Acquiring language skills enhance the travel experience
Travelling is a rewarding and exciting experience, and increasingly people want to get off the beaten track and visit places that are less familiar. For Australians, this can mean Southeast Asia, the allure of which is often as compelling as the traditional journeys to Europe and North America. A bonus is if you avoid the traditional tourist hotspots – think Bali, Singapore and Pattaya – it can be cheaper.
But there is a catch. The remoter the place, the less likely people will speak English. So, it can be a daunting prospect if you don’t speak the local language.
The good news is that you don’t need to be fluent in a language to travel somewhere, and you’ll be surprised just how easy navigating a conversation can be with just a few key phrases.
It does mean that as you gear up for a trip, however, you should spend some time learning those basics. Here are a few tips to get you started.
Set clear goals: Before diving into language learning, set clear and achievable goals. Determine what level of proficiency you need. Will it be enough if you can get directions to your hotel, or are you hoping on striking up a conversation with a local? Setting specific goals will help you stay motivated and focused.
Start with the basics: Begin with the basics such as common phrases, greetings and essential vocabulary. Learning how to introduce yourself, asking for directions and ordering food can be incredibly useful. Apps such as Duolingo and Babbel are great for beginners, offering step-by-step lessons that usefully build up your basic vocabulary without overwhelming you.
Immerse yourself: Immersion is one of the most effective ways to learn a new language. Surround yourself with the language as much as possible. At first watch movies and listen to music in the language you’re learning. Just let yourself absorb the sounds and words. Then, as your familiarity grows, try reading books or articles in the language you’re learning.
Practise speaking: Practise as much as possible and accept that you’re going to make mistakes. Language exchange platforms such as Tandem and HelloTalk connect you with native speakers who can help you practice. Additionally, consider joining local language meetups or conversation groups.
Use technology: It offers a plethora of resources for those learning a language with apps such as Memrise and Anki using spaced repetition to help you memorise vocabulary. Google Translate can be a handy tool for quick translations, although it’s best used as a supplement rather than a primary resource.
Take a class: If you prefer a more structured approach, consider taking a language class. Many community centres, universities and online platforms offer language courses. Websites such as Coursera and Udemy provide online classes taught by experienced instructors.
Practise regularly: Consistency is key when learning a new language. Dedicate a specific time. Use this time to review vocabulary, practise speaking or complete a lesson on your language app.
Learn about the culture: Understanding the culture associated with the language can provide context and make learning more enjoyable. Research cultural norms, traditions and etiquette. This knowledge will not only enhance your language skills but also enrich your travel experience.
Be patient and persistent: Language learning is a gradual process that requires patience and persistence. Don’t get discouraged by mistakes or slow progress. Celebrate small victories and keep trying. Remember, every bit of practice brings you closer to your goal.
Utilise free resources: Finally, don’t think that this needs to be an expensive process. There are several free resources available for language learners. Websites such as Duolingo, BBC Languages and Open Culture offer free courses and materials. YouTube is also a valuable resource, with countless channels dedicated to language learning.
Once you get stuck into learning the language you’ll discover that it’s a journey that will interest you well beyond your trip. Learning a language is learning the culture and the more cultures you learn the deeper your experience of the world will be. Enjoy the process.