The Language Barrier: Traveling to a Country Where You Don't Speak the Language

Traveling abroad requires more preparation than traveling domestically. Besides packing everything you need, including your passport, plane tickets, accommodation reservations, clothes, and toiletries, you may also need to learn about the culture or language of your destination.

English, Chinese, and Spanish are among the world's most widely spoken languages. Even so, native English speakers account for only about 27.5% of the world's population. Everyone else speaks other languages. There are more than 6,500 languages worldwide, so English may not be understood in the country you plan to visit.

How can you overcome the language barrier at your destination and enjoy your trip?

First, take a short beginner-level language course. Look for courses at universities, cultural centers, language schools, or other institutions that teach the language of your destination. If you live in a city and the language spoken at your destination has a fairly large number of speakers, you will likely have a wider range of learning options. Some short beginner courses are specifically designed for travelers. You may also find free online language courses helpful.

Download an interpreting app. Many interpreting and translation apps are now available. Before downloading one, however, check user reviews to see whether it is genuinely helpful. You should also confirm that it supports the language you want to use. If possible, download an app that works without an internet connection, as internet access may be difficult at your destination.

If your budget allows, you can also hire an interpreter. Because this can be expensive, decide in advance which days you will truly need help from someone who knows the local language and culture well, and hire an interpreter for those dates. The interpreter may be a local resident or someone from your own country who lives there. Although costly, this option has many advantages, as you can also receive travel information and attend lectures on the country's history and culture.

You could also join a guided tour. This costs less than hiring a private interpreter, but the drawback is that you must travel in a group with other people. If you do not mind traveling with others, however, joining a group tour is an excellent option.

The most basic and traditional approach is to use a travel phrasebook. Smartphone apps may be the latest option, but they become useless if you cannot use your phone because of an unexpected accident, a dead battery, or another problem. A book, however, can be opened at any time. Travel phrasebooks are convenient because they include commonly used travel conversations and words along with detailed pronunciation guides.

[Fam Times reporter Jennylyn Gianan]