Anna_Mia
Do you want to get the most out of exploring abroad? Communication and language barriers can hinder your daily tasks and activities. By understanding the challenges and strategies, you can better navigate communication barriers and enjoy a more fulfilling experience abroad.
Challenges of Communication and Language:
1. Language barriers cause trouble: You will find it difficult to do everyday tasks with language barriers.
2. Dialects and regional variety: Regional dialects can be confusing, even if you communicate using local language.
3. Misunderstanding: Not knowing specialised terms or expressions can lead to misunderstandings.
4. Nonverbal cues: Misinterpretations of body language, gestures, or facial expressions.
5. Cultural references: Unfamiliarity with local customs, etiquettes, idioms, taboos, or references.
6. Shyness: Feeling shy or uncomfortable communicating in a new environment.
7. Local attitudes: Stereotypes or prejudices against foreigners.
Strategies to Overcome Communication Barriers
Below are some pre- and on-board strategies to cope with communication barriers:
Before Traveling:
· Learn key phrases: Basic greetings, directions, and expressions.
· Use of Language apps: Familiarize yourself with language apps and translation tools.
· Research culture: Try to understand local customs, norms, values and traditions.
While Abroad:
· Use of Gesture and body language: Use nonverbal cues to convey meaning.
· Incorporate Visual aids: Maps, pictures, or written notes can help.
· Local guides: Hire guides or join group tours to help you with communication barriers.
· Get Language exchange help: Practice with locals or language exchange partners, and get help from the locals to speak for you.
· Seek help from technology: Use language translation apps, online dictionaries, or social media.
