Why Travellers Should Learn a Language

The Language Learning Show

I was teaching one of my upper-intermediate level Spanish students today and she told me an interesting travel anecdote. Let's call this student Anna.

A few years ago, Anna was in a taxi while traveling around Colombia. The taxi driver was initially quite aloof and rude with her. However, as soon as Anna spoke to the driver in Spanish, his entire demeanour changed. He treated my student and her husband with more warmth and even gave them a city tour.

Being a traveller myself, Anna's story did not surprise me. In my experience, there are four benefits to knowing the local language (even just the basics) when travelling:

1. Locals treat you with more warmth, kindness, enthusiasm, and patience

2. You are less susceptible to getting tricked by scams

3. You have the chance to participate in experiences that are off the beaten path

4. The travel experience is less overwhelming overall

I elaborate further in today's episode. If you have any questions, you can contact me on https://azrenthelanguagenerd.com/contact or follow me @polyglotazren on social media.