IRVINE, CA – The Spanish Group, an internationally recognized and ISO-Certified translation service, is sharing language learning and translation advice to Americans who will be taking advantage of the fall travel season.
“This is a great time to travel abroad and discover the wonders of other countries, but the trip shouldn’t just be about seeing landmarks,” says The Spanish Group CEO Salvador Ordorica. “Learning the local language can help you immerse yourself in the culture and connect with the people—making your trip even more memorable.”
The Communication Golden Rule: Respect Over Fluency
Travelers may be concerned about not speaking a language perfectly, but the Golden Rule of communication while abroad is respect over fluency. Showing that you’re making a genuine effort to communicate illustrates that you respect the culture you’re in—and this courtesy, patience, and humility go a long way toward building goodwill with a country’s residents. To display this respect, Ordorica offers the following tips:
Learn basic phrases: Learning how to say basic phrases in their language will transform how locals receive you. Learn words and phrases such as “hello/goodbye,” “please/thank you,” “Do you speak English?,” “How much does this cost?,” and “excuse me/sorry.”
Speak the local language first: Although English is spoken in many areas of the world, it’s not always welcomed. By making the effort to learn a local language, you demonstrate respect and cultural sensitivity, reduce the perception of entitlement, and invite deeper interactions and more hospitality. Also, learning the language is practical for navigating areas where English isn’t prevalent, as well as asking for directions, reading signs, and responding to emergencies.
Handle mistakes with humility: Mistakes will happen when you’re speaking a new language, but if you handle mispronunciations, incorrect tenses, and other beginner-level errors with humility, most locals will appreciate your effort and forgive the mistake. It’s better to try and fumble than to avoid speaking the language entirely. Keep trying and if you’re nervous, rehearse common phrases out loud—and check pronunciations with voice tools—before your trip to boost your confidence.
Know When to Use Online Translations
Online translation tools can be helpful, but if you’re traveling for business and not pleasure, they can lead to costly miscommunications. When it comes to contracts, emails with legal or financial implications, and even interactions where tone and cultural expectations are important, it’s best to use a translator.
Etiquette for Visiting Tourist Attractions
There are certain areas where local communities are accustomed to tourism, however, you want to ensure that you’re still bringing the spirit of respect with you. Be mindful of your footprint by not blocking paths and rushing through crowds. Also, dress appropriately, minimize noise, and avoid large group behavior in residential areas.
In addition, you can get the most out of visiting a tourist destination by scheduling your trip during shoulder seasons (fall and spring). You may also want to explore beyond the main attractions while you’re in a new country. Smaller towns and lesser-known sites can give you a more authentic experience—and they’re also less crowded.
“No matter why you’re visiting a country, or where you end up spending your time, respect should be top of mind,” says Ordorica. “Learning a local language demonstrates that you respect a culture and its people—and they will respond in kind.”
About The Spanish Group
Founded in 2013 by Salvador Ordorica, CEO, The Spanish Group is an internationally recognized ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17100:2015 certified translation service offering 123 languages and unparalleled language precision, localization, cost effectiveness, and efficiency. The Spanish Group sets itself apart by working with certified, professionally trained linguists all over the globe who are native speakers and deeply experienced specialists in a variety of fields. The Spanish Group is trusted by Fortune 500 companies, law firms, small businesses, universities, embassies, and other governmental agencies to deliver accurate, culturally correct translations and localizations that help them operate seamlessly across multiple languages.
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