Some newbie questions :)

[phennexion]

Hey everyone!

Just joined the forums after reading a bunch of posts and alot on Greg's sites. A couple weeks ago I finally decided I wanted to escape the rat race and get the hell outta here!! hehe, So i reapplied for my passport, got a evening job as a waiter, picked up a copy of rosetta stone french so that I can finish off learning french so I can speak it fluently enough for travel, and have been reading so many blogs, which is quite enjoyable lol.

I have some questions that I couldn't really find/google the answers for:

1) Should I go being able to speak 2-3 different languages? How bad is the language barrier in some countries? Particularly SE Asia/China/India?

2) How much is a decent amount of money to save up before going? If I wanted to go through SE Asia/India/China and then maybe europe for 8-12 months? I was thinking around $15,000 cdn? Does the camping/tenting/cycling idea save alot of money in the long run?

I forgot the other questions... i'll be sure to post them when i remember! lol

[Greg]

Welcome Phennexion!

You technically don't have to speak any other language to travel, English truly is the world's language. Learning some of the local language just enhances the experience, shows some respect to the local culture, etc.

Learning some of the language at home is good, but honestly you'll learn exponentially faster once you are submerged and see the language daily. You can even learn just by paying attention to the signs.

Expect to find at least a little English in nearly every place that caters to tourists. The more remote/rural you go the less English, however, you can still survive with gestures and smiles.    The famous Point It book can also help when you're really stuck! http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/3980880273/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=startbackpack-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=3980880273

The language barrier is a pain in China sometimes, but then again, that makes up for half the "fun." 

[MBScott]

Have you seen a commercial for a new phone app that does translations?  That looked neat, especially for a situation where you don't speak the language and are having trouble being understood.

I think, though, you'll have an easier time if you could speak what I call "hotel and restaurant" language of whatever country.  You know, learn some of the basics.

However, 15,000 cdn doesn't sound like enough to me.  I don't know that I would be that comfortable with that.  I would make sure I had enough to get myself a flight home fast.  15,000 might be enough for basic day-to-day (keep in mind, in Europe you pay for EVERYTHING, including access to public toilet facilities ... $1,000 a month might dwindle fast), but I would be worried about covering myself for an emergency.  One twisted ankle and the need for a decent hotel for a week could very well blow your trip's budget.

Missy

[Graefyl]

One thing I have always found to be of value is a phrase book. You can read it on the plane while you're flying to your destination and have enough of the language under your belt to not appear a total twit. Natives of any country really appreciate you taking the effort to learn some of their language.

Google 'phrase book' and you'll find all kinds of them. There are even some online phrase sites.

One thing you will have to be careful of is hand language. A thumbs up in one country may be fine, in another it could get you killed. So try to find out about the country/countries you intend to visit and what hand signs NOT to use.

[Greg]

Hah! So true about the hand gestures. Even the "OK" sign for us is extremely rude in many countries.