Traveling to a new country is an exciting adventure filled with the promise of new experiences, cultures, and FOOD. However, one crucial aspect often overlooked by many travelers is the importance of learning the local language. In this blog post, we explore the numerous benefits of acquiring even a basic understanding of the local tongue before heading out on your journey.
Connections
We’ll start with the most obvious one. Connection. Although it is possible for two people who don’t speak the same language to connect, it is much more difficult. In most cases, the locals are expecting you to be like the majority of tourists who don’t take the time to learn their language. Sure, they may know a word or two, but nothing that shows they actually tried. If you’re in Mexico, pretty much every tourist is going to know how to say “¡Hola!” or “¿Cómo estás?”, but can they genuinely ask a local how their day is going, or about their daily life or their belief system?
Doing this makes people feel genuine happiness and it makes them feel seen.
“If you speak to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you speak to him in his own language, that goes to his heart”
The Local Treatment
If you’re a tourist, you’re going to get treated like a tourist. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, sometimes, it can be beneficial. However, if you only go to the tourist attractions, you miss out on what truly makes a place special.
There are some real hidden gems out there that often fly under the radar of the typical tourism recommendations. Finding a local hangout spot because you were having a conversation in a new language with someone you otherwise wouldn’t have been able to speak to is like striking gold. Especially when they introduce you around.
Increased Safety
Learning at least a bit of the local language was one of the points I covered in my guide to safety while solo traveling here, but, for multiple reasons, you’re safer when you understand the language.
- In the event of an emergency, it allows you to communicate more effectively with local authorities and medical personnel.
- You can understand if someone is talking about you and has less than positive intentions.
- Helps you better navigate local transportation.
- Helps in understanding important signs and warnings.
Can Save You Money
There are places that have multiple versions of the menu. If you can speak the language, you can ask for the menu in said language. In some places, the English menu has higher pricing on it. Even if the place you’re in doesn’t have that, it may still be a tourist trap with higher prices overall. Speaking the language can keep you out of these traps.
Additionally, it enhances your bargaining power in markets and local shops where haggling is common.
Deeper Cultural Immersion
Imagine being able to go to the local museums that aren’t in English and understanding cultural references. Or to be able to understand subtle nuances while reading the local literature, movies, and music. Knowing the language provides you with a richer educational experience by opening these doors. This one thing can offer insights into the history and societal values of the place that you’re visiting in a way that nothing else can.
In Conclusion
Learning another language will, at worst, give you a much better overall experience in a new location. At best? You open your mind to an entirely different world while learning a skill that will benefit you for the rest of your life. You meet interesting people and develop friendships or even romantic relationships that would not have been possible otherwise. You enrich yourself with a wealth of knowledge and respect for other cultures. The sky isn’t the limit here. There is no limit. The possibilities are truly endless!
Bon Voyage!
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