New Delhi [India], March 6: Imagine you work in a Japanese or French firm and you get an opportunity to visit the headquarters located in a particular country. While you are looking forward to the opportunity to meet your peers, try out new cuisine and visit scenic places, you are constantly stressing over the language barrier.
Whether for a business trip or a vacation, not knowing the local language in a foreign country can make your stay stressful. You may struggle to clearly communicate what you want at airports, railway stations, taxi stands and restaurants. You may even fall prey to scammers. Well, with technology, preparation and the right attitude, you can overcome the language barrier and enjoy your trip.
Let’s explore the tips and strategies to overcome language barriers in a foreign land.
Tips to Overcome Language Barriers While Travelling
1. Learn some basic phrases: “Thank you’’, “please”, “how are you’’, “how much does this cost’’, “where is the rest room’’ – are some basic phrases and expressions that you must learn and memorise in the local language. This will not only help in communicating and making simple interactions easier but also show respect for the culture. Locals will appreciate your effort in learning their language.
2. Practice non-verbal communication: Where you cannot express yourself verbally, use nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions, gestures and body language. However, remember that nonverbal communication can differ from culture to culture, so you must be aware of this to avoid misunderstandings. For instance, smiling at strangers is considered friendly and welcoming in some countries, but some may find it strange or unnatural. In China, you greet with a handshake; in Japan, with a bow; and in France, with a kiss on the cheek.
3. Carry a dictionary: Not all places will have internet connectivity. So, what do you do in such places when you can’t recall some local words that you had memorised? This is when a physical dictionary or phrasebook comes to your rescue. It is a quick reference for common phrases and words during your interactions.
4. Download translation apps: With translation apps, language can’t be a barrier wherever you travel across the globe. The apps can translate text and audio into multiple languages. Once you download the app, you can access it offline also, where there is no internet connectivity. These apps are a must in places where people don’t understand or speak English, and you are not familiar with the local language.
5. Write down essential information: Write down important information about yourself, such as your medical information, local address, emergency contact numbers, etc, in the local language and keep it somewhere you can easily access. It could be on your phone or in a diary. This can be particularly helpful in case of emergencies or when you need any assistance.
6. Talk slowly and clearly: Talk in simple words, short sentences and talk slowly when there is a language barrier. Avoid using slangs or idioms as it may not go down well.
7. Engage with locals: If you have plans to stay for a long duration, engaging with locals will help improve the language.
8. Join language classes: If you are really serious about mastering a new language, you can consider enrolling in language classes. This will boost your confidence and help you communicate with locals with ease.
9. Be patient and positive: Overcoming language barriers requires patience and a positive outlook. Learning a new language takes time, and you cannot gain mastery overnight. Don’t get impatient or frustrated if people cannot understand what you are trying to convey or vice-versa. Try your best and remember everyone makes mistakes when learning a foreign language.
Conclusion
Not knowing a language should not stop you from travelling within the country or internationally. There are many ways to overcome language barriers, feel at home in a foreign land, and return with sweet memories.
Amidst all the preparations, remember to buy international travel insurance for financial security against potential travel-related risks. Depending on how frequently you travel, you should opt for single-trip insurance or multi-trip insurance.
