Travel: Learning the Native Language

One of the best things I like exploring when travelling to a new place is their language.  It just amazes me how all of us can convey the same feelings and thoughts in different languages. Here are some tips you can use so you can learn the native language of the place you are visiting a lot faster:

Spend some time to brush up on the basics

If you cannot go to a formal class, you can simply explore online sites that offer free lessons.  You can also buy books or audio books to help you.  Give your brain enough time to get accustomed to the new words and sounds so that you will be prepared to learn more.

Practice the new language with real people

Even if you think that you cannot yet properly conjugate the verbs, be brave enough to start practicing with real people.  Start with common phrases and words.  Use them as much as you can while you are going about your day.  Say “thank you”, “please” and “how are you?” using the new language.

Surround yourself with the new language

Tune in to local radio shows to listen to local music.  Watch local TV shows and movies.  Read the local newspapers.  Even if you do not fully understand what the songs, TV shows and articles say, you will be able to get catch some things that are familiar to you.  Eventually, as you learn more about the language, you will understand more. 

Identify the most effective learning style for you

We have different ways of retaining new information.  Some people prefer seeing it drawn or written down for them.  Others like it better when they can write the new words themselves.  Others learn faster when they are engaged in an activity.  But there are some people who can learn quickly after listening to instructions or repeating those instructions to themselves.  Spend some time in thinking about the best learning technique that suits your personality.  Try experimenting with various techniques until you discover which one works best for you.

Have fun while learning the new language

Do not think of it as a chore or school work.  Start using the new language about the things that interest you.  Learn new words about sports, culture, music, dance or even the movies.  Think of learning the new language as more than memorizing new words and learning how to conjugate verbs.  Your focus should be how to better interact and communicate with other people.

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