I have traveled to around 30 different countries and studied six languages, either in school or with tutors. From my experience, language learning is best done on location. My first experience was at 15 when I spent a month in England on a language course. This immersion helped me learn colloquial speech, current terminology, and cultural nuances. And it taught me that you don’t need to be perfect with your skills. It is better to try and learn than not communicate at all.

Currently, I speak Finnish, Swedish, English, and German fluently. I also have a basic understanding of Spanish and Chinese. So I knew from an experience that learning new languages is possible. But I’ve noticed it requires more repetition as I get older. It can also be more mentally taxing than before.

The joy of learning a new language

The word “need” in the blog title may imply that learning languages is an unpleasant obligation. I actually find learning new languages to be a wonderful opportunity. Even if I visit a country for just a day, I learn basic greetings in advance (hello, thank you, sorry). During my travels, I aim to learn a couple of new words each day I stay in the new country and use them immediately in communication situations. It’s incredible to see people’s faces light up when you try to speak their language. This effort instantly improves the connection, and people are more willing to help you, when they see that you are trying. If I stay in a country for a longer period, I start learning the language in a more structured way.

Why Learn the Local Language?

Let me summarise why learning the local language is valuable:

  • From helped to Independent traveller: It allows you to transition from someone who needs help to someone who can manage things.
  • Enhanced Safety: Being able to communicate in the local language can be crucial in emergencies, helping you ask for help, understand local advisories, and stay safe.
  • Cultural understanding: Language learning teaches local customs and culture. And it signals that you respect local community.
  • Confidence: Mastering the local language grants freedom and boosts self-confidence.
  • Active Participation: It turns you from a passive observer into an active participant in the community and conversations.
  • Joy of Learning: There’s immense joy in learning and mastering something new.
  • Good for your brains. People who are bilingual *show symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias later than people who speak just one language – around a 4.5-year delay.
  • Economic Benefits: Language skills can open up job opportunities, facilitate business transactions, and make you more attractive to employers who value multilingual abilities.

While it may not be strictly necessary to learn the local language when traveling to a new country, doing so enriches your travel experience and fosters deeper connections with the people you meet. Give it a try!

*Source: Alzheimer’s Research UK, Speaking a second language shows benefits in Alzheimer’s