With more than 30 million Americans traveling abroad each year for leisure and business the importance or making a good impression on the world and being able to communicate has become vital. For people traveling to a country that speaks a foreign language there are a few important words and phrases that even a first time traveler should learn to access the places and people they are visiting.
Hello & Goodbye
Apparently a basic and obvious one, but really understated. Beyond smiling, this simple acknowledgment can go leaps and bounds as far as making a good first impression is concerned. Even if you know nothing else, people will appreciate you taking the time to learn how to say hello and goodbye in the native language.
Nice to meet you
Usually followed by the first phrase, telling someone “nice to meet you” shows a politeness and acceptance of him or her. Remember it’s important because the people you meet while traveling call these places home, and your ability to communicate gratitude and respect should be on the top of any travelers priority list.
While hopefully you will never get into a situation where you will ever need this, it is important to know in the case of an emergency or if someone is trying to hurt you. You will be able to let others know you are in danger and that you need help.
Most people who travel can do a wide variety of shopping. From buying simple souvenirs for their family to going on all out shopping sprees, it is helpful to know how to ask the cost of an item. Furthermore, knowing simple bargaining terminology will go far also.
Even more imperative than some of the others mentioned, saying thank you once again displays gratitude and appreciation for people. Even if you don’t speak a word of the common tongue, saying thank you when buying an item, eating at a restaurant, or taking someone’s photograph is limitless when it comes to communication.
By Carolyn Dean