A Tourist’s Responsibility: Learn the Basics

As the world becomes more globalized, we often seek to communicate in a common language. However, globalization within the language space does not exist everywhere and I do not believe it should. Every language has its own idioms, patterns, linguistic oddities and other

things that have come from the history and culture that shaped it. If we were to strip that away, you would not experience the depth of the culture as some things are tied to language and some linguistic things are tied to cultural traditions.

I am not going to say, you have to be fluent in Italian or even be conversational in Italian before visiting Italy. I am saying that before any trip abroad, people tend to believe that everyone in non-English speaking countries have perfect English, or know English. In reality, especially in more rural parts of the world, this can not be assumed. English fluency varies by country and region. 

Before any trip abroad, it is important to learn a few basic phrases in the local language, even if you do not intend to become fluent. Knowing a few phrases will allow you to form connections with locals, navigate and show courtesy to the locals. This courtesy is important as it shows that you want to learn and not just communicate in a way that is not dominant to the local area. If you are going abroad on vacation, remember that no locals personally invited you there, if you know some of the local language and culture, you will be seen as a welcomed stranger rather than an annoying tourist. Depending on the region, try to aim for a mix between knowing a little of the local language and having English conversations, as locals are often open to practicing English. By knowing some of the local language, you will feel a part of the local community, at least a little.

Yes, tourism can help the local economy, but that’s not a free pass to expect everyone to speak English or to treat people like they exist to accommodate you. The environment does not support your culture in every way and why should it? When you’re in someone else’s country, you’re a guest, you are there to learn, not to teach. You want to be seen as a good guest, by adapting to the culture, not trying to get the culture to adapt to you. Even a small effort matters as it can change the tone of an interaction. It reminds both you and the locals that there’s a human on the other side of the conversation. Besides, if you’re tempted to rely on your phone for everything—translation apps, AI voices, awkward typing—remember that: human connection by voice is better. Saying the words yourself, even imperfectly shows humility and intention in a way a screen can’t. You don’t need perfect grammar. You just need to try and sometimes, that’s the hardest part. 

You do not need to have months of practice to learn some basic phrases, but they do make it easier to navigate much of the world. These phrases are designed for short trips—situations where you’re not learning the language, but still want to function respectfully and effectively.

Necessary “Basic Phrases” for Travel

1. Hello

2. Please

3. Thank you

4. You’re Welcome

5. Excuse me

6. Sorry

7. Can you repeat that?

8. What is this?

9. How much is this?

10. This one (please)

11. Speak slower

12. I don’t understand

13. I speak a little (language)*

14. Where is…?

15. Goodbye