Rick Steves’ #1 Tip for Overcoming Language Barriers When Traveling

Rick Steves' #1 Tip for Overcoming Language Barriers When Traveling originally appeared on Parade .

One of the most intimidating parts of international travel is the language barrier you're bound to encounter upon entering a foreign country. While English is widely spoken throughout the world these days, certain countries have fewer English speakers, and certain locals are reluctant to attempt the language out of discomfort, lack of experience or simply a preference for their native tongue. This makes complete sense, as virtually everyone is most comfortable speaking their first language.

As you're the visitor in their territory, it's only fair to do some studying up on the language before you depart for your vacation —but this can be overwhelming and downright difficult. Neither the process of learning a few foreign words or the chance of communication difficulties should deter you from traveling, though. And if we can't convince you, travel expert Rick Steves certainly can; he's got the best tips to break down language barriers. 

Related: The One Thing Budget Travelers Should Splurge on in Europe, According to Rick Steves

A long-time travel tour guide, guidebook author and TV personality, Rick Steves is best known for his "Rick Steves' Europe" brand and the television series, guidebooks and public-radio programs of the same name. He has travel guides on countless European countries and all the best tips to go with them. With his over 50 years of experience with European travel, he has, of course, picked up bits and pieces of many foreign languages. But he, too, was once an English-speaking traveler trying to hurdle over language barriers, and he shared what works for him in a clip posted to TikTok ( @ricksteveseurope ) from his PBS special "Rick Steves Experiencing Europe."

Tips for Communicating When Traveling Abroad, According to Rick Steves

When trying to converse with someone who speaks another language, Steves says to "Use what Voice of America calls 'simple English.'" Just like you might know a few very basic words of the native language of the country you're in, most people know at least some common English words. "Speak clearly… no contraction. No slang," Steves advises. Speak slowly, for one, articulate your words and stick to the basics—both in English and the country's native language. Full sentences are overwhelming and harder to follow for anyone new to a language. Steves gives a good example of what he'd say if trying to convey that his car was broken in Portugal: "Auto caput." These words are pretty universally used and understood regardless of language, so it would do the trick. 

Related: The One Simple Rule Rick Steves Advises Everyone to Follow When They Travel

Think this way when trying to communicate through language barriers. "Yes," "no," "OK," "coffee," "auto," "taxi," telephone," are examples of words that most understand, and if you mix in a few in the native language, you're sure to get your point across. Steves does acknowledge that you might sound robotic and silly, but that's better than being misunderstood. His other tips are to make educated guesses and use context clues. You're not going to see the word "pharmacy" plastered on a building, but you'll see "farmacia" in Spain, Portugal, Italy and Mexico. He also advises that you not just assume others speak English; it's polite to ask first (in their language!), and then attempt the robotic communication if the answer is no.

Related: The One Travel Essential Rick Steves Never Leaves the Hotel Without

Rick Steves' #1 Tip for Overcoming Language Barriers When Traveling first appeared on Parade on May 31, 2025

This story was originally reported by Parade on May 31, 2025, where it first appeared.