Why Learning Just a Few Phrases Can Improve Your Next Trip Abroad
The benefits of speaking another language are great. It broadens your mind, improves your memory and multitasking abilities, your listening skills and it can also teach you a lot about your native language too. Learning a new language can open opportunities like working in or doing business with other countries too.
However, not everyone has the time or the will to become fluent in another language. Does that mean you shouldn’t try to learn? No, even if it’s just a little bit, learning a few phrases in a country you’re going to visit can help you get the most out of your trip.
You’ll understand more
We’ll start with the most obvious one. The more you know of the local language, the easier time you’ll have understanding and making your way around a new city. You’ll be less likely to get lost or make any faux pas that could get you into trouble.
It shows respect
Even if your languages skills aren’t the best, people will appreciate you making an effort where many never bother.
People from English-speaking countries are often guilty of expecting everyone to speak English when they go abroad because it’s taught almost everywhere. So any attempt to talk in another language is going to go down well and may come as a pleasant surprise.
You’ll get on better with the locals
It’s easier to get on with the locals if you can converse a little in their language. Removing even just part of the language barrier can help you to integrate and have a different experience of a new city that you might have missed out on in the past.
If you need help, the locals will be more inclined and able to help someone who is trying to speak their language. You could even end up making some new friends.
It’s the first step in a business relationship
If you’re going abroad on business, you may need a translator. However, just a few phrases here and there will break the ice and make the process a little less awkward. It also shows that you’re serious about branching out into different countries. People are more likely to want to do business with someone who makes an effort.
Top phrases to learn
To start off with, think about the types of situations you’ll find yourself in while abroad and go from there. Try learning basic greetings and phrases to get you through public transport, shops and restaurants and you’ll cover most of the things you need for a short visit somewhere. You might also want to be cautious and learn important phrases in the case of an emergency.
If you’re going there on business, then research the kinds of industry- specific phrases that you think you’ll need while there and you’ll be off to a good start.
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