But what if you travel to a remote area of a country that doesn’t speak a word of English? How would you communicate with these people? Would you and should you learn their native language? Even if it’s just for a few days?
I’m a very keen linguist. I have studied French since I was 4 years old, started German when I was 13 and added Spanish to my list when I was 21 years old. I feel relatively confident speaking in these languages when I go on holiday and, despite making numerous mistakes, I always try to speak the language of the country I’m visiting. I always tell my students to not be afraid to make mistakes and use travel as a free opportunity to speak – I have to practise what I preach! It’s such a good feeling after all those years of grammar and vocabulary practise when you can hold a basic conversation in the target language.
However, I’m always surprised at how many times I order something in a restaurant in French, Spanish or German and the waiter responds in English! Is my speaking really that bad? Or do they simply want to save you the trouble and that’s why they “do you the favour” of speaking in English.
It is very important to learn the native language of the place where one is going to visit in order to get to know the new culture, know how to communicate with people, do the things you have in mind. And above all it is a way of showing respect to native people.
Fantastic ideas, well done!
Personally, I think that ist’s very important to learn the language before I going to travel somewhere. At last the basic language. I fell better when I can say: please and thank you, good morning, good night and goodbye. And the locals are honored when I can say a few words.
I totally agree with you! ?
For me is necesary to learn languages , becauses help to communicate with people native, also think that is a way to know more their culture and to share opinions.
Great writing Cristina, well done! ? Just check your spelling -> necessary
Yes, I try to learn some words in the foreing language, For me it´s very important to know something about the life stiyle and culture in the country were I want to be a few day´s. It´s necessary in my opinion.
Great response Itzy, well done! ? Just check your spelling -> foreign, lifestyle