Traveling in a different country where they don’t speak the same language can be particularly daunting, especially if you get lost, need to find a bathroom, or find yourself in one of many other precarious scenarios. In fact, in a survey conducted by Hostelworld.com, one in 10 adults in the U.K. said language barriers prevented them from traveling abroad altogether.
There’s really no need to let not knowing the language of the destination you want to visit stop you from exploring. While you may run into a couple of uncomfortable moments, it’s likely to be much easier than you think. If you’ve ever purchased one of the Los Angeles homes for sale or a house anywhere else, it will seem like a piece of cake compared to the many steps, paperwork, and probably a few hurdles that took, especially if you follow these tried-and-true tips.
Tips are as following
Download a Translator App
Thanks to technology, communicating when you don’t know the language is easier than ever. There are some great translation apps like Google Translate, which supports 108 different languages from around the world. Whenever you want to ask a simple question, just use it to translate in the language of your destination. If you find it too hard to pronounce, you can simply show your screen to the person you’re trying to communicate with. For many languages, the app also offers instant camera translation, which is really handy for menus and informational signs and two-way instant speech translation.
Take a Few Lessons
Before you go, try to learn at least a little of the language, even knowing just some basic words and phrases can be a big help, such as “please,” “thank you,” “hello,” and “where is the bathroom, grocery store, etc.?” You’ll find lots of online tutorials, YouTube videos, and apps like Pinsleur that can teach you at least the basics. Not only will it make things much less stressful when you’re traveling, but it’s a good way to get to know the locals as showing that you’re at least willing to try is a sign of respect.
Try Charades
You’ve probably played charades at one point or another, now that game can be incredibly useful. Simply use your hands to communicate – you might be surprised at how much can be said without actually saying a word.
Plan Ahead
While spur of the moment can be fun, it’s not the best idea when trying to navigate a foreign country when you can’t speak the local language, such as trying to find a hostel, restaurant, transport, and so on, especially when you’re battling jet lag. Doing this could even be unsafe. Doing some planning ahead by organizing the important details, such as making reservations for accommodation and arranging transfers, at least for the first few nights, is the best way to go.
Hire a Guide
Hiring a guide can enhance your experience in many ways. You’ll get local tips, and they can help you learn to navigate your destination much easier. Even if it’s just for a day, once you have a better perspective of the layout of the place, know where the best places to eat and shop are, and learn a little bit more about the culture, it can make a significant difference.