If you are going to travel to a foreign country, it is always preferable to know the language before you go. But if you do not have time to study the language of the country you will visit, you should at least know a few phrases that will be useful to you on your trip. For your convenience, we have divided our suggested list into categories.
greeting people
The first few phrases you will normally use when traveling are greetings. Try to get the correct time of day when applicable. Many languages have familiar, formal greetings, so be sure to use the appropriate one, depending on whether or not you know the person well.
• Hello!
• How are you?
• Good day.
• Good day.
• Good afternoon.
• Good night.
• Good night.
• Pleased to meet you.
Be polite
There are certain phrases that you will use in almost any situation, and they involve being courteous and courteous during your conversations with non-English speakers.
• Please…
• Thank you…
• Excuse me more…
• I’m sorry…
• You are welcome…
• Have a nice day…
• Safe journey…
• I’m sorry. I don’t understand.
In transit
Since you’ll likely be traveling to and between foreign countries by plane, we’ve focused this section on phrases you’ll need to use at an airport, although some are appropriate no matter what mode of transportation you choose.
• What time can the plane leave/arrive?
• Where is the [name of airline] ticket office?
• I would like [water, food, etc.).
• Where is the gate for [name of airline]?
• Where is the restaurant?
• This baggage must be checked in.
• This baggage is hand luggage.
• What time is it?
With Customs Agents
Some phrases can be particularly useful when going through customs. Remember to add courtesy phrases and be as courteous as possible with customs agents.
• I’m on vacation [or business].
• I will take a connecting flight.
• I will stay for [number] of days.
• I will visit my family in [address].
• I will stay in [name of hotel].
Upon arriving
After clearing customs and arriving at your destination, there are a variety of phrases you’ll need to know.
• Where can I find a taxi?
• Where is the bus stop?
• Where is this bus going?
• Where is the currency exchange?
• I would like to go to [hotel or destination name].
• Does my room have a private bathroom?
• How many beds are there in my room?
• What floor is my room on?
• I would like [number] beds please.
• Where is the elevator?
• My room needs to be cleaned please.
• Need [clean towels, toilet paper, room service] please.
Sightseeing
Once you’re at your destination, use these phrases to get around, eat, or just enjoy a short conversation with the locals.
• Where is there a food market?
• Where is the nearest restaurant?
• Where is the nearest bar?
• Where is the bank?
• How far is it to [name of destination]?
• I need a table for [number of people] please.
• May I see a menu?
• I would like [food or beverage] please.
• Could you bring me the bill, please?
emergencies
Unfortunately, emergencies can happen anywhere. Use these prayers to get the help you need.
• I need help please.
• My friend needs help, please.
• Where is the hospital?
• I need a doctor, please.
• I’ve lost my passport.
• Someone stole my money.
• Aid!
The more familiar you are with the language of the country you will be visiting, the better. But even knowing several key phrases can be a huge advantage when it comes to navigating in a foreign country and enjoying your visit there. Most important of all: be courteous and respectful of other people and their customs and culture. Remember that when you visit a foreign country, in many ways you represent the US, so doing your best is not only a good reflection of you as an individual, but also of your home country.
