English is useful whether you’re travelling to an English country or another country where you don’t know the language since most people know some level of English.

If you’re learning English then you are lucky! You can use English in any country (if I do it people will think I’m lazy)

How English Will Change Travel

  • Meet new people
  • Learn about history
  • Read a restaurant menu
  • Avoid misunderstandings
  • Learn about the culture

Remember Structures

It’s useful to remember a few structures that you can add in your own words to change the meaning. 

  • I have no idea (where I am, what to order, etc)
  • Is there anything you’d recommend doing/eating?
  • Talk about the weather
    • It’s boiling today, isn’t it?
    • It’s freezing! (British love exaggerating)
    • It’s tipping it down
    • It’s a bit drizzly

A teacher can help you with any mistakes or serious pronunciation issues you have before the trip.

Think about what you’d like to do on holiday and visit the websites or read about it. Then study the language.

Don't Be Direct

  • I would like (use when asking other people) / I want (use when talking to yourself)
  • Please, could I have…
    Would you mind if…
  • Always say please, sorry and thank you!

The good thing about travel is that you can make a fool of yourself and no one will ever see you again!

*Ask people questions even when you know the answer – just to practice!

My advice for visiting the UK: Get out of the cities and see the countryside.

Don’t worry if you’re not as good as you think. Most people find language is harder when they actually go to the country – just like I did in Japan.

Today's Expression

Do you have itchy feet?

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10 thoughts on “#3 Preparing for Travel in English”

  1. Hi Michael,
    I am new here, i am happy to find out this podcast. You provide very useful information for English learners like me.
    Thank you very much.

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