In today’s interconnected world, being able to speak more than one language is becoming increasingly important. For travelers, foreign language skills can open up a whole new world of experiences and opportunities, providing an enhanced awareness and appreciation of different cultures. So why should travelers learn languages?
In this article, I’m going to give you 15 reasons why you should learn a language when you travel. So the next time you’re planning a trip, embrace the Spanish you learned in school and pull it out with some practice and a phrasebook, or even consider adding a language course to your itinerary!
Traveling is one of the most amazing things you can do in your life. It broadens your horizons, teaches you about different cultures, and allows you to see the world from a new perspective. But did you know that learning a country or regions native language before you travel can make your trip even more enjoyable and enriching? Here are 15 reasons why you should learn a language before traveling:
1. To be able to communicate! (obviously!)
One of the most obvious reasons to learn a language before traveling is to facilitate communication. If you can speak the language of the country you’re visiting, it will be much easier to ask for directions, order food, and engage with locals and other travelers. Even if you only know a few key phrases, it will make a world of difference on your trip.
2. It will help you get around in a new place
When you travel somewhere new, there are few things more useful than learning the language of that location. Knowing the local language will help you get around much more easily.
You’ll be able to read signs, understand public transportation announcements, and ask for directions without any trouble. And if you’re lost, speaking the local language will give you a much better chance of getting back on track.
3. Language learning will make your trip more enjoyable
When you can communicate with locals in their own language, it makes the experience of traveling much more enjoyable. You’ll be able to have conversations with people instead of just feeling like a tourist who is observing from the sidelines.
4. You can meet new people and make friends
Traveling is a great way to meet new people and make friends. Not only will travelers get the opportunity to explore new places and cultures, but they’ll also learn languages and connect with those from different backgrounds.
Also, making international friends can open up the doors to more interesting conversations. Making friends by staying with a host family or studying a language in a foreign country is one of the best ways to learn about the culture and practice speaking with native speakers. It makes it so much easier to try out a foreign language without reverting to your own language when you’re talking with the right person in a host family or a friend you’ve made in the area.
If you want to meet someone special and make lasting memories, hitting the road could be the perfect way to do it!
5. Local language can help you understand the culture better
As travelers, one of the best gifts we can give ourselves is to learn the language of our destination. Taking the time to learn a few key phrases and basics won’t just help travelers order food at a restaurant more easily, but it can also make it easier to understand and appreciate the culture of a place.
A great way travelers looking to travel to a foreign country can use language to their advantage is to talk with native speakers and hear stories from them about their home – stories that may not be told in guidebooks.
Learning languages gives travelers an opportunity to break the language barrier and immerse themselves in another culture, something that will stay with them forever!
6. It can give you a competitive edge in your career
For travelers and aspiring polyglots (a person who knows and is able to use several languages), learning new languages can give you an edge in your career. Whether you’re preparing to move for a job abroad or simply looking to diversify and expand on the skill set you already have, mastering a new language is a surefire way to stand out from the competition and set yourself apart from the pack.
Consider enrolling in a language course, testing yourself with puzzles and translations, or even participating in an immersive language abroad program– whatever your approach, taking advantage of the many resources available for travelers wanting to learn languages can ultimately help give you an extra boost as you strive further towards achieving your professional goals.
7. Get off the beaten track with a native language
If you can speak a foreign language, you are much more likely to be able to explore off-the-beaten-path areas that may not be as accessible for non-linguists. You will also be better equipped to engage with only locals and learn about their culture, which can be incredibly rewarding.
8. It will help you get better deals and avoid scams
If you can bargain in other languages, you’ll be able to get better deals on souvenirs, accommodation, and transportation. And who doesn’t love a good bargain?
Unfortunately, there are always people who are looking to take advantage of tourists. But if you know the local language, it will be much harder for them to scam you. You’ll be able to understand what they’re saying and spot red flags more easily.
9. It will help you in an emergency
If you find yourself in an emergency situation while traveling, knowing the local language could be a lifesaver. Whether it’s asking for directions to the nearest hospital or explaining your allergies to a restaurant server, being able to communicate in their native language makes all the difference in an emergency situation.
10. It will make traveling solo easier
If you’re planning on traveling solo, learning the local language will make your trip much easier and give you a better travel experience. Being able to communicate with locals and new connections will help you feel more comfortable and confident while exploring new places without a fellow traveler.
11. Learning languages to improve your cognitive abilities
Learning a foreign language has been shown to improve cognitive abilities such as memory, attention span, and problem-solving skills. So not only will learning a new language before traveling make your trip more fun, but it could also make you smarter!
12. Learn a new language to challenge yourself
To try to learn a new language is definitely a challenge, but it’s one that can be extremely rewarding. It’s an opportunity to push yourself out of your comfort zone and learn something new that can benefit you in many different ways.
If you’re someone who enjoys challenges, then learning a foreign language may be right up your alley!
13. It’s a great way to learn about other countries and cultures
Traveling to different countries is an excellent way to learn about a different culture – from everything from art and architecture to language, cuisine, and fashion. It’s a great opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture of a foreign country, pick up new phrases, avoid an unfortunate cultural faux pas, and even make new friends from the local people.
Whether you love exploring the flavors of foreign delicacies or digging into the rich history of a region, your journey will leave a lasting impression that you’ll never forget.
14. To stand out from the crowd
In today’s increasingly competitive job market and global economy, anything that sets you apart from other candidates is an asset. Being bilingual or multilingual is a major asset in the job market.
If you want to work in a global company or in an international field such as tourism or diplomacy, learning another language is essential. All the signs point to foreign language skills being a great way to make yourself stand out from the competition and increase your career prospects.
If you’re applying for jobs that require international experience or global skills, being bilingual will definitely give you an edge over monolingual applicants.
By mastering a new language, you’ll be able to gain an edge over other candidates and take your professional goals one step closer. So don’t miss out on this opportunity!
15. It’s fun!
Learning a language and about a new culture is more than just fun – it’s fascinating! Learning new words, exploring customs, and trying new experiences can open up a world of possibilities.
Practicing a foreign language can also connect you with people different from your own culture in ways that are unique and often life-changing.
So why not make language learning entertaining while you gain some amazing knowledge along the way? You could even impress your friends by speaking a just few basic phrases in another language. Who knows where the adventure might take you…but it’s sure to be an exciting journey!
Why should travelers learn languages? Let’s get started!
Learning a new language can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The benefits of learning a new language stretch far beyond the obvious travel advantages. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself, stay competitive in the job market, or simply have fun, there are plenty of reasons why learning a foreign language is worth your time and effort.
With it comes SO many benefits, such as an increased ability to get around in a new place, the opportunity to meet new people and make friends, more insight into the culture you are exploring, and a competitive edge in your career.
When you learn the native language of a local people, it’s also a great way to learn about other countries and cultures—and have fun while doing it!
These potential benefits of language acquisition make it worth investing some time and effort into learning the language of a foreign land. So no matter where you go or what language you want to learn, don’t be afraid to start studying today!
Travelers Learn Languages
The purpose of the Travelers Learn Languages website is to provide fun and helpful language resources for students of all ages. From preschool and elementary to high school and adulthood, it’s never too early or too late to start learning a new language.
Whether you want to take a trip abroad, work in a new country, or just brush up on your language skills, there are so many benefits of learning a language.
With an ever-growing library of content on Travelers Learn Languages, it’s easy to find resources tailored to your specific needs.
You can explore the world of language, and find resources and activities that fit your skill level to make learning fun and achievable.
So if you’re ready to embark on a journey with Travelers Learn Languages, get started today! With our help, you can make the most of your language learning experience and become more confident as you challenge yourself to learn something new.
¡Buena suerte!
I hope this article has inspired you to consider starting your own adventure in learning a new language. Whether you want to want to speak German, Spanish, French, or another, get started today!
Where do you want to travel next? Let me know what language you’d like to learn in the comments!
Bon voyage and good luck on your language journey! ✈️📚🌎
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More articles:
Benefits of Language Learning – ACTFL
The Advantages of Speaking A Second Language – The Economist
Top 10 Benefits of Learning a Foreign Language – Eton Institute