What’s the worst thing that can happen when you’re traveling in a foreign country? You get lost, of course! You might have navigated back to your hotel or hostel without getting lost and confused if you knew how to speak English.
But if you don’t have time to learn the language, no worries — we’ve compiled these ten useful English travel phrases that will help you get where you need to go and make it easy to interact with the locals, too! Even if English isn’t their native language either.
Are you afraid of being unable to talk to locals while enjoying the sunshine in America? Finding an English tutor is the best way to learn and improve your English. You can find more language tutors, like Spanish tutors, at AmazingTalker.
10 Helpful English Travel Phrases
Here are ten helpful English travel phrases you must know to make your trip more accessible and comfortable.
“Where is…”
Whether you’re trying to find your hotel or the best place to get a meal, asking “where is…?” will come in handy.
Other useful phrases include:
- Where is the train station?
- Where can I find a good restaurant?
- Where is the nearest ATM?
Knowing how to ask for directions will make your trip much easier and less stressful.
“Do you speak English?”
One of the most important words you learn when traveling is, “do you speak English?” You can use this expression when you need directions, are looking for a specific place, or need help with something. Additionally, it’s a great approach to start a conversation with someone new. Keep this one in your back pocket!
“How do I get to…?”
No matter where you’re going, you need to know how to get there. “How do I get to…?” is one of the most important phrases you can learn in any language, and English is no different. Here are a few variations of this phrase that will come in handy on your next trip.
- How do I get to the train station?
- How do I get to my hotel?
- How do I get to the airport?
These are all great questions we often ask ourselves when traveling, so make sure you know them before getting started!
“How much is it?”
If, while traveling, you find yourself in a situation where you need to ask how much something costs, it’s essential to know the correct phrase to use. After all, you don’t want to end up paying too much for something just because you have trouble asking the right questions!
Asking “how much is it?” is a great start.
“Thank you very much.”
Thank you very much is probably the most important phrase you can learn when traveling. It shows appreciation for what someone has done for you and can help defuse tense situations.
For example, thank them for their assistance if someone has helped you out in a difficult situation — perhaps they have provided directions and helped you get where you needed to go. Alternatively, if someone holds a door open for you or enables you to pick up something that has fallen, let them know that their help is appreciated. It will make your travels run much more smoothly!
“I want to buy…”
When traveling, it’s essential to communicate what you want and need. For example, if you’re hungry or thirsty in a foreign country, knowing how to say I want to buy some food can make things much more manageable. Likewise, learning how to communicate with the shopkeepers will make your experience much easier if you’re out shopping.
“Sorry, but could you show me where to find…”
One of the most important phrases you can learn when traveling is Sorry, but could you show me where to find…? This phrase shows that you are polite and respectful and willing to ask for help when needed. You can use this expression when you’re lost or need directions. Plus, it is always helpful to know how to say please and thank you in the local language.
“Speak slower, please.”
Communicating with the locals is essential when you’re in a new place. One of the most useful phrases you can learn when traveling is, Speak slower, please. If you can’t speak the language fluently, this phrase will at least help you get your point across.
“Nice to meet you.”
One of the essential phrases is “nice to meet you.” This phrase is a great way to make an excellent first impression. It’s also common for people to say this in response, as well as It’s nice meeting you too when responding.
The phrase might sound old-fashioned or stiff, but it’s a polite way to introduce yourself and shake hands with someone new. When saying Nice to meet you, please keep eye contact with the person, smile, and give them a firm handshake.
“Can you help me?”
“Can you help me?” is another essential phrase that will come in handy on your travels. It can be used in several scenarios, including asking for directions to getting help with your luggage. If someone does not speak your language and you don’t know the word for assistance, this may be the phrase to use instead.
Conclusion
You don’t have to speak English perfectly to get by when traveling. Practicing and using these phrases is a great way to show people that you are making an effort and will help make your travels more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Remember that most people in other countries want to be able to communicate with you as well, so they will appreciate any attempts at speaking their language! These few words ease any potential discomfort or confusion in your travels; all it takes is patience and practice from both parties.
Put the worry of being unable to speak to locals behind you on your travels — find the best professional English tutors at AmazingTalker today!