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The most respectful thing you can do when traveling abroad

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, October 26th 2025 at 5:15 GMT by USA Today
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Mastering a New Tongue: How Knowing a Language Enhances Your Global Journeys

Travelers have long chased the thrill of new sights, flavors, and cultures. Yet a growing number of globe‑trotters now see language skills as the missing piece of the adventure puzzle. In a recent USA Today feature, “Learn the Language of the Country,” writer Sarah Klein argues that mastering even a handful of words can transform a trip from a tourist stroll into an immersive experience.

Why Language Matters

Klein opens with a quick poll of 1,200 international travelers conducted by the U.S. Travel Association. “Only 23 % of respondents say they learned a phrase or two before traveling,” she writes. “Yet 68 % say that speaking the local language made their trip feel ‘authentic’.” The article cites a 2021 study from the Journal of Tourism Research that found travelers who spoke the host country’s language were more likely to venture off the beaten path, join community events, and form lasting friendships.

The piece also highlights how language barriers can create discomfort or even safety risks. A 2019 report by the World Travel & Tourism Council documented 2.3 million incidents where tourists felt “unable to communicate” in emergencies, leading to delayed medical treatment or misunderstandings about local customs.

Practical Steps for Busy Travelers

Klein breaks down the learning process into three “ready‑to‑go” steps:

1. Start with the essentials
   She recommends focusing on greetings, ordering food, asking for directions, and emergency phrases. Duolingo’s “Basic Conversational” path is cited as a popular free resource, while Babbel’s “Travel” course offers a structured, two‑week curriculum.

2. Leverage technology while on the move
   The article links to Google Translate’s instant camera translation feature, which Klein says can instantly render menus or street signs. She also points to the Pimsleur audio lessons—especially useful when commuting or during layovers.

3. Practice with locals
   Klein encourages travelers to join language‑exchange meet‑ups, which are often hosted by community centers or cafés. She profiles the “Coffee & Conversation” nights in Toronto and the “Brew & Babble” gatherings in Berlin. In these informal settings, newcomers can practice speaking without the fear of judgment.

Cultural Sensitivity and the “Local Lens”

Beyond words, the article stresses the importance of cultural context. Klein quotes Maria González, a Spanish‑language instructor from Madrid, who explains that mastering a phrase is only part of the story. “It’s also about respecting how and when you use a word,” she says. For example, the Spanish verb “dar” (to give) can be used in various idioms that might confuse a non‑native speaker if taken literally. The feature suggests paying attention to non‑verbal cues—tone, gesture, and eye contact—to avoid faux pas.

The piece also touches on regional dialects. A side‑by‑side comparison of Mexican Spanish and Andean Quechua demonstrates how regional variations can affect comprehension. Klein encourages travelers to ask locals for the most commonly used words in their region rather than relying on a textbook version.

Resources and Further Reading

Klein includes a handy “Resources” box with links to free and paid language‑learning tools. Among them:

• Duolingo (https://www.duolingo.com) – free gamified lessons for over 30 languages.
• Babbel (https://www.babbel.com) – subscription‑based courses with a focus on conversational fluency.
• Pimsleur (https://www.pimsleur.com) – audio‑centric lessons that can be taken on the go.
• Cultural Etiquette Guides – linked to the CultureSmart website, which provides country‑specific etiquette overviews.

The article also references a recent study by the University of Edinburgh’s School of Language and Linguistics, which found that travelers who engaged in at least 20 minutes of language practice daily experienced a 30 % increase in overall satisfaction with their trip.

Takeaway

Ultimately, Klein’s article argues that language learning is no longer a luxury but a necessity for the modern traveler. By investing a modest amount of time in learning basic conversational skills, travelers can not only navigate unfamiliar streets with confidence but also connect more deeply with the people and places that make travel truly unforgettable.