While you don’t need to be fluent or have perfect pronunciation, learning a few key phrases in your destination’s language makes a great first impression and also makes your travels go much smoother. Below is a list of universal phrases worth learning before you leave—but be sure to make adjustments to adapt to your own unique travel experiences!
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- Do you speak English? Start with this one and you’ll be amazed at how much time you’ll save. In many countries, many people learn English as a second language during their school-age years.
- Hello, Goodbye: While there are many variations of hello and goodbye (good morning, good night, etc.) that are worth knowing, learning these two words will help you simply greet and bid farewell any time of day.
- I don’t speak your language well: This helps set appropriate expectations at the beginning of the conversation, while also showing that you’re putting in the effort to learn.
- I do not understand: Instead of nodding in agreement when you’re lost in a conversation, learning to articulate your confusion is helpful for redirecting you and those around you.
- My name is…What’s yours? This is a natural and friendly way to begin any conversation—even if everything else you say isn’t quite fluent, at least everyone present will know who they are talking to!
- Please, Thank You, I’m Sorry: Humbleness, politeness and modesty is appreciated and valued no matter where your travels take you.
- Excuse Me: For moments when “please” in a more apologetic tone won’t quite do the job, this phrase will help make your presence known in a non-intrusive fashion.
- How much is this? This not only makes shopping much easier, but also helps avoid miscommunication when it comes time to pay for your item.
- Numbers 1-100: This will take a little longer to study, but it’s worth understanding the number system in your chosen language to help make a variety of situations much easier.
- Where is the restroom? To avoid performing charades every time you need the restroom, this phrase comes in handy.
Some Additional Emergency Phrases Worth Learning:
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- Help!
- Emergency!
- Please call a doctor.
- Please call the police.
- I’m at…(helpful if you are experiencing language barriers with the local emergency responders)
- I’m allergic to…
While learning a few key phrases is extremely helpful, there is always a chance that you’ll need to have a more complex conversation such as understanding a charge on your hotel bill, explaining what you need at the local police department, or even having a conversation with your doctor at the local hospital. On Call’s travelers can rest assured they have instant access to translation and interpreting assistance services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Visit our website to learn more about our travel risk management and global emergency assistance services.
About On Call International:
When traveling, every problem is unique–a medical crisis, a political threat, even a common accident such as a missed flight. But every solution starts with customized care that ensures travelers are safe and protected. That’s why for over 25 years, On Call International has provided fully-customized travel risk management and emergency assistance services protecting millions of travelers, their families, and their organizations. Visit www.oncallinternational.com and follow us on LinkedIn to learn more.
