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Discussion – Is English the Traveler’s language?

3/20/2014

It’s been some time since I published a discussion on the blog, but you can read a few of the others here – there are definitely some intriguing subjects and even more interesting responses. I thought it fitting to bring back my discussion columns and ask your opinion on whether you think that the Traveler’s language is English, or if there's another language that benefits world travelers more?

From my travels, I can say that in most areas of the world, that if I had to pick one language that is consistently understood in almost every other country, then English wins out. But I can also say from experience that not all places offer me a sort of ‘Get out of jail free card’ for where language is concerned. A lot of places teach English in their schools, and therefore have a solid population that (at least) understands (some) English. What are your thoughts on the subject? If you only knew one language, and wanted to travel the world, which language would benefit you the most to be fluent in? (Please feel free to comment your thoughts below.)

(Photo by Vanessa (EY) via Flickr)

6 Comments

Sandalsand link

3/20/2014 11:58:15 pm

I'm not sure about what you mean by travellers. Travellers might think they're a special kind of breed, but they're not calling the shots. They are too few. From the perspective of a person in any "other" country, the reasons for learning a second, or third, language are these: You are obliged to because of what the school teaches you; you want to because it widens your job opportunities; and you would like to be prepared if you should ever visit another country.
Jobs, business and tourism are driving forces. English is of course the dominating language anywhere in the world. On the other hand I had use of my knowledge of French on my visits to France - and I will use it if I travel to West Africa. Spanish was extremely helpful in South America. In China I was happy I was able to travel a few days with a traveller who mastered some Chinese. On the other hand there is a language common to all peoples: A smile to open up a dialog, and hand and finger gestures to make a conversation. (Norwegian is my mother tongue.)

Brandon Elijah Scott link

3/23/2014 09:55:49 pm

A smile is certainly a universal language. A smile can change or break anything. Your points on learning a new language is also very nice. There are more reasons than just one in regards to why a person may want to take on learning a new language.

Ian Phillips

3/21/2014 05:27:16 am

To assume this is somewhat arrogant . I always lesrn a bit of the local language before I go there. It annoys me when tourists for they are not travellers can't even say thank you in the local language. You can assume in a lot of places especially Latin America thatE English might be the nd language but for example in Spain ad Portugal I was asked if I spoke French and also in Switzerland. I can say thank you in several languages becuase I made the effort, Generally that effort will add something to your experience.

Brandon Elijah Scott link

3/23/2014 09:58:07 pm

You are right Ian. It isn't wise to assume anything. There are many places where we might think that a specific language is spoken when in reality another language may trump that.

Andy link

3/22/2014 01:04:49 am

I agree with Ian. If you travel the world with the mindset of speaking English everywhere then you will never really travel. I frankly don't see the point.

Brandon Elijah Scott link

3/23/2014 09:59:43 pm

Thank you, for your comment. :) When we travel we do travel to learn about the place that we are traveling to. It is a wise decision to learn about the language that is commonly spoken before traveling.

Discussion – Is English the Traveler’s language?

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