Learning Spanish for Travel

Last updated on 10/07/2024

If you’re planning a trip to a Spanish-speaking country and you don’t speak the language, you may want to consider learning at least basic words and phrases to help you get around your destination and communicate with the locals. Although many people in various destinations around the world do speak some English, it’s still advisable to make an attempt to communicate in the native tongue while you’re abroad. Doing so can not only help to gain the goodwill of those around you, but also enriches your travel experience and can be a valuable safety tool in case you find yourself in an emergency situation with no English speakers nearby.

Because Spanish is the second most widely spoken language in the world, making an effort to learn some Spanish is likely to come in handy not just for one trip, but for many future travels. These resources can help you to gain a working knowledge of the basics, and can be referred to again and again, including while you’re on a trip to Spain, Mexico, or another destination in Central or South America.

Basic Spanish Words & Phrases for Travelers

Is Learning Spanish Difficult?

Learning any new language is both challenging and rewarding. Most linguists agree that learning Spanish is typically easier than learning other non-Latin-based languages. Additionally, Spanish is widely spoken around the world. As a result, there are more learning resources for Spanish than many other languages.

A solid understanding of the parts of speech and conjugation will help you learn any language more quickly, but this is especially true when it comes to learning and speaking Spanish.

Can I Learn Spanish on My Own?

Absolutely! With so many resources to learn the language, aspiring bi- and multi-linguists can definitely learn Spanish on their own. However, it is important to keep in mind that you'll want to choose tools, games and apps that require speaking aloud. Reading and writing Spanish are just part of the process. When it comes to learning Spanish for use abroad, make sure to practice your speaking and conversation skills.

How Can I Make Learning Spanish Easier?

As with any new skill, practice makes perfect. With that said, learning Spanish can be much easier (and more enjoyable) by using games and apps. Some language learning apps are based around a reward system that features daily and weekly goals. Reaching these milestones provides a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction to the user. However, the best reward of all is being able to use your new Spanish speaking skills. For your trip, consider bringing a travel book with popular Spanish phrases. These types of books can be convenient to have on hand especially when you have little phone service or for saving your phone battery.

Which Countries Speak Spanish?

While many countries have populations that speak Spanish, these 21 countries cite Spanish as their official language:

Top Resources for Spanish Language Learning

Spanish Dictionaries

• SpanishDict
• English-Spanish: Little Explorers
• The Internet Picture Dictionary: Spanish
• Oxford Spanish Dictionary - WordReference.com
• Collins Spanish Dictionary

Grammar Tools

• Spanish Grammar
• Learn Spanish Grammar
• Spanish Grammar Exercises - Colby.edu
• Spanish Grammar Course
• Spanish Grammar Practice
• Learn Spanish Grammar - SpanishGrammarLessons.com

Spanish Vocabulary

• Spanish Vocabulary For Kids
• Learn Spanish - Vocabulary/Grammar
• Spanish Vocabulary
• Deborah Lemon's Vocabulary
• Spanish Vocabulary
• Intro2Spanish.Com: Vocabulary Lists
• Learn Basic Common Spanish Vocabulary

Spanish Translators

• Spanish Translation
• Free Translation And Professional Translation
• Google Translate
• Spanish English Translation

Spanish Activities & Games

• Clean Up Your Spanish Grammar
• Spanish Games - PBS Kids
• Spanish Flash Card Games
• Spanish Just For Children
• Primary Spanish by BBC Schools
• Printable Spanish
• Spanish Vocabulary Word Toss
• Games To Learn Spanish