11 Best Ways to Travel Anywhere Without Knowing the Language
Traveling is gratifying, but not knowing the local language can be a barrier for some people. Usually, you can find locals who speak English well enough to explain how to get somewhere. But, if you are wondering how to travel without knowing the local language, here are a few tips.
1. Check Your Documentation
When traveling abroad, you need to prepare some documentation ahead of time. Make sure that everything is in order before you start your journey. Check plane or train tickets, verify the dates and times, take your car to a mechanic's for a general check-up, ask about insurance and visa requirements for traveling abroad, and see if you need to renew your passport. If you realize that you need a new one too late, you can ask to expedite your passport.
2. Rent a Car Online
Luckily for you, most car rental companies have websites in several languages. This makes renting a car and traveling without knowing the local language easier. It also gives you freedom upon arrival, as there is one thing less to do.
When traveling abroad without knowing the local language, it's essential to cover as many travel aspects as possible. One of the main aspects is your car insurance - you don't want to be stuck in the middle of nowhere without any help. If you carry a credit card that already provides rental car insurance - that's great. However, it's recommended to check the conditions to ensure that you get the right help in real-time. If not - it's time to talk to an online agent and purchase the right insurance for your needs before you start driving.
3. Plan Ahead
If you are going sightseeing, it is worth noting that you can purchase tickets and make reservations online upfront. That way, you avoid the language barrier and can plan your visit to a foreign country conveniently.
It is also a great idea to google the places to eat when traveling in a foreign country. This also allows you to try a few local recipes and learn the names of your dishes before the trip. You even plan meals for a balanced diet during your vacation.
4. Learn the Basics
You can always learn the basics, like "hello, "goodbye, "and "thank you. " They are helpful and will show locals your appreciation of their culture. This may open a door for you if they are close-guarded and need a little encouragement to talk to you. It also creates an excellent first impression, even if you say it wrong. Learning French is a perfect place to start, where the basics will go a long way.
5. Travel to Places that Speak Your Language
When you speak several languages, you are at an advantage. While English is usually commonly spoken, it isn't always the case. In African countries, French is most often the second official language. Also, others speak foreign languages so that you may find one in common.
6. Download a Translating App
Translation apps like Google translate can help you in cases of emergency. While these apps don't have a 100% accuracy rate, they translate well enough so the recipient of your message can understand you.
7. Have Offline Maps Stored on Your Phone
Offline maps are great to use since they require no Internet connection. You can download them on your phone for the area you are visiting. The greater the area, the more space you will need. But don't worry, it doesn't take up too much space with new phones and tech developments, so you can still take plenty of photos.
8. Learn the Name of Your Hotel
It is imperative to know the name of your hotel at all times, both in English and the local language. Tell the person you meet the hotel's name if you get lost. It may not be easy to understand them, but you will get the gist, as they point out.
9. Use Hands and Drawings
Some signs are universal, and the foreigners will understand you enough to help you. Use your hands to explain the problem if you need help but have difficulty understanding. Or draw it on a piece of paper.
10. Be Careful With Hand Gestures
While hand gestures are pretty similar in most Western countries, the same gestures may be offensive in other countries. For example, "thumbs up "is considered rude in the Middle East, a better part of Africa, and Greece. So learn what gestures are offensive in the country you are visiting.
11. Use What You Learn Back Home
When you return home, remember some of your struggles and take time to be extra welcoming to travelers who come to your area.
For example, travelers head to places like Michigan for the many things to do in Detroit, such as exploring the Motor City, visiting the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, and strolling the beautiful Riverfront. However, only 5% of Detroit’s residents speak a language other than English.
If your city is similar, take a few moments to welcome visitors who speak different languages. You’ll be surprised how much you can say to each other using a phone and Google Translate!
Final Thoughts
Plan ahead for every probable situation. If it comes to speaking to locals, try your best. Use the apps, hands, drawings, and a few local words you picked up here and there. You can travel without knowing the language, and you shouldn't be worried about looking ridiculous. As you will soon learn, people worldwide enjoy helping tourists even if they don't speak the language.
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