Communicating Abroad: Tips for Travellers with Autism Facing Language Barriers
Introduction:
In the fall of 2014, I found myself in the midst of an exciting trip through Vietnam. While exploring a bustling market in Saigon with fellow travellers, I encountered a situation that is all too common for international travellers: a language barrier. Coming from a society where English is widely spoken, entering a new country where your language is not understood can be a massive challenge for any traveller. For those on the autism spectrum, this task becomes even more daunting.
As a passionate traveller with autism, I have faced countless situations where language barriers posed a significant challenge. From losing my temper to experiencing anxiety, I have learned valuable lessons along the way. I'd like to share some tips for autistic travellers to better navigate these situations abroad.
Use Google Translate
When facing language barriers, a great place to start is by downloading and using Google Translate. It works offline and allows you to type, voice record, and translate words, sentences, phrases, and pronunciations into the local language. For example, if you're in Germany, you can easily translate from English to German and vice versa.
2. Know a Local
Having a local contact can make all the difference in the world, especially when it comes to communication issues in a foreign country. Whether it's a friend, tour guide, or acquaintance who knows the local language, a local contact can translate for you in various situations. For instance, in Istanbul, a local helped translate for me in a restaurant, making my experience much smoother.
3. Meet the Younger Generation
In many countries, particularly those that were once under authoritarian rule (e.g., the former Soviet Union, Yugoslavia), younger generations are often educated in English and can speak it fluently. However, this isn't always the case everywhere. For example, in Armenia, I found that many young people spoke English quite well, which was a pleasant surprise. A similar experience occurred during my trip to Cambodia.
4. Practice Learning a New Language
While learning a new language can be challenging, especially for adults and individuals on the autism spectrum, making an effort can be highly rewarding. Even basic knowledge can enhance your travel experience. Though it takes time, patience, and effort, any attempt to understand and speak a new language can leave you with a sense of accomplishment.
5. Try Hand Signals
Non-verbal communication can be incredibly helpful when dealing with language barriers. Polite hand signals can assist in getting directions or conveying basic needs. While technology has made communication easier, sometimes relying on old-school tactics can help establish a human connection when navigating language barriers.
6. Use Duolingo
Duolingo is a language learning app recommended by a family member. It offers lessons, practice sessions, voice speaking, and phrasing exercises in various languages. A yearly membership costs $124 and provides value for learning multiple languages. Personally, I have been learning Russian on Duolingo for the past year, which proved beneficial during my visit to the Five Stans of the Silk Road, where Russian is a second language.
7. Practice Makes Perfect
Building on the previous tip, continuously practice speaking simple words and phrases in the local language. Even if your pronunciation isn't perfect, using your new language skills in real-life situations boosts confidence. The more you practice, the better you will become.
8. Remain Calm and Patient
I've had moments of mental stress due to language barriers, often at a moment's notice. Being unable to communicate can be incredibly frustrating, especially when negotiating fair prices as a foreigner. In any travel situation, the most important tip for everyone, whether on the autism spectrum or not, is to stay calm and be patient.
9. Embrace and Be Grateful
Learning to communicate in a different language is one of the best skills you can acquire, especially when travelling to a foreign country. Knowing and speaking even a few words in the local language can go a long way and earn respect from the locals. For example, saying "gracias" (thank you in Spanish) and "bitte" (please in German) will be well-received by the locals, who will appreciate your effort and be more inclined to help.
Conclusion
Dealing with language barriers while travelling can be stressful and challenging. However, with time, patience, and these helpful tips I've learned over the years, you can greatly minimize these issues and sometimes even enhance your travel experience. Despite becoming wiser and more experienced, I still have my moments, but utilizing these skills has made for better travel experiences. I know you can too!
Bonus Tip: There are many languages in the world, including local languages spoken in small towns across various countries. The six most widely spoken languages globally are English, French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, and Mandarin (Chinese).
