Of the thousands of languages spoken in the world today, English has spread throughout the world due to the wide reach of the British Empire. Several countries have English as their primary or secondary language. This language has become the principal method of communication among international businesses, financial institutions, academic research and media outlets.
People are worried about traveling to countries where English is the least spoken language. Not being able to communicate is frustrating as well as a bit scary. But don’t let a fear of not speaking the language keep you from traveling.
1.Try to learn a few words like please, thank you, hello, good-bye. Reading travel guides and phrasebooks to know about the destinations, local language, culture, etiquette and customs. A phrasebook can help, but you won’t necessarily understand the response you get.
2. Write down the names of the hotel and any attractions you’re planning on visiting. It helps a cab driver or someone you’re asking directions from if you have it written down since it’s unlikely that you will pronounce it correct When you speak to locals, speak slowly and use simple vocabulary.
3. Your body language plays a key role in communication. Hand gestures and miming work well. Don’t worry about looking silly, you will be understood and the person selling the food will probably be even more friendly to you.
4. If not knowing the language stresses you out, booking a tour might put you at ease. Book an organized tour if you want someone else to take care of all the details. You’ll have someone around every minute who can speak English and the local language and they can help you out with any concerns. This is a good way to feel like you have a safety net, and maybe next time you go on a trip, you’ll be able to tackle the language barrier.
5. You can also book a handful of day tours throughout your vacation where you’ll be provided an English-speaking guide.
6. Read travel forums. There may be plenty of other people who have traveled to the destination you’re thinking of going. Search through the questions and see what people are saying about how easy it was to get around without knowing the local language.
It might be difficult to travel to a country with a different language and where English is least spoken. Remember that simple hand gestures, miming, drawing, and pointing go a long way towards breaking through the language barrier. Don’t let a fear of not speaking the language hold you back. Just think as a part of the journey, and enjoy the ride.