Retire Overseas – But Learn the Language Before You Go

You wouldn’t believe how many times people have asked me, “I am considering living overseas after I retire, but my concern is that the only language that I know is English. Should I give up my dream to retire abroad?” Even though I consider this a hindrance there are many who do not see it as such a handicap. If you go into it with a positive view you will discover that you can use English where ever you are. Most countries consider English to be their second language. Even if you only have an English vocabulary, the local people will be glad to assist you with any barrier languages that may exist.

For example, French people are said to be rather unfriendly – especially towards tourist who don’t even try to speak a lick of French. Well, I have to speak up for the French here. I imagine that, just like some of us are unfriendly, some of them are, as well. I spent some time in Paris when I studied there, and all of the French people I encountered were friendly and hospitable. This has been the experience of my children and their friends as well. I was not fluent in French at all upon my arrival. What little French I did know, I spoke to the locals right from the very beginning of my time there. Making that sincere attempt can make a big difference. I stumbled over my poor French vocabulary at first, struggling to communicate in an understandable manner. I can remember the amused expression on the proprietor’s face, as I mangled the language.

I’d only spoken a little, but the man flattered me about my accent, saying he enjoyed my spoken French. Then he told me he could manage English and was glad to be able to practice it on me. I felt relieved that somebody could speak English to me. I then went to this man’s shop often for great talks in French and English, even after I’d gotten better at speaking French.

French people enjoy it when travelers make the attempt to speak in their native tongue. Your willingness to step out of your comfort zone and give it a try is truly appreciated. This is what makes international travel so much fun; you need to be adventurous enough to try things that are unfamiliar to you, to welcome the cultural differences, and to explore concepts and activities that you aren’t particularly comfortable with. The potential for personal growth and depth of education are incredible, and you will feel immeasurably enriched by the experience. Give it a shot; you won’t be disappointed!

When moving to or visiting a new country, it is always beneficial to learn to speak the language. Learning the native tongue shows respect for the locals. It can elicit respect, be deemed friendly, and it will work wonders for your acceptance.

If you balk at the thought of retiring overseas because of the language barrier, this is something you may want to reconsider. It is relatively simple and inexpensive to learn another language. Retiring overseas doesn’t absolutely require you to learn to speak another language, but personally, I would make a determined effort to speak the language of a country I was going to live in. But, that’s me.

You will enjoy living in another country much more if you can speak and understand the locals’ language. You’ll be able to understand the details of the culture much more easily, and it can be fascinating and enjoyable to become part of a different culture. It’s an experience you shouldn’t miss. It’s much easier to learn to speak another language if you live in a place where that language is spoken.

I could speak French fluently, and I was breathing, living, thinking, and even dreaming in French when I left. During my flight home on Air France, the flight attendant spoke English to me, and, without thinking, I answered in French. When I tried to switch back to English, I had to really think about the equivalent words in English. I continued to think in French. What a great experience. I still laugh when I remember that. I will never forget my treasured time in France and how learning the language deepened my pleasure in the experience.

Jackie Collins has researched language learning for more than 30 years. She knows it has never been easier to learn a language . So, learn to speak proficiently, quickly, and naturally before you move overseas. Visit our blog and subscribe to our newsletter for more details.