It is about that time again when we all make a plan to travel be it internationally or locally. In this day and age it’s possible to travel around the world and speak nothing but English the whole time.

 

Why not make an effort to speak a few words of the local language? It will lead to a more authentic, fulfilling, unique and memorable travel experience. After all, you’re a brave new traveller. You already knew that. You ask yourself however “how do i learn Bemba when you only have a few weeks in Zambia? Or what Zulu phrases will make the street vendor in Johannesburg stop mumbling about a tip when they help you reverse out?”

 

Short of signing up for immersive language lessons, here are the best ways to learn a foreign language on the road:

 

In most cultures, meals are a social event, and even the shyest solo traveler is certain to interact with locals when ordering food and drink. The first word you should learn in a foreign place is “delicious.” Beyond that, you can fill your stomach and vocabulary with words for food – water, vegetable, noodle, meat – and the names of local delicacies. Point to various fruits in the market and ask the vendors to teach you the names. These are words that you can use over and over, day in and day out – and it just feels cool to walk into a restaurant and wave away the English menu.

 

People will laugh at your attempts to speak their language regardless of what you’re actually trying to say. But if you memorize a saying or a funny phrase in the local lingo, it will really crack them up – and crack cultural barriers too. “Hamba ntombazana” was the first phrase i learned in kwaZulu Natal which upset me because I wondered why the man insisted I go away? I later found out that it could also mean “You go girl!” I blushed to myself thinking back to that man on the dance floor. A good laugh is something that transcends culture – nothing is more disarming – but do be sure your joke is culturally appropriate. Ask a friendly local to help you memorize a good one.

 

Phrasebooks are great, but they are also limiting. Instead of relying on the same book everyone else brings, make your own list of words and useful phrases. This way, you can spell words the way they sound to your ear and choose phrases that are useful to you – not some business traveller who wants his suit dry-cleaned. Plus, when locals see you making an effort to learn by writing things down, they’ll be eager to contribute to your list.

4. Avoid Tourist Hangouts

Instead of sticking to the norm, wander away from the tourist hang out spot. Go into a local restaurant and try out a few of the food words from your homemade phrasebook. When the people sitting at the next table compliment you on your skills and ask you to pull up a chair, wait for an appropriate time to tell your joke. Your phrasebook will fill up faster than your hand can scribble, and you’ll have a whole new group of local pals.

 

The single best way to learn a foreign language is to start studying it before your fifth birthday. But no matter how old you are, there’s nothing to stop you from acting like a kid and hanging out with kids while you travel. Other than the occasional “You talk funny” comment, their pace and knowledge will match yours (I know it is a huge ego blow to have a 4 year old correct you, but hey, you are learning!!)

 

You’ll learn numbers fast while bargaining over the price of a new pair of heels or sneakers or buying breakfast sandwiches in the local market. Learn how to say “This is too expensive” and “I want the local price.” Shopkeepers may not give in completely, but by speaking a little of the local language you’ll demonstrate that you’re not a totally clueless tourist. Just be sure not to order 5 mangos when you wanted 1 mango for 5 bucks.

 

In many countries, you’ll be approached by locals eager to practice their English. This can sometimes get annoying, but it’s often rewarding to be patient and indulge them in conversation. As long as they aren’t trying to sell you something, sit down somewhere, order a drink and listen to their story. After speaking English for a while, ask them to help you learn some of their language. Make this festive season different, if not for yourself do it for your children. It will make their holiday that much more memorable.