@penwren
When it comes to backpacking over multiple countries, it can be difficult to prepare yourself for the language barriers. Its easy to pick up a few words here and there, but considering how much time you spend in a country, you want to be able to say more than “Hello” and “Goodbye”
Its a lot of work, especially in a short period of time to learn the entire language. If you’re traveling to a few countries with vast language differences, here is our advice:
1. Podcasts: If you’re planning to bring your iPod on your travels, this is a great inexpensive way to pick up on a language. Throw in some language Podcasts on your iPod and listen to it on your plane, train and bus rides!
2. iPhone Application: Congratulations if you are lucky enough to have one of these intricate devices! Use it to its full potential and check out the different applications. I am a big fan of the World Nomads applications. They have a few sections with lots of phrases and it will speak the phrases out loud! So if you’re trying to ask how much a room is, politely show the person your iPhone and let it do the talking for you!
3. Print Out Information: While your abroad, check out a local library and print some phrases. It takes less than a second and it gives you a chance to write it out and practice your writing skills as well.
4. Get Out There!: The best way to learn the language, is to speak with the locals. Make yourself known and ask questions. Find a friendly English speaking person and cruise the town together. Teach them English and voila! You know another language (Somewhat) and you’ve made a new friend!
What do you do to try to learn a language? Have you used any of these methods and do they help?
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