The Basics:
There are a lot of things you need to do to prepare for an international trip. Obviously, you need a passport, proper documentation, and a visa in certain countries.
There are plenty of resources available on the web that discuss these requirements. What I’m going to focus on in this blog is a few basic ideas that have served me well over the 31 years of my professional aviation career and having visited over 50 different countries on all but two continents.
The very first thing to understand BEFORE you get there is the currency in use and its exchange value to the US Dollar (or whatever your home currency is). There are plenty of mobile device apps that give you the current exchange rate at all times. It’s also important to have some of the local currency prior to arriving at your destination. You might need a cab or something in the destination airport. The locality may or may not accept your currency and may or may not accept credit cards. Almost all international airports have a currency exchange where you can get destination currency before you get on the plane.
The next most important thing, in my opinion, if you are traveling to a county with a different language than your own is to learn a few basics. Ensure to learn how to say, “Hello”, “Goodbye”, “Thank you”, and “Where is the bathroom, please?” Locals will always respond better if you show some respect and understanding of their culture. Obviously, the more you can learn the better. Plus, with today’s smartphones, an entire language resource is often in your hands.
One other important item, again in my opinion is if you do not speak the language of your destination and want to attempt to speak in English, at least have the common courtesy to ask the person you are addressing, “Do you know English, please?” That tells the person that you are aware you are in their country and are not being arrogant and expecting them to know YOUR language.
I was in Seoul, South Korea a few years back for work. The other pilot and I went to lunch and ordered food and a few beers. Turns out the big local beer at the time was called “MAX”, written in English. My son’s name is Max, and had just turned 21, so it was a product I needed to bring home. Later that day, I went to a local convenience store and found two Max beers. I had local currency. I brought the bottles to the checkout woman. I gave her the currency I had and she gave me change and handed me the beers. I said “Kahmsahamnida”, which is Thank you in Korean. Her face lit up and she vigorously shook my hand and smiled effusely. It was a great moment and a simple gesture that showed respect for her culture and language.
There was another instance when I was in Paris. The other pilot went to see Normandy so I went out to dine alone. I had my phone translator and was determined to speak only French. I sat down and got through the introductions and ordering on the menu. I’m sure the waiter thought my French was atrocious, but I was trying. When he brought my meal, he put his hand on my shoulder and said, “It is OK, Monsieur, you may speak English.” It was a light hearted moment and from my perspective, had I not at least tried to speak French, that offer may never have come. The waiter recognized my attempt to respect his language and culture, but realizing my French was not completely there, offered a better alternative.
In conclusion, international travel is always an interesting journey. Melissa and I love learning about new cultures, experiencing new places and discovering new things. But, simple advice: Always do your home work before you leave!
