25 Handy foreign languages for travelers: learn them before taking off.

Vacation planned, Tickets booked, luggage packed. But the foreign language? Travelling abroad is a dream for many of us. Traveling gives us a different level of energy and exposure. But there are times when we drop the travel plans thinking about how we would manage our conversation while traveling. Worry not, this blog will help you choose the handy languages for travellers according to the place you travel.

People who have a love for travel often feel a sense of adventure and excitement. The excitement of travelling to a new place wants them to learn the best languages for travellers. Knowing the local language helps them understand their culture and customs more deeply. It also brings about a deep connection with the natives. Approximately there are 7,000 languages in the world. Why not learn the ones that would help you find new connections and experiences? Here are the top 25 handy languages for travellers.

1. English

English is one of the best handy languages for travellers worldwide. It is the official language of over 50 countries including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. However, you might think English is just enough for travelling around the world, but it is not true. By speaking only in English, you might miss out on various cultural experiences and beliefs of the place you visit.

2. French

The word ‘French’ immediately transports us to the imagination of the Eiffel Tower which symbolizes love. That’s why French is known as the romantic language. If you are planning to visit France anytime soon, knowing a few basics of French would make you connect with locals easily. French is not only spoken in France but also in its neighboring countries such as Belgium, Switzerland, and Luxembourg.

3. German

If you are planning a vacation to central Europe, knowing a little of the German language is a smart idea. Besides Germany, the German language is widely spoken in Austria, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands. So, knowing a little about the German language can make your travel an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

4. Spanish

By looking at the name Spanish we might think it is mostly spoken in Spain. But Spanish and English are popular handy languages for travellers in South American countries such as Argentina, Cuba, Bolivia, and Venezuela.

Spanish is sometimes referred to as Espanol and Castilian. You will want to pick up a few conversational words in Spanish if you plan to get around South America or Spain.

5. Russian

Russian is the traveller’s handy guide if you are planning a Eurasia vacation. It is the national tongue of Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Russia. Apart from helping travelers explore the country, Russian is also the mandate language for astronauts who wish to travel to space.

6. Japanese

Japanese is a beautiful language and is especially beneficial if you are going on a business trip to Japan. It is one of the best languages for travellers. The Japanese language is called ‘Nihongo’ by its natives. But according to many surveys, Japanese is the most difficult language to learn.

7. Arabic

Arabic is the official language of 22 countries including Tunisia and Saudi Arabia. One of the fun facts is the Arabic language is written and read from right to left which is vice versa in most languages. Arab is a country of beliefs and interesting customs. Of course, having a grip on the Arabic language will be one of the handy languages for travellers to Arab.

8. Mandarin

Mandarin is the official language of Taiwan and is useful if you are planning to travel to Asia. Most Mandarin speakers are from China and are spoken by 14% of the world’s population. Learning Mandarin would help in improving business relationships with China.

9. Hindi

Approximately 422 million Indians speak Hindi. If North India is on your travel bucket list, Hindi is a must-learn language. Try learning and speaking a few beautiful phrases in Hindi. Because it will automatically help you receive good hospitality once you land in India.

10. Farsi

If you are thinking of having a glimpse of Iran, then picking up a few phrases of Farsi is great. Iran is becoming one of the top destinations because of its history and culture. Farsi is also practiced under different names in countries like Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan and is one of the handy languages for travellers

11. Portuguese

With over 260 million people speaking worldwide, Portuguese is one of the growing international languages. People in Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau, and Angola popularly speak Portuguese. The unique and beautiful beaches of Portugal attract many tourists.

12. Thai

Thailand is currently the best place for backpackers especially if you are single. If you wish to roam around and explore Thailand independently, a few classes in the Thai language will benefit you as it is one of the best languages for travellers.

13. Malay

Malay is a major language spoken in Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and Singapore. Malaysia is a country bestowed with splendid gateways and it’s a destination for every pocket. All in all, by knowing some Malay, you will get a better understanding of Malaysia’s diversity.

14. Filipino

Filipino is the official language of the Philippines and is one of the handy languages for travellers. This language is derived from the Tagalog language. The Philippines offers its tourists unique delicacies and Instagram-worthy pictures. Though not everyone in the Philippines speaks Filipino, it will give some freedom while traveling.

15. Swahili

Swahili is the language spoken by the people of Kenya and Tanzania. However, this language is spoken only by 15 million people, which is quite a small population. If you want to experience some of the best safaris in the world, a little knowledge of Swahili will be of great help.

16. Shona

If you are planning a trip to Zimbabwe, Shona is one of the handy languages for travellers you must learn. At least learning Shona will help you interact with the locals of the region. This language is quite easy to learn as it is based more on tones of vowels.

17. Quechua

Peru is a country of natural wonders. You will want to learn a few basics of Quechua if you are planning to explore Peru. Most of the people in Peru also understand Spanish, but Quechua is one of the best languages for travellers in remote areas.

18. Amharic

While Amharic might not be spoken in many countries, it is one of the handy languages for travellers in Ethiopia. Amharic is spoken by 25 million people around the world. If you have the desire to travel to Ethiopia, knowing a few words in Amharic will keep you connected with the natives.

19. Hausa

Hausa is the primarily spoken language of the Hausa people in Nigeria. Apart from Nigeria, it is also spoken in Ghana, Cameroon, and Chad. While people might understand English a little, knowing the Hausa language will make your experience better.

20. Turkish

People who live in Turkey and Cyprus speak Turkish. Turkish is one of the easiest handy languages for travellers to learn especially if you know Arabic. Turkey is home to breathtaking scenery and fascinating history. With such incredible wonders, one must not miss visiting Turkey.

21. Korean

Korea has become like a second home to many people. It has gained attraction through its Korean series and music. In addition, people have gone crazy for its artists. If you are one such and wish to visit Korea, Korean is one of the best languages for travellers before you pack your bag.

22. Bengali

Bengali, also known as Bangla, is a language spoken primarily in Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal. If you love lush greens and blue rivers, Bangladesh is a must-visit country. The hospitality of Bangladesh people needs a special mention.

23. Italian

Around 66 million people in the world speak Italian. Italian is the national language of Italy. Out of the handy languages for travellers, Italian is the best if your business is based on luxury items. Italy also attracts tourists because of its rich history.

24. Dutch

Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, France, Belgium, and Germany. Additionally, it is widely spoken by 24 million speakers worldwide. With this one language, you can navigate through many regions of Europe. Dutch is the gorgeous canals and vibrant nightlife.

25. Polish

The Polish language is spoken by Polish communities mainly in Poland. It is also spoken in countries such as Germany, Israel, Romania, and Slovakia. Poland has a diverse landscape and offers its tourists stunning sceneries and amazing delicacies.

Best way to learn handy languages for travelers

Once you have picked one of the handy languages for travellers, there are several ways to learn a language based on your learning style. But taking up a well-structured course will give you a solid foundation. Henry Harvin’s language academy offers a wide variety of courses. Enrolling in their program will make you prepared before you take off.

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Conclusion:

Exploring the culture of a country is the oh-so-important part of travel. Learning a handy language can make your travel more enjoyable and an in-depth experience. Besides, learning a new language can also add value to your professional life by improving career prospects.