Tips to Overcome Language Barriers

- Avoid using slang. America has so much slang that we use, we don’t realize how much we do. A person in Europe and Asia is not going to understand “wassup?” “Howzit goin?” “this place is sick” They dont even understand regular American words, like bathroom, hello, pizza etc… be careful. Bring a pocket sized dictionary for the region your visiting, it can help.

- Use World words. Have you ever been traveling abroad, and you get a blank stare when you say something simple? There are some words that are generally used all around the world. For example, Bathroom or rest room, is not used. The word Toilet is better understood, and simpler. Trust me, you’ll find the relief your bladder needs. When asking a question, don’t use full sentences, one word is better. For example, “can you take our picture please?” easily understood as “photo?” Instead of saying vacation, say Holiday.

- speak slowly. If you have to pronounce the words like a moron, do it. People in other countries tend to read your lips, so pronouncing in a slow manner helps. Pronounce every letter of the word. Its difficult to get the hang of this one, because as Americans we tend to speak loud and fast. Assume your dealing with a 3 yr old just beginning to speak.

- Actions speak louder than words. moving around, pointing, acting out what your trying to say, does wonders. If i want food, i simply move my arm to my mouth, and pretend im eating. If i need a place to sleep for the night, i fold my hands put them up to my ear and close my eyes. Use your imagination, and act goofy. If your self concious, than world travel might not be for you. Have fun with it.

- Make an educated guess. Try and Figure it out. Many words in foreign countries come from the Latin origin, just like English. Read signs, newspapers, posters, espicially if they have English on them as well. Practice your understanding. With a pocket dictionary and commen sense, the average person can figure out some important words. Most major European languages relate to English through Latin.

- Write stuff down. Take a pad of paper with you. Writing important words you see around the country can help immensley. Anything you see in the local language, that is relevant to your daily task. Also drawing a simple picture or address can be very helpful. Its much easier to understand a drawing than a mispronounced word.
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Orlando FL- With Disney World, Universal Orlando, and water parks, it makes Orlando the theme park capital of the world. they have amazing family friendly hotels, like the Nickelodeon, and Disney. A great Family spot, to keep you busy for hours of fun.

Hershey PA – “Chocolate town USA” home of the hershey bar, and Hershey park, one of the top theme parks in the country. This place has everything chocolate, from the family friendly hotels, to the hershey headquarters visitors center. The kids will love the chocolate and the fun.

Cancun Mexico – some of the top resorts in the world, beautiful beaches and water parks. Any family will be busy in this place. Amusment parks, snorkling, aquariums, and just lounging at the pool and beaches. Cancun takes kid activities to a whole new level.

Wisconson Dells – Above and beyond when it comes to water parks. Over 20 resorts with indoor waterparks. Mom and Dad can relax by the many pools, while the kids go down the waterslides. Very Family friendly and affordable. Try to go in the summertime.

Anaheim CA – All of southern CA for that matter. Not only do you have Disneyland in the heart of Anaheim, within a couple hrs, you can be at Universal studios, Legoland, and the LA zoo. Great Family vacation spot. The Magic Kingdom of convenience.

Arizona – with the likes of the Grand Canyon and route 66, Arizona has much to offer families looking for a scenic vacation. If your kids like the Wild West, it still exists here. Dude ranches, and family friendly cowboy like resorts. You can also white water raft, or rent a houseboat on Arizonas lake Powell.

Oahu HI – Waikiki beach is a hot spot for families, with surf lessons, swim with the dolphins, snorkel, and boat trips. 5 star hotels and beaches make this tropical location a beautiful family vacation. There is plenty to do on this island.

It is a short list but a good one. Gustey loves all of these destinations and will continue to visit!
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