Phrases You Need To Know When Traveling

If you're traveling to a foreign country, it's always preferable to know the language before you go. But if you don't have time to study the language of the country you'll be visiting, you should at least know some phrases that will come in handy on your trip. For your convenience, we've weakened our suggested list into categories.

Greeting People

The first phrases you will typically use when traveling are greetings. Try to get the time of day correct when it's applicable. Many languages have both familiar and formal greetings, so make certain to use whichever is suitable, counting on whether or not you recognize the person well.

• Hello!

• How are you?

• Good day.

• Good morning.

• Good afternoon.

• Good evening.

• Goodnight.

• It's nice to meet you.

Be Polite

There are certain phrases that you'll use in almost any the situation and they involve being courteous and polite during your conversations with non-English-speaking people.

• Please...

• Thank you...

• Excuse me...

• Pardon me...

• It's my pleasure...

• Have a good day...

• Travel safely...

• I'm sorry. I don't understand.

In Transit

Since you'll likely be traveling to and between foreign countries via airplanes, we've focused this section on phrases you'll need to use at an airport - although some are appropriate no matter what form of the transportation you choose.

• What time does may plane depart/arrive?

• Where is the [name of airline] ticket counter?

• I would like [water, food, etc.).

• Where is that the gate for [name of airline]?

• Where is the restroom?

• This baggage needs to be checked.

• This baggage is carry-on.

• What time is it?

With Customs Agents

Some phrases can be particularly useful when you go through customs. Remember to add polite phrases and be as courteous as possible to the customs agents.

• I am on vacation [or business].

• I will be taking a connecting flight.

• I will be staying for [number] of days.

• I will be visiting my family at [address].

• I will be staying at [name of the hotel].

Once You Arrive

After getting through customs and arriving at your destination, there are a variety of phrases that 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 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.

• I need [clean towels, toilet paper, room service] please.

Sightseeing

Once you're out and about at your destination, use these phrases to assist get around, have a meal, or simply enjoy a brief conversation with the locals.

• Where is a food market?

• Where is the closest restaurant?

• Where is the closest 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.

• May I have the check, please?

Emergencies

Unfortunately, emergencies can happen anywhere. Use these phrases 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 have lost my passport.

• Someone stole my money.

• Help!

The more familiar you're with the language of the country you will be visiting, the higher. But even knowing several key phrases are often an enormous advantage when trying to navigate during a foreign country and enjoying your visit there. Most importantly of all - be courteous and respectful toward other people and their customs and culture. Remember that once you are visiting a far off land, you're in some ways representing your country, so putting your best foot forward isn't only an honest reflection on you as an individual but on your country of origin as well.