Traveling where you don’t speak the language? 8 traveler-tested communication tips

Know how to get understood anywhere without speaking the language: learn a handful of key phrases (“hello,” “please,” “thank you,” “I need help,” “where is…?”), speak slowly and simply, use pointing/maps and photos, lean on a paper phrasebook or offline translator, write things down (numbers/addresses), carry your hotel card, and mind respectful etiquette—a smile helps more than you’d think.