10 Phrases Every Traveler Should Know
If you’ve ever sat on a bus in a foreign country and wished you could chat with your seat mate who smiled so warmly at you; or entered an artisan’s shop and longed to tell her how beautiful you found her handmade work; or stopped at a street food stall and struggled to understand what mysterious foods were producing that tantalizing smell… then you understand the communication frustrations we all share when traveling abroad. It’s unreasonable to learn a new language every time you plan a vacation. But, my fellow culturally conscious travelers, it is not unreasonable to master a few phrases in the native tongue prior to departure.
Beyond being respectful, learning a bit of the local language helps you develop a more sincere relationship with the place you’re visiting. After all, it is through direct communication that we find deeper connection with others. Conversation with locals is profound way of opening your eyes to the new world around you. Every local, everywhere (myself included), wants visitors to see what they love about their home. If you’re willing to genuinely engage with the local people, you’ll find that a series of doors open to you in your travels abroad.
A very persistent salesman, Sucre, Bolivia.
The following are 10 basic phrases I attempt to memorize in the native language. I use them as frequently as possible, often with surprising results! In case you’re worried about mispronunciation of a greeting in Mandarin, Google Translate will read the word aloud for you so you can practice in the privacy of your home. Once you’re abroad, ask friendly Airbnb hosts, cafe waiters, or that nice lady on the train to help you with pronunciation. Be shameless—but know how very flattering it is for locals to see that you care enough to try.
10 Useful Phrases
Hello (or similar local greeting)
Goodbye [bonus: it's sometimes the same as hello]
Thank you
Yes
No
Please
No problem
Where is the restroom?
May I?
No thank you/do not want
Greeting people appropriately in their own language wins big points. If you can go through the universal first sentences of a conversation, you’ll restore people’s faith in humanity and see lots of eyes sparkle.
“Good afternoon”
“Hello, how are you?”
“I’m well, and you?”
“I am well.”
Learn that basic exchange and you’ll make friends everywhere you go! This is especially true when you are a native English speaker, and know that the conversation will likely turn to English after your hellos. I’ve found that carrying on this quick dialogue has led to many local travel tips, free rides, and new friends.
Learning basic phrases shows that you respect local people and appreciate their efforts to communicate with you, the tourist, in their second language. Not to mention that this simple attempt at cultural immersion makes you a good ambassador for your country and travelers worldwide. Know that the English speaking world is notorious for being monolingual. Break down stereotypes and communication impasse by putting in minimal effort, and you’ll find that everyone benefits from your efforts!