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73+ Essential Travel Phrases and Words You Should Know

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How do you say “ You have a nice smile ” in Samoan? How to say “ You have beautiful eyes ” in Fijian? Those might not be the essential travel phrases , like Hello or Thank you. But we can all agree that (mis)communication is part of traveling. And language barriers are real. That is why I always find it extremely useful to learn words and phrases in the language of a country I am visiting. Why? It shows respect. People will be nicer to you. A new language will enhance local experiences and understanding of the culture . IT will make traveling easier and it is a great way to make new friends. So what are those common travel phrases ?

🔢 If you have been wondering “In how many languages does Anja know how to count to 10?”, you will find the answer hidden in the blog.

Traveling to 40+ countries I’ve learned that only knowing Slovenian will not help me. Shocking right! I was also wrong to assume that everyone speaks English . Knowing KiSwahili gave me a better starting point when bargaining for the prices in Zanzibar . Knowing essential phrases in French helped me in Vanuatu , and knowing how to ask for directions helped me in Japan . And learning Samoan and Fiji helped me when buying fruits in local markets. So next time, when planning your trip, don’t just search for the best things to do in Zanzibar, Japan itinerary , or about Dubai hotels . You should also learn useful phrases for traveling. What are those phrases? Let’s have a look at some useful phrases for traveling .

for ESSENTIAL TRAVEL PHRASES: • 73+ Essential ENGLISH Travel Phrases and Words You Should Know • 73+ Essential ARABIC Travel Phrases for Tourists in Arab Countries & Free PDF • 73+ Essential GREEK Travel Phrases for Tourists on a Greek Holiday & Download • 73+ Essential JAPANESE Travel Phrases for Tourists Visiting Japan & Free cheat sheet • 73+ Essential SLOVENIAN Travel Phrases for your trip to Slovenia & Free Download • 73+ Essential SWAHILI Travel Phrases for Travelers to East Africa + Free Download for WORDS & PHRASES in 101 different languages: • How to say You have beautiful eyes in 101 different languages • How to say What is the WiFi password in 101 different languages • How to say Hello in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Love in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say I love you in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Thank you in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Happy Birthday in 101 different languages spoken In the World • How to say Happy New Year in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Friend in 101 different languages spoken around the World with Pronunciation

and ALSO READ: • WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF DAY TO VISIT HORSESHOE BEND • HOW TO SPEND A HALF DAY AT GRAND CANYON SOUTH RIM • WHICH GRAND CANYON HELICOPTER TOUR IS THE BEST FIT FOR YOU • WHERE TO STAY NEAR ANTELOPE CANYON: THE BEST 10 PICKS • 10 BEST PLACES TO STAY NEAR HORSESHOE BEND YOU WILL LOVE • HOW TO GET FROM LAS VEGAS TO GRAND CANYON BY CAR – FANTASTIC ROAD TRIP GUIDE • BEST PLACES TO STAY NEAR GRAND CANYON SOUTH RIM – 31 AWESOME AND UNIQUE HOTELS

Table of Contents

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1. What are Travel Phrases?

Travel phrases are useful phrases to know when traveling abroad. They are a collection of the most common and frequently used words and expressions we use when visiting foreign countries.  From basic greetings to phrases for seeking directions , ordering food , and engaging in cultural exchanges. From a simple ‘’hello’’ and ‘’thank you’’ to longer phrases like ‘’where is the bathroom” and “what is the WiFi password”. Travel phrases equip you with the confidence and ability to connect with locals , by speaking their language , and immerse yourself in authentic experiences .

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2. How to learn short Travel Phrases and Travel Terms

Before we find out what those useful travel phrases are, let’s talk about how to learn them . It might seem daunting but it is actually fun. The reality is, if you will be traveling for at least a couple of days, you will pick up the basic words while abroad . And if you will be spending some time with locals, they will teach you the bad words first anyway. Which you will remember the fastest. 🙂 Now, depending on your destination country, some travel words and phrases will be easier for you to remember than others. People who know these things say that a person can memorize 50 new words per day . My humble estimation would be 10 . This would potentially mean, you can learn all the essential travel phrases in a day or two . I am a realistic optimist and would say to start learning sooner. Like a week before or more.

2.1. Duolingo

I love using Duolingo . It is a free app, where you choose how many minutes you can invest in learning a language and the purpose of your learning (travel). You can choose from more than 30+ languages and I love that lessons are bite-sized . Currently learning Italian for my Tuscany trip but love Polynesian languages – like Hawaiian and Samoan. Duolingo makes learning a language easy . It uses text, speech and is showing cards. So you can hear the pronunciation, see how the word is written and the translation of it plus a visual representation of the words. A great way to learn no matter where you are. Language: Italian, Hawaiian, Swahili  (40+ languages) Download: iOS | Android | Website Price: Free & In App purchases

There are other apps, that have a free trial and then offer paid memberships. Among those, I tried and loved Babbel and Innovative languages . When I was using those two, I was more invested in actually learning the language and not just common travel phrases. Feel free to test out a few and find which one works best for your learning style.

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3. Essential travel phrases

3.1. basic travel phrases.

Those travelling words in English combine expressions that showcase politeness and cultural respect, encouraging positive interactions with locals and serving as a basis for every communication.

• I don’t understand
• Do you speak [language]?
• What is the WiFi password?
• Could you take my picture?
• Where is the bathroom?

ALSO READ: • How to say What is the WiFi password in 101 different languages

3.2. Common travel phrases for greetings and introductions

Below you will find what are some basic greetings tourists should know. Travel greetings lay the foundation for any interaction, allowing you to initiate conversations and make a positive first impression.

• Good morning
• Good evening
• Nice to meet you
• How are you?
• My name is …
• How do you say […] in [language]?
• Speak slowly, please

3.3. Essential travel phrases for directions and getting around

Basic phrases for asking for directions will enable you to navigate unfamiliar streets and find your way around.

• What time is …
• How do I get to …
• How far away is …
• Do you have a map?
• When does the next … arrive?
• How long does it take to get to….?
• Spatial demonstratives: here / there
• Cardinal Directions: North / South / East / West
• Directions: left / right / straight / back / up / down
• Mode of transport: car / bus / train / taxi / metro / plane
• Buildings and places: bathroom / restaurant / hotel / bank / pharmacy / hospital

ALSO READ: • 73+ Essential Greek Travel Phrases for Tourists on a Greek Holiday

3.4. Useful phrases for traveling when ordering food and drinks

Useful phrases when travelling for ordering meals, asking for recommendations, and specifying dietary preferences ensure enjoyable dining experiences and help you explore local cuisines.

• I’m allergic to …
• The bill, please.
• I would like to have …
• May I see the menu?
• What are the specials? 
• What do you recommend?
• Types of diets: Vegetarian / vegan / gluten free
• Food flavors: sweet / bitter / sour / salty / spicy
• Drinks: coffee / tea / water / juice / wine / beer
• Food allergens: milk / eggs / fish / peanuts / shellfish / wheat / soybeans

3.5. Practical travel terms for shopping

Essential phrases for inquiring about prices, negotiating, and asking for sizes or colors are handy when exploring markets and boutiques.

• Could I try this on?
• Do you have this in …
• Excuse me, I’m looking for… 
• Is this on sale?
• When do you open/close? 
• Do you accept credit cards?
• Size: bigger / smaller
• Numbers: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10
• Larger numbers: 50 / 100 / 1000
• Colors: white / yellow / orange/ red / blue / green / pink / purple / grey / brown / black

🔢 “In how many languages does Anja know how to count to 10?” right now probably in around 7 or 8, but when living abroad this number was between 13-15 languages.

ALSO READ: • 73+ Essential Japanese Travel Phrases for Tourists Visiting Japan

3.6. Useful phrases for travelling when checking in a hotel

Phrases you will need when checking in a hotel, asking for towels, fixing air conditioning, enquiring what time is breakfast, and what is included in your room rate.

• … is not working.
• Do you have WiFi?
• Can I drink the tap water?
• Meals: breakfast / lunch / dinner
• Essentials: toilet paper / key / towel
• Amenities: air conditioning / fan / heater / hairdryer

3.7. Helpful travel terms in case of emergencies

Here you will find helpful important phrases to know when traveling in case of emergencies, natural disasters or if you will be needing assistance in difficult or dangerous situations.

• There is a …
• Please call the …
• I lost my passport
• My money was stolen
• Natural hazards: fire / flood / earthquake
• First responders: police / firemen / ambulance

3.8. Beyond essential travel phrases to compliment someone

If you’re like me and really love learning a few phrases in new languages, expand your study beyond the essential travel phrases. I always learn how to say please and thank you, never visit without knowing the local word for “coffee” and never leave without knowing how to say;

• You have beautiful eyes
• You have a beautiful smile

4. Best language Apps for traveling abroad

When it comes to language learning , the options are diverse. You can choose from apps, traditional textbooks, and language courses to podcasts and YouTube videos. I would recommend the previously mentioned Duolingo . In case you fell short and can’t learn the essential travel phrases, or if the situations come your way when those phrases won’t be enough , below you will find language apps I use for you to download before your next trip.

4.1. Google Translate

Google Translate is the most popular language travel app that can be used everywhere. I personally use it on all my travels, when going to Tanzania to learn what some Swahili words mean, when in Mexico to help with my not-the-best Spanish, when in Italy, in Japan and other places. I’m sure you are already familiar with this best language app for travel. The most obvious feature is it will help you translate the destination language into your own one. But the absolute best feature is that it can translate the text using ‘ camera translation ’. All you have to do is open the app, point your camera toward the text in a foreign language and Google Translate will do the rest. Perfect for menus! It also translates text from the photos on your camera roll. And it also works offline, when you download the language pair on your phone. Language: 133 languages Download: iOS | Android | Website Price: Free

4.2. VoiceTra

VoiceTra is a language translation app that translates speech into another language . It is a perfect app for all travelers, supports 31 languages and can be used for free . Although, to make VoiceTra work you will need an Internet connection . The app translates in both ways. From English to foreign language and vice versa . It also offers text input. VoiceTra is great for simple, everyday conversations that you may encounter. Perfect to conquer the language barrier and even more amazing since it allows instant switching between two languages. Use it when buying admission tickets, asking for directions, when on a train or bus, while shopping, or when checking in at a hotel. Language: English, French, Spanish (32 altogether) Download: iOS | Android | Website Price: Free

4.3. SayHi Translate

SayHi Translate language app is an easy-to-use app, designed to be quick, and simple. All you have to do is press a button and start speaking. The app will transcribe your speech quickly and accurately. It supports 101 languages and dialects. It is a free app without any advertisements or hidden fees. In order for the app to work, you will need an internet connection . As soon as you speak, the app will return text and audio in another language. It super easy to change languages quickly and you can even speed up or slow down your speech and choose between male and female voice. Use it on your travels when in an UBER or taxi in a foreign land, when buying local souvenirs from a local lady or when checking in a lovely and unique homestay. Language: English, Arabic, Polish (101 altogether) Download: iOS | Android | Website Price: Free

5. Final thoughts on Essential Travel Phrases and Words

Whether it’s a warm greeting, ordering a meal, or expressing gratitude, are only a few useful phrases when traveling that not only open doors to easier communication but also show respect and help you to understand the destination in a different way. Before traveling abroad, learn at least a couple of common travel phrases that will help you navigate through various situations abroad. Travel terms for greetings and introductions and words showcasing politeness. Basic phrases for asking for directions, ordering food, and checking in a hotel. 

Learn useful phrases for traveling with the help of a language app like Duolingo, learn words when on a destination, or combine both with a language translation app like Google Translate. Find what works best for you and overcome language barriers. What travelling phrases do you think are essential? Bon voyage, Anja

➤ What you should read next …

• How to say You have beautiful eyes in 101 different languages • How to say Happy Birthday in 101 different languages • How to say Happy New Year in 100+ different languages spoken around the World • How to say I love you in 101 different languages • How to say Hello in 101 different languages

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What are essential travel phrases?

Travel phrases are useful phrases to know when traveling abroad. They are a collection of the most common and frequently used words and expressions we use when visiting foreign countries. From basic greetings to phrases for seeking directions, ordering food, and engaging in cultural exchanges.

What are some basic travel phrases for greetings and introductions?

Hello | Goodbye | Nice to meet you Phrases for greetings lay the foundation for any interaction, allowing you to initiate conversations and make a positive first impression. Find more essential travel phrases on Anja On Adventure blog.

What are some common English travel phrases?

Thank you | Please | Excuse me These common travel phrases showcase politeness and cultural respect, fostering positive interactions with locals. Find more common travel phrases on Anja On Adventure blog.

What are some useful travel phrases for directions and getting around?

Where is … | How do I get to … ? | How long …? Useful expressions for travelling for directions enable you to navigate unfamiliar streets and find your way around. Find more useful sentences for travelling and common travel language phrases on Anja On Adventure blog.

What are essential travel phrases when ordering food and drinks?

May I see the menu? | What do you recommend? | Is this … | I’m allergic to … Those are useful travel phrases in English for ordering meals, asking for recommendations, and specifying dietary preferences to ensure enjoyable dining experiences and help you explore local cuisines. Find more English travel expressions on Anja On Adventure blog.

What are practical travel terms for shopping?

How much does it cost? | Could I try this on? | Do you accept credit cards? Practical travel words in English for inquiring about prices, negotiating, and asking for sizes or colors are handy when exploring markets and boutiques. Find more useful English phrases for travelling on Anja On Adventure blog.

What are helpful travel terms in case of emergencies?

Help | I am lost | Please call the … Helpful travel English phrases to learn when traveling are great to know in case of emergencies, natural disasters or if you will be needing assistance in difficult or dangerous situations. Find more English travel terms and phrases on Anja On Adventure blog.

❥ About Anja On Adventure

Anja On Adventure is a travel blog, a collection of insider tips and information on destinations, that I visited as a solo female traveler, tour guide, teacher, yacht stewardess, and Survivor challenge tester. Anja, is a thirty-something adventure-seeking, sun chasing, beach hopping, gin-loving, tropics enthusiast with a creative mind and sarcastic spirit, who loves coconut and mango but doesn’t like chocolate and sweets. I am passionate about all things travel, maps, and puzzles. Click here to learn more About me .

About the author: Anja

2 thoughts on “73+ Essential Travel Phrases and Words You Should Know”

I love languages and love this idea. I always try to learn a little of the local language when travelling – I find it so much fun. Love this post!

Thank you so much Maryanne! There is more of those coming … Planning to post one for the language of each country I have visited…

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Essential Travel Phrases: How to be Travel Fluent in 10 Simple Steps

When it comes to travel, knowing even just a little bit of the local language can go a LONG way. This step-by-step method will guide you through how to learn essential travel phrases simply and easily with the help of reusable building blocks.

We all love to travel, but no one talks about the importance of speaking the local language when we travel to foreign countries.  This is surprising to me since it’s such a big part of travel. We go abroad to see beautiful places, try new cuisines, but there’s nothing like communicating with the locals and learning from them. Even learning to use just a few keywords and phrases can do wonders for enhancing your travel experiences. It’s a great way to show respect and make a good first impression.

This is why I not only write detailed destinations guides and produce informative videos, I also create free travel phrase guides to help travellers get the most out of their experiences.

• Related: 22 KEY Travel Phrases That Will Transform Your Travels [Free Guide]

So much of a place and its history is wrapped up in the people who inhabit it and through them, the language they speak. We can see this evidenced in idiomatic expressions like the German idiom “eine Extrawurst haben” , (literally, to ask for an extra sausage meaning to ask for special treatment) or in a simple greeting.

For example, before I visited Egypt  I wanted to learn some Arabic greetings along with some other basic sentences. Pretty quickly, I found out that in Arabic, when you say “see you soon to someone,'” the reply isn’t “Yes, see you soon”, it’s “inshallah”. This literally translates to, “God willing”, or “if God wills it”. The speaker is saying, “yes, I hope to see you again, but it’s up to God if we will”. This phrase comes from a Quranic command which Muslims use when speaking about future events. Just by learning this simple phrase, you gain a lot of insight into how significant a role religion plays in the Muslim and Arabic speaking culture.

You don’t need to be fluent to make a difference, it’s amazing how knowing even a little bit of the local language can go a long way. Just by showing that you’ve made an effort to learn some of the local language brings out the best in people.

It all begins with how to greet someone. Whether you’re in Norway or the Netherlands (two countries where English is spoken very well by its natives), you should always greet people in their native language. This is a great ice-breaker because you’ve just shown the receiver that you respect them enough to have made the effort to learn their language. There’s no telling where your conversation will lead from here. 

For example, during one night out at dinner in Palermo, I was with 5 of my closest my English speaking friends who all spoke various levels of Italian. At a table across from us was a young family. They were so interested in us that after a brief conversation all in Italian, they invited us to their home for afternoon tea the next day! This couldn’t have happened if we weren’t able to speak Italian.

You don’t need to be fluent in a language to have unique interactions such as these, but you can be fluent enough for travel . This is what we’ll be discussing today. In the following steps, I’ll share with you a simple formula to help you learn how to create your own phrases when traveling abroad without needing to memorising long phrases from a travel phrase book.

What is Travel Fluent?

Your grammar isn’t perfect and you definitely don’t know everything by heart, but with the right building blocks, a smile, and a gesture or two, you’re fluent for travel.

The vocabulary you need will differ depending on if you hire a car and drive about the remote Lofoten Islands in Norway than if you’re popping over to Rome for the weekend . But that’s ok. The formula I’ll be sharing with you is flexible. It gives you the building blocks so that you can use and reuse them on any kind of trip you take.

Once you implement what you’ve learned, you’ll see how enjoyable it is to communicate with others in their language. Who knows, it may even inspire you to learn the language more seriously.

How to be Fluent for Travel in 10 Simple Steps

Step 1. use the 80/20 rule.

The Pareto Principle (also known as the 80/20 rule) states that 80% of the results in any endeavour come from 20% of the input, material, or effort. 

This principle was coined by Management consultant, Joseph M. Juran and named after the Italian economist, Vilfredo Pareto who in 1896 showed that approximately 80% of the land in Italy was owned by 20% of the population. 

The Pareto Principle can be applied to any aspect of your life. It even works for language learning too! 

Think about this.

Do you know every single word in the English dictionary? Of course not! Does the fact that you don’t prevent you from having a conversation with English speakers? No! 

When it comes to travel, the same is true. You can have an even smaller and targeted vocabulary and still have meaningful conversations.

You don’t need to learn how to express your political views, articulate your thoughts about the origin of the universe, or even know how to say what your favourite colour is because these aren’t common topics you’ll be discussing with people as a traveller.

If you adopt the 80/20 rule and apply it to language learning for travel purposes, you’re forced to focus on and choose only what you need to learn based on the likelihood and frequency in which you’ll need to use it.

For example, what percentage of time in any given trip do you think you’ll need to ask how much something costs, where the bathroom is, or placing an order at a restaurant? I’d say 80% of the time, wouldn’t you?

Think about the 20% of vocabulary in your target language that you’ll need in order to respond to 80% of the situations you’ll find yourself in. What things will you need to know how to say?  The answer to this question is exactly what I include and how I teach languages in my Intrepid Languages courses – using the 80/20 method.

In the following steps, we’ll take a look at how you can break this down even further and use building blocks to form your own unique phrases and questions.

Step 2. Master Modal verbs

Wouldn’t it be great if you could start speaking your target language without having to learn a bunch of grammar or memorise long phrases? Wouldn’t it be great if you could easily create your own phrases just by using a few keywords? Well, you can!

Modal verbs are a language learner’s best friend. They give you loads of flexibility for the minimum amount of work it takes to learn them. 

If you’re not familiar with the term, the most commonly used modal verbs in English are can , could , may , might , must , will , would , shall , should , ought to , have to , and need .  

By learning how to use the equivalent of these modal verbs in your target language, you’re already half-way to creating your own unique phrases really easily and quickly.

You don’t need to learn every modal verb listed above either. If you can master the verbs could (be able to), want (want to), and must (to have to, ought to) that’s enough to cover your bases. In order to find modal verbs in your target language, a simple Google search will do the trick.

The reason why modal verbs are so powerful is because you only need to learn how to conjugate these three verbs, instead of countless others. 

How do modal verbs work?

Modal verbs allow you to create a phrase by placing an infinitive verb after any conjugated modal verbs. Conjugating verbs isn’t a very sexy term and it’s usually something many students dread. Simply put, you conjugate verbs in order to communicate one or more of the following: person, number, gender, tense, aspect, mood, or voice.

To learn these 3 key modal verbs, start by learning the basic structure of how they’re used in a sentence. This is what the formula looks like:

Conjugated Modal Verb + Infinitive Verb + Noun

Since Pareto’s Principle was inspired by an Italian, let’s use the Italian language as an example of how you can be fluent for travel whilst travelling in Italy. 

Since the Italian modal verb could (be able to) is potere , the conjugation of potere looks like this:

• (io) posso – I can
• (tu) puoi – you can
• (Lei) / (lui) / (lei)  può – You (formal)/he/she can
• (noi) possiamo – we can
• (voi) potete – you can (plural)
• (loro) possono – they can

The Italian modal verb for want , or want to i s volere . The conjugation of volere looks like this:

• (io) voglio – I want 
• (tu)  vuoi – you want 
• (Lei) / (lui) / (lei) vuole – You (formal)/he/she want/s 
• (noi) vogliamo – we want 
• (voi) volete – you want 
• (loro) vogliono – they want 

The Italian modal verb for to have to , ought to , or must is dovere . The conjugation of dovere looks like this:

• (io) devo – I must
• (tu) devi – you must 
• (Lei) / (lui) / (lei)  deve   – You (formal)/he/she must
• (noi) dobbiamo – we must
• (voi) dovete – you must
• (loro) devono – they must

Once you learn these three versatile modal verbs you’ll use them to form the first part of any question you ask or response you give. 

Step 3. Learn your top 10 verbs for travel

Now let’s focus on the second part of the formula covered above – infinitive verbs . If you never learned grammar in school and have no idea what a verb is, then all you need to know is that it’s any word you can place the word ‘ to ’ in front of. For example, to go, to eat, to sleep, to find….you get the idea.

When it comes to travel, there are certain questions and things you’ll need to say repeatedly. Below is a list of the most useful verbs for travel that I recommend you learn in your target language along with examples of how they can be used in various situations. Of course, you can add more than 10 or swap out any of them for different verbs. I’ve kept this list to 10 as it makes things more manageable and less overwhelming to learn.

Top 10 verbs for travel

• Take → Prendere (eg. Can I take a bus /taxi/train there?)
• Go → Andare (eg. I want to go to the airport/museum/Colosseum…)
• Eat → Mangiare (eg. I cannot eat meat)
• Order → Ordinare (eg. May/can I order now?)
• Have → Avere (eg. May/can I have a menu? )
• Buy → Comprare (eg. I want to buy …)
• Pay → Pagare (eg. Can I pay by credit card?)
• Find → Trovare (eg. Where can I find the train station?)
• Speak → Parlare (eg. Can you speak English?)
• Understand → Capire (eg. I cannot understand Italian)

Let’s bring it all together. Using what you’ve learned and following the formula above, we can create sentences such as:

Voglio andare …. I want to go ….

Possiamo comprare … Can we buy …

Dobbiamo andare …. We have to go …

Choose the 10 most useful verbs you’re most likely going to need and use on your trip.

Step 4. Learn your top 10 Nouns for travel

Below is a list of useful nouns to know and their Italian prepositions . Don’t worry too much about how prepositions work as this will overcomplicate what you’re trying to do here, which is to communicate effectively, not perfectly.

The nouns you choose to put in your list are entirely up to you. For example, you may not be vegetarian and decide to remove this word from your list. 

Top 10 nouns for travel

• the/a ticket / two tickets → il/un biglietto / due biglietti
• to/the/a bathroom → al/il/un bagno  
• Italian (Learn how to say the name of the language in its native form) → l’Italiano 
• to the/the/a bank → alla/la/una banca 
• to the/the/a train station → alla/la/una stazione ferroviaria 
• to the/the airport  → all’/l’aeroporto 
• Il/un pullman/bus → the/a bus
• vegetarian (male/female) → vegetariano/a 
• the/a receipt → la/una ricevuta 
• the change → il resto

Let’s bring it all together. Using what you’ve learned in the past 3 steps we can use the formula Conjugated Modal Verb + Infinitive Verb + Noun to create sentences such as:

Voglio andare al bagno I want to go to the bathroom

Possiamo comprare due biglietti , per favore? Can we buy two tickets , please?

Dobbiamo andare all’aeroporto We have to go to the airport

Choose the 10 most useful nouns you’re most likely going to need and use on your trip.

Here’s everything you need to know Italian prepositions  plus tonnes of examples.

Step 5. Learn your top 10 Adjectives for travel

For shorter sentences where you want to express your opinion or the state of something, you can use ‘it is’ ( è ) followed by the adjective. An adjective is a word where you can place is,   am or are in front of it. For example, is big, are beautiful.

If you want to emphasise these adjectives, you can use ‘very’ ( molto ) or ‘too’ ( troppo ) in front of the adjective. 

Top 10 adjectives for travel

• Big → grande (eg. è grande)
• Small → piccolo ( eg. è troppo piccolo)
• Expensive → caro (eg. è troppo caro)
• Beautiful → bello (eg. è molto bello)
• Nice → carino (eg. è carino)
• Good/well → buono/bene (eg. è molto buono/bene)
• Interesting → interessante (eg. è interessante)
• Open → aperto (eg. è aperto?)
• Closed → chiuso (eg. è chiuso?)
• Perfect → perfetto (eg. è perfetto!)

Choose the 10 most useful adjectives you’re most likely to need on your trip.

Step 6. Learn how to use question words

While you can turn a modal verb phrase into a question just by adding an inflection at the end of the phrase, you can also use question words. Here are the most useful questions words to learn:

• Where? → Dove?
• Where is? → Dov’è?
• Who? → Chi? 
• When? → Quando? 
• What? → Cosa? / Che cosa?
• How? → Come? 
• How much? → Quanto
• How much is? → Quant’è?
• Why? → Perché? 

Question words can also be paired with modal verbs, for example.

Where can I find the train station? Dove posso trovare la stazione ferroviaria?

How much must I   pay ? Quanto devo pagare ?

When do you want to go ? Quando vuoi andare ?

Practice forming sentences using question words followed by modal verbs.

Step 7. Learn your biography, greetings and pleasantries

As part of your travels there will be moments where you’ll have more meaningful conversations outside of the general day-to-day getting around and survival phrases we’ve already covered.

During my encounter in that restaurant in Palermo, I didn’t use modal verbs to get to know the family across the table from us, I used common Italian greetings and told them a bit about myself. I told them my biography.

Learning your biography is a great hack because your background never changes. Once you learn it, you’ll barely need to change it. The most important and reusable set of vocabulary you will ever learn is all about you, funnily enough. 

Every time you meet someone new, what do you do? You introduce yourself, you may talk about your job, where you’re from and why you’re learning the language. By focusing on learning your biography you’ll not only be able to comfortably hold your first 15-minute conversation but it will build up some much-needed confidence in speaking the language.

Again, you don’t need to overthink this and learn too much. Here are some key phrases to focus on.

• My name is… → Mi chiamo…
• I come from… [learn how to say your country name] → Vengo da…
• I’m a… [learn how to say your profession] → Sono…
• I can’t speak [insert language] very well → Non so parlare…

Start your journey to biography fluency with my travel phrase guides. I’m constantly adding to the list but, so far there is Afrikaans , Arabic , Basque , Bulgarian , Catalan , Czech , Danish , Dutch , Flemish Dutch , Finnish , French , German , Swiss-German , Greek , Hebrew , Hindi , Icelandic , Irish , Italian , Portuguese , Norwegian , Spanish , Latin American Spanish , Scots , Swedish , Thai , Vietnamese .

Also, try doing a Google Search on introductions then refer to an online language dictionary for any missing vocabulary.

When it comes to greetings and pleasantries, stick with the basics and always focus on learning the formal option (if available) to be respectful. 

Top 10 greetings and pleasantries for travel

• Hello → Salve
• Good morning → buongiorno
• Good evening → buonasera
• Goodbye → Arrivederci
• How are you? – Come sta?
• I’m well, and you? – Bene, e Lei?
• Thank you →  Grazie
• Please → Per favore
• You’re welcome → Prego
• It’s a pleasure to meet you → è un piacere conoscerLa

Step 8. Bring it all together

With a pen and paper, write down all your chosen verbs, adjectives, nouns, modal verbs, questions words, greetings, pleasantries, and biography. The reason why I suggest you physically write it all down and not jump in Google Docs straight away is that it improves your memory.

Related:  10 Proven Memory Hacks: How to Remember New Vocabulary Faster

Once you have gathered everything, start to form your own phrases and questions using the formula above. Again write this down by hand. Write down as many as you can. Do this until you feel comfortable that you won’t forget the structure. Now put everything in a Google Doc to refer back to it ahead of and during your trip.

Once this framework has been transferred to your long-term memory, remembering vocabulary is just a matter of learning by spaced repetition.

Step 9. Practice and revise before you fly

At this point, you know what you need to do, you just need to practice! Use spaced repetition apps like Quizlet to help you review and retain what you’ve learned. On top of that, also practicing saying things out loud, this is another great way to improve your memory when you hear your own voice say the words.

I recommend studying on a regular basis at least one week ahead of your trip so you’ll be travel fluent before you fly. Aim to squeeze in 10-15 minutes of uninterrupted study time every day at a time where you’re most alert.

Don’t worry about not being able to remember it all, you’re learning more than most other people do so you should be very proud of yourself. 

Want more? Check out my guide on top-rated languages tools and apps.

Step 10. Bon voyage!

Once you arrive at your final destination, start putting into practice what you know. Start small with greetings then build up to asking questions as you gain more confidence. 

Remember, have fun with the language. Don’t be afraid to ask people to repeat themselves or to speak slower so you can understand them. Smile and when in doubt refer to your notes, use gestures, or refer to Google Translate.

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BONUS Tip: Learn languages with me, The Intrepid Guide!

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Want more? Read my other popular Language Guides

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• 10 Proven Memory Hacks: How to Remember New Vocabulary Faster
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Over to you!

Where are you travelling to next? Which language do you want to learn? Got a question about this method? Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

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40 Basic Vocabulary Words and Common Phrases for Travel in English

Embarking on a journey to a foreign country can be both exciting and a bit daunting, especially when language barriers come into play. But fear not, we’ve got you covered! This page is dedicated to all the globetrotters out there who are keen on enhancing their English language skills specifically for travel.

We’ve curated a list of 40 essential English words and phrases that will prove to be your best companions on your travels.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first overseas trip, mastering these words and phrases will not only boost your confidence but also enrich your travel experiences. So, let’s dive in and start preparing for your next adventure with our comprehensive travel vocabulary guide. Happy learning and safe travels!

40 essential English words and phrases for travel

• Passport – “Don’t forget to bring your passport to the airport.”
• Luggage – “Please make sure your luggage is not left unattended.”
• Reservation – “I have a reservation under the name Smith.”
• Itinerary – “Our itinerary includes stops in Rome, Paris, and London.”
• Destination – “Our final destination is Sydney.”
• Accommodation – “I’ve booked accommodation for three nights in the city center.”
• Sightseeing – “We’re going sightseeing in the old town tomorrow.”
• Currency – “What’s the local currency in Japan?”
• Boarding Pass – “Please have your boarding pass and identification ready.”
• Departure – “Our departure time is 6:00 PM.”
• Arrival – “Our estimated arrival time is 8:00 PM.”
• Customs – “You’ll need to declare any items at customs.”
• Visa – “Do I need a visa to travel to the United States?”
• Tourist – “As a tourist, I love exploring new places.”
• Landmark – “The Eiffel Tower is a famous landmark in Paris.”
• Guidebook – “I bought a guidebook to learn more about the city’s history.”
• Souvenir – “I bought a souvenir from each city we visited.”
• Jet Lag – “I’m feeling a bit of jet lag after the long flight.”
• Travel Agency – “The travel agency arranged all of our accommodations.”
• Backpack – “I prefer to travel with a backpack instead of a suitcase.”
• Could you help me, please? – When you need assistance.
• How much does this cost? – When you want to know the price of something.
• Where is the nearest…? – When you’re looking for something specific, like a bathroom or a subway station.
• I would like to book… – When you want to make a reservation.
• Do you speak English? – When you need to find someone who speaks English.
• I’m lost. Can you help me? – When you need directions.
• Can I have the menu, please? – When you’re at a restaurant and want to see the menu.
• I’m allergic to… – When you need to inform someone of your allergies.
• Can I have the bill, please? – When you’re ready to pay at a restaurant.
• What time does it open/close? – When you want to know the operating hours of a place.
• Can I have a ticket to…, please? – When you’re buying a ticket.
• Where can I catch the bus/train? – When you need to find the bus or train station.
• Is it far from here? – When you want to know the distance to a place.
• Can you recommend a good…? – When you’re looking for recommendations.
• Do you accept credit cards? – When you want to know if you can pay with a credit card.
• What’s the Wi-Fi password? – When you need to connect to the internet.
• I’d like to go to… – When you’re telling a taxi driver your destination.
• Is there a pharmacy nearby? – When you need to find a pharmacy.
• Can I try this on? – When you’re shopping for clothes and want to try something on.
• Could you take a picture of us, please? – When you want someone to take a photo of you and your group.

Wrapping Up Our English Travel Vocabulary Journey

And there you have it! We’ve journeyed through 40 essential English words and phrases that will help make your travels smoother and more enjoyable. Remember, language is a powerful tool that can open doors to understanding new cultures, making new friends, and creating unforgettable experiences.

Don’t worry if you can’t memorize all the words and phrases at once. The beauty of language learning is that it’s a continuous process. Keep practicing, and soon these words will become second nature to you.

But why stop at 40? If you’re eager to expand your travel vocabulary even further, we have an exciting offer for you. Follow us on Instagram and send us a direct message to get your hands on our comprehensive eBook (write “Travel eBook”), which features 200 essential English words and phrases for travel, plus 2 special bonuses!

We hope this guide will be a valuable resource for your travel adventures. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, tranquil countryside, or exotic beaches, these phrases will help you navigate your way with confidence.

Thank you for joining us on this linguistic journey. We wish you all the best in your English learning and your future travels. Remember, every journey begins with a single step, or in this case, a single word. Happy travels and happy learning!

>> Learn more English vocabulary

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60 Common Travel Phrases to Learn Before Traveling Abroad

Communication barriers can be very difficult when traveling to countries that speak different languages. At times, it can be really frustrating to try and find your way around or complete basic tasks. Traveling to Europe , I learned a lot of these phrases in Spanish and French. It was particularly helpful in San Sebastian where our bartender only spoke Spanish. Trust me, the drunk Australians I was partying with were very thankful for my knowledge. Turns out knowing some foreign language basics doubles as a way to make new friends. Knowing Spanish was also really handy for my trip to Peru . Here are some common travel phrases everyone should learn before traveling abroad.

This post contains affiliate links .

Table of Contents

Common Travel Phrases to Learn

Here are some phrases you’ll definitely  want to learn.

• Do you speak English?  (substitute with your native language)
• Where is the bathroom?
• Where is…?
• How much does this cost?
• I would like to have…
• Please write that down for me.
• Speak slowly, please.
• I do not understand.
• Do you take credit cards?
• Is there a bank/ATM nearby?
• What do you recommend?

Greetings and Manners

It’s always good to know how to greet others. Furthermore, don’t forget your manners!

• I’m sorry
• Nice to meet you.
• My name is _______.
• How are you?

Don’t forget about other greetings as well. For example, good morning/afternoon/night/evening.

Phrases to Learn for Getting Around

Finding your way around is one of the more difficult tasks in a country that doesn’t speak your native language. Learn these words and phrases to help you navigate.

• Left/right/up/down/straight/back/corner
• North/south/east/west
• Turn around
• How far is…?
• Bus/train/metro stop/station
• How long does it take to get to….?
• How far away is…..?
• What time is it?
• Do you have a map?
• Where can I find a taxi?

In Case of Emergency

Stuff happens, right? At home or abroad, emergencies are very stressful situations. Nothing makes it more stressful than not being able to communicate. Learn some of these phrases, just in case.

• I need help.
• I need a doctor.
• Where is the hospital?
• I’m having an emergency.
• I’m allergic to…
• Please call the police.
• Where is the ____ embassy?
• This hurts.
• I need medicine.
• Where is the pharmacy?
• I lost my passport.
• I am at…

Common Phrases for your Accommodation

• Hotel/hostel/resort/house/room
• Toilet paper
• Can I drink the tap water?
• I lost my key.
• _____ is broken.
• Air conditioner/fan/heater
• I have bed bugs/There are bugs in my room.
• How do I access the internet?
• I need my room cleaned.

Other Important Words and Phrases

• Learn how to say the names of foods you’d like to try. It’s also important to know how to order that food and ask for a menu.
• Speaking of food, know how to say  beverages as well. Water is especially important.
• Even if traveling to another country that speaks the same language as you, it’s good to learn about their currency . Learn the names of their bills, notes, and coins.
• Know your numbers . Typically, 1-10 is essential. From there, learning 20, 30, 40, etc. should suffice by combining the two, but all languages are different.
• Learn how to make emergency phone calls . For example, in America, you would dial 9-1-1. In Europe, it’s 1-1-2.
• Some more basics , such as who/what/where/when/why.

Where to Learn Common Travel Phrases

There are a lot of apps and websites these days to help you learn common travel phrases.

• Brainscape  (flashcards)
• I’ll Teach You a Language
• Rosetta Stone
• Google Translate

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Travel Vocabulary for English-Language Learners

With a follow-up quiz for extra practice

• Basic Conversations for English Language Learners
• Pronunciation & Conversation
• Writing Skills
• Reading Comprehension
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• Resources for Teachers
• TESOL Diploma, Trinity College London
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The travel-related words below are the most important terms to know when talking about travel or taking vacations . Words are categorized into different sections depending on the type of travel. You'll find example sentences for each word to help provide context for learning, as well as a short quiz at the end to test your knowledge.

Air Travel Vocabulary and Sample Sentences

Airport : I went to the airport to catch a flight to San Francisco. Check in : Make sure to get to the airport two hours early to check in. Fly : I like to fly on the same airline to get mileage points. Land : The airplane will land in two hours. Landing : The landing took place during a storm. It was very scary! Plane : The plane is packed with 300 passengers. Take off : The airplane is scheduled to take off at 3:30 p.m.

Vacation Travel Vocabulary and Sample Sentences

Camp : Do you like to camp in the woods? Destination : What is your final destination? Excursion : I'd like to take an excursion to the wine country while we're in Tuscany. Go camping : Let's go to the beach and go camping next weekend. Go sightseeing : Did you go sightseeing while you were in France? Hostel : Staying in a youth hostel is a great way to save money on vacation. Hotel : I'll book a hotel for two nights. Journey : The journey will take four weeks and we'll visit four countries. Luggage : Can you carry the luggage upstairs? Motel : We stayed in a convenient motel on our way to Chicago. Package holiday : I prefer to buy package holidays , so I don't have to worry about anything. Passenger : The passenger felt ill during the voyage. Route : Our route will take us through Germany and on to Poland. Sightseeing : The sightseeing in this town is rather boring. Let's go shopping . Suitcase : Let me unpack my suitcase and then we can go swimming. Tour : Peter went on a tour of the vineyard. Tourism : Tourism is becoming an important industry in almost every country. Tourist : Every May, many tourists from around the world come to see the flower festival. Travel : Travel is one of his favorite free time activities. Travel agent : The travel agent found us a great deal. Trip : The trip to New York was lovely and interesting. Vacation : I'd love to take a nice long vacation on the beach.

Overland Travel Vocabulary and Sample Sentences

Bicycle : One of the best ways to see the countryside is to ride a bicycle. Bike : We rode a bike from shop to shop. Bus : You can catch a bus for Seattle at the bus station. Bus station : The bus station is three blocks from here. Car : You might want to rent a car when you go on vacation. Lane : Make sure to get into the left lane when you want to pass. Motorcycle : Riding a motorcycle can be fun and exciting, but it's also dangerous. Freeway : We'll have to take the freeway to Los Angeles. Highway : The highway between the two cities is quite lovely. Rail : Have you ever traveled by rail? Go by rail : Going by rail offers the opportunity to get up and walk around as you travel. Railway : The railway station is down this street. Road: There are three roads to Denver. Main road : Take the main road into town and turn left at 5th Street. Taxi : I got in a taxi and went to the train station. Traffic : There's a lot of traffic today on the road! Train : I like riding on trains. It's a very relaxing way to travel. Tube : You can take the tube in London. Underground : You can take the underground in many cities throughout Europe. Subway : You can take the subway in New York.

Sea / Ocean Travel Vocabulary and Sample Sentences

Boat: Have you ever piloted a boat? Cruise: We will stop at three destinations during our cruise through the Mediterranean. Cruise ship: It's the most elegant cruise ship in the world! Ferry: Ferries allow passengers to take their cars with them to their destination. Ocean: The Atlantic Ocean takes four days to cross. Port: There are all kinds of commercial ships in the port. Sailboat: The sailboat requires nothing but the wind. Sea: The sea is very calm today. Set sail: We set sail for the exotic island. Ship: Have you ever been a passenger on a ship? Voyage: The voyage to the Bahamas took three days.

Travel Vocabulary Quiz

Test your knowledge by taking this short quiz.

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• 29 Essential English Phrases for Traveling Abroad (and Connecting with People)

Traveling abroad can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it can also pose some challenges, especially if you’re not familiar with the local language.

English , being a widely spoken language around the world, can come to your rescue in various situations.

Whether you’re exploring a bustling city or relaxing on a tropical beach, knowing some essential English phrases can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

In this article, we’ll explore twenty-nine essential English phrases that will help you navigate through different aspects of your travel adventure.

I. Greeting and Introduction Phrases

When you’re traveling abroad, it’s always a good idea to start your interactions with a friendly greeting.

English phrases for greetings and introductions can help you establish a connection with the locals and make a positive impression. Here are some essential short travel phrases:

• “Hello, how are you?” : A simple and versatile greeting that can be used in any situation.
• “My name is [your name]. Nice to meet you!” : Introduce yourself and express friendliness when meeting new people during your travels.
• “Excuse me, do you speak English?” : Useful for determining if someone can communicate with you in English.

II. Asking for Directions Phrases

Getting around in a new place can be a bit confusing, but asking for directions in English can greatly simplify the process. These phrases will help you find your way:

• “Excuse me, where is the nearest [landmark/place]?” : Use this phrase to ask for directions to a specific location.
• “How do I get to [destination]?” : When you need directions to a particular destination, this question will come in handy.
• “Is it far from here?” : Use this phrase to determine the distance between your current location and the destination you’re seeking.

III. Ordering Food and Drinks Phrases

Exploring local cuisine is an integral part of traveling. Knowing English phrases for ordering food and drinks will enhance your dining experience:

• “I would like to order [dish/drink].” : Use this phrase to express your food or drink preferences.
• “Could you recommend a local specialty?” : Engage with the locals and get suggestions for authentic and delicious dishes.
• “Is there a vegetarian/vegan option?” : If you have specific dietary requirements, this phrase will help you find suitable options.

IV. Shopping Phrases

Shopping is a fun activity while traveling, and these English phrases will assist you during your retail therapy:

• “How much does this cost?” : Use this phrase when you want to inquire about the price of an item.
• “Do you have this in a different color/size?” : If you’re looking for variations of a particular item, this question will be useful.
• “Can I try this on?” : When shopping for clothes, this phrase allows you to check the fit before making a purchase.

V. Transportation Phrases

Navigating public transportation systems in a foreign country can be overwhelming, but these English phrases will help you communicate your transportation needs:

• “Is this the right bus/train to [destination]?” : Use this phrase to confirm if you’re on the correct mode of transportation.
• “When is the next bus/train?” : If you’re unsure about the departure times, this question will provide you with the necessary information.
• “How do I get to [landmark/place] by [mode of transportation]?” : Use this phrase to ask for directions using a specific mode of transportation.

VI. Accommodation Phrases

When you’re staying in a hotel or any other accommodation during your travels, these English phrases will assist you:

• “I have a reservation under [your name].” : Use this phrase when checking in at your accommodation.
• “Is breakfast included?” : If you’re unsure about the meal arrangements, this question will clarify.
• “Could you please provide extra towels/toiletries?” : If you need additional amenities, use this phrase to make your request.

VII. Emergency Phrases

While we hope you won’t encounter any emergencies during your trip, it’s crucial to know some English phrases to seek help when needed:

• “I need help!”: Use this phrase to attract attention and seek assistance in emergency situations.
• “Where is the nearest hospital/police station?” : If you require urgent medical attention or need to report a crime, this question will guide you.

VIII. Making Small Talk Phrases

Engaging in small talk with locals can help you learn more about the culture and create memorable connections. These phrases will assist you:

• “What is the weather like today?” : A common conversation starter that can lead to further discussions.
• “What are some popular attractions around here?” : Use this question to gather recommendations for places to visit.
• “Tell me about local customs and traditions.” : Show interest in the local culture and encourage people to share their knowledge.

IX. Expressing Gratitude Phrases

Showing gratitude is essential when interacting with locals during your travels. These phrases will help you express your appreciation:

• “Thank you very much!” : A simple phrase to convey your gratitude.
• “I really appreciate your help.” : Use this sentence to express sincere appreciation for someone’s assistance.
• “You’ve been very kind. Thank you!” : Express gratitude for someone’s kindness and hospitality.

X. Farewell Phrases

As your journey comes to an end, bid farewell to the people you’ve met along the way with these English phrases:

• “It was lovely meeting you. Goodbye!” : Use this phrase to say goodbye to someone you’ve had a pleasant interaction with.
• “Take care and have a safe journey!” : Show concern for the well-being of others as you part ways.
• “Hope to see you again someday!” : Express the desire to meet again in the future and maintain a connection.

FAQs: Travel Phrases in English

What phrases to know when traveling abroad.

When traveling abroad, it’s helpful to know phrases such as “Hello,” “Thank you,” “Excuse me,” “Where is…?” “How much does it cost?” and “Can you help me?” These basic phrases will assist you in various situations during your travels.

What is the idiomatic expression for traveling?

An idiomatic expression for traveling is “hitting the road” or “going on a journey.” These expressions convey the idea of embarking on a trip or exploring new places.

How do you say I am traveling in different ways?

You can express “I am traveling” in different ways, such as “I’m on a trip,” “I’m going on vacation,” “I’m exploring new destinations,” or simply “I’m traveling.”

What are some useful vocabulary words related to travel?

Useful vocabulary words related to travel include “passport,” “boarding pass,” “luggage,” “airport,” “hotel,” “sightseeing,” “reservation,” “departure,” “arrival,” “tourist,” “currency,” “adventure,” and “itinerary.” These words are essential for discussing and understanding travel-related topics.

Why is it important to learn English phrases for traveling?

Learning English phrases for traveling can help you communicate with locals, navigate unfamiliar surroundings, and make your trip more enjoyable. It allows you to connect with people, seek assistance when needed, and explore the local culture with greater ease.

Can I use translation apps instead of learning English phrases?

While translation apps can be helpful, they may not always provide accurate translations or convey the nuances of the English language. Learning essential phrases will enable you to have more meaningful interactions and adapt to various situations effectively.

How can I practice and improve my English for traveling?

Practicing English phrases regularly before your trip and engaging in conversations with native English speakers or language exchange partners can help you improve your language skills. You can also listen to English podcasts or watch travel-related videos to familiarize yourself with the language.

Are there any online resources for learning English travel phrases?

Yes, there are several online resources available, such as language learning websites , mobile apps, and YouTube channels, that provide lessons and tutorials specifically tailored for learning English travel phrases. Some reputable platforms include Preply and FluentU .

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using English phrases abroad?

When using English phrases abroad, it’s essential to speak clearly and slowly, especially if English is not the locals’ first language. Avoid using complex or slang expressions that may be difficult to understand. Additionally, be respectful of cultural differences and adapt your communication style accordingly.

There you have it – phrases for travel lovers!

Learning essential English phrases for traveling abroad can significantly enhance your travel experience. From greetings and directions to ordering food and engaging in small talk, these phrases will help you navigate various situations and connect with locals.

Remember to practice these phrases before your trip and embrace the opportunity to communicate in English during your travels.

Now, get ready to embark on your adventure and enjoy the journey!

Interested in igniting your creativity? Dive into the world of my  literary works  and experience the power of imagination.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to boost your English language skills – check out our other posts!

• How to Overcome the Fear of Speaking English (Tips and Tricks)
• How to Improve Your English Pronunciation (5 Simple and Effective Ways)

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Home » Travel » Travel Tips » 23 Essential Travel Terms and Phrases You Should Know

23 Essential Travel Terms and Phrases You Should Know

How do you prepare for the best travel experience possible? Do you research the must-see places and best restaurants, read an article or two on travel safety, and call it a day? You should also learn some essential travel terms and phrases to make the most of your trip.

Knowing a handful of travel words and phrases in your destination’s native language gives you more freedom to explore. Had I traveled to Japan without taking the time to learn some basic Japanese, I would have been too intimidated to get off the beaten path.

Even in the world’s most visited cities, assuming English is enough to get by is a big travel mistake .

How to Learn Short Travel Phrases

Before every international trip, I spend 10-15 minutes a day for a week practicing the phrases below. I also spend 30 minutes or so on the plane/train reviewing these phrases so they’re fresh in my mind.

I use a mix of Google Translate, web search, and YouTube to help me learn the words and proper pronunciation. Combining Google translate with a web search for “how to say [phrase] in [language]” is critical, as Google Translate is known to give the wrong translation out of context.

For example, typing in the word “bill” could return the translation for a law document instead of the restaurant tab. It’s always best to cross check words with multiple meanings.

If you don’t have Google Translate already on your phone, install it before your trip. You should also download the language’s dictionary for offline use. Then, add the phrases below to your phrasebook by translating them in the app and tapping the star button.

The whole process takes about five minutes, and you can refer back to the spelling and pronunciation whenever you need!

Finally, if you’re traveling with others, don’t rely on someone else to speak the local language. If you get separated from that person, you’ll be on your own for communication.

Without further ado, here are 23 phrases to learn in any language before traveling abroad.

General Travel Terms and Phrases

• You’re Welcome
• Do you speak [language]?
• I don’t understand
• I need help

RELATED: How to Save Money While Traveling Abroad

Tourist Words for Getting Around

• Where is…?
• Does this go to…?
• Which way to…?
• Train Station

RELATED: 26 Easy Ways to Grow Your Travel Fund

Food and Dining Travel Phrases to Know

Note: If you have dietary restrictions, you should also learn the words for those items as well. 

• I would like…
• What do you recommend?
• The bill, please

Save these essential travel terms for later!

Beyond Basic Travel Phrases

If you’re like me and really love learning languages, expand your study beyond these essential travel phrases. Personally, I never visit a new country without knowing the local word for “coffee”.

Apps like Duolingo and Memrise  turn language learning into a game. Both have dozens of languages to choose from and cover vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Each app takes a slightly different approach to how information is presented, so I actually use both simultaneously when practicing a new language.

What travel terms and phrases do you find essential? Let me know in the comments section!

1 thought on “23 Essential Travel Terms and Phrases You Should Know”

May I suggest a 24th phrase, i.e.:

“How much does this cost?”

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14 Best Languages for Traveling

by Munira Maricar - Last updated on May 2, 2023

Traveling to a foreign country can be an exciting and enriching experience , but it can also be challenging if you can't speak the local language. Knowing even just a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way toward connecting with locals and making your trip more enjoyable.

Ready to make your trips even more meaningful? The best languages to learn for travel will get you there.

We'll explore the best languages to learn for travel and provide language learning tips for travelers. So, get ready to find out about the best languages for traveling internationally and starting planning your next adventure.

How learning a language makes travel more meaningful

Learning a new language can make traveling a more meaningful and rewarding experience. Not only can it help break down communication barriers, but it can also provide insight into the local culture and way of life.

Firstly, speaking the local language can make travel easier and more enjoyable. Simple tasks like ordering food or asking for directions become much easier when you can communicate with locals in their own language. This can lead to a more authentic travel experience as you are able to connect with locals on a deeper level and gain a better understanding of the local customs and traditions.

Learning a new language also provides a window into another culture. Language and culture are closely intertwined, and by learning the language, you are also gaining insight into the way of life and values of the people who speak it. This can lead to a greater appreciation and understanding of the country you are visiting.

Finally, learning a new language is a valuable skill that can benefit you in many areas of life, not just when traveling. It can open up new job opportunities , help you make new friends , and even improve cognitive function.

[ Get a discount on language classes with Lingoda ]

14 best languages to learn for travel.

Here are the 14 best languages for traveling:

Spanish is an incredibly important language to learn for travel. It is the second-most spoken language in the world , making it a valuable language to know for travelers. With over 20 countries speaking Spanish as an official language , including Spain , Mexico , and much of Central and South America, knowing Spanish can be a huge asset while you’re off seeing the world.

Learning Spanish is relatively easy compared to other languages. Its grammar is straightforward and its vocabulary is largely derived from Latin, making it easy to recognize words and understand their meanings. In summary, Spanish is an important language to learn for travel due to its widespread use, its ability to help you connect with locals, and its relative ease of learning.

• Best place to learn: Mexico
• Recommended program: Learn Spanish and Surfing in Mexico

Put your French skills to good use by touring boulangeries while you’re traveling.

French is an important language to learn for travel for several reasons. Firstly, it is an official language in 29 countries , widely spoken in Western Europe, Africa, and Canada , so knowing French can be useful for those traveling to these regions. French is also considered one of the most romantic languages and is often associated with high culture. It is the language of literature, art, and cuisine, and knowing French can provide a deeper appreciation and understanding of these areas.

Finally, learning French is a valuable skill that can benefit you in many areas of life, not just when traveling. It is one of the official languages of the United Nations and is widely used in the fields of business, education, and diplomacy. Whether you're traveling to Paris, Montreal, or any of the other French-speaking regions, knowing French can greatly enhance your travel experience.

• Best place to learn: Morocco
• Recommended program: ISA Study Abroad in Meknes, Morocco

3. Mandarin

Mandarin is the most spoken language in the world , making it a valuable language to know for travelers. With over 1.3 billion speakers , Mandarin is the official language of China and Taiwan, making it a great choice for travelers to these regions. Knowing Mandarin can provide a deeper appreciation and understanding of Chinese culture.

China is a country with a rich history and unique traditions, and knowing Mandarin can help travelers gain a better understanding of these areas. Learning Mandarin can also benefit you in many areas of life beyond travel. China has become an economic powerhouse in recent years and knowing Mandarin can open up new job opportunities and business partnerships.

• Best place to learn: Singapore
• Recommended program: LTL Language School || Learn Chinese (8 Cities)

Arabic is the fifth most spoken language in the world and is the official language in over 20 countries , including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Morocco. It is one of the best languages to learn for travel as popular tourist destinations in the Middle East and North Africa operate in Arabic.

Arabic is a language with a rich cultural history. Arabic literature, music, and art are revered around the world, and knowing Arabic can provide a deeper appreciation and understanding of these areas. Furthermore, the Middle East is an area of increasing global importance, and knowing Arabic can open up new job opportunities in the future.

• Best place to learn: Egypt
• Recommended program: Arabic Language Intensive Program (ALIN) at AUC

You can’t go wrong by learning Hindi if you’re planning a trip to India.

Hindi is a critical language to learn if you're planning on traveling to India . It's one of the more commonly spoken languages of India and is spoken by over 500 million people worldwide , so knowing Hindi can really come in handy when communicating with locals.

Another cool thing about learning Hindi is that it can give you a better appreciation and understanding of Indian culture. India is a really diverse country with a rich history, amazing food, and Bollywood films loved around the world.

Knowing Hindi can help you better understand and appreciate all of these things. It is also a stepping stone toward learning other Indian languages and even Sanskrit if you’re interested in pursuing a more spiritual path someday!

• Best place to learn: India
• Recommended program: Homestay Hindi Language Immersion Program in Jaipur, India

If you're planning a trip to East Africa, you might want to consider learning Swahili. Swahili is a really important language in East Africa and is spoken by over 140 million people . It’s the official language of Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda , making it one of the best languages for traveling—and it’s also a really beautiful language!

Swahili has a melodic quality to it that many people find really pleasing to the ear. Plus, it has lots of words and phrases that just roll off the tongue in a really satisfying way.

Another reason why people enjoy speaking Swahili is that it's a language with a lot of history and cultural significance. Swahili has been spoken for centuries, and it's a language that's deeply tied to the region's culture and traditions. So for many people, speaking Swahili is a way to connect with their heritage and identity.

• Best place to learn: Tanzania
• Recommended program: Swahili Language Course in Tanzania

Thailand is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Knowing Thai can help travelers navigate the country more easily and communicate with locals, which can enhance their overall travel experience. In addition, Thai is the official language of Thailand and is spoken by about 60 million people worldwide .

Learning Thai can be a gateway to understanding the culture and traditions of the Thai people and can help travelers connect with locals on a deeper level. But why do people want to learn Thai? Well, for one thing, Thai is a tonal language, which means that the meaning of a word can change based on the tone used to say it. This makes it a fascinating and challenging language to learn, and many people enjoy the intellectual challenge of mastering Thai.

There are plenty of reasons why Thailand is a top tourist destination, and learning Thai will take your visit to another level.

Furthermore, Thai has a rich and diverse vocabulary, with many words that don’t have direct translations in English. This means that learning Thai can expand the ways in which you can express yourself. Thai people are known for their warmth and hospitality, and knowing Thai can help travelers form meaningful connections with locals and gain a deeper understanding of Thai culture.

• Best place to learn: Thailand
• Recommended program: Thai Language Course and Immersion in Chang Mai, Thailand

8. Portuguese

Portuguese is the official language of Portugal, Brazil, and several other countries in South America and Africa. This means that knowing Portuguese can be really helpful if you're traveling to any of these regions, as it can make it a lot easier to communicate with locals and really immerse yourself in the culture.

In addition, Portugal and Brazil are known for their amazing food, music, and art, and speaking Portuguese can help you better appreciate and understand these aspects of their cultures. From the samba rhythms of Brazil to the fado music of Portugal, the Portuguese language is deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of these countries.

With its lilting rhythms and romantic intonations, Portuguese is a language that's often described as melodic and poetic. Portuguese also has a unique ability to convey a wide range of emotions and sentiments.

From expressing love and passion to conveying sorrow and longing, Portuguese is capable of evoking powerful emotions and feelings. Whether you're sharing stories over a glass of port wine in Porto or chatting with locals at a samba club in Rio, knowing Portuguese can help you forge meaningful connections with people from all walks of life.

• Best place to learn: Brazil
• Recommended program: Study Portuguese Language Online or in Salvador, Brazil

Italian is the official language of Italy, and it is also spoken in parts of Switzerland and Croatia. Italy is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and delicious food.

Italy is also known for having an aging population—many elderly people in Italy likely do not speak English. Italians are known for their friendliness, and knowing Italian can help travelers navigate the country more easily and communicate more efficiently, which can enhance the overall travel experience and help you tap into that Italian wisdom!

That could be you, enjoying the Italian sunshine, getting ready to make conversation with locals.

Italian is also a beautiful language with a rich cultural history. From the art and literature of the Renaissance to the operas and music of the modern era, Italian has played a significant role in shaping Western culture. As one of the Romance languages, it can be your gateway to other languages like Spanish, French, and Portuguese—or it will be a much easier endeavor picking up Italian if you already have a foundation in these other languages!

• Best place to learn: Italy
• Recommended program: Learn Italian in Tuscany at Il Sasso Language Institute

Korean is the official language of both North and South Korea and is spoken by about 75 million people worldwide , including in parts of China and Japan. Learning Korean is a great idea if you’re interested in that region. Firstly, South Korea is a very attractive place to visit , with their delicious food, rich history, and cutting-edge technology. Korean is also a unique language with its own distinct writing system and grammar rules.

Many people are drawn to the challenge of learning Korean and enjoy the intellectual stimulation that comes with mastering a new language like this. Furthermore, South Korea is a major player in industries like technology, entertainment, and automotive manufacturing. Knowing Korean can not only open up potential future opportunities but will also allow you to appreciate K-pop and K-dramas on a deeper level!

• Best place to learn: South Korea
• Recommended program: Summer Korean Immersion Program with Homestay in Seoul

German is a widely spoken language in Europe and has over 100 million speakers worldwide . Learning German can be a gateway to understanding the culture and traditions of German-speaking countries like Germany , Austria, and parts of Switzerland, Belgium, and Italy.

German is a language of innovation and industry, with a reputation for precision and efficiency. Many people are drawn to German because of its association with fields like engineering, science, and technology, and see it as a valuable skill to have in today's global marketplace. Furthermore, German is a language with a rich cultural heritage, with contributions to fields like philosophy, literature, and music.

From the works of Kant and Nietzsche to the operas of Wagner, German has played a significant role in shaping key European history. Finally, German people are known for their directness and honesty, and knowing German can help travelers form meaningful connections with locals with a better understanding of cultural barriers.

• Best place to learn: Austria
• Recommended program: Eurolingua Study Abroad Program - German in Vienna

12. Japanese

Japan’s iconic sights are calling. Start studying Japanese and get your answer ready!

People all over the world are interested in learning Japanese for a variety of reasons. Japanese is the official language of Japan and is spoken by over 130 million people worldwide . Apart from Japan, it is also widely spoken in Brazil due to the early immigration of Japanese people for many generations. Learning Japanese can be a gateway to understanding the culture and traditions of Japan, from historic art dating back centuries to contemporary manga and anime.

The language itself is immensely fascinating. Japanese has many honorifics and polite language expressions that are used to show respect and politeness in social interactions. These honorifics can be used to show respect to someone of higher social status or to express gratitude, and are an important part of Japanese culture and language .

Japanese vocabulary also includes onomatopoeic words. These are words that imitate sounds, like "pika-pika" for sparkling or "gacha-gacha" for clattering. Onomatopoeic words are used frequently in Japanese and add a fun and playful element to the language.

Japanese has a rich and diverse vocabulary, with many words and phrases that don't have direct translations in English. This means that learning Japanese can help you think in new and different ways. Japanese people are known for their politeness and hospitality, and knowing Japanese can help travelers form meaningful connections with locals and minimize language gaps.

• Best place to learn: Japan
• Recommended program: Meiji Academy - Study Japanese in Fukuoka

13. Russian

Russian is spoken by over 258 million people worldwide and is an official language of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan . It is also widely spoken in other former Soviet republics like Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, making it one of the best languages to learn for travel. Many people in these countries learned Russian as a second language during the Soviet era, and it remains an essential language for business and communication.

Knowing Russian as a traveler will allow you to appreciate the richness of such countries and the vast diversity it has to offer. Russian is known for its complex grammar rules and unique vocabulary. For example, Russian has a rich system of word endings that indicate grammatical cases, which can be challenging for English speakers to learn.

All that studying will pay off when you can handle grammatical cases with ease.

In addition, Russian has a lot of loanwords from other languages, particularly French and German, which add to the richness and diversity of the language. Russian is also spoken by diaspora communities all over the world, particularly in the United States, Israel, and Germany. These communities often maintain cultural and linguistic ties to Russia and use Russian as a means of communication and cultural expression.

• Best place to learn: Latvia
• Recommended program: Russian as a Foreign Language in Daugavpils, Latvia

14. Turkish

Turkish is the official language of Turkey and is spoken by over 80 million people worldwide , including in parts of Cyprus and Bulgaria . Turkish is a language that many people aiming to be polyglots want to master as the language is known for its agglutinative nature . This means that words are created by stringing together different morphemes which can result in long and complex words and can be challenging for English speakers to learn.

In addition, Turkish has many loanwords from other languages, particularly Arabic and Persian. These loanwords add to the richness and diversity of the Turkish vocabulary and can be interesting for language learners to explore.

Furthermore, Turkish is a vital language for trade and commerce, with Turkey being a major player in industries like textiles, agriculture, and tourism. Turkish media like drama series and music are also gaining popularity lately, so learning this beautiful language will allow you to appreciate and indulge in a wider variety of art forms.

• Best place to learn: Turkey
• Recommended program: Turkish Language Course and Immersion in Istanbul, Turkey

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Traveling is a great motivator for learning a new language.

Which of these languages will you choose to learn first?

Learning even a few basic phrases in any of these languages can greatly enhance your travel experience and help you connect with locals. Exploring the world is a never-ending journey, and enhancing your experience by learning various languages will be priceless.

Not only is learning a language a great way to improve your own capabilities, but it’s also a great way to connect with people around the world and appreciate other places! So why not give it a try and see where your language learning journey takes you?

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The 7 Most Useful Languages for Travel (and How to Learn Them!)

• Post author By Damon Lane
• Post date September 7, 2023
• 8 Comments on The 7 Most Useful Languages for Travel (and How to Learn Them!)

Learning a new language for travel is a great way to feel a deeper connection to the places you visit and the people you meet. Many of us dream of being able to converse freely and fluently with people wherever we go. But with more than 6,500 languages spoken in the world today, it isn’t practical to learn them all. 

So which languages are most useful for travel, and how should you go about learning them? 

In this guide, we detail the top 7 languages to learn for travel and provide tips and resources to make language learning easier.

Our experience learning languages for travel

When we were first bitten by the international travel bug, we knew our travels would take us to many countries that were not natively English-speaking. So, our language-learning journey began!

We went to a book store and picked up a book about Switzerland, the first country we eventually visited in Europe. The cover of the book looked so cool. There were mountains… and skiers… and snow. All the things that we enjoy!

The book also mentioned all the languages that are spoken in Switzerland: German, English, Italian, Spanish, French… and then something called Swiss-German. Children in Switzerland, and in much of the world, are taught a second language beginning in grade school, if not younger.

Yet foreign language is still not something that is actively and earnestly taught in the US public school system until at least high school.

That is when we decided to learn another language… maybe two… or three. And we made it our goal to ensure our daughter learns a second language, as well. 

Table of Contents

The 7 best languages for travel to learn

If you want to learn a second language for travel, you first need to determine which language would be most beneficial and useful during your travels.

Here are the top languages that have the most travel value and why.

The fact that you are reading this in English tells me you are likely already a native English speaker or at the very least fluent in the language.

So, you probably don’t need to learn English. However, I included it on the list because in terms of the top languages for travel, English is undoubtedly number one. 

There are 67 different countries in the world where English is the official language, as well as numerous non-sovereign entities. Residents from countries like the United States , United Kingdom, and Canada speak English as their native language.

Surprisingly, English is even the official language of the Central American country of Belize and of many of the countries on the continent of Africa.

Additionally, many countries teach English as a second language beginning in kindergarten. So nearly 20 percent of the world’s population, or 1.35 billion people can speak some English.  

However, don’t think you can get by everywhere just by knowing English. Because that leaves more than 75 percent of the world who do not speak or understand English at all. 

Aside from English, Spanish is one of the most important languages to learn for travel.

It is the official language in at least 20 countries – and a large section of two continents.  If you want to travel to Spain , Mexico , or to most countries in Central America and South America , Spanish will be beneficial.

Spanish is also the second most-spoken language in the United States. An estimated 13% of US residents speak Spanish as a first language. 

As a romance language, learning Spanish also makes it easier to learn other romance languages like French, Italian and Portuguese. 

For English speakers, Arabic is a challenging language to learn, at least compared to Spanish. Arabic has its own alphabet, grammatical complexities, and pronunciation.

Additionally, there are a lot of different dialects of Arabic that can make learning it difficult. 

But, since Arabic is the official language of 26 countries, including areas where international tourism is growing rapidly, like Dubai, UAE and Morocco , it is one of the best languages to learn for travel.

If you have a desire to visit the Middle East or any of the countries in Northern Africa, you should at the very least learn some Arabic.

Mandarin Chinese

Mandarin Chinese makes our list of the best languages for travel, simply because it is the most spoken language in the world.

Although only 5 countries have Chinese and one of its dialects, like Mandarin, as the official language, many of those countries are extremely populated.

So, if you have a desire to see the Great Wall of China , any of the fascinating sites in Beijing or elsewhere in China, Mandarin Chinese is a useful language.

And considering Beijing is one of the best places to visit for a family vacation in Asia , learning at least a few key phrases would be a good idea.

In fact, Mandarin is a good language for travel and for business, and will always be as long as companies around the world continue to outsource production to China.

Like Spanish and Arabic, French is widely spoken around the world. There are 29 countries where French is the official language.

So, if you dream of Paris to see one of the most famous bridges in Europe or you want to wander around the Louvre and gaze at famous European statues and paintings, or explore beautiful gothic cathedrals , French is a great language to learn. 

French is also spoken in parts of Canada , like Quebec and even in some of the Caribbean islands, like St. Martin .

Portuguese is a romance language, like French and Spanish. While Portugal is the home country for the language, it is not the largest country that uses the language.

Portuguese is also the official language of Brazil, the largest country in South America. 

Portuguese is spoken in 10 countries around the world, and if you want to visit Lisbon or any of these other popular places in Portugal , learn a few words and phrases in Portuguese to make your trip easier.

While Russian may not be widely spoken in many countries, learning it can help you get by in one of the largest, most populated countries in the world, and in several of the countries that neighbor Russia.

There are currently only 4 countries where Russian is the official language: Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. But it is the seventh-most spoken language in the world, with more than 258 million native speakers.

Even if you have no desire to ever travel to Russia, the language is still spoken by many people in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, particularly in the countries that were once under Russian rule.

Two bonus languages to learn for travel

Although the seven languages above are the most beneficial languages for travel, it may make sense for you to learn others that aren’t on this list.

The language you will use the most

A great language for you to learn would be the one that you would use the most, even if it is not one of the more widely spoken languages above. 

If you have grandparents from Japan , for example, it might make more sense for you to learn Japanese to communicate and connect with your relatives and your heritage.

In fact, in this example it would also be helpful to learn about the culture and the unique Japanese habits and customs so you can preserve and honor your heritage, as well.

The language that interests you

Another great language to learn would be the one that interests you the most. For instance, if you are of Polish descent and are interested in learning Polish, do it!

Even if no one in your family still speaks Polish and you have no plans to travel to Poland , if the language interests you, you will be more likely to stick with it. 

Why you should learn a language for travel

Travel is a great way to learn. In fact, many of our favorite family travel quotes revolve around the idea that travel is the best form of education.

Through travel, you can learn so much about the world and its history, and about other cultures and religions. But to truly connect with a place and its people, it is important to learn at least a little of the native language for travel.

Learning a language opens up new possibilities

If you live in the United States and never plan to travel outside its borders, then you may not need to learn a language other than English.

But the USA only accounts for 4.25% of the entire world population and only 6.1% of the land on this planet. That means that more than 95% of people in this world, and 94% of the beautiful lands to explore are in other countries.

While there are a lot of great places to visit in the United States , there is so much you will never discover if you don’t leave the country.

So, if you want to see more than just 6.1% of the world, then learning a language for travel would be beneficial. And the further you go off the tourist path in a city or country, the more likely it is you will have to interact with people who do not speak English.

Speaking a country’s native language earns respect from locals

Even if you only know a few key phrases in a language, it will ultimately earn you a lot of respect from the locals you interact with while you are traveling. 

A few years ago, when we took a family trip to Costa Rica , we tried to make a reservation at a restaurant at the resort where we were staying, RIU Guanacaste . Unfortunately, the restaurant was booked. However, when we started to speak to the manager in Spanish, the native language of Costa Rica, he made an exception and reserved a table for us.

Our Spanish was far from perfect. In fact, it was likely pretty terrible. But by simply attempting to speak it, we earned the managers respect or favor, and ultimately we were able to secure a reservation.

Language helps you connect with locals in other countries

Interacting with locals takes on an entirely new dynamic when communication is more fluid because you took the time to learn a language for travel.

When we are even somewhat comfortable speaking the language in a new country, we are able to break off the tourist path, see more of the country, and interact more with the people that make that country unique. 

There is something about sitting down in a pub and having a beer in areas that only the locals go that will make you feel more connected to a city.

More importantly, you can establish cross-cultural friendships and do so while giving your brain a nice boost.

How to learn a new language for travel

Learning a language can admittedly be hard, especially for adults. But it can also be one of the coolest and most rewarding things you ever do. 

In our household, we personally spend at least 20 minutes each day practicing another language. It helps us feel more connected to other cultures even when you aren’t traveling , and ultimately helps us be more prepared for future trips.

Of course, immersion is always the best way to learn a new language. But most of us don’t have the opportunity to move abroad for months at a time.

So, for those who are learning from home, here are some of the most popular resources to learn another language for travel.

Duolingo is a free app that you can install on your phone so you can take language learning with you wherever you go.

Did you miss the part where I mentioned it is FREE ?

In reality, you will not become fluent in a language using Duolingo alone. However, it is a convenient app that can help you learn 19 distinct languages. It has a fun, engaging gamification platform, and is easy to use, even on the go. We personally use Duolingo daily in our household.  

Rosetta Stone

Rosetta Stone is another great language-learning resource that we personally use.

Rosetta Stone teaches you language the way you learned your first one, beginning with easy nouns and phrases. However, like Duolingo, Rosetta Stone is great for building vocabulary but not as great for everyday, practical use and language comprehension. 

Still, at the current price for a lifetime subscription for all languages, Rosetta Stone is well worth the investment. In fact, it even makes a great gift for moms who love to travel .

Like Rosetta Stone, Babbel is a paid-app or language learning program. It was designed with real world use in mind.

Babble does a better job than Rosetta Stone at explaining translations, but offers fewer languages.

Rosetta Stone offers 25 languages, whereas Babble currently only offers 14.

For those wanting to dive deeper into language learning, Babbel Live is extremely beneficial as the courses are live online classes taught by speakers and teachers of the language. However, Babbel Live is only offered in Spanish, French, Italian, and German.

Language-learning Podcasts

Who doesn’t love a good podcast these days?

If you commute for work or are trying to pass the time on a road trip, a language learning podcast like Coffee Break Languages (currently offered in Spanish, French, German, Italian, Chinese, Swedish, and English) are great!

These free podcasts teach the basics of a language for travel or practical purposes. For example, one podcast may be solely dedicated to ordering in a restaurant.

Children’s movies

“How did you learn English?” is one of my favorite questions to ask someone who learned English as a second language. Many times the answer is from watching movies!

So, as you become more studious in language learning, watch some of your favorite children’s movies in the language you are trying to learn and turn the closed captioning on. 

Disney movies are great for this. Not only are many Disney movies inspired by places you can actually visit , but children’s movies tend to use simple vocabulary which is easier to understand as you are trying to learn a new language.  

Tips for practicing a new language when traveling

Speaking a new language to those who speak it natively can be intimidating. But here are a few tips to help you practice your new skills with confidence.

Conquer your fear of mistakes

Don’t be afraid to say things incorrectly. Even if your grammar or pronunciation is off, chances are people will still understand the gist of what you are saying.

And the more you practice speaking a language to others the more comfortable you will get.

Learn the basics and know them well

You don’t need to learn the language from front to back. But learning some of the more popular phrases and sayings in multiple languages is beneficial. 

So what should you learn? Here are a few phrases that we try to learn in the native language of any country we visit: 

• Excuse Me/Pardon Me
• Please 
• How are you? 
• I am good/fine/great/wonderful
• How much does this cost?
• I would like to eat/drink
• Do you know
• Table for (2, 3, 4, or however many people are in your family)

In most cases, this will cover the bulk of necessary interaction you will have when traveling, if you’re trying to get by with the bare minimum. But learning these simple sayings can really make you stand out.

Have a question or comment about the best languages to learn for travel? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

Like it? Pin this list of languages for travel to save for later!

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8 comments on “The 7 Most Useful Languages for Travel (and How to Learn Them!)”

Well said. I stayed with a family in Austria for a few days when I was 14. The other same-aged kids already knew English on top of their German, and they were all deciding which language to learn next – French or otherwise. I was so jealous.

Isn’t that amazing?! It still baffles me that kids aren’t required to learn a foreign language in the states. It is much harder to learn one as an adult.

Germany is BEAUTIFUL! You will love it. I was an exchange student in the Allgäu region for a full year and it was the best experience of my life, bar none. There is so much to do and see, so hopefully you booked at least a week there, as you’ll need every second. I went there language blind…not a lick of Deutsch….but by the 6-month mark I was dreaming in German…that’s when you know you’ve got it down good. I know you have limited time there, but just know everyone loves tto be able to talk to Americans in English, but are super helpful in helping you to speak German when you try as well. I def recommend you try the Späetzle noodles–one of my favs! Also their cheeses and breads…and of course, their beer selections :). If you need any pointers, etc, definitely feel free to contact me. Happy travels!

Thanks for the tips Mandi! I’m excited to try all the foods and beers in Germany. We had a German exchange student live with us when I was growing up. I still consider him my brother. He now lives in Switzerland, and we actually went and visited him and his family a few years ago.

I will NEVER forget an American lady, probably in her late thirties, that instead of trying to understand the language being spoken simply started to shout in English at the young Guatemalan shop-keeper. Then had the audacity to yell at him, “why can’t you stupid people learn English?”. I didn’t know spanish but had my handy dandy guidebook with phrases and was treated like a friend wherever I went. The locals had a lot of laughs at my inability to roll an R or make that LL sound, but they really appreciated me at least trying. We seriously need to have our school focus on languages and make it a requirement for graduation..

I completely agree! In high school, we had exchange students from various European countries live with us for a year, and at the age of 16, they knew perfect English, as well as their native language, and usually a third language. I think American kids are really at a disadvantage because foreign languages aren’t taught beginning in grade school or Pre-K.

I have unfortunately run into these situations far too frequently as well. When people leave the borders of their own country (which I encourage everyone to do), they can’t expect the world to cater to them. Why would anyone want to go somewhere that’s exactly like home anyway? I was very fortunate that in Canada, we must learn French up to Grade 8 and then are highly encouraged to either continue with it or choose another language throughout high school. It is not even the language itself that matters, but rather the process of learning another language.

It’s been several years since I’ve used it, so my Spanish ability has regressed quite a bit, but I used to be very capable and confident in that language and traveled to several places in Central and South America. Knowing the language allowed me to experience so much more than I ever could have otherwise. I made some great friendships with locals who couldn’t speak English.

Years later (about ten years ago now) I got a job in Korea. It was my first experience traveling to a place where I could not speak the local language. I could get around, and I managed fine, but my experience traveling was so different. I couldn’t make friends with locals (unless they spoke English) and I getting off the beaten path was much more challenging. I only planned to stay there a few years so never made a concerted effort to learn Korean, but two years turned into ten before I finally decided to leave. It saddens me to think of how richer my experience could have been if I had started right away to learn the language and if I had been committed to trying harder.

Earlier this year, we moved to China and I decided I wouldn’t make the same mistake twice. I’ve been trying to learn Mandarin. It’s so much more difficult than Spanish. I think I could study it for ten years and not have the same level I achieved after a year studying Spanish. My kids are picking it up so much faster than I am. It makes me happy for them, but frustrated with myself. But in the end, all we can do is try, right?

I applaud your efforts to get out there and not be intimidated with your lack of language. It shows your kids that you value other cultures and languages.

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Most Useful Languages for World Travel

Languages and traveling the world go hand in hand with each other. One doesn’t necessarily require the other, however, speaking the local language can completely transform your travel experience. This article will explore the most useful languages for world travel because languages really are key to having an authentic cultural experience and making new friends all over the world.

Tandem is not only for those on a language learning journey but also for those brave nomads and travelers out there. Speak the language of the locals and meet new people in the country you are traveling to. Download the Tandem app now to connect with people all across the world!

If you are reading this article, you are either one of the 360 million native English speakers or one of the billion people who speak it as a second language. Since the vast majority of the world's population has at least a basic understanding of the English language, you are spoiled for choice for your next travel destination. It is an official language in the United Kingdom, the United States, Jamacia, Down Under (Australia), New Zealand, Barbados and many more.

However, as a native English speaker, relying exclusively on widely-understood English travel vocabulary can sometimes mean missing out on the deeper cultural layers of each country you visit.

Learning Spanish will open up whole continents to you. It is one of the most spread languages around the world, and it is the official language in 21 different countries. To this day, there are approximately 500 million Spanish speakers worldwide. Being a Romance language, Spanish shares the same origins with Portuguese and Italian, for example, which leaves you open to building further language skills. Spanish is a perfect language to learn for travelers on a budget since Spanish-speaking countries are generally very affordable.

There are almost 1.2 billion native Chinese speakers, making up 16% of the world’s population. Having a sturdy level of Mandarin and Cantonese will help you navigate the language’s vast geographic reach more independently. There are many places worth traveling to where speaking Chinese will be useful for you. Among these are Hong Kong, Taiwan, Tibet, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore, however, you can find a Chinese community in almost every city in the world.

Spoken in India and parts of Pakistan, Hindi is a ‘big five’ world language. More than half a billion people speak it, of which half are native speakers. India is already a hot backpacking and luxury travel destination, and Pakistan is steadily climbing its way up as it improves its security and infrastructure. India exports fantastic cuisine and yoga, plus Hindi is the tongue of Bollywood so this should be an easy choice for your next travel destination!

When most people think of the Middle East and the Arab World, Arabic is naturally the first language that comes to mind. However, there isn’t really a language called “Arabic.” Arabic is so vastly different in its respective dialects that they are often considered separate languages, grouped as one for the sake of convenience.

There are about 313 million collective Arabic speakers in the world with 25 countries that claim an Arabic language as an official or co-official language. Egyptian Arabic is the closest thing to standard Arabic which holds the record for the largest Arabic-speaking population at around 65 million people.

Russian is the most spread Slavic language in the world with roughly 166 million native speakers in the world. Speaking Russian will see you from the Baltic Sea all the way to the Bering Strait and is THE traveler’s tool for traversing Eurasia. Russian is formally recognized as a minority language in Eastern Europe including Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Moldova, Georgia, and Romania. The only disadvantage for travelers is that Russia requires a visa for most Western foreign visitors.

7. Portuguese

Portuguese is the official language of Portugal and Brazil with over 200 million speakers. However, did you know that it’s also an official language in parts of Asia? Portuguese is actually widely spoken in Macau, where it’s an official language, and Japan as Brazilian immigrants brought the language with them.

Portuguese is also spoken in geographically scattered African countries. Angola, for example, has a notoriously troublesome visa policy, making it next to impossible for Western travelers to enter, thus leaving it an internationally undiscovered gem.

Sandwiched between India and Southeast Asia, Bangladesh is home to 200 million speakers of one of the widest-spoken languages in the world. As a travel destination, the Bay of Bengal is densely populated with some of the most beautiful and undiscovered wildlife in the world. Bangladesh hasn’t reached the mainstream travel itineraries as of yet, but its tourism industry is growing. If you want to get there before it gets swamped with tourists, brush up on your Bengali and book a flight!

Bon Voyage!

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How To Learn A Language For Travel: Full Guide

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 30 mins read
• Post last modified: January 3, 2023
• Post comments: 19 Comments

How To Learn A Language For Travel: 7 Steps to Learning A Language Completely Alone

This article about how to learn a language for travel may contain affiliate/compensated links. For full information, please see my disclaimer here.

Are you one of those travelers thinking about finally learning a new language for travel purposes, but you keep putting it aside? I am with you. But let’s talk. Honestly, even when you just think that you would like to learn a language for travel. You have already made the first step. You are further than those who aren’t even trying. Now you just have to cross this line and actually get round into the language learning process.

If you don’t know where to start, I would like to help you with it. This article will show you efficient ways to pick up a new language for travel in 7 simple steps . 

How To Learn A New Language For Travel: 7 Steps

Here is a list of 7 simple steps to learn a new language for travel:

• Find motivation inside you
• Choose a topic (situation) to learn new vocabulary
• Set up achievable language learning goals
• Write down topic specific vocabulary
• Learn new vocabulary using effective strategies
• Keep improving your language skills (listen to podcasts, learn with language apps, read books & magazines)
• Practice speaking 

Different Approach To Language Learning

I am going to reveal how you can  approach language learning differently.  You will find out that setting up specific and smaller goals, focusing on one or two topics within the language, and sticking to your plan is crucial. It’ll help you  pick up a new language before traveling . It is a method I have come up with during my  language learning journey . I have been following these steps and now  speak 3 languages fluently . This method works if you are willing to dedicate some time to it and mean it seriously with your language learning process.

With my language learning method, you’ll be able to pick up a new language for travel. I’ve been following these steps and now speak 3 languages fluently.

So, let’s get into it and break each step down into detail. Below, I am giving you 7 steps and tips for reaching your goal to speak a local language when you are traveling.

THINGS YOU WILL NEED FOR THIS PROCESS

1.Motivation

2.Language you want to learn spoken in the country you’ll be visiting

3. Language Travel Notebook (for new vocabulary)

4.Small budget to practice speaking online – OPTIONAL

5.Positive mindset

The 7 Steps To Learn A Language For Travel

1. find motivation inside you.

Once you are planning your journey in a country,  traveling is a motivation itself  for you. Travel itself will push you and help you to find the motivation for learning the language. Because let’s be honest. Traveling gets much easier, enjoyable, and exciting if you speak at least a few words of the language.

You have to define the reasons why you want to learn the language. Once you have them, write them down into your  language travel notebook . It will help you  keep up with your language learning in challenging times  when you feel down or unmotivated. Being aware of your motivation and reason to learn the language is very important.

2. Choose A Topic/Situation

Now you have a reason, motivation why you want to learn the language. In our case, we want to learn a language for travel. So, at the beginning of our language learning journey, let’s  think about specific topics and situations  when we want to use the language once we travel. It can be anything – ordering food in a restaurant, vocabulary for accommodation, traveling at the airport, etc.

Write these topics down into your  language travel notebook . I go into detail about how to choose a specific topic and learn  topic specific vocabulary   in a separate article, so check it out.

3. Set Up Achievable Language Learning Goals

Setting up language learning goals is another crucial part of language learning. It will help you to stick to the learning process and keep you on track. When it comes to goal setting, your goals have to be specific and small.

Set Up Specific Goals

Remember that your goals need to be specific. Don’t just say I will learn how to communicate in a hotel and in a restaurant. Be more specific.

Say – ”Once traveling, I’ll greet the receptionist at the hotel in the foreign language, listen to him and ask relevant questions about the hotel, when the breakfast is, how to get there and there, etc. I’ll order food in that language in a restaurant and have a small conversation with a waiter. Also, I’ll be able to ask for the bill and pay in the end, all speaking in that language.”

I think you get the point. Set up specific goals you want to achieve before traveling to the country. But think smaller so that you can stick to that plan. Making big plans can mean not learning much eventually. Another article will guide you through the process of how to  set up specific  language learning goals . Also, I’ll give you some hints to determine whether your goals are effective, so check it out.

Set Up Smaller Goals

Let’s say you are leaving to explore the country in a month…  Don’t be too strict with yourself.  Nobody is a hero, and let’s be honest, learning a language takes some time. So  set smaller goals  like, for example:

‘ In a month, you’ll learn how to communicate at your accommodation and in a restaurant .’

That’s already a lot and is totally manageable. If you are too strict with yourself and want to learn a lot before traveling to the country… well, unless you have plenty of time, it will be  more difficult for you to follow the plan.  In the end, you  might end up being disappointed  that you didn’t make it. So instead,  pick up one or two topics  and learn words within that area.

Advantage Of Smaller & Specific Goals

Another advantage is – you learn a little bit within one topic. You achieve it and will be able to communicate in that situation while traveling. Then you’ll  have another excuse to go to that country  again. You can  make a promise  to yourself that next time, you’ll learn vocabulary within another topic (e.g., sports or leisure travel). Also, once you  master speaking within the topic,  you’ll gain more motivation.

Get My Language Learning Calendar

I’ve created a language learning calendar for you to keep track of your learning and motivation . This calendar is designed for one week. Into each day, you can write down the topic & vocabulary you want to learn , how much time you’ll spend , and the method you’ll use  to do so.

Either plan and write down what you’ll learn before each week starts, or you can write down what you have learned each day to keep track of your learning process. I like to write down things I learned on that day once I’ve done so. But I make sure I spend some time with the language every single day . So choose what works better for you.

Get your Language Learning Calendar

4.Write Down Topic Specific Vocabulary

Once you have set up your goals, let’s start achieving them. First of all, I recommend you  start learning vocabulary step by step.   First, think about words in your own language  you need to speak in the particular topic (situation). Then, write these words down into your  language travel notebook.  When you have them, translate them into the foreign language you want to learn.

Write all these translated words into your notebook. I have also explained the entire process of selecting a specific topic and  topic specific vocabulary  in a separate article, so check it out.

My approach to learning a language is to pick up as many words within one topic. Then, simply try memorizing these words and use them in a particular context. Use your imagination.

Incorporate Language App

In the meantime, I also recommend you choose a language app and learn the very basics of the language. As the next step, you’ll be creating sentences using your topic-specific vocabulary. However, it might be difficult for you as an absolute beginner in the language. This is when language apps come to play.

I always recommend LanguagePod101 to my readers and audience. I love LanguagePod101 because they teach you basic vocabulary in dialogues and everyday life conversations. You’ll automatically learn new words in a context.

This language app will also help you learn  everything you need to learn in a new language  in terms of  basic vocabulary  (greetings, introducing yourself, numbers, time, colors, etc.). You’ll also understand  simple grammar  with is (verbs, conjugations, nouns, adjectives, etc.)

Listen to  one dialogue each day.  Then, the next day, focus on the same dialogue and see if you remember the new words. If you feel comfortable, jump to the next dialogue. During the process, you can also  learn your topic specific vocabulary.

Read my separate article if you’d like to get an overview of  what to learn in a new language  as an absolute beginner. 

Create Sentences Using New Words

After a month or two of learning basics with LanguagePod101 and learning your topic specific vocabulary, you can start creating sentences. For example, imagine sitting in that restaurant, and you want to order, let’s say, paella. Say the words (or the entire sentence) in your own language, and then translate them into your target language. This way, you’ll  incorporate the words into speech  and  practice in a ‘real situation.’

I recommend you also write the sentences down in your   language travel notebook , read them aloud, and repeat the same process again and again.

Your Language Travel Notebook

The language travel notebook will become  your best friend.  It’ll  guide you through all 7 steps  of learning a language for travel. It’s your own book, where you’ll have all  vocabulary within the specific topic  you want to learn. 

Take it with you once you travel  to  add new words  as you go. I have my own language notebook. It serves me to keep track of new vocabulary and sentences and follow these 7 steps every time I learn a new language. Also, I carry it with me once traveling to the country where my chosen language is spoken. When I learn a new word, I write it down to remember it. 

Download the  language travel notebook  and hop on your language learning journey now. For the guidelines on how to use it, check out explanations about the language travel notebook .

Get your FREE LANGUAGE TRAVEL NOTEBOOK

5. Learn Vocabulary Using Effective Strategies

Perfect, you’ve selected situations when you want to communicate in that language and the specific topic. Now it is time to  learn that vocabulary on your own.  This is a step that scares many people. They think it isn’t so effective, just memorizing words.

I have to tell you that when you are at the beginning of your language learning process, it is great to start with learning vocabulary on your own. You  need some base to create sentences,   little conversations  and start understanding the language. But how are you going to do that if you don’t have any vocabulary in your pocket? So that’s why I, first of all, encourage you to learn the vocabulary.

We’ll learn the words using effective and fun ways, try to be in constant contact with them, and learn to use them properly later.

Use Effective Strategies To Learn Vocabulary

Only memorizing words  means that many people cannot really use them in a conversation after. They just learn everything by heart, and then they are stuck when somebody asks them something, and they have to reply. This  isn’t going to be our case.

Once you have your vocabulary in your language travel notebook, I encourage you to use my strategies and  tips on   how to learn vocabulary fast . It’ll be a fun and interesting process. You only have to choose a strategy that works for you and tips that are interesting to you.

Another thing you can do is to choose one or two  gifts for language learners  from the list I’ve put together. It includes many interesting activities and fun games that will help you to learn vocabulary effectively.

6. Keep Improving Your Language Skills

When you feel like  you’ve mastered new vocabulary  within the topic you chose, it’s time to  work with that vocabulary . So let’s get your language learning to the next level. 

It’s time to familiarize yourself with the language even more and learn how to use the vocabulary in real life. You’ll be  reading books  and  language magazines , listening to best language learning podcasts , doing your favorite activities using the language, and many other things.  

So as the next step, follow my 7 useful tips on  how to improve your language skills .

7. Practice Speaking

So you have now learned the necessary vocabulary for the topic that you chose. That’s perfect. You are halfway through. Congratulations .  You can also  produce your own sentences  in the foreign language within the topics (situations). You are also able to understand the language, thanks to the resources you’ve been using.

You’ve done a lot of work independently. Until now, you’ve been learning the language mainly passively. It’s time to jump to the next level of our language learning process.  Let’s add up active learning.

You need to start speaking to reach fluency and confidence in that language. It’s time to start using the language actively. I highly recommend  taking a few lessons with a native speaker online  (it doesn’t have to be necessarily a native one).

Not only will the native speaker  motivate you to speak  to somebody in reality, but it will also  give you much more confidence.  If you just talk to yourself and memorize vocabulary, it will help you, but it won’t give you the confidence to actually speak once you are traveling.

Real Boost In Your Language Learning

When you start talking to someone using what you have learned on your own, you’ll  experience a real boost in your learning process.  The tutor will also guide you, tell you  how to pronounce the word,  and correct you. 

Sometimes, you might learn words that native speakers wouldn’t use, or they would just express them differently. Your tutor will  assure you that your sentences are right  and you speak as a native does.

Find out what are the  4 best platforms to  practice language with native speakers .

I recommend you start practicing speaking on iTalki. It helped me to master my Spanish speaking. iTalki is a great platform to choose your tutor and learn how to speak. Tutors are very nice and always guide you in the language.

You can now  get 10$ credit  after your 1. lesson on iTalki. Click below to start practicing speaking on iTalki and get your 10$ credit.

Register & Get 10$ Credit on iTalki

These are  my basic 7 steps for you to finally learn a language for travel . I am here to help you during the process. Check out other articles in my   language blog , where I explain each part step by step. In addition, it contains many tips, tricks, and strategies on how to learn the vocabulary, use it in a context, and use platforms and resources to practice the language.

Let me finish with my 2 greatest pieces of advice for you.

How To Overcome Your Fear Of Speaking

This is my biggest advice to you. So many people are afraid of speaking in a foreign language because they are  afraid of making mistakes . Man, everybody makes mistakes.  Nobody cares.  Forget about it. Making mistakes is actually great because  we learn from them.

Believe me, it’s the other way. Once you travel in the country and speak a few words to locals, they aren’t  paying attention to your mistakes.  Instead, they are  amazed that you speak their language.  They really appreciate it. And most of the time, you’ll feel that appreciation.

I have experienced that plenty of time. For example, before going to a bakery, I stood in front of it for 3 minutes practicing the sentence I would tell the shop assistant…. I was nervous that they wouldn’t understand me. Or I would forget some words and stand there, and others would be angry at me because I would delay them.

No, no, no. Nothing like that will happen to you. And even if, whatever. You have tried. Believe me, the people will understand, and they’ll be surprised that you speak at least a little bit.

Overcome your fear of speaking foreign language following my tips. Get some inspiration as this is the significant thing to start speaking.

Think Positively & Enjoy Language Learning

Lastly, I have a few words of encouragement for you. My last piece of advice to you is to think positively. Yes, this is an  essential part of it . Even if you have fear inside you, you have to overcome it.

Tell yourself that  you’ll make it  and order something in a foreign language like a pro. You won’t make mistakes. If you go into the conversation with this  mindset , believe me, it’ll work out.

You’ll  speak a foreign language without problems.  It really works. You’ll soon see the benefits. Don’t forget to enjoy the whole language learning process. If it makes fun, you’ll learn more easily and effectively.

Recap For Learning A Language For Travel

So here is a small recap for how to learn a language for travel in 7 basic steps:

• Motivate yourself  – travel and experience in the country where people speak the language are your motivation.
• Pick up a topic  (food, accommodation, transportation, communication at the airport, etc.) to learn new vocabulary &  set up specific and smaller goals .
• Take your  language travel notebook  and  start writing  topic specific vocabulary  down  that you have to learn (any words you can think of within your topic). After,  create sentences using these words  and try to memorize them.
• Start learning the vocabulary  on your own .
• Keep  improving your language skills  and learn how to use the vocabulary in a context .
• Practice speaking  with tutors online
• Never be afraid of speaking  once you travel to that country. Practice with locals what you have learned before traveling.

More Tips On Language Learning

This is my method for how to learn a language for travel. Remember, you  don’t have to become a professional.  You are just learning something from the language because you want to understand, communicate with locals, and enjoy traveling more. In the end, it will help you  get closer to the culture and the community.  You’ll  feel empowered,  and traveling will get much more exciting and fun.

If you find it difficult to stick to the learning and don’t know how to achieve your goals, read my article about how to achieve goals when learning languages . 

Go to my language blog for more inspiration about language learning. Also, check out the  easiest European languages to learn  and why you shouldn’t  learn multiple languages at once .

If you want to learn Italian, check out the best Italian language app for travel and follow my strategy.

I hope these tips will help you pick up a few words and speak the language you want to enjoy your travel adventure. Let me know in the comments below if you have your own strategy to learn a language for traveling or any questions.

Happy language learning for your better travel experience.

How To Learn A Language Traveling?

If you wonder where languages will be useful for you, I also design travel itineraries, which you can take and travel to many countries on your own. These itineraries are mostly road trips, on which you’ll get the chance to practice the languages. Check out my  travel itineraries , learn, and practice your language skills while traveling.

Also, learn what is the  best language to learn to travel Europe.  Choose your perfect language based on the European destination you want to visit.

Check out my article about the benefits of learning foreign language for travel . I’ll give you more inspiration and encouragement to get started.

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Top 4 platforms to practice language with native speakers, this post has 19 comments.

I love your tip on smaller goals! I often struggle to learn languages cause I feel like I need to learn it all ASAP. Having little goals like speaking to the receptionist is so smart!

Thanks Nina, am I glad :). I used to have the same problem, and had the feeling that I had to learn a language so fast… but it never works :D. We have to be clear in what we want to achieve in the language, then it’s much easier.

Thanks for these tips! I do try to learn a few phrases from the local language of the destination where I’m going.

That’s amazing, Ivan. I am so happy that you learn languages for travel. May I ask which languages have you learned? And which of them do you plan to learn in the future? 🙂

okayyy these are really helpful tips! i haven’t practice my spanish in a very long time and this blog made me wan to get back into it – i even downloaded your language travel notebook, so i’ve very excited 🙂 🙂

This is awesome Claire, I am so happy the article has been useful for you. Keep me updated about your progress, and feel free to write me if you have any more questions or feel stuck. I have some great resources you can use to learn Spanish; check them out in my Spanish Language section. Happy learning!

I have great aspirations to learn a new langue or two. But I can’t seem to stick with the lessons and practice. Good to focus on specific topics to start. That would also motivate you to learn more. And great to write down your own personalized vocabulary.

That’s amazing, Linda. I am so happy you want to learn languages. And also completely understand the problem. That’s where the specific topics and goals will really help you and keep you focused. Let me know which language you want to learn next and if you have any questions :).

I love your sensible step-by-step tips to learn a language. I have always been afraid to speak a new language because of making mistakes. As soon as I find the time, I am going to try this out before our next trip.

Awesome, Lorry; I am happy my article inspired you to try speaking a new language again. I see your point, but there is nothing to be afraid of. Really. Locals appreciate it so much if you talk to them in their native language. Nobody cares about the mistakes you make. You will see, just try it. It is only in your head ;). If you want, I have an article about overcoming the fear of speaking in a foreign language that will help you forget this fear. Check it out: https://voicesoftravel.com/speaking-in-a-foreign-language/

This is such an informative post. Many of them struggle to learn languages because every one wants to learn faster.

Thank you, Planet Hopper :). You are completely right.

Awesome tips. This is something I definitely struggle with. I am so jealous of people who just seem to pick up languages so easily, but as you said, I can probably improve by changing my mindset and finding more motivation

I totally understand you, Jacqueline. But believe me, it is really only about the mindset you have and the consistency. If you stick to the language learning, do it regularly, each day for 30min (or even less), it is going to work. You can do it ;).

I am in awe of your article, great and very valuable tips. I am going to use them because I would like to learn Spanish. I know only basis. I think my goals weren’t specific enough so far.

I am glad the article has been helpful for you, Agnes. Let me know once you start learning Spanish and if I can support you in any way. I also have additional resources for you to learn Spanish, so check them out here in the Spanish section .

This is a really helpful guide. I think practicing it with locals makes it all the more worthwhile.

That’s right, when you know you will practice with locals, it motivates you the most :).

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To Travel is To Live: A Comprehensive Guide Through English Vocabulary for Tourism

Teaching English as a foreign language is an international concept peculiar to many countries worldwide. And the good news is that you can use it in any tourist destination, from the United States to Australia or Japan. Knowing at least basic words and phrases is essential to feel confident when communicating with English speakers. Today’s article will accompany you through the most important stops on your trip abroad. So buckle up as we are ready to start our journey!

English for Tourism: General Vocabulary and Phrases

Today, over  13% of the world’s population speaks English. Therefore, numerous phrases and expressions can be useful for locals and tourists. But before diving into more specific vocabulary, let’s learn some general  terms for your travel adventures . Here are some of them:

• Tourist – a person who travels for pleasure.
• Attractions – places of interest visited by tourists, including landmarks, museums, theme parks, etc.
• Guide – someone who provides information and assistance to tourists during their journeys.
• Souvenir – a memento or  keepsake people buy to remember their trip.
• Itinerary – a planned route or schedule for activities .
• Accommodation – a place where people stay overnight, including hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals.
• Landmark – a well-known and easily recognizable feature or monument significant to a specific location. 
• Guidebook – a book that provides information, recommendations, and maps for tourists.
• Transportation – the ways of getting from one place to another, including buses, trains, or taxis.
• Passport – an official government document that identifies a person and allows them to travel. 
• Visa – an endorsement or a stamp in a passport that grants permission for entry into a specific country.
• Currency – the particular type of money used in a country or region. 

These are just a few examples of English tourist vocabulary. However, many more terms and phrases can become useful depending on the context or specific travel destinations. Let’s learn the most common ones by entering every stage of a typical trip abroad. 

Air Travel and Transportation

Every journey starts with choosing the destination. And after finding out where you want to go, you immediately book the tickets and enter your adventures. Then, you arrive at the airport and investigate how to transport to your accommodation. Every step of this journey is accompanied by different words and new English phrases.

• Booking and tickets.

Can I ask you to help me book a ticket from London to Paris, please?

What is the departure time for the next flight to New York?

Can I choose my seat, or is it assigned automatically?

May I see your boarding pass again, please?

• Modes of transportation. 

Is there direct transport from Venice to Florence?

Where is the nearest bus station?

Could you help me, please? I need to call a  taxi .

I’m looking for a car for a week trip. Where can I rent it?

• Public transport. 

Which bus should I take to reach the city center?

What time does the next train to Edinburgh depart?

How much is the fare for a subway ride?

Is this the right subway line for the museum?

Checking in the Hotel

We all want to relax and lay down after a long flight or ride. And the best place to do so when traveling abroad is the hotel. But before entering your room, you need to communicate with the person at the reception desk. After saying “hello,” use some of the following phrases.

• Providing information.

I have a reservation for /the number of nights/ from /the check-in date/ to /the check-out/ date.

I booked a /room type/ for my stay.

I requested a non-smoking room. 

I have a special request.

• Identification and payment.

Here is my passport for identification.

Could you please provide me with the registration form to fill out?

What is the total cost of my stay?

Could I pay with cash/credit card?

• Clarifying policies and services.

What time is the check-in/check-out?

Is breakfast included in my reservation?

What are the hotel’s facilities and services available for guests?

Could someone please help me with my luggage?

Ordering Food and Exploring Restaurants

Finally, when you’ve relaxed a little, it is time to find something to eat. One option is to order food from the hotel’s restaurant. But you can also use your knowledge after years of English learning for foreigners and look for some exciting restaurants. To make the process smoother, memorize some of these phrases.

• Asking for recommendations. 

What can you recommend from the menu?

Could you suggest any popular dishes?

Are there any vegetarian/vegan options available?

Do you have any local or seasonal dishes?

• Placing an order. 

I would like to order the /dish name/, please.

Can I have this /menu item/ with /specific customization/?

May I request /a specific dietary requirement/ for my meal?

Could you bring me a glass of sparkling water, please?

• Special requests or modifications.

Does this dish contain any /specific allergen/?

Could I have the dressing/sauce on the side, please?

Can you make it a little less spicy?

Is it possible to substitute the /ingredient/ with an /alternative ingredient/?

English for International Tourism: Communicating with Locals

When you have covered your basic travel needs, it is time to explore the local attractions and landmarks. And, of course, it would be impossible without communicating with locals, so let’s find out how to do it in different circumstances. The best way is to memorize some of these English for tourist guides phrases.

Asking for Directions and Getting Recommendations

It is usually difficult for tourists to find the destination without asking any questions (unless you are a topographical genius). In that case, local strangers come to the rescue. They can also help you with unique places to visit and other helpful recommendations. But before asking them, remember that English for international tourism person is different than for native speakers. Hence, keep in mind some of these phrases. 

•  Asking for directions.

Excuse me, can you tell me the shortest way to the /destination/?

I’m a bit lost. Could you please help me reach this place?

Which way is the nearest landmark?

I’m trying to find the /street name/. Could you please give me directions?

• Getting recommendations.

I’m looking for a good restaurant nearby. What can you recommend?

What are some popular attractions or places to visit in this area?

Do you know any nice cafés or coffee shops nearby?

Could you suggest a local dish that I must try?

• Seeking specific places or services.

Is there a pharmacy/bank/hospital near here?

Where can I find a grocery store/souvenir shop?

I’m interested in exploring the art scene. Are there any galleries in this area?

Are there any hidden gems or off-the-beaten-path places nearby?

Language for Shopping (and Bargaining)

We can’t speak for you, but one of our favorite things, after teaching English as a foreign language, is visiting local markets and small family shops when traveling abroad. These are the best places to communicate with people, practice speaking, learn more about the culture, and, of course, buy some nice souvenirs. If you like these things as much as we do, don’t forget to learn some of these phrases.

• Inquiring about the products.

Could you tell me more about this item?

What are the features/specifications of this product?

Is this item available in a different size/color?

Is there a warranty/guarantee for this item?

• Asking for the price.

How much does this cost?

What is the price of this item?

Could you give me a discount on this product?

Is there any discount available for this?

• Bargaining and negotiating.

Is there any room for negotiation on the price?

Could you offer a lower price for this item?

I’m interested in buying multiple items. Can we work out a deal?

Would you consider a discount if I purchase this along with /another item/?

Nail English Speaking with Promova

At Promova, we believe that  learning a language  is the key to immersing yourself in the cultures you encounter while traveling. And we are here to empower you with different essential skills that will transform your tourism experience. With all the options available, you can definitely find the perfect solution for yourself.

Our team of professional tutors offers both one-on-one and group lessons tailored to your specific needs. They always ensure that you progress at your own pace while receiving personalized guidance. And the best thing is that we invite you to examine our free trial lesson. You can explore our teaching methods before making your final decision. Another amazing option is our  online language courses that bring the classroom to your screen. 

But we know that learning a language is not just about the lessons – it’s about practicing and engaging with others. That’s why we offer you to join our free  Conversation Club . Thereyou can meet fellow English learners, share experiences, and enhance your speaking skills in a supportive environment. Join Promova today and let your adventures truly come alive with the power of language proficiency.

To sum up, language is the ultimate key that opens doors to rich cultural experiences and amazing travel adventures. Whether you’re going on a solo expedition or joining a group of fellow wanderers, even basic tourism vocabulary can bridge the gaps and improve your communications. We believe this article will help you in your next journey. By the way, what is your favorite travel destination? Tell us in the comments!

Is it necessary to learn English for successful tourism?

While it’s not an absolute requirement, learning English can significantly improve your travel experience. Since it is a common language, it can help you communicate with locals, navigate unfamiliar environments, and access a broader range of services and information. You will easily interact with people from different countries, making your adventures more enjoyable and rewarding.

What are the best resources for studying English tourism vocabulary?

Since most travel words and phrases are very straightforward, you can start by expanding your general vocabulary. You can do it by practicing with professional tutors or reading books. For more specific terms, you can watch TV shows or movies dedicated to the travel topic, like Rick Steven’s Europe or  Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives . 

What should I do if I don’t understand a native speaker?

Language barriers can sometimes pose challenges during your travels. If you can’t understand a native person, relax and don’t panic. Just kindly ask your interlocutor to repeat their line or, maybe, speak slowly. Don’t forget to mention that English is not your mother tongue – most locals will understand your situation and use more simple phrases and words.

Can my English fluency level negatively affect my travel experiences?

Although a lower level of English fluency may present certain challenges, it should not necessarily negatively impact your travel experiences. Traveling is about embracing new cultures, connecting with people, and exploring the world. Even with limited English skills, you can still navigate your way, interact with locals, and enjoy your adventures.

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The importance of speaking English to travel

Índice de contenidos

Index of contents

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Inhaltsverzeichnis

• An influential language
• Essential for education
• Facilitates exchanges
• On the road

1. An influential language

Whether you speak French, German, Spanish, Portuguese or any other language, English is still the most important language and a communication tool , especially for tourism.

As you may already know, English is the language of international business . It is also the most widely spoken language in the world with almost 100 countries where it is used. English is also the only language with more learners (700 million people) than native speakers (300 million people). Today, English has become the most important and widely used language in the world , at all levels. We invite you to read our article The six most spoken languages in international trade . With 80 % of content in English, it is also the most widely used language on the Internet. Using English for advertising allows you to reach a wider international target audience. In addition, Anglicisms are increasingly common in other languages, especially with the expansion of social networks. This once again reinforces the influence of English in the world .

2. Essential for education

Many countries teach English in schools as a second language. English is therefore the most widely taught foreign language worldwide. You can read about it in the article Foreign Language . Nevertheless, it is a language that does not rank among the most difficult to learn or to translate compared to, for example, French, German, Arabic or Chinese. We invite you to read our article on the subject Six essential languages for professionals and entrepreneurs . In order to travel and communicate successfully, knowing some standard phrases and basic terms is sufficient, you do not need to be fluent in English. However, there is a strong presence of English in the cultural industry, such as film and music, so this could be an opportunity for you to learn the language in more detail! You can also combine this with taking a language course , but what will help you most is to go abroad and practice!

3. Facilitates exchanges

Knowing English facilitates exchanges between all populations of the world.  This allows you to come into contact with many people of different nationalities and cultures in order to open up to the outside world . English thus facilitates global travel and tourism in English-speaking countries, but also in other countries that may have English as a 'common' language, meaning a language they all speak at some level but which is not their native language. Not speaking English can be a burden when travelling as it will be more difficult to meet people and you will tend to stay with people who speak the same native language as you. English is also a way of opening up to the outside world between students who go abroad for semesters (ERASMUS) to improve their level: in general, all international students find the same common language which is English.

4. On the road

When you travel, at least 40 % of the population will speak English. Knowing to speak English will give you peace of mind when travelling because it will make communication easier. For example, when you arrive at the airport, if you do not speak the official language of the country you are travelling to, everything will most likely also appear in English . Also, if you go to a restaurant, the menu will most likely be translated into English so ordering food or drinks can be easier for you! All kinds of tourist activities will also be translated, especially in tourist guides. Learning English is like learning a universal language and will help you in many ways. The article The importance of English shows us in what situations English is useful. As we have said, English makes it easier to meet people , but it also makes it easier to find information or even a job abroad. Being able to communicate in English can make it easier to get help in an emergency situation. Before a long stay, we advise you to consider requesting a sworn translation of your important documents such as medical documents from professional translators working in translation companies .

Don't hesitate to call on our translation service for the translation of your important documents before leaving on your trip! And if you are a company, our translation agency is also available to carry out the technical translation of your guides, brochures, restaurant maps, etc. Contact us +44 20 80 89 58 22 or by e-mail.

Other articles you may be interested in:

Emeline holds a Master's degree in Applied Foreign Languages, specialising in International Management and International Trade Techniques. She completed her end-of-studies internship at AbroadLink Translations and now works there as a sales and marketing assistant

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Learn Italian

101 basic italian phrases for travel you need to know for your trip to italy.

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If you’re planning on visiting Italy then it’s a good idea to learn some key Italian phrases, words and sentences. In this guide to basic Italian phrases for travel, we step you through the most useful ways to communicate on your trip to Italy. After all, language is a big part of Italian culture and you want to experience it all, am I right?

Making an effort to understand and speak Italian on your trip is not simply a matter of respect – although we think this is very important too. When you talk to people in their language they appreciate it and experiences open up to you that would not have been possible if you had been speaking English.

Article contents

So let’s get started with the common Italian phrases and words that will be most useful to you on your travels.

Basic Italian phrases

When you visit Italy, these are the most common words and phrases that will demonstrate you have made some effort to speak the local language. Learning these useful Italian words will help you talk to all manner of people during your trip.

Note – We’ve provided a phonetic pronunciation guide after the Italian translation for each word. If you really want to get the accent right a little extra study is recommended. We’ve provided some useful resources at the end of this article to help you learn Italian travel phrases useful for your trip.

Yes – Si – See

No – No – Noh

Please – Per favore – Pehr fah- voh -reh

Thank you – Grazie – Grah -tsee-eh

You’re welcome – Prego – Preh -goh

Cheers! (To your health) – Salute! – Sah -loo-tay

Excuse me (for attention) – Scusi – S kooh – zee

Excuse me (to pass by) – Permesso – Pehr- mehs -soh

Do you speak English? – Parla Inglese? – Parh-la een-glay-zeh

I don’t understand – Non capisco – Non kah -pee-skoh

I’m sorry – Mi dispiace – Mee dees- pyah -cheh

Common greetings in Italian

One thing we really love about visiting Italy is the cultural differences and norms. In Italy, saying “good morning” is not simply a throwaway line. You should always greet people wherever you go – when entering a shop or restaurant, to hotel staff, on the bus or at a cultural sight. It’s the expected thing to do.

A friendly “buon giorno!” with a smile will go a long way. So here are the most common Italian greetings and their context so you get it right! Generally you use the formal with people you don’t know, especially older people. The informal is used between friends.

Good morning (formal) – Buon giorno – Bwohn- johr -noh

Good afternoon (formal) – Buona sera – Bwoh -nah- seh -rah

Good night (formal) – Buona notte – B woh – nah – noh – teh

Hi / Bye (informal) – Ciao! – C how 

Good bye (formal) – Arrivederci – A hr -ree-veh- dehr -chee

My name is … – Mi chiamo – Mee kyah -moh

What is your name? – Come si chiama? – Koh -meh see kyah -mah?

Pleased to meet you – Piacere – Pyah- cheh -reh

How are you? (formal) – Come sta? – Koh -meh stah?

Good thank you – Bene grazie – B eh -neh  grah -tsee-eh

How to say numbers in Italian

While you don’t need to be able to count to 100, a good grasp of numbers up to 12 at least (for the hours of the day) will stand you in good stead. After all, you need numbers when you’re at a restaurant – una pizza per favore! (a pizza please!)

One – Uno – Oo -noh

Two – Due – Doo -eh

Three – Tre – Treh

Four – Quattro – Kwah -troh  

Five – Cinque – Cheen -kweh

Six – Sei  – Say

Seven – Sette – Seht -tey

Eight – Otto – Oh -toh

Nine – Nove – Noh -veh

Ten – Dieci – Dee- EH -chee  

Eleven – Undici – Oon – dee-chee

Twelve – Dodici – Doh -dee-chee

To learn more about counting in Italian click here

Telling the time and days of the week

Here are the basics of telling time in Italian, plus days of the week and other useful sentences for making reservations and plans. Italians generally use a 24 hour clock but also understand the 12 hour clock if you specify morning and afternoon.

In the morning – Di M attina  – Dee mah- teen -ah

In the afternoon – Di p omeriggio – Dee poh-meh- reed -joh

In the evening – Di Sera – Dee se h – rah

Noon – Mezzogiorno – Mehd-dzoh- johr -noh  

At what time? – A che ora? – Ah kay oar-ah?  

Nine o’clock in the morning – Le nove – Le noh-vay

Eight o’clock in the evening – Le otto di sera /  – Le ot-to dee seh-rah 

Monday – Lunedì  – Loo-neh- dee

Tuesday – Martedì – Mahr-teh- dee  

Wednesday – Mercoledì – Mehr-koh-leh- dee

Thursday – Giovedì – Joh-veh- dee

Friday – Venerdì – Veh-nehr- dee  

Saturday – Sabato – Sah -bah-toh

Sunday – Domenica – Doh- meh -nee-kah

Today – Oggi – Ohd -jee

Yesterday – Ieri – Yeh -ree

Tomorrow – Domani – Doh- mah -nee

Want to speak more Italian?

Check out our review of Rocket Italian , one of the best online courses for learning Italian.

Useful phrases at restaurants

No doubt your Italy trip includes a plan to enjoy a few meals at restaurants. And we’re sure ordering a gelato or two is also high on your list. Let’s get you ready with these essential Italian phrases you need for ordering food or at restaurants. These may be the times that you interact with Italians the most so practice your greetings too!

Can I see the menu please? – Il menu, per favore – Eel men-oo, pehr fah- voh -reh

What do you recommend? – Che cosa ci consiglia? – Kay koh-za chee kon-seel-ya?

I’m allergic to… – Sono allergica/o a.. . – Son -oh ah -ler-gee-koh / kah ah

Gluten / Dairy / Fish – Glutine / Lattecini / Pesce  – Gloo-teen-ay /  Lah-tay-cheen-ee / Pesh-ay  

House wine – Vino della casa – Vee -noh del-lah car-sah

Red / white wine – Vino rosso / bianco – Vee – n oh ross-oh /  bee-ahn-koh

A glass / bottle – Una bicchiere / una bottiglia – OO -nah beek- kyeh -reh / boht- tee -lyah

Appetizer – Antipasto  – Ahn -tee-pah-stoh

First course – Primo – Pree -moh

Second course – Secondo – Sek -kon-doh

Dessert – Dolci – Doll -chee

Two flavors please – Due gusti, per favore  – Doo -eh goo-stee, pehr fah- voh -reh

Where’s the bathroom? – Dov’è il bagno?  – Doh- veh eel bahn -yoh?

The check (bill) please – Il conto, per favore – Eel kon-toh, pehr fah- voh -reh

Can I pay by card? – Posso pagare con la carta? – Pohs -soh pah- gah -reh kon la cahr-tah?

Words to know when you are visiting museums

Visiting museums and attractions is a big part of many Italian itineraries. In this section, we’ve given you some useful phrases in Italian to help you buy tickets and ask common questions.

When does it open / close? – Quando si apri / chiude?  – Kwahn -doh see ah-pree / chee-oo-deh?

Two adults / one child – Due adulti / un bambino  – Doo -eh ah-dool-tee / oon  bahm-bee-noh

One / two ticket/s – Un / due biglietto/i  – Oon  beel-yet-toh / tee

One senior – Un pensionato  – Oon pen-seyoh-nah-toh

One student – Uno studente – Ooh -noh stoo-den-teh

Where is the bag store / cloak room? – Dov’è la guardaroba? – Doh-veh lah gard-ah-robe-ah?

Asking for directions in Italian

If you get lost or need help with directions, these helpful words in Italian will come in handy.

Where is… ? – Dov’è…? – Doh-veh … ?

Entrance – Entrata  – En -trah-tah

Exit – Uscita  – Ooh -shee-tah

Left – Sinistra  – See – nee-stra

Right – Destra – Deh -stra

Straight ahead – Dritto – Dree-toh

Forward – Avanti  – Ah -vahn-tee

Back – Dietro – Dee-et-roh

Useful words for transport and getting around

Most visitors to Italy will need to take a train or bus, or ride in a taxi. These phrases will be useful in these situations when it is likely you may need to ask for help to reach the right platform or bus stop.

Where is the train station? – Dov’è la stazione? – Doh-veh lah stah-tzee-oh-neh?

Where is the bus stop? – Dov’è la fermata – Doh-veh lah fur-mah-tah?

One way – Andata  – Ahn – dah-tah

Return – Ritorno – Ree -torn-oh

What platform for Rome? – Da quale binario per Roma? – Dah kwah-lay bin-ah-rio pehr Roh-mah?

Newstand (for bus tickets) – Tabacchi  – Tah-back-kee

Shopping words in Italian

Time to go shopping! Make sure you’re ready with these key phrases.

I would like… – Vorrei…  – Vor-ray…

How much is this? – Quanto costa questo?   –   Kwahn -toh kohs -tah kwehs -toh??

OK I’ll take it – Va bene, lo prendo – V ah beh -neh , loh prehn- doh 

I don’t want it – Non lo voglio – N ohn loh voh- lyoh

Can you ship to…? – Puoi spedire a?   –   Pwoy   sped -ear-eh ah?

What to say if you need help in Italian

We hope you never need to use these phrases but it’s a good idea to know them “just in case”.

Help! – Aiuto! – Ay-oo-toh!

I need a doctor – Ho bisogno di un dottore   – Ho biz-ohn-nyo dee oon dot-tor-reh

Call the police – Chiami la polizia  – Kee-ya-mee la po-lee-zee-ah

Look out! – Attento!  – At – ten-toh

Go away! – Vai via! – Vy vee-ah!

Want to get beyond basic Italian phrases for travel?

These days there are a wealth of resources to help you learn Italian. You can use handy apps, books and podcasts to get started and we outlined some of the best of these in this article .

But, if you want to construct your own basic Italian sentences and perfect your accent, a systematic approach with a proven method will help you make progress quickly. After much trial and error, we enjoy using Rocket Italian . This online course combines verbal cultural situation lessons with grammar and vocabulary to get you speaking Italian quickly. My accent also improved significantly thanks to the voice recognition tasks.

Another option for travelers wanting a quick start to learning Italian for their trip is the fast track method developed by our friends at Intrepid Italian. Designed to get you speaking the key phrases you need for your trip, this short course aims to get you speaking travel ready Italian in 2 weeks > more info .

Planning a trip to Italy?

We love travel in Italy and sharing our knowledge. Read our Italy trip planning guide or join our FREE Italy travel planning community . Our 115,000+ members are happy to answer questions about your itinerary, how to get from place to place, the best places to stay and fun things to do.

Sign up for our news and podcast updates where we share mini guides, tips, exclusive deals and more and we'll send you our Italy Trip Planning Checklist to say grazie ! >> click here to subscribe

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The 10 Most Common Languages Spoken in Iceland

Posted: March 14, 2024 | Last updated: March 14, 2024

Have you been thinking about visiting Iceland recently? If so, you might be wondering what languages are spoken there so you can begin to prepare how you'll navigate. Although a majority of the population primarily speaks in their mother tongue, Icelandic, there are quite a few languages spoken by small groups within this country. Let's explore the top ten most common languages in the country of Iceland and see what percentage of the population can speak them.

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1. Icelandic

To absolutely no one's surprise, Icelandic is the most widely spoken language in the country of Iceland. Nearly every resident of this country is fluent. According to Visit Reykjavik , "Icelandic has been spoken in Iceland since the country was settled in the 9th century and has changed little since then. It is mostly the language that the Nordic people spoke in the Middle Ages throughout the Nordic countries as well as within certain regions of England, Ireland, Scotland, along with the Shetland Islands, the Orkney Islands and the Hebrides, some parts of France and Russia and even as far south as Constantinople. "

Only second to Icelandic itself is the English language. English is considered the second language in many European countries such as Sweden, Germany, and Switzerland. Roughly 98% of the population in Iceland is fluent in this language, so tourists coming from English-speaking countries need not worry. It is widely available in a variety of places, such as bus stations, restaurants, and tourist attractions.

Polish is another popular language in Iceland . However, compared to Icelandic and English, individuals who speak Polish encompass much less of the population. In total, roughly ten to twenty thousand people living in Iceland speak this language. This makes Polish individuals the largest immigrant group in the country. This is likely due to the fact that Polish people living in Iceland are not required to have a work visa. According to the University of Iceland , "Citizens of EU/EEA member states do not need permits but non-EU/EEA citizens do."

4. Lithuanian

Lithuania is another country that is included in the EU/EEA. Many people who hail from this country find themselves in Iceland for work, and because of this, the number of people who speak Lithuanian in Iceland has been steadily increasing. Currently, about .43% of the people living in Iceland are originally from Lithuania, and about 4,000 individuals speak this language regularly. They are currently the third largest ethnic group within this country, behind native Icelandic people and Polish people.

When it comes to tourists in Iceland, Germans are one of the largest groups. It's roughly a four-hour flight between these two countries, and rates can be very cheap. In fact, many German people have fallen so in love with this country during their visits that many have decided to become permanent residents. Icelanders have adapted to this influx of German tourists, and now .31% of the population speaks German.

The amount of people who speak Danish in Iceland is very similar to the amount of people who speak German, although slightly less. About 1,100 people living in Iceland use Danish to communicate on a daily basis. In some places, Danish is taught as a second language in Icelandic schools, although this has fallen out of popularity throughout the years.

7. Portuguese

In the present day, about 1,500 Portuguese people are living in the country of Iceland. Compared to other groups living within this country, this is relatively small. Despite this, Portuguese is one of the top 10 languages within this country and about .28% of inhabitants are fluent.

8. Filipino

Filipino people make up the largest group of individuals of Asian descent in Iceland. About 2,000 people speak Filipino each day, and half of these people are naturalized citizens. According to a paper authored by Unnur Dís Skaptadóttir, "Work and family reunification are the main reasons for the migration of Filipinos to Iceland."

Although Thai is spoken throughout Iceland, it is only spoken by a small fraction of the population. Roughly .17%, of the people living in Iceland use Thai to communicate each day. This is less than 1,000 individuals.

10. Latvian

Latvia and Iceland have had a good relationship for decades now. In fact, Iceland was the first country to recognize Latvia's independence back in the early 1990s. Today, only .14% of the population in Iceland speaks Latvian, which comes out to only a few hundred people.

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Philosophers and theologians don’t speak the same language, but they have more in common than we think

Rite & reason: while philosophy can generate wisdom, religion is needed to put flesh on the bones of philosophy.

The northern lights rise in the night sky in Iceland on March 9th. For centuries, Christians believed heaven was located beyond the visible skies. Photograph: Sigga Ella/New York Times

For centuries, Christians believed that heaven was located in a place beyond the visible skies. This concept is embedded not only in church liturgy, but in art, music and language. Heaven was a city, the New Jerusalem, inhabited by choirs of angels and the souls of the just, with God presiding not only as a father but as a king.

The idealised heaven was formulated in the early days of Christianity in the context of Greco-Roman cosmology of the time. Aristotle had posited that in a spherical, earth-centred, and finite cosmos the earth was surrounded by a layer of air (later called “atmosphere” from the Greek word meaning ‘’vapour”). This in turn was surmounted by a circle of fixed stars. Above that was the highest heaven, the empyrean, a sphere of fire. Plato held that the soul ascended to the sky after death. These theories, the science of the day, accommodated Christian beliefs.

Throughout the early Middle Ages, theologians developed the theory that heaven was located in the empyrean. Basil, the fourth-century bishop of Caesarea, applied this theory to his interpretation of the Genesis narrative. When Copernicus in the 16th century developed a heliocentric astronomical model, the earth was displaced from its pre-eminent position at the centre of the cosmos.

Some 50 years after Copernicus, Galileo’s pioneering work made telescopic observation of space possible. This revealed that the stars, instead of forming a fixed cordon sanitaire around the empyrean, were actually scattered around space.

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Theology, however, failed to keep pace with these extraordinary discoveries and a widening rift between religion and science emerged. Yet, even in the ages before these discoveries, an alternative concept of heaven existed: that heaven was in no one place but everywhere.

The anonymous early 14th-century author of The Cloud of Unknowing declared that heaven is a state, not a place. The concept of the great chain of being in medieval cultus linked God with all created things – plants and animals as well as humans. Francis of Assisi exemplified this strain of spirituality, which identified God with the natural world rather than with the outer regions of the universe.

The essential nature of heaven, whether referred to in the prayers of medieval mystics or used metaphorically in a secular, contemporary context, is that it is a state of happiness and that it lasts forever.

The element of eternity raises the question of the nature of time – whether it is embedded in reality or is a human construct. Philosophers and physicists have wrestled with this problem for centuries. Einstein in the theory of general relativity proposed that time is a fourth dimension of space. The philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein had this to say in his Tractatus: “Only a man who lives not in time but in the present is happy ... if by eternity is understood not infinite temporal duration but non-temporality, then it can be said that a man lives eternally if he lives in the present. Our life has no end in the way in which our visual field has no limits.”

[  Resurrection of Jesus was a cosmic event. It remains an irresistible force  ]

His contemporary, Martin Heidegger, proposed radical ideas on the subject in Being and Time (1927): “Time is not just a succession of moments but the simultaneous experience of past, present and future. In the context of temporality, human beings relate to being itself. Being is the ultimate source of everything in the universe, including human beings. Each human being is in the world in a specific place and at a specific time but always in the web of the great process of Being. Authentic living is to connect with this reality.”

The philosophy of Heidegger and related thinkers reversed the trend of Cartesian theory which had held sway in the western world since the 17th century. René Descartes’ famous dictum “I think, therefore I am” was posited on the separation of mind and body. Heidegger and others spoke for the interconnectedness of all things, including mind and body.

While philosophers do not use theological language, the concept of “being” could conceivably act as synonym for God. One could argue that while philosophy can generate wisdom, religion is needed to put flesh on the bones of philosophy.

For Heidegger, the authentic state of being ends in death, but Christianity envisages an afterlife. There is a certain synchronicity in the experience of a Christian mystic such as Teresa of Avila and that of a person being “in-the-world” in the Heideggerian sense. For both, it is the experience that heaven is here and heaven is now.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.

Dr Carmel Heaney is retired from the Department of Foreign Affairs and a freelance writer

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5 Popular Language Learning Sites to Help Expand Your Skills From Home

Take advantage of these online courses to pick up a new language before you head out on your travels

By Rylee Johnston

Rylee Johnston

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Trending on billboard, what are the best online learning sites.

Instead of leaving you to do the research yourself, Billboard Shopping has rounded up some of the most popular online language learning sites to help you find the right platform for you or to gift your loved one.

Keep reading to discover the best language learning sites below.

Rosetta Stone

Rosetta Stone is one of the most-popular online language sites, thanks to its easy-to-follow format and long list of languages. Once you sign up, you’ll be given a personalized learning plan that you can follow on your laptop, tablet or complete lessons straight from your smartphone. Live-streamed classes are offered or you can download lessons and audioguides to take with you on the go.

Unlike Rosetta Stone, which only offers language courses online, Udemy offers a variety of online classes, including languages, photography, business skills and even health and wellness. Whereas Rosetta Stone gets you lifetime access to all the classes on its site, Udemy lets you choose individual classes to take. When you sign up, each course comes with on-demand videos and practice tests to assess your skills. Most courses come with downloadable articles and a certificate of completion when you finish — and you can do it all on a smartphone or a computer.

For a more customizable experience, Udemy is offering a new-learner offer that’ll get you classes for as low as $14.99/month. The platform also offers a seven day free trial, so you can access more than 11,000 classes, certification prep, goal-focused recommendations and AI-powered coding exercises. You can choose from a personal plan or if you’re looking to share it with your entire workforce, there’s an enterprise option.

Similar to Udemy, Coursera provides a range of online courses including languages like Korean and French. Each course will come with a set amount of lessons with an estimated amount of time it will take to complete. The lessons also list out how many videos you’ll be required to watch, if there are any readings and the total amount of quizzes. If you’re in a time crunch, each lesson also tells you how much time it’ll take to get through. If you’re traveling you can do most of the work through your smartphone or you can use a laptop.

Preply offers a more interactive experience no matter if you want to learn Arabic or Japanese. When you sign up, you will be able to find a tutor who you’ll connect with for up to 50 minutes virtually. From there, you’ll get to know one another and create a customized learning plan based on your goals. Then, you get to decide how many lessons you want to have a week or month, and you’ll be charged on a 28-day cycle. You can do it all through a computer, tablet or smartphone.

More than 30,000 real-life tutors are available with lessons starting as low as $5 per session. You can choose how many lessons you want to do and read reviews based on other learners to discover the best tutor for you.

Babbel looks to teach you language skills you can apply to your life right away. Using a focus on speaking and pronunciation, you’ll be able participate in live online courses with real instructors or use the online app to play language games, listen to podcasts and more using your smartphone. When you first sign up, you’ll be able to create your own personalized language learning routine based on your schedule all through the app.

Choose from a one, three, six or 12 month subscription or you can pay a one-time payment for a lifetime subscription.

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Japanese Phrases for Tourists: 116 Essential Phrases for Your Japanese Vacation

Before I traveled to Japan for the first time, everyone assured me that “Everybody speaks English there,” and I wouldn’t need to use Japanese at all.

But in reality, most of the people I encountered in Japan had a fairly elementary level of spoken English .

For a better travel experience, you should learn some basic travel words and phrases in Japanese.

Greetings and Basic Japanese Phrases

Airport phrases you’ll hear, airport phrases you’ll use, asking for directions, receiving directions, transportation phrases, hotel phrases, eating and drinking in japan: what you’ll hear, eating and drinking in japan: what you’ll say, shopping in japan: phrases you’ll hear, shopping phrases you’ll use, number of items in japanese, tips to use your new phrases: politeness and pronunciation, how to study these japanese travel phrases.

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

I’ll provide the hiragana, kanji and romaji for each word, and will explain the use of certain Japanese phrases for tourists in context.

1. Hello — konnichiwa

2. good morning — ohayou gozaimasu, 3. nice to meet you — hajimemashite, 4. goodbye — sayounara, 5. please — onegaishimasu, 6. thank yo u — arigatou gozaimasu, 7. you’re welcome — dou itashimashite, 8. excuse me/sorry — sumimasen.

This is definitely one to memorize. I say すみません at least 30 times a day in Japan. It’s a magical word.

It helps you push through a crowd, get attention from a waiter, ask for directions or be excused for basically any touristy blunder.

Simply saying すみません and gesturing is a pretty good way to express that you need help, but don’t speak Japanese.

9. Yes — hai

10. no — iie, 11. let’s eat/ “bon appetit” — itadakimasu .

Similar to the French “ bon appetit” , this is what Japanese people say before they eat. It doesn’t have a literal translation in English, but it’s a way to give thanks for a meal .

You should also remember this phrase’s pair: ごちそうさま (gochisousama) or ごちそうさまでした (gochisousama deshita). These phrases are used at the end of a meal and translate as “What a good meal,” or “Thank you for the meal,” the latter being the more polite form.

12. I don’t understand — wakarimasen 

13. i don’t speak japanese —   nihongo o hanashimasen, 14. do you speak english — eigo o hanashimasu ka , 15. can you please repeat that — mou ichido itte kudasai, 16. can you please speak slowly — yukkuri hanashite kudasai, 17. what is your name — onamae wa nan desu ka, 18. my name is… — watashi no namae wa…, 19. what is this — kore wa nan desu ka.

これ and それ literally just mean “this” and “that.”

20. How much does this cost? — kore wa ikura desu ka? 

If you’re pointing at something that you can’t reach, you say それは いくらですか？

21. Can you please help me? — tasukete moraemasuka ?

Japanese airports aren’t just places to land: they’re an entire cultural showcase on their own. For example, at the Narita Airport , you’ll see pet hotels , gacha machines , the (in)famous smart toilets and even a Pokémon Store !

22. Welcome, please come in — yokoso, o-hairi kudasai

23. please show your ticket — chiketto o misete kudasai, 24. please show your passport — pasupooto o misete kudasai, 25. what is your reservation name — yoyaku-mei wa nan desu ka, 26. the flight is delayed — furaito chien shiteimasu, 27. the flight has been canceled — furaito kyanseru saremashita, 28. baggage claim is this way — baggeji kureimu wa kochira desu, 29. we have arrived at … airport — … kuko ni tochaku shimashita, 30. we will depart for … airport — … kuko e shuppatsu shimasu, 31. there is a delay in the flight — furaito ni okure ga arimasu, 32. there are restrictions on carry-on baggage — kinai mochikomi no nimotsu niwa seigen ga arimasu.

33. Please tell me how to get to the airport — kuko e no ikikata o oshiete kudasai

34. is this a departure flight — korewa shuppatsu-bin desu ka, 35. is this an arrival flight — korewa tochaku-bin desu ka, 36. where is the boarding gate — tojyo-guchi wa doko desu ka, 37. i’ll check my baggage — tenimotsu azukemasu, 38. please call a taxi — takushii o yonde kudasai, 39. i’d like to rent a car — rentakaa o karitai desu, 40. where is the gate for the connecting flight — noritsugi-bin no geeto wa doko desu ka.

Asking for directions is sort of daunting, especially when the person answers in a whole stream of fast-paced Japanese.

But you’ll find that Japan is one of the best places to be a lost and hopeless tourist. There’s always someone nearby who’s more than happy to help. I’ve even had people take time out of their days to walk me where I needed to go!

Simply say wherever it is that you want to go followed by どこですか？ — doko desu ka? (Where is …?).

41. I want to go… (here) — (koko) ni ikitai desu 

Say ここ if you have an address written down or a point marked on a map of where you want to go.

If you know the name or address of the place where you want to go, simply say the place name followed by に行きたいです . For example, if you want to go to Shinjuku station, you simply say 新宿駅に行きたいです   — Shinjuku eki ni ikitai desu . (I want to go to Shinjuku station.)

42. Where is the…? — …wa doko desu ka?

43. can you please show me where we are on the map — watashitachi ga doko ni iru no ka, chizu de oshiete kudasai.

This might seem like an odd question (and a bit of a mouthful), but it can be a lot more helpful than asking for directions from someone who doesn’t know English.

44. Is it near? — chikai desu ka?

45. is it far — tooi desu ka.

46. Go straight ahead — massugu itte kudasai 

47. turn left — hidari ni magatte kudasai, 48. turn right — migi ni magatte kudasai.

In Japan, public transportation is how most people get around. If you’re not used to taking the bus, train or anything similar, better keep the following phrases handy!

49. Take me to this address, please — kono jyusho made tsureteitte kudasai

50. what is the fare — ryoukin wa ikura desu ka, 51. stop here, please — koko de tomatte kudasai, 52. does this bus go to (street name) — kono basu wa … ni ikimasu ka, 53. does that train stop at … — sono denshya wa … de tomarimasu ka, 54. a map, please — chizu o onegai shimasu, 55. this hotel — k ono hoteru, 56. the subway — chikatetsu , 57. the train station — denshya no eki, 58. the bus stop  — basutei, 59. the taxi stand — takushii noriba, 60. the exit — deguchi, 61. the entrance — iriguchi, 62. the bathroom — toire.

Like other service-oriented businesses in the country, Japanese hotels subscribe to the concept of omotenashi , which roughly translates to pouring your whole heart into service. That means you can expect employees at Japanese hotels to go above and beyond when it comes to making you feel welcome.

63. I have a reservation under the name of … — … no yoyaku o shiteimasu

64. i would like to check-in — chekkuin shitai desu, 65. what time is check-in — chekkuin wa nanji desu ka, 66. is breakfast included — choshoku wa fukumareteimasu ka, 67. where is my room — watashi no heya wa doko desu ka, 68. please give me a wake-up call at …  — … ni weikuappu kooru onegaishimasu., 69. where is the nearest convenience store — ichiban chikai konbini wa doko desu ka, 70. can you recommend a good restaurant nearby — chikaku no oishii resutoran o shokaishite moraemasu  ka, 71. what time is check-out — chekkuauto no jikan wa nanji desu ka, 72. where can i store my luggage — nimotsu wa dokoni azukeraremasu ka, 73. is there wi-fi in the hotel — hoteru ni wa wai-fai ga arimasu ka, 74. where is the nearest atm — ichi-ban chikai atm wa doko desu ka, 75. i’d like to have some extra towels, please — yobun no taoru o kudasai., 76. what time is breakfast served — choshoku wa nanji kara desu ka, 77. excuse me, i need an iron and ironing board — sumimasen, airon to iron-dai ga hitsuyo desu..

Like Japanese hotels, Japanese restaurants also practice omotenashi. Here are some of the more common phrases you’ll hear from Japanese restaurant staff.

78. Welcome — Irasshaimase

79. how many people in your party — nan mei sama desu ka, 80. this way, please — kochira e douzo, 81. certainly (in response to your order) — kashikomarimashita, 82. thank you for waiting — omatase itashimashita.

The best restaurants in Japan are the authentic ones that don’t cater to tourists. But these are also the places that have no English menus, and sometimes no English-speaking waitstaff.

Luckily, it’s very common for Japanese menus to feature photos of all the dishes. And many places have models of their dishes on display, so you likely won’t be going in completely blind.

Use these phrases , and you should be in and out of a restaurant without too many hiccups.

83. A table for two, please —  futari you no teeburu o onegai shimasu

You can also replace futari with the number of people who you need to have seated:

• one — hitori ( 一人 )
• three — sannin ( 三人 )
• four — yonin ( 四人 )

If you’re confused about Japanese numbers and counters, don’t despair. You can just do as the locals do and indicate the number of diners by holding up your fingers.

84. The menu, please — menyu o onegai shimasu

85. what are today’s recommendations — kyo no osusume wa.

If everything on the menu looks appetizing and you’re not quite sure what to order, use this phrase.

86. Water, please — mizu o onegai shimasu

87. two beers, please — biiru o nihai onegai shimasu, 88. can i please have (one, two) of this — kore o (hitotsu, futatsu) onegai でdekimasu, 89. do you have a vegetarian dish — bejitarian youno ryouri ga arimasu ka.

I’ve traveled in Japan with vegetarians twice, and this question usually draws quite strange looks. Vegetarianism basically doesn’t exist in Japan, although Japanese cuisine is generally quite vegetarian-friendly.

It might work better to say これは肉ですか？ — kore wa niku desu ka? , to say “is this meat?” Follow up with 私は肉を食べません — watashi wa niku o tabemasen,  which means “I don’t eat meat,” if you want to make yourself understood.

90. Is … in it? — … wa haitte imasu ka?

Alternatively, you can also ask if specific ingredients are included in your food, so you’ll know whether you should order it or not.

91. That’s okay — daijyoubu desu

You can also use this expression to ask someone if they’re okay. Just add the question particle  ka to the end: 大丈夫ですか ？ — daijyoubu desu ka? 

92. The check, please — okanjyou o onegai shimasu 

Say the above, or you can do as the locals do and catch the waiter’s eye (with a smile!) and draw a clockwise circle in the air with your index finger pointing towards the roof.

In some restaurants, you need to bring the check to the cash register which is usually located by the restaurant’s doorway.

93. Cheers! — kanpai!

94. it was delicious — oishikatta desu, 95. water — mizu, 96. wine — wain, 97. beer — biiru , 98. tea — ochya, 99. coffee — coohii, 100. juice — juusu, 101. meat — niku, 102. chicken — toriniku , 103. pork — butaniku, 104. beef  — gyuniku , 105. fish — sakana , 106. rice — gohan, 107. bread — pan , 108. vegetables — yasai  , 109. fruit — kudamono.

When you’re met with cries of いらっしゃいませ！, you’re not really expected to respond to this greeting. As for me, I just smile and say こんにちは which means, of course, “hello.”

Walking into a department store is particularly surreal, with each assistant taking cues from the others, so that every time a customer walks in, いらっしゃいませ bounces around the entire floor.

110. Are you looking for something? — nani ka osagashi desu ka?

111. is that all — ijyou de yoroshii desu ka, 112. here it is / here you go — hai, douzo.

113. I would like this — kore o onegai shimasu

114. i would like one of those — sore o hitotsu onegai shimasu, 115. i would like to pay in cash  — genkin de onegai shimasu, 116. i would like to pay by credit card — kurejitto kaado de onegai shimasu.

The only real challenge with ordering meals in Japanese is the use of counters.

We have counters in English, too (for example “sheets” of paper, “glasses” of water, “blades” of grass), but not as many or as complicated as in Japanese.

Luckily Japanese has a “universal” counter, つ ( tsu ), which you can use for anything, including food.

The numbers one to four as つ counters are pronounced 一つ ( hitotsu )、 二つ ( futatsu )、 三つ ( mittsu ) and 四つ ( yottsu ). You can use this counter for drinks too, and the waiter will understand you.

However, if you want to be a little more impressive, you can use the drinks counter: 杯 ( hai/bai/pai depending on the number used with it). The numbers one to four using this counter are 一杯 ( ippai )、 二杯 ( nihai ) 、 三杯 ( sanbai ) and 四杯 ( yonhai ).

If you want to learn more about counters, this post explains them  in more detail.

All the examples I’ve given are in the polite, neutral form of speech . You basically can’t go wrong speaking this way in Japan, so you don’t need to worry about making any social faux pas!

Some notes on pronunciation:

• Avoid turning vowels into dipthongs (vowel sounds that run into each other, like the oi in “coin”). Pronounce each vowel on its own even when there are two vowels next to each other. Onegai is read as “o-ne-ga-i,” not “o-ne-gai”
• The sound  ou and repeated vowels like ii and  ee are exceptions: they show an elongation of the sound.  Ohayou is read as “o-ha-yoh,” not “o-ha-yo-u.”
• Treat ん (n)  as its own syllable.   Konnichiwa is read “ko-n-ni-chi-wa,” not “ko-ni-chi-wa.” It’s subtle, but it makes a difference!
• Repeated consonants are pronounced. For an example of how to do this, just read the word “bookkeeper” out loud.
• The small kana っ like in いって signify a break between the sounds —”it-te,” not “i-te.”
• Small y- kana like ゃ in おちゃ add the  y sound to the preceding syllable —”o-chya,” not “o-chi-a.”
• は (ha)  as a particle is pronounced wa,  and を (wo)  as a particle is pronounced  o.

The beauty of Japanese is that it’s an extremely phonetic language, so if you say the words exactly as you read them, you can’t really get them wrong.

Having said that, people will probably struggle to understand you if you speak in a strong non-Japanese accent, so it might pay to listen to some spoken Japanese before you start practicing pronunciation.

The most important thing to remember is that, unlike English speakers, Japanese speakers don’t put emphasis on the second or third syllable of a word—there’s some emphasis on the first syllable, but it’s subtle.

Some ways that you can listen to Japanese being spoken is by watching Japanese films , television programs , anime or YouTube clips .

The Japanese language program FluentU has a little bit of everything in the media, with interactive subtitles and customizable flashcards for a well-rounded learning experience.

Maybe this seems like a lot, but learning Japanese travel phrases for tourists will make your trip run more smoothly, and the people you meet will appreciate your effort.

Speaking the local language tends to get people on your side. They’re less likely to try to rip you off, and often will want to become your best friend.

I like to make little phrasebooks for myself when I travel, so I can have these Japanese travel phrases and vocabulary always on hand.

I’ve been treated to tea and dinner in people’s homes, and once was driven around a city with a personal guide/impromptu friend all day, just because I struck up conversations in the local language.

Don’t be scared! Give it a try!

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Endangered Greek dialect is ‘living bridge’ to ancient world, researchers say

Romeyka descended from ancient Greek but may die out as it has no written form and is spoken by only a few thousand people

An endangered form of Greek that is spoken by only a few thousand people in remote mountain villages of northern Turkey has been described as a “living bridge” to the ancient world, after researchers identified characteristics that have more in common with the language of Homer than with modern Greek.

The precise number of speakers of Romeyka is hard to quantify. It has no written form, but has survived orally in the mountain villages around Trabzon, near the Black Sea coast.

With its remaining speakers ageing, the dialect is now threatened with extinction, leading a University of Cambridge academic to launch a “last chance” crowdsourcing tool to record its unique linguistic structures before it is too late.

The Crowdsourcing Romeyka project invites native speakers across the world to upload a recording of themselves talking in the language. Ioanna Sitaridou, a professor of Spanish and historical linguistics, said she anticipated that many were likely to be in the US and Australia, as well as spread across Europe.

“There is a very significant diaspora which is separated by religion and national identity [from the communities in Turkey], but still shares so much,” she said.

Sitaridou has established that rather than having developed from modern Greek, Romeyka descended from the Hellenistic form of the language spoken in the centuries before Christ, and shares some key features with ancient Greek.

An example is the infinitive form of the verb, which in Romeyka still uses the form found in Ancient Greek. So while speakers of Modern Greek would say “I want that I go”, Romeyka preserves the ancient form “I want to go”. This structure had become obsolete in all other Greek varieties by early medieval times.

As a result, Sitaridou has concluded that “Romeyka is a sister, rather than a daughter, of modern Greek”, a finding she says disrupts the claim that modern Greek is an “isolate” language, meaning it is unrelated to any other European language.

Modern Greek and Romeyka are not mutually intelligible, says the academic; she suggests that an apt comparison would be speakers of Portuguese and Italian, both of which derive from Vulgar Latin rather than from each other.

Though the history of the Greek presence in the Black Sea is not always easy to disentangle from legend, the Greek language expanded with the spread of Christianity. “Conversion to Islam across Asia Minor was usually accompanied by a linguistic shift to Turkish, but communities in the valleys retained Romeyka,” Sitaridou said.

In contrast, Greek-speaking communities who remained Christian grew closer to modern Greek, especially because of extensive schooling in Greek in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The 1923 treaty of Lausanne saw Turkey and Greece exchange their Christian and Muslim populations, but because the Romeyka-speaking communities in the Trabzon region are Muslim, they remained in their homeland.

As a result of extensive contact with Turkish, cultural stigma and migration, however, the language is now endangered, according to Sitaridou. A high proportion of native speakers in the region are over 65, and fewer young people learn the language.

Does she think the online initiative could help save Romeyka as a living language? “Obviously I love all languages and I would like to see them preserved,” she said. “But I’m not one of these people who think languages have to be preserved at all costs. And at the end of the day, it’s not exactly down to me. If the speakers decide to pass it on, great. If the speakers choose not to pass it on, it’s their choice.

“What is very important for these [minority] languages and for these speech communities is to keep for themselves a sense of belonging and who they are. Because it connects them to their past, whatever way you see your past.

“When speakers can speak their home languages they feel seen and thus they feel more connected to the rest of society. On the other hand, not speaking the heritage or minority languages creates some form of trauma which … undermines integration.”

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