Most seasoned travelers would agree that learning a destination's native language enhances the overall experience. Sure, in many popular tourist destinations, you can get by with just English. And, indeed, locals are generally friendly and sympathetic to visitors who do not speak their native dialect. But, especially in a country where English is not widely spoken, wouldn't it be better if you didn't have to worry as much about miscommunication?
Learning a new language is indeed difficult. While you do not need to be a native speaker by the time of your trip, understanding at least the fundamental terms and phrases can help you a lot. On the other hand, you can choose a language that is more similar to your own; in most cases, the place where that language is spoken is also closer to your own country!
Anyway, regardless of how long you want to remain in a given location, learning the local language before you go is a must! Also, after an almost year-long sabbatical, aren't you looking forward to more important travels?
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Here are ten reasons why learning the local language before your next vacation is a good idea.
1. For starters, it's simply good manners
Learning the native language of a destination demonstrates that you are a respectful visitor in their country. After all, many (if not all) locals love it when foreign visitors speak their language because it indicates that you care about them and their culture. It makes no difference if your grammar and accent aren't perfect; a little effort goes a long way toward generating a good first impression!
2. You're Less Likely to Get Rid of Your Money
Being stuck somewhere or in need of assistance but feeling completely helpless because you don't speak the local language is one of the quickest ways to ruin a trip.
Then there are those times when you know you're being taken advantage of but don't know how to get out of it. This is particularly true in the case of taxi drivers.
3. Making New Friends Is Easier
One of the most rewarding aspects of traveling is meeting new people and forming new friends. And it all begins with a simple welcome such as Ciao!, Bonjour!, or Ni Hao!, Hej!, Konnichiwa!, or Hola!
We commonly ask each other the same questions when getting to know someone new and making acquaintances, such as "What's your name?" "Where are you from?" and "What [job] do you do?" Your biography is made up of the responses you offer, which you will repeat more than you think. As a result, whenever I study a new language, I start with my biography. As a result, I'll be able to start discussions and react to these usual inquiries comfortably. Starting a conversation can be intimidating, but this becomes less of an issue if you know your bio thoroughly and out.
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4. It's the Correct Action to Take
The most crucial reason to learn the local language is that it is respectful. It doesn't matter if you're visiting the Netherlands or Norway, both of which are famed for their outstanding English. Keep in mind that you're a visitor.
Consider it as though you're paying a visit to a friend's home. Do you clean your shoes off or even take them off before entering? This kind of politeness comes naturally to me, and I don't have to think about it. However, because we travel less frequently than we visit a friend's home, it's as if we've forgotten how to be courteous.
5. People treat you better
Making an effort to communicate in the local language significantly impacts how others will treat you. If you welcome them in their original tongue, their entire demeanor will alter. They might even compliment you if they are pleasantly pleased.
You also don't need to be conversant in the language. Knowing a few essential travel phrases and being "travel proficient" can go a long way. People are more likely to go the additional mile for you if they sense that you are attempting to be respectful.
6. You Get to Know a Place Thoroughly
"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head," Nelson Mandela famously observed. If you speak to him in his native tongue, you will touch his heart."
This quotation is one of my favorites because it wonderfully encapsulates the impact of speaking to someone in their own dialect. Languages are similar to bridges in that they connect us. When you communicate with people in their own language, you can delve deeper into a destination and have a more genuine experience.
7. It Has the Potential to Change Your Life
It's impossible to say what kind of long-term impact learning some of the local languages will have on you. It may encourage you to devote more time to learn a certain language, urge you to study the local language before every trip, or even motivate you to relocate!
8. It helps you feel more at ease
Of course, this does not mean that you should disregard prudence. But, simply put, don't you feel more at ease when you're in a setting where you understand what everyone is saying? The same is true while traveling to a distant country where you don't speak the language. While this should not deter you from visiting, you will be less likely to feel anxious if you can understand most of what the people are saying.
An excellent example would be using cabs late at night. Regardless of how safe your destination appears to be, one can't help but be concerned about what can go wrong. That being said, wouldn't you feel more secure knowing you can comprehend what this particular local is saying in your presence? Another example might be people that prey on outsiders, believing they are easy prey. Anyway, if something like this happened to you (cross your fingers), you'd be able to explain what happened to local authorities readily!
9. It helps you travel better
You can probably organize your journey better if you know the local language well. Instead of sticking to the conventional (and frequently pricey) tourist traps, why not venture further out and discover sites that are possibly the best-kept secrets among locals? And, because you'll have greater freedom to explore your destination, you never know what you'll find!
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Final Words
Don't you feel more excited about your future travels now that we've discussed the necessity of learning the local language before your trip? Granted, we may have to wait a little longer before it is entirely secure again. In the meantime, why not choose a foreign destination you'd like to visit soon - and then begin learning a new language or two?
So, have you already determined where you'll go next? And, if so, what is the primary language spoken there (other than English)? Let us know what you think in the comments!
