Tips for Traveling When You Don’t Speak the Language

In modern times, everything is about communication.

We decided to ask three female travelers about their tips for traveling without knowing the local language. Eliška, Ejmy and Hanka traveled 5 continents and 20 countries.

An extremely useful list of travel words and phrases can get you to places far far away.

They are sure of their reasons why traveling without speaking the language is a good idea.

So I guess you can trust their first-hand experience.

• Do your research! Symbols, warnings, types of toilets, signs — ALWAYS google necessary information about the city and country.
• Use Google Translate, and don’t be surprised if the entire conversation takes place on your Google Translate display. But always expect a bit of gibberish.
• Learn basic phrases. They will bring you the smiles of local people
• Internet and mobile apps will be your best friends in need.

No need to learn the whole language, just get the basics in your system.

The unique Word lists “Travel” and “At the airport” by Vocabulary Miner which come in 8 different languages, can also be of great help, too.

Combine them with, e.g. basic language training app and prep yourself even during the flight for S.O.S. situations ahead. You will surely find many more apps.

• Listen carefully and consider the context. In a shop, a shop assistant probably asks you similar questions as the shop assistant in your home town.
• Use noises, hands, legs, and your face. Body language is also a language.
• Try out how many words you already know to become more confident. Check the Flashcard app Vocabulary Miner, choose the Travel Word list and test your skills.
• Stop stressing out about all the bad “what ifs”. Read about the worst scenarios Eliška, Ejmy and Hanka experienced in Not knowing the language can take you places.

Eliška, Ejmy and Hanka checked our special Word lists “Travel” and “At the airport” in the Vocabulary Miner Flashcard app:

“Such kinds of words and phrases packed in two Word lists are useful for everyone. They can help you in any situation,” Ejmy says.

“I think the basic Spanish travel phrases in the app come in really handy. Spanish and English are spoken in so many countries,” Hanka thinks.

“ What a functional Word list! You can even listen to the pronunciation right away,” Eliška concludes.

Wanna get more tips and tricks on learning languages, vocabulary apps, and a sneak-peek of the Vocabulary Miner app? Let’s #saymore to you — subscribe for news.