Travel Tips for When You Don’t Speak the Language
Recently I was stopped at airport security in Amman, Jordan due to some confusion over the iron skillet I was carrying in my duffle. As we waited for the manager, I tried to lighten the mood with some casual conversation in hopes that they would give us the “ok” to go.
Unfortunately, the security guys didn’t speak any English (and I don’t speak any Arabic). So, I did what any seasoned traveler would do and signed. Awkwardly, I pretended to eat, pointed to the terminal, and gave a thumbs up. The security guys laughed and then nodded and then said “Popeye’s!”
We may have had different ideas on what we consider to be “good” food (I went for the halumi salad at the café), but we were able to communicate.
The moment made me think.
A few years ago, before heading out on a big trip, a co-worker asked me how I travel when I don’t speak the language. I never really thought about it before. Although I grew up in Thailand, I (shamefully) never learned Thai. Learning to communicate with the few words I did know became second nature. Somehow, I could always get my point across.
I think traveling is such a wonderful experience. It’s so much easier to learn about different cultures when you’re immersed in one, even if it’s only for a few days. You try new foods, see different ways of life, and gain a stronger sense of acceptance and compassion (well, at least that’s what I hope for).
The idea that not speaking the language would detour someone from such an amazing experience is discouraging. I want everyone to have the courage to take a little adventure!
I came up with a few tips to help make the idea seem a little less scary.
1. Plan Ahead
Before I visit any country, I do a little research on how to get around:
– I download any necessary transportation maps
– I read online forums about how the transportation system works
– I figure out how I’m going to get to my hotel, and how much it should cost to get there.
– I have the name and address written down in case I need to show someone.
– Lastly, before I leave the airport or train/bus station, I try to download the location on Google maps
(If you open Google maps ahead of time and let it load your location, you can use the app without phone service. Just make sure you don’t close out of the app or it will need to reload.)
I pretty much follow the above for any place that I’m visiting for the rest of the trip.
2. Learn a Few Key Words
Americans have it pretty easy, most people know a tiny bit of English, so speaking in English will generally get our point across. However, I always feel a bit guilty assuming that someone does know English!
Knowing a few keywords, like “hello,” “please,” and “thank you” is a great idea. Locals understand that tourist aren’t going to speak the language, but when you go out of your way to learn a few polite words, it shows that you are eager to understand the culture.
In my experience, people will be much more patient and helpful if they know you are trying to be respectful.
3. Download Translation Apps
While traveling in South America, we often used the google translation app to assist us with Spanish menus. The app is pretty cool, because you can use the video feature and hold the app over the menu and it will translate on the spot!
That particular feature does not work with every language, but you can download the language of the country you are visiting and use the typing portion of the app. It doesn’t always translate clearly, but you can generally get your point across.
Another helpful tip is to add the appropriate keyboard to your phone.
I was once trying to communicate with a woman who only spoke Russian. Since we were failing pretty badly, I added the Russian keyboard to my phone. I would type a sentence in English, translate on my phone to Russian, and she would then respond by typing in Russian, and I’d translate back to English. It may not be the easiest way to communicate, but it works.
4. Use Gestures (basic sign language)
Some sign language is universal; a number of fingers, pointing, and general gestures that mimic universal behaviors. We all sleep, so pretending to lay your head on your hands and sleep will pretty much guarantee that the person you are communicating with will understand. The same goes for eating, driving, or walking.
To be on the safe side, before you visit a new country, do a quick check to see if there are any hand gestures that are considered to be rude.
5. Carry a Pen and Paper
When all else fails, try drawing a picture (or looking a picture up online if you happen to have wifi). Recently, I had a major packing fail, I had brought the cord to charge my phone but not the actual plug!
I was trying to explain what I needed to a store clerk and she just didn’t understand. I tried using sign language, but it still didn’t work.
I ended up googling a picture of the plug and she immediately got it. Unfortunately, she didn’t have one in stock!
6. When All Else Fails – Find an English Speaker
Most likely, you will be able to find someone that speaks English. If you’re in a jam, find a hotel, usually, the front desk clerks will be able to help you out, or at least point you in the direction of someone that can.
Hopefully, this helps make the idea of traveling to a foreign country a little less intimidating. Communicating with people who speak a different language is easier than it seems. Most likely, any complications will just make for an amusing travel story!
Do you have any funny travel stories from language mix-ups? Comment below – I’d love to hear from you!
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