10 phrases you should learn in the local language
Don’t be one of those travellers who assumes everyone should speak English. Get a few basic phrases under your belt before you depart and you’ll have a much more enjoyable holiday.
1. “I’m sorry, I don’t speak your language.”
Rather than arrogantly trying to bluff your way through, it’s usually best if you start out by acknowledging that you’re not fluent. It can make a huge difference for only a little effort.
2. “Hello!”
Or good morning, or any other variation of a common greeting. It’s polite to greet people in their native language when you walk into a hotel, restaurant or store. And it always helps to back it up with a friendly smile.
3. “Please” and “Thank you”
Simple and highly effective, a basic ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ are a way to show that you haven’t left your manners at home. Even if you are speaking English throughout the rest of the conversation it’s always nice to add these in where you can.
4. “Excuse me!”
It’s always a good idea to be able to apologise for yourself when overseas, even if just to ask forgiveness for botching their native tongue. It helps to say it with a smile and even the classic ‘oops’ shrug to make yourself really understood.
5. “Do you speak English?”
Rather than just launching into a stream of English towards an unsuspecting partner, try asking if they speak the language. People might surprise you and you can save everyone a lot of hassle.
6. “I need help.”
We like to believe that people are inherently good, so if you can make someone understand that you need help they will do their best to assist you. That could mean finding someone who speaks English or directing you to the nearest police station or hospital.
7. “I would like…”
This little phrase makes the entire menu or the store’s shelves available to you. Say ‘I would like’ and then point to the thing you want. Too easy!
8. “How much?”
Foreign money is confusing enough so you want to avoid blindly handing over a stack of notes. At this point it’s also helpful to know the basic numbers (or you’ll be just as lost as before) but you can always hold up fingers or have a notebook for them to write it down.
9. “My name is…”
It’s always nice to be able to introduce yourself (and how else will you make new travel friends?) so get this basic intro down pat. Be aware that many languages have specific masculine/feminine pronouns, so you’ll want to get that one right.
10. “Where is the…”
In the age of Google Maps we tend to find our own way around, but it’s always useful to be able to ask a friendly stranger. It can help you find the nearest bathroom or the way back to your hotel, even when you’re iPhone is out of battery.
What are you tips for travelling through a non-English speaking country?
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