There is not much else in the world that is considered to be as rewarding as travelling. While money can buy certain experiences and help to get individuals to see certain aspects of the world, there is no denying that there are certain moments that money cannot buy.
Travelling solo can be richly rewarding in a variety of ways for those who go on their own journey. It can provide them with certain life skills or help to improve them, including the ability to be independent, and disciplined, and also give them experiences that may not always be achieved when living at home or in the country in which they grew up.
However, one of the greatest skills that travelling solo can also provide is in regard to improvements in communication. Unless visiting a country where the native language is spoken, such as going from the UK to another English-speaking nation, getting around is going to be difficult unless the native tongue is learned.
How can travelling solo encourage language learning?
The ability to embrace language is vital when it comes to travelling solo. If the individual does not learn certain vernacular or look to try and learn phrases or vocabulary that can help make their daily life easier, they will have a very difficult time getting around and being understood. This can be a common occurrence in locations where English is not spoken as a first language. For instance, those who head to a Portuguese-speaking country often opt to gain an understanding of the dialect by learning Portuguese online through classes that are specifically tailored and designed for their needs.
Language learning can be very difficult to accomplish, despite the learning process having been revolutionized in a variety of methods. However, there is no denying that the possibility of going on a trip to a destination that speaks a foreign tongue can serve as a catalyst for language learning and cultural immersion.
Understanding the local language can improve solo travel immensely
It is impossible to deny that being able to communicate in the local dialect can be an immense benefit. While it can be enriching and rewarding from a personal point of view and when considering self-development, there are numerous ways in which it can help to positively impact solo travel.
Adventurers and tourists who decide to embark on a solo journey will have already done one of the hardest things when deciding to go. It is not easy to think of just going abroad to an unknown country where the primary language is different to the mother tongue they have on their own. Many are intimidated by the prospect of doing this, and find it difficult to overcome any fears that they may have about the whole scenario.
However, while language learning can be difficult, it can ease any fears that an individual may have, and it can also help to make the entire prospect as exciting as it ought to be. Additionally, while it may be difficult to communicate at first, practice always makes perfect, and the locals are more likely to be appreciative of the traveller if they show a genuine effort to try and communicate in their tongue, rather than hoping that they can speak the same dialect the traveller does.
Best ways to speak the local language and immerse while travelling solo
When traveling solo, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in a new culture is by learning the local language. In France, for example, taking the time to learn French can open up doors to authentic interactions and cultural understanding. While traditional language classes are valuable, consider seeking out conversational language exchanges with locals or joining immersive experiences like homestays or cultural workshops. These opportunities not only sharpen your language skills but also provide a deeper connection to the community.
Language learning is an ongoing process and one that requires constant use and practice. If it is not used after a period of time, vernacular becomes forgotten and communicating becomes even harder. Essentially, if you don’t use it, you will lose it. As we know, learning it in the first place takes a lot of time and effort, so it is best to do the minimum and keep it.
When travelling solo, there are numerous opportunities in which a person can use their skills in the learned language. They can look to communicate with other people in the street or in shops and restaurants to ensure they are still using it. At the same time, it can be extremely helpful to engage with others as they might be able to tell you about spots that should be visited that the solo traveller may not have been initially aware of.
Online courses can be completed anywhere in the world as long as an internet connection is possible, while the traditional phrasebook is still a tried and tested method for so many when travelling on their own.
Verdict
Clearly, it is extremely important that anyone travelling solo decides to embrace the language of the destination that they are going to. If they do, they will be able to enrich any experience that they may have further, as they will be able to communicate with locals and have a greater understanding of certain cultural norms and traditions that can help make their time abroad even better.
