The Most Useful Travel Phrases in Different Languages
If you speak one language, what are you called?
An American (as the joke goes).
But there’s a kernel of truth here. Americans are known worldwide for thinking that every corner of the globe must know English, or at least enough of the language to converse with a native American, Australian, Briton, or other Anglosphere inhabitant.
Global hubris, superpower status, English’s preeminence as the world’s lingua franca – whatever the reason, English speakers have a reputation for expecting foreigners to know a modicum of their native tongue. If only the world were so simple.
Why Learning Travel Phrases is a Must for Every Traveler
Americans (and others) can benefit from acquiring some travel phrases to deploy while spending time in other countries. Set aside the obvious value of using common phrases in different languages for communicating with native Germans or native Spaniards. Here are some other benefits you’ll enjoy by learning some common travel phrases:
- Open up opportunities for more conversations
- Reduce stress when traveling
- Learn more about local cultures & customs
- Inspire more learning as you become familiar with phrases for travel
- And more
It doesn’t help that when we travel, we are often met with cultures that have embraced and promoted multilingualism and will meet us on our level. Americans often receive this courtesy, not necessarily with a sense of entitlement, but with a perception that there’s no need to attempt another’s language when they’ve already learned ours. But relying exclusively on our own native tongue, we’re missing out on the deeper cultural layers of the countries we visit.
Regardless, as a monolingual traveler, you may not have the time or the desire to learn every language for every country you plan to visit, and that’s perfectly okay. You can still break through language barriers and integrate yourself in other minor ways that not only make you feel more in sync with the environment but will make the people you’re visiting feel as though their culture is being respected and appreciated.
Common travel phrases are helpful because – as the name suggests – they address many common situations that people encounter as they move through their day. As a traveler, you need a way to connect with all the different service personnel you’ll converse with – restaurant servers, bellhops, hotel concierge staff, travel guides, and even everyday people in the street!Frequent use of these travel phrases will not only make you more comfortable in new surroundings, but they’ll also help as a catalyst to become more immersed in your temporary home away from home.
Common Travel Phrases Across Multiple Languages
If a trip abroad is in your future, now is a great time to learn some common travel phrases. Whether you’re going to France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Portugal, or Spain, it’s always a great idea to have useful travel phrases on hand!
Dining in a streetside Parisian cafe, lounging on the beach in Ibiza, exploring the Tuscan countryside, enjoying a fine brew during Oktoberfest – you never know when you’ll need some helpful phrases for travel purposes.
Of course, English is a global language. But that doesn’t mean you’ll always be able to find a competent English speaker. For example, you’re much more likely to find someone who can speak English in a sprawling metro area like Berlin, Tokyo, or Paris. But if you’re in a remote Italian Alps village or a sparsely populated Portuguese river valley, you’re always prepared if you have some common travel phrases memorized. Interested in exploring travel phrases for an upcoming trip? Check out one of our dedicated articles:
Common Spanish Phrases for Traveling
Basic French Phrases for Traveling
Common Italian Phrases for Traveling
Common German Phrases Travelers Should Know
Reviewing common travel phrases in your target language not only helps you navigate a foreign country more easily, but you’ll also enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing how to ask for a restaurant recommendation, get directions to the nearest train station, or even get help in the case of an emergency!
Tips for Learning and Remembering Travel Phrases
Travel phrases are a great entry point into learning a language because they often go hand in hand with a built-in goal: communicating effectively on an upcoming trip. Who doesn’t want to get from the airport to your destination more smoothly, book a dining reservation like a local, ask for directions like a pro? The anticipation of this reward while experiencing an exciting new place provides motivation for maintaining regular practice. Pimsleur’s unique language learning app allows you to set up reminders, track your progress, and monitor your learning streak. Harness that goal of enjoying the convenience of mastering common travel phrases in your target language and practice daily – in your car, on a walk, while doing some household chores. With Pimsleur’s focus on listening and speaking, you can be completely hands-free while learning and reviewing new phrases and vocabulary.
Equipping Yourself With The Right Phrases for Travel
Common phrases for travel are also a great stepping stone to learning more languages. While using phrases for travel is great, there’s nothing like speaking a new language conversationally. Pimsleur’s unique language instruction methods can help you acquire a new language in a matter of weeks – and you’ll be speaking new words and phrases (maybe even travel phrases) after your first lesson!
If you will be in a country for more than just a few days, why not dive deeper into the language? You’ll see the benefits of having real conversations with native speakers. Let Pimsleur get you up and running!