Language Barrier: Most of the people I meet don’t speak English

Language barriers in China got you feeling like 🤷🏻‍♂️? Here’s the tea 🍵!

Most folks don’t speak English, which ya gotta expect. Some say Beijing and Shanghai are English-friendly, but that ain’t always the case 😒.

Get yourself a translation app, especially for those times when you need to chat with folks or ask for directions 🗺️. Baidu Translate’s voice feature could be a lifesaver when dealing with cabbies 🚕. And even if you translate what you need, Chinese folks will go the extra mile to help, bless them 💖.

So, here’s the lowdown:

• Language barriers are a common issue for tourists in China.
• Even in big cities, English proficiency might not be as high as you’d expect.
• Translation apps are a godsend. Prepare in advance!
• Locals are usually keen to help you out, so go in with an open mind and a friendly approach 🤝.

Here’s some advice on how to tackle these language struggles:

• Get yourself a good translation app, one with voice translation.
• Learn some basic Chinese phrases; “How do I get to…” and “Thank you” go a long way.
• Look for English signs or info desks at key spots like airports and stations.
• Carry a paper map or download an offline map app. Because lost AF is not a good look 🤦🏻‍♂️.
• Use gestures and facial expressions to get your point across.

And here’s some best practice tips:

• Scope out the language situation of your destination ahead of time.
• Download a few translation apps, the more the merrier!
• Keep calm, be patient, and polite, even when communication is tough.
• Use pics or handwriting to help get your message across.
• Seek out English-friendly spots like tourist info centres or guides.

So, don’t stress too much about the language barrier. With some prep and flexibility, you’ll navigate China like a pro 👏. And remember, a smile goes a long way in any language 😄!