Tips for Overcoming Language Barriers

The excitement surrounding visiting a foreign land can be overshadowed by the anxiety of navigating the language. Rather than relying on awkward phrase books or expensive language classes, here are a few tips to get by once you’re already in your destination.

Pay attention to body language. There is so much that can be said without any words and, especially in other cultures, it’s important to heed these signals from a local’s body language and movements. Hand gestures also can be used as a tool when trying to describe an item or a place to a person who doesn’t speak your language. However, read up on offensive hand gestures before you jet off as some innocuous movements in your home country may be considered rude in other countries.

Dumb it down. If you do happen to find someone who speaks English, the proficiency may not be as fluent as a native speaker. Try to use present tense and basic vocabulary to convey a question, and consider speaking a bit more slowly than your normal speed.

Sketch it out. If you’re still not succeeding with the tips above, whip out a pen and a napkin and draw what you’re trying to say. It may seem cumbersome but it also may be your only option depending on availability of English-speaking residents.