If you’re on the road, chances are you will be visiting countries where English is not their native language. Although people may know a few words here and there from time to time may leave, while facing the language barrier. In these situations, alternative communication strategies are essential.
gestures known
Anyone who has seen the film Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, we know that communication strategies for the gestures can sometimes be difficult – especially when it comes to explaining to a German pharmacy full of people who may or may not be pregnant. The symbol of the ‘OK’, for example, is expressed by a circle with your thumb and index finger, where you are. The thumbs up is also a universally recognized sign of appreciation, joy and happiness.
A numbers game
Another thing that does not change anywhere in the world, is the manner in which the fingers can be used to display numbers. If you’re trying to figure out the price of something in a store, trying to negotiate with a guard position in a market, or trying to figure out travel time, if you do not know your number in the language that is visiting then do not worry – digits are a great help in this situation.
Arts Abroad
Not everyone can have talent when it comes to Van Gogh drawing, but if you can hold a pencil, you can use the art when you are in desperate need of communication strategies. If you are looking for a boat ride, just draw a stick figure in a boat, if you’re looking for a fishing trip, just call a man in a boat holding a fishing rod.
So next time you travel abroad, do not worry about the choice of destination according to how well you speak their language, or how well you speak yours. There are many communication strategies that do not change, and are so handy around the world are at home.