Are you curious about the secret to overcoming language barriers? It’s not magic, but a tool just a few clicks away on your phone. In this technological era, nothing is impossible. That is why there are apps designed to make your travel experience more convenient, and language barriers are now a thing of the past. Remember, you don’t have to be fluent in the country’s language while travelling. With the right apps, you can navigate and communicate effectively, empowering you to explore confidently.
We all love learning bits of the language of the destination that we are travelling to. So, why not learn a few phrases in the respective language? But the question arises: HOW? Well, there are various ways you can overcome language barriers while travelling. You will not only be able to learn a few phrases, but it is super convenient.
Thus, this article will guide you through using various ways and apps to overcome language barriers while travelling. For more informative reads, visit Route Shopping and enlighten your minds with the latest trends.
Best Ways to Overcome Language Barriers While Travelling
Use Google Translation
Google Translate is one of the prominent apps for translating words and phrases and a valuable tool for overcoming language barriers, especially for basic communication and understanding. It can be used for basic needs like ordering food, asking for directions, or understanding signs, which is perfect when traveling.
Key Features:
- It is free to use and can be used offline by downloading the language that you will want to translate in the future.
- Speech translation
- Translate text from images using the Camera feature
Get a Pocket talk Plus Translator
Price: $249
No, I am not asking you to hire a professional translator but to buy a device that is much more affordable than that. A device called Pocketalk Plus. It is a translator device that consists of 82 languages. The device needs smooth internet and uses robust software better than Google Translate.
Key Features:
- It has a back camera to translate the text writer on a picture
- Two years worth of roaming data
- Supports 82 languages and dialects (61 audio and text and 21 in just only texts)
- Voice Translations
Best Language Learning Apps
With technological advancements, everything is just a few clicks away. The same goes for language learning apps. If you want to save on something other than hefty translators, we have listed the five best language learning apps you can utilize while traveling.
Remember that the following apps or a combination of these apps are suitable for traveling and will not make you fluent in any language.
- Duolingo
- Babble
- Tandem
- Drops
- Mosalingua
1- Duolingo
Price: Free
Available on: iOS | Android
Duolingo is by far the most well-known language-learning app. It is super addictive, and its recent inclusion of music has made it more fun. It is best for learning basic phrases and vocabulary, making it perfect for travel.
Key Features:
- Perfect for Beginners
- Easy to operate
- Free to use
- Bite-sized lessons
- Offers 30 languages
- Uses AI for a more personalized experience
2- Babble
Price: $12.99/month
Available on: iOS | Android
Babbel can be a game-changer in overcoming language barriers while traveling. It focuses on teaching language through real conversations. A team of expert language teachers makes the lessons on Babbel to ensure the content is accurate and made to help learners.
It accommodates different learning styles and preferences, such as live online classes, podcasts, games, and videos. Travelers can select the format that suits their needs and engage with the language enjoyably and effectively.
Key Features:
- Speech Recognition
- Progress checks
- Bonus Content (live classes, podcasts, and magazines)
3- Tandem
Price: Basic Features of Tandem is for Free
Available on: iOS | Android
Tandem might be a good option for overcoming language barriers while traveling, but it depends on your needs. Tandem focuses on connecting you with native speakers to exchange language knowledge, which can be a great way to practice conversation and gain cultural insights from someone who lives in the place you’re visiting.
Moreover, with its recent update, Tandem allows you to learn and practice sign languages. It has 11 sign languages available. Although it has one drawback: it doesn’t help with individual words or phrases, it can be a great way to learn the language.
Key Features:
- Find like-minded learners
- Private and Group Chat Features
- Sign Language Feature
4- Drops
Price: Free (with ads and a limitation of minutes of gameplay per day)
Available on: iOS | Android
Drop can be a helpful tool for learning basic vocabulary in a new language. It uses a fun and engaging game format, which can be a good way to learn some essential vocabulary on the go. The app relies on pictures and icons, which can be helpful for beginners who have no experience with the new language.
Key Features:
- Over 2000 vocabulary words in each language
- Over 50 languages
- Animated activities to help you memorize
5- Mosalingua
Price: $9.49/month
Available on: iOS | Android
Mosalinguo can be a decent option for overcoming language barriers while traveling, but it depends on your goals and travel style. Mosalinguo emphasizes listening and speaking practice, which can be helpful for travelers who want to converse with locals.
It has AI incorporated into it, which you can use to talk to a virtual AI tutor. MosaChat AI can correct mistakes and give instant feedback by analyzing your response. It can be a good tool to boost your spoken language skills when traveling.
Key Features:
- Spaced Repetition- it uses flashcards for real-life scenarios
- You can learn sentences from real-world situations
- Personalize your learning experience by taking a test firsthand
6- Memrise
Price: The basic Version is Free
Available on: iOS | Android
Another language learning tool is Memrise, a prominent vocabulary-building tool that is perfect for learning while traveling. The app uses DIY flashcards so you can personalize language learning. With Memrise, you can learn day-to-day phrases and words to increase your vocabulary.
The language learning tool also uses spaced repetition. Thus, the app helps you review the flashcards you often forget.
Key Features:
- Learn and Build vocabulary with flashcards
- Set your goals for customizable learning
- Spaced Repetition
Must have a Secure Internet Connection and Power Bank
While travelling, it is essential to keep your phone fully charged. Or you can keep a power bank for backup. Therefore, ensure your battery doesn’t fail when you need it the most. Moreover, most language learning tools require Wi-Fi to function. You will not always have Wi-Fi available, so get a local SIM card with good internet packages so you don’t have to depend on Wi-Fi. Therefore, ensure your battery doesn’t fail when you need it the most.
Also check on how to avoid travel cost while traveling.
Final Words
Lastly, with the apps listed above and these crucial tips, I am sure you will not need any language classes or have to look for a translator while travelling. Keep using these apps at least four months before your travel to familiarize yourself with them and learn what phrases have been used locally so you are confident while travelling. If you are planning to travel and looking for affordable packages, visit Clicky Vouchers for great deals and discounts on traveling.
Frequently Ask Questions(FAQ’s)
How can I learn a language while traveling?
However, you don’t have to be fluent in the language while travelling; just a few good language-learning apps can help you overcome the language barrier. Apps like Duolingo, Babble, and Memrise can help you learn basic phrases.
How do you travel somewhere you don’t speak the language?
1. Duolingo
2. Babble
3. Tandem
4. Drops
5. Mosalingua