic vocabulary in whatever is the local language in the country they're visiting. The reasons usually given are:
- It can help in situations where the other persons knows zero/little English
- It helps endear the locals
Is there truth to that piece of advice in the modern times or can everything be solved through Google Translate on a mobile phone?
Best Answer
It is important to learn some words when traveling so you can be polite and avoid mistakes. My favorites are, in order of importance:-
- No - so you know what not to do,
- Thank you - polite people get goodwill,
- You are welcome - more goodwill,
- Where is the toilet? - necessity,
- Hello, my name is... - you are there for adventure; have one,
- What does this cost? - it could be much more expensive depending on exchange rates,
To Bring:
Bring a small notebook for writing down numbers and drawing things you don't have the word for, like cats or buses. Perhaps a dictionary, if it fits in a handy pocket
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Why is learning a foreign language useful in travel?
Learning the basics of the local language will help you get around places and make travel so much easier, turning it into a fun and memorable experience. It can be of great help, whether it's for reading signs or asking directions \u2013 it saves you from the likelihood of getting lost in a foreign country.Can you learn a language through travel?
Ultimately, travel can stimulate your desire and curiosity to learn a new language. Traveling in a new county gives you a genuine connection to that language and its culture. Learning the language on the go and after your return home can teach you about yourself and the world around you, so embrace the opportunity.Should you learn a language before traveling?
Learning the Local Language Will Make Life Easier. In a country where few natives speak English, not learning the local language is a recipe for a hard life. Once you learn the language, you'll be able to navigate daily activities in that country. There are numerous ways life will become easier.What is the most useful language to learn for travel?
English has taken over the world as the most influential and widely-spoken language, and certainly the most useful for travel. If you don't speak English well, it's by far the most important language for you to learn.Learn English - Travel Vocabulary
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Answer 2
Ah yes, you can totally rely on Google Translate...except when you can't. It's not perfect. It's inaccurate, and it's slower than your brain.
Imagine after every sentence, having to google translate it, and then work out your answer, translate that, and then speak it? You're not going to have satisfying conversations, and will get embarrassed.
I've found that even ~10 words/phrases will get you VERY far (plus hand signals and a friendly smile):
- hello
- thank you
- yes & no
- "where is ...?"
- "how much does ... cost?"
- goodbye
- help
- taxi
- bus station, airport
- toilet
*bonus - your age, marital status, and country of origin
A couple of those don't sound that important, but when you need them, you'll realise.
In addition, the evidence that you've at least tried to learn some of the local language will often endear your self to the locals. They'll appreciate and be more understanding and willing to help than some loud tourist just repeating it in English slowly and loudly, which then can embarrass them if they don't speak English (or whatever your language is).
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Andrea Piacquadio, Andrea Piacquadio, Julia M Cameron, Ravi Kant