Language and Culture

Here is some travel advice and tips on foreign language and culture.

Make the Effort

In most foreign countries the locals do not expect you to speak their language fluently – but they do expect you to make some effort by using a few key words or phrases (i.e. hello, please, thank you, Do you speak English? etc.). Consider preparing a cheat sheet of common words and phrases to learn and practice them.

Here is a website for translating foreign words and phrases:

http://travlang.com/language/


You may be very nervous about speaking to the locals in their own language but remember they probably feel just as nervous speaking to you in English as well.

Most places in the world have someone nearby who is able to communicate with you in English to some degree. Most hotels and tourist offices have someone who speaks English. Even local students are a possibility. If and when you find a person who speaks English:

1) speak slowly

2) pronounce every word carefully

3) do not use any slang

Culture and Religious Practices

In a nutshell, wear clothing that is culturally sensitive to your destination.

Always maintain decorum in holy places, even if you are not religious. You can be prohibited from entering churches or mosques for not being appropriately dressed for example

Women, in particular, should not wear clothing that is considered to be provocative within the culture that they will encounter. Prepare yourself.



Chapter 9 of Turn Your Dream Vacation Into Reality: A Game Plan for Seeing the World the Way You Want to See It addresses language and customs in far greater detail.

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