Examples of phrase books and dictionaries
If you are going away and want to pick up a few phrases in a different language before you go, then take a look at some of these ideas. As we all have different learning styles, most of the points below combine visual, auditory and tactile methods. The great thing is you can pick and choose or mix and match the ones that interest you. Some points can be completed before you set off, whilst others are for when you return to help prepare for your next visit.
Before Departure
The points below will help you prepare before setting off.
1) Family fun Going away as a family? Why not get together before you go and make up some creative games you can play for example make up a quiz game. Or even have a look at this
BBC website for the Lingo Show an interactive website designed for young children.
2) You TubeYoutube has many amateur videos where creative users have put together introductory language videos (the great thing is that they are free). As bizarre as it may sound, you can even search and listen to your favourite Disney song in another language. This style may not suit everyone but it definitely is an interesting approach.
Italian menu written in Spanish
3) Phrase books Phrase books and dictionaries are available from most books stores, such as
Waterstones and
WHSmith. You can even go for the cheaper option of buying online from eBay or Amazon. These can be used to memorise things before your holiday and are useful whilst on holiday. Why not make your own list of phrases you think you may need.
4) Phone a friend? If you have a friends or family members who can speak another language, why not get some tips before going away.
Notes with 'hello' in different languages
5) Post-it notes Write a few key words and phrases and stick them around the house and remember that this is all bit of light hearted fun. However, if post-it notes bring back bad school memories and make your holiday start to feel like an exam, then this suggestion can be ignored.
6) Listen to music in another language
Perhaps this is most easily done with Spanish music with the likes of Shakira, Jennifer Lopez and most importantly Enrique Iglesias. Researching and translating the lyrics could be another fun exercise.
Lyrics booklet from Shakira's album 'Sale el sol'
Watch your favourite DVD in another language, okay, perhaps not the whole film, but just a chapter to familiarise yourself with the sounds of the language.
Upon Arrival and Return
The followings ideas will help you whilst you are at your chosen destination or once you have returned. Being abroad is a great opportunity to pick up languages as you will be exposed to the spoken and written form of the language. You can even continue learning when you get home; it is a great way to reflect upon your holiday and fight those holiday blues.
Leaflets, menus and maps saved from the last holiday trip
8) Leaflets and menus
When out and about, hold on to leaflets and even takeaway menus. These can be taken home and used to look up words and common phrases. If return to the same country for your break, you could set yourself a personal target to improve your language skills for next time.
9) Holiday snaps
Taking photos of signs and posters is a good idea for a short research exercise.
Google translate is a great tool that can be used to help you.
Posters outside a Spanish Cathedral
Don't be afraid to talk to people, especially if you are in a tourist area. It will build your confidence and most people, such as cab drivers, are polite and will appreciate your efforts. And if you are lucky, they might even correct you so you know for next time.
You will notice that fortunately a lot of the above tips are free and can be incorporated in your daily routine at home (always a bonus). Some of the ideas can also be used to help you prepare for business trips.
Good luck!
