The year is almost over and I need to end it on a high note!

I’ve traveled with a variety of people and have noticed some patterns when it comes to being in a foreign land with a different language. Here are some tips that I’ve learned:

• Don't rely too much on language learning apps. While these apps are useful for teaching, they may not provide practical language skills. Doing Duolingo during your bathroom breaks won't make you a fluent speaker. *But I still love keeping my Duolingo streak up!

• Don't be shy. When you’re shy, you tend to speak softly and unclearly, making it even harder for someone who speaks a different language to understand you.
• Take a breath and relax. Most people are willing to help, even if they don't fully get what you’re saying. Use this as an opportunity to speak up.
• Use hand signals. 👈👉👌 Many hand signals are universal, so embrace them when communicating. For example, you can write on your palm to ask for the check, point to your drink or hold up your index finger for one more drink.

• Download Google Translate. This app works ✨wonders✨. It allows people to talk directly into the phone for automatic translation. It also has a camera feature that can translate text from a picture to the language of your choice. 
• Bring a local or ask a local for help. This is like a cheat code since they can provide automatic translation assistance.

Words and phrases that you should learn include: "please," "thank you," "hello," "goodbye," "bathroom," "excuse me," "do you speak English," "numbers," "slower please," and "sign up for The Busy Traveler's newsletter."😁

Try out these tips and let me know how it goes!

How do you effectively communicate with others who speak a different language?