There’s a good chance you’ll be traveling to a country at some point in your life where they don’t speak your native language. Fortunately, most countries around the world do have English speakers ready to help in professional roles. You’ll also see plenty of English signs for various things in airports and major cities. There will be times, however, in which English isn’t the preferred method of communication. Not to worry — you can still have a great trip by utilizing three tips outlined in this article.
Pocket Translator
The pocket translator has evolved over the years. There are products out there that are specifically geared towards translating small phrases. In the current climate of the world, the iPhone and practically any smartphone can do the same thing. There’s Google translate — but there are also apps that enable you to speak into them in one language, while they’ll then translate your words into the desired language of your choosing. These can come in handy when out and about. Research your options and see which will work for you. Having a smartphone is nice — though you’ll have to rely on Wi-Fi or some sort of international plan to use it. The pocket translator/language interpreter can be used in all circumstances.
Small Book of Greetings
Some people prefer having a tangible book rather than something digital. To be fair, you’ll never have to worry about your phone dying or spotty Wi-Fi with a paper-based manual. It’s quite easy to procure a small book with greetings online or even in person at any bookstore. Grabbing a small one is convenient to have when packing a small bag for the day. You might look like a tourist if you pull the book out mid-conversation — though you will have a greater chance at being understood comparatively speaking to using hand movements and facial expressions.
Respectfully
This is the single most important thing when traveling anywhere. When communicating in a foreign country, do so respectfully above all else. Do not assume everyone speaks English. This is not only rude but quite presumptuous in a way that often gives Americans poor reputations abroad. Even if you know next to nothing in the language you’re attempting to speak, at the very least offer up a greeting or a simple statement. People are more willing to give you the benefit of the doubt by trying to converse in their native tongue. There’s even a good chance they’ll respond to you in English if they see you giving them respect by the attempt in their language.
