Travel English: Vocabulary, Phrases & Expressions for Traveling (A2 / B1) (2024)

Going on vacation or a business trip? It’s a great idea to improve your English speaking skills before you go! Knowing some essential English travel phrases will make your trip safer, smoother and more enjoyable.

Here are some phrases that will be useful to know on each of the following topics:

• The airport
• The airplane
• Trains
• Directions
• Hotels and hostels
• Food and restaurants
• Shopping
• Sightseeing
• Talking to locals and new friends

Master all of them and you’ll be prepared for almost any situation you’re likely to face on vacation!

Specialist words that you might not know are in bold. Not sure what they mean? Try searching for the word in Google Images. This way, you will get a visual explanation, but not take your brain out of “English mode!”

Getting to your destination

The airport

Questions you might need to ask (and answers you might hear!)

Where is the check-in counter for British Airways?

• It’s in the other terminal over the road.
• It’s on the right just opposite the Starbucks.

Am I in the right queue?

• No, this is for customers with priority boarding.
• Yes, you’re in the right place.

Do you accept payment in Euros?

• Yes, but there’s a 12% fee on top of the exchange rate.
• No, sorry about that. We accept credit cards though!

Where is the currency exchange?

• There’s a booth right next to the front entrance.
• There’s an ATM on the other side of security.

Will I be allowed to take this on the plane?

• No, I’m afraid you’ll have to empty the container or throw it away.
• Yes, that should be fine as long as it’s in your checked baggage.
• Yes, that should be alright!

Do you have any more information on why my flight has been delayed?

• No, sorry, I can’t comment on that. There will be more information on the boards when it comes in.
• There are some minor Air Traffic Control issues today.
• There are adverse weather conditions on the flight journey, because of a storm over the Atlantic ocean.

Is there a shuttle bus that runs between terminals?

• Yes, you will need to go to the end of this terminal and down the escalators to find it.
• No, but there’s a train between terminals 2 and 5. Just follow the signs.
• No, but it won’t take long to walk.

How long will it take me to get to the gate?

• About thirty minutes. I would start walking soon if I were you!
• It’s a five or ten-minute walk.

How much time should I allow to get through security?

• At least an hour. It’s busy today.
• About half an hour.

Where is the gate?

Where is the departure lounge?

• Just around the corner, on the right.
• Keep walking straight through this terminal. It’s near the toilets.

Excuse me, where is the baggage claim area?

• Just follow the signs to the exit.

When are the bags arriving for the flight from Malaga?

• It should be less than half an hour now.
• I don’t know, I will check with another member of staff.

I can’t see my suitcase on the conveyor belt! Is it lost?

• Not all of the suitcases from your flight are out yet. It is probably still onboard the plane.
• I’m very sorry to hear that. Come and speak to a colleague of mine, please.

Can I request an aisle seat, please?

• Of course, you can change seats for an extra $15.
• No, I’m afraid all of the seats are booked up.

When is the final boarding call?

• In ten minutes!

Where is the taxi rank/coach stop/bus stop?

Questions you might be asked (and answers you might give!)

Is anybody else traveling with you today?

• Yes, my wife is with me.
• No, it’s just me.

What’s the purpose of your trip?

• I’m visiting Kiev on business. I am a journalist.
• I’m going on holiday for a few weeks.

May I see your boarding pass and passport?

• Sure, here you go.

How many pieces of luggage are you checking in today?

• None, I only have hand luggage.
• Two: my suitcase and these golf clubs.

Do you have a carry-on?

• Yes, here it is.

Did you pack your suitcase yourself?

• Yes.

Have you left your luggage unattended at the airport?

• No.

Do you have any flammable materials, firearms or perishable food items?

• No.
• Oh whoops! I did pack some bananas. I can take them out now if they are banned.

Could you take your laptop out of its case and put all electrical items in a tray, please?

• Sure, of course.

Can you take off your shoes and watch, please?

Can I ask you to open your bag for me?

Can you walk through the scanner, please?

Is Barcelona your final destination or are you transferring on to somewhere else?

• It’s a connecting flight. I have to catch another flight from Barcelona to Lisbon.
• Barcelona is my final destination.

Here is a more detailed guide on how to go through customs and passport control at the airport.

The airplane

Questions you might need to ask (and answers you might hear!)

Do you have any food that’s suitable for vegetarians?

• Yes, of course, we have a cheese sandwich.
• Yes, a selection of crisps and biscuits are available on the on-flight menu.

Can I have a bottle of water, please?

• Of course, here you go.
• Sure, that will be $4 please.

Is there a complimentary meal?

• Yes, a trolley will be around in fifteen minutes or so.
• No, but there’s a selection of refreshments available for a small fee.

Am I allowed to get out of my seat?

• Not during take-off. Wait until the red light goes off, please.
• Yes, go ahead.

This turbulence is frightening, when will it pass?

• Don’t worry sir, it should only last a few more minutes.
• Don’t worry, it’s just a bit bumpy, it will pass soon.
• We don’t know, but don’t worry — it’s not unusual and you’re perfectly safe.

Can you show me how to use the fan?

• Sure, here you go.

Is the aisle seat taken?

• Yes, my husband is sitting there, sorry.
• No, do you want to swap?

Could you move up one seat, please?

• Sure thing, let me just move my bag.
• Sorry, my son is sitting here.

Excuse me please, I need to use the bathroom.

• Sure, one second.

How long until touchdown?

• Not long now, another forty minutes or so.
• Three hours yet, sir.

Questions you might be asked (and answers you might give!)

Can you put your bag under the seat, please?

Can you put your carry-on in the overhead compartment?

Can you fasten your seatbelt, please?

Can you fasten your tray table in the upright position for take-off?

Please open your window for lift-off.

Can you sit down, please?

Can I get you anything to drink?

• Yes please! Can I have a beer?
• No thanks, I’m all set.
• Is there an extra fee for food and drink?

Would you like to see our selection of gifts available on board today?

Do you need to fill in an arrival card/landing card?

Please wait for the green light to disembark.

Trains

Questions you might need to ask (and answers you might hear!)

How much is a return ticket to Liverpool?

• That depends. When do you want to come back?
• $59 if you are coming back today.

When are off-peak fares valid?

• We don’t have off-peak fares.
• If you’re traveling between 9am and 4pm, or on the weekends. Times that aren’t rush hour, basically!

How often does the train to Manchester run?

• It runs every hour at 35 minutes past.
• Twice a day. Do you want to see a timetable?

Can I book a window seat please?

• Sure. It costs $5 extra to reserve a seat.
• Of course.
• No, sorry, there are no reserved seats on this train.

Does it go directly, or do I need to change?

• It goes directly, all the way to Toronto.
• You have to change at Hull.

What time does the train leave?

• At 10:55.
• Not until this afternoon.

Which platform is it on?

• The platform hasn’t been announced yet. You’ll see it on the boards in a few minutes.
• It should be platform three.

How do I get to platform 6?

• You need to go through the underpass, then it’s the third exit on the right.
• Go over the bridge and turn left.

Is there a student discount?

• Only if you have a valid Student Railcard. Do you?
• Yes, with a valid student ID.
• Not for this service.

How many stops left until we get to Tulsa?

• Thirteen stops, it will be about an hour and ten minutes longer.

Do trains to Margate leave from this station?

• Yes, you’re in the right place. The platform will be announced soon.
• No, they only go from St Pancras and Victoria, so you’ll need to cross London. Do you need directions?

Does this train have sleeper seats?

• No, I’m afraid not.
• Yes, they cost $80 each.

Can I book a seat that faces forward?

• Of course.
• No, sorry, you can’t reserve seats in advance on this service.

Can I buy food on board?

• Yes, there’s a buffet car.
• No, you have to bring your own.

I booked my ticket online. Do I need to collect a paper version?

• Yes, you’ll have to type your reservation code into one of the machines over there.
• Yes, I can print it for you here.
• No, just show the QR code on your phone.

How long is my ticket valid for?

• Anytime this week.
• It’s only valid on this particular train.

Can you swap places with me? I want to sit next to my girlfriend.

• Sure! Where’s your seat at the moment?
• No, sorry, I like having the window seat.

Do you know how much longer my train will be delayed?

• No idea, sorry. There will be further announcements on the board when we get them.
• It shouldn’t be more than ten minutes late, it’s just being held at a red signal.

Do you know if the 10:45 to Oxford is canceled?

• It’s not canceled, just running ten minutes late.
• It has been canceled, I’m afraid. There’s another one due at 11:45.

Questions you might be asked (and answers you might give!)

Return or one way?

• Return, please. I want to come back today.
• One way, plase.

Is that a single?

• Yes, I’m going one way.
• No, return.

Where are you trying to get to?

• York.

Can I see your ticket please?

• Here you go. Do you need to see my ID, too?
• I haven’t bought it yet. Can I buy one from you?

Standard or first class?

• Standard, please.
• What’s the difference in the service?

Do you want a window or aisle seat?

• I don’t mind.
• A window seat please.

Do you have an open return?

• No. Does that mean I can only use my return ticket today?
• Yes, want to see it?

Your ticket isn’t valid on this train. Would you like to upgrade it?

• Sorry about that, I didn’t know! How much does an upgrade cost?
• Oh no, I didn’t realize! When is the next train I can use it on?

Directions

Questions you might need to ask (and answers you might hear!)

Where is the nearest ATM?

• There’s one outside the post office.

Excuse me, do you know where The Hotel Belle Vue is?

• Let me just check on my phone.
• Carry on down this road until you see an ice cream shop, then turn onto the street on your right. It is somewhere towards the bottom of that road on the left.

Hi there, can you show me on this map where the train station is?

• Do you have a pen? I can circle it for you.
• Here it is.

Excuse me, do you live around here? I need some help with directions!

• Sorry, I’m just visiting too.
• Yes, sure, what are you looking for?

Excuse me, do you have a second to help me with directions?

• No, sorry, I’m running late.
• Yes, where are you trying to get to?

Do you know where I can buy a plug adaptor around here?

• There’s a pharmacy on the high street, which is very close to here.
• If you follow the signs to the train station, there is a mall on the way.

Do you know where the nearest pharmacy is?

Is there a swimming pool around here?

• Sure, there’s one quite close to here. Walk up the hill until you see a McDonald’s, then turn left onto a very small road. You should keep going until you see a hairdresser with a red shop front. It’s just a little bit further than that.

Can you show me on Google Maps?

• Sure, give me your phone, I can drop a pin in.
• Yes, here you go.

Excuse me, where can I catch the bus into town from here?

• You need to take the number 8 or the number 12. They leave from the bus stop near the park. You have to cross the street to be on the right side.

Excuse me, what’s the best way to get to the center from here?

• You can walk from here, just follow the signs to the mall.
• You need to take the bus, just catch the number 12 towards Finchley and ask for Cecil Square.

Excuse me, I’m really lost! Can I possibly borrow your phone to look up where my hostel is?

• No, sorry.
• I can look it up for you. What’s it called?
• Sure, here you go.

Excuse me, I’m lost! Please, can you call me a taxi?

• Sure, where to?
• No, but there’s a taxi stand near the train station up the road.

Could you repeat that please?
Could you speak a little slower please?
Could you write that down for me?

Questions you might be asked (and answers you might give!)

Do you know where the cathedral is?

• I think so, is it down the street in this direction?
• No, I’m new around here.

Do you want me to show you on Google Maps?

• Yes, please, let me get my phone.
• No, thanks, I don’t have internet access on my phone.

Do you want me to write it down for you?

• Yes, please, do you have a pen and paper?
• That would be great, thanks.

Did you catch all that?

• No, could you say it again, please?
• Yes, I think so!

Enjoying your destination

Hotels and hostels

Questions you might need to ask (and answers you might hear!)

Do you have any double rooms available for tonight?

• No, I’m afraid we’re all booked up.
• Certainly, how many nights are you planning to stay with us?

Do you have any beds available in a female-only dorm?

• Yes, we have one available in an 8-bed dorm.
• No, all of our rooms are mixed gender.

Does it come with an ensuite?

• Yes, of course.
• No, the bathrooms are shared.

How much does it cost for one night?

• $60 per night, $50 per night if you book more than three nights in a row.
• $12 for an 8-bed dorm, $10 for a 16-bed.

Do I have to pay upfront?

• Yes, please.
• You can pay half now and half at check-in if you prefer.

Is access to the pool and spa included?

• Yes, all included.
• No, would you like to see the price list for access?

What time is breakfast served?

• From 7am to 10am on the terrace.
• We don’t serve breakfast at a set time but the cafe on the ground floor opens at 6:30am.

Can I have an extra keycard, please?

• Sure, here you go.
• Sure, but there’s a $5 deposit for every extra card.

What is the Wi-Fi password?

• It’s written on the notice board.
• Let me show you, it’s written on our leaflets.

What is the door code?

• It’s written on the chalkboard here, we change it every day.
• Here, let me write it down for you.

What is the combination for the safe?

• There are instructions in your room. You must set it yourself.
• Let me write it down for you.

Which floor is my room on?

• The third floor. You might want to take the elevator if your bags are heavy.
• The ground floor, just along the corridor.

Are there any good restaurants for dinner around here?

• Yes, you can find information on the leaflets in the common room.
• Yes, what kind of food are you looking for?
• Absolutely, there’s a great Greek place just down the street.

Our sheets are dirty. Can you please change them?

• I’m so sorry about that! I will send someone up.
• Are you sure? We changed them this morning.

How much is the bottle of champagne in the mini-bar?

• There should be a price list in your room, but I’ll print another one out for you now.
• $20, I believe. Would you like to buy it?

What time is check-out?

• 10am.
• 9am. Or you can leave at midday for a small fee.

Do you have lockers?

• Yes, there are some next to the shower room. Do you need to buy a padlock?
• No, but we have a safe behind the desk for your valuables.

Can I leave my rucksack behind the desk for a few hours after checkout?

• Sure, no problem! Just be sure to put a label with your contact details on it.
• You’re welcome to leave it in the common room, but it’s at your own risk.

Is there a kitchen I can use?

• Yes, we have a shared kitchen down the hall. Please label your food!
• No, we have a cafe, though.

Am I allowed to bring my own food and drink in?

• Sure! There’s a fridge in the kitchen.
• No, we have a hostel bar and kindly ask that you don’t bring your own food.

Does the room have air conditioning?

• Yep.
• No, but there’s a fan you can borrow if it gets really hot.
• No, sorry, we’re a budget hostel!

Where is the nearest ATM?

• There’s one down the street outside the little grocery store.
• Here, let me show you on a map.

Hey, I’ve lost my ring, did anyone hand it in?

• Let me check the lost property box.
• I think someone did leave a ring at the bar last night…let me check.

Questions you might be asked (and answers you might give!)

Do you have a reservation?

• Yes, I booked online. Let me find the email.
• No, do you have any spare rooms for tonight?

What name is your reservation under?

• Claire Jones.

Would you like a single or a double room?

• A single please, with an ensuite if possible.
• A large double room please.

Would you like to be in an 8-bed or 16-bed dorm?

• How much is the price difference?
• 8-bed please.

Would you prefer to be in a top or bottom bunk?

• Top, please.
• I don’t mind.
• Do you have any beds that aren’t bunk beds?

Can I see some ID, please?

• Sure, is my driver’s license alright?
• Here’s my passport. I would prefer to keep hold of it, though!

Can I take an email address or contact phone number?

• Sure, it’s 09793 879922.
• Let me write down my email for you.

Would you like a view of the street or onto the sea?

• What’s the difference in price?
• The sea, please, if possible!

Do you need any help with your bags?

• No, thanks but I got it.
• Yes please, my rucksack is so heavy.

How many nights will you be staying?

• At least two, maybe more. Can I book night by night?
• Three nights, if possible.

Do you want to have breakfast with us too?

• How much extra does it cost?
• I’m not sure yet, may I see a menu?
• Yes, please!

Are you interested in hearing about the spa?

• No thanks, I have lots of plans.
• Yes please, do you have a list of services?

Do you need a towel?

• Yes, please.
• No, I’m all set.

Can you please strip your bed on your final day?

• Sure, where shall I leave the sheets?
• Of course.

Please read and sign our guest code of conduct.

• Thanks, will do.

Do you want a map of the city?

• No, thanks, I’ll use my phone.
• Yes, please! Could you recommend a good bar for tonight?

Is everything okay with your room?

• It’s great, thanks!
• Not bad, but it was very loud last night.
• It’s good, but I can’t figure out how to work the air conditioning. Can you help me?

Prefer to learn with a video? This short film by Bob the Canadian teaches a selection of very useful hotel words.

Food and restaurants

Questions you might need to ask (and answers you might hear!)

Can I have a table for two, please?

• Do you have a reservation?
• Of course, come right this way.

Could we possibly sit in the window?

• Those seats are reserved tonight, I’m afraid.
• Of course, take a seat.

What are the specials for today?

• They’re on a board by the bar. I can read them out to you…
• I’ll bring you a specials menu.

Do you have a set menu?

• Yes, two courses for $10. I can bring you the menu.
• No, only at lunchtime.

Is the cheeseboard big enough to share between two?

• Yes, it’s huge!
• It’s not very big, but you could share it if you aren’t very hungry.

What do you recommend?

• The house special today is the fish soup, it’s delicious.
• It depends what kind of food you like. My favourite is the szechuan chicken.

Does this come with fries?

• Yes, all dishes come with fries or a salad.
• No, would you like to order them as a side?

Can I see the wine list please?

• Of course, I will bring it right away.
• It’s on the back of the food menu.

Can I have the burger without onions, please?

• Of course.

Do you have anything suitable for vegans?

• Everything vegan is marked on the menu with a capital “V.”
• I think the pasta can be made vegan. I will go and check with the chef.

Do you know if the meat is halal?

• Yes, we only use halal meat here.
• Let me check that for you. Which dish are you looking at?

I’m allergic to peanuts. Can you ask the chef if they are used in this sauce?

• I think the sauce is made with peanuts.
• Let me check with the chef.

Can we have a jug of tap water for the table, please?

• Of course, ice and lemon?
• Sure.

Can I see the dessert menu please?

• Sure.
• It’s on the back of the main menu.

How spicy is the curry?

• It’s pretty mild.
• It’s quite hot! Would you like a side of yoghurt?

What flavors of ice cream do you have?

• Chocolate, vanilla and strawberry.
• It changes every day. I will go and check.

Can I have some extra ketchup please?

• Sure, any other sauces?

Can I get my leftovers in a doggie bag please?

• Okay, I will put your pizza in a takeaway container.
• We don’t offer that service, I’m afraid.

Is it table service or do we order at the bar?

• You need to order at the bar.
• Table service. I’ll be round in a minute or two.

Can we split the bill, please?

• Sure. How many ways?
• Sure, how much are you each paying?

Is there a service charge?

• Yes, 12%.
• No, it’s optional.

Questions you might be asked (and answers you might give!)

Eat-in or take-away?

• Take-away, please.
• Eat-in, please, if there’s space.

There’s a twenty minute wait to be seated, is that alright?

• That’s fine, can we wait at the bar?
• I think we’ll go elsewhere, thanks.

Do you have a reservation?

• No, do you have space for us?
• Yes, I booked under the name “Mike.”

How many of you are there?

• There are six of us.
• Only two.

Can I take your jacket?

• No, thanks, I think I’ll keep it on.
• Yes, please. Thank you.

Would you like any drinks while you’re deciding?

• Two gin and tonics, please.

Are you ready to order yet?

• Yes, I think so! I would like the bruschetta to start with, please.
• No, can you give us another minute please?

Are you having starters or just main courses?

• We’re just ordering mains.
• We are having starters. I would like the prawn co*cktail, please.

What kind of wine would you like?

• Can I see a wine list, please?
• A bottle of the house red, please.

How many glasses? (For the bottle of wine)

• Three, please.

What kind of beer would you like?

• What options do you have?
• I like dark beers, what do you recommend?

Can I get you any sauces?

• No thanks, we’re all set.
• Can I get BBQ sauce and mayonnaise please?

Do you have any allergies?

• My wife is allergic to shellfish.
• No, we eat everything!

Is everything okay with your meal?

• It’s delicious, thanks!
• The pasta arrived cold, can you heat it up, please?
• No, I found a fly in my soup.

Would you like to see a desert menu?

• Yes, please!
• No, we’re full, thank you.

Can I get you anything else?

• A glass of tap water would be lovely.
• Can we have some more napkins please?

Paying by cash or card?

• Cash, if that’s alright.
• Card, please.

Are you paying all together?

• We want to split the bill in half, please.
• Yes, this is on me.

Shopping

Questions you might need to ask (and answers you might hear!)

How much is this?

• It’s $5.99.
• Those cost $1.99 each or three for $5.

Do you have this in a bigger size?

• Let me check for you.
• No, I think that’s the largest size we have.

Do you know where the potato chips are?

• They’re on aisle five with the pasta. I can show you.
• Just over there on the left.

Can I have a receipt, please?

• Sure, here you go.

Can I pay by card?

• No, we’re cash only, I’m afraid. There’s an ATM outside the shop, though.

What time do you close?

• We close at 8pm today.

Are you open tomorrow?

• Yes, from 9am until 5:30pm.
• No, we are closed on Sunday.

Where are the fitting rooms?

• Just behind the cash register.
• We don’t have fitting rooms, I’m afraid.

Do you sell souvenirs?

• Yes, there are some at the back of the shop.
• No, but there’s a good gift shop two doors down from us.

Is this on sale?

• Yes, it’s 20% off.
• No, it must have been put on the wrong shelf.

Can I return this if it doesn’t fit?

• Yes, as long as you have the original packaging and receipt.
• No, all sales are non-refundable.

This costs more than I thought it would. Could you check the price please?

• Sure, I can double check.
• I’m afraid it does cost $5.99. Perhaps someone put it on the wrong shelf.

How much does that come to?

• That’s $9.99 all together, please.

Are you in the line for the cash register?

• Yes, sorry.
• No, go ahead.

Questions you might be asked (and answers you might give!)

Anything else for you today?

• Do you sell cigarettes?
• No thanks, that’s everything.

There’s a discount if you buy three of these. Would you like another?

• No thanks, I don’t need it.
• Yes sure, I’ll Get one more.
• How much is the discount?

I can’t find the barcode on this, could you get me a different one?

• Sure, I will go and get one with a sticker on it.

Do you have a loyalty card?

• No, I’m new around here.
• Yes, just let me find it.

Do you want to sign up for our loyalty program?

• No thanks, I’m a tourist!

Do you need a bag?

• No, thanks, it will fit in my backpack.
• Yes, please. Does that cost extra?

Sightseeing

Questions you might need to ask (and answers you might hear!)

When does the museum open?

• It opens at 10am every day except Mondays.

Am I in the right place for the tour?

• Yes, wait over there by the sign please.
• Which tour are you looking for? Have you booked?

Where is the entrance to the cathedral?

• You have to go around the back and through a big metal gate.
• It’s in a building next door.

Do I need to book a ticket online for this?

• Yes, visitors are only allowed to enter in timed slots.
• No, you can buy them here.

Is there parking near the garden?

• Yes, you can pay for it in the cafe.
• No, you have to find parking on a side street.

Where is the gift shop?

• It’s on the second floor, just near the escalators.

Is the gallery suitable for children?

• Yes, we’ve got plenty of activities for kids!
• Mostly, but some of the rooms have content warnings. I can show you which ones they are on a map.
• Maybe, but I think they might get a bit bored.

Can you drop us off here?

• Sure, I will pull over.

What is there for tourists to do in this city?

• There’s a famous cathedral you might like to check out, and a huge shopping center.
• We have some leaflets behind the front desk. What do you enjoy doing on holiday?

Where is the tourist information center?

• It’s two streets over, next to the bank.
• There’s a kiosk in the town center.

How much is admission?

• $5, or $4 for seniors, children or students.

How long are we allowed to stay for?

• Until closing time, if you like! We close at 5:30pm.
• Your ticket is valid for an hour and a half.

What time does the coach depart for Stonehenge?

• It leaves at 7 am — bright and early!
• We will meet in the parking lot at 10 am.

Is there a discount for families?

• Yes, it’s $40 for two adults and two children under twelve.
• Not exactly, but children under five go free.

Do you have any free maps of the city?

• Sure, here you go.
• No, but maybe I can help you. What are you looking for?

Do you have brochures in Portuguese?

• Of course, let me find one for you.
• No, sorry, they’re only available in English.

Am I allowed to use the restroom?

• No, it’s for paying customers only.
• Yes of course, it’s out back and the door code is 4409.

Questions you might be asked (and answers you might give!)

Are you looking for the exhibition?

• Yes, am I in the right place?
• No, I’m alright, thanks.

How many tickets do you need?

• Two, please.
• Three, please. Is there a discount for seniors?

Would you like an audio guide?

• That depends. Is it available in Mandarin?
• No thank you.

Do you want a leaflet about our tours?

• Sure, thanks.
• No, thanks.

Can I see your ticket, please?

• I don’t have one, can I buy one?
• Sure, here you go.

Can you stay behind the barrier, please?

• Sorry, of course.

Can I check your bag, please?

• Sure, here you go.
• Okay. Am I allowed to take water in with me?

Can you sign this disclaimer, please?

• Sure, here you go.
• I don’t really understand what I am signing! Do you have a version in French?

Talking to locals and new friends

Questions you might want to ask (and answers you might hear!)

Where are you from?

• I’m from Poland, how about you?
• I am from São Paulo but I live in Lisbon now.

Can you take a picture of me?

• Sure! Pass me your phone.
• No, sorry, I’m in a hurry.

How long have you lived in Manchester?

• All my life. I was born here!
• Only about a year. Before that, I lived in London.

What’s it like to live in Cornwall?

• I love it. The sea makes it a very special place.
• It’s alright. The climate is kind of rubbish though.

What’s your name on Instagram?

• I don’t have Instagram, sorry!
• It’s @cathygreen.

How long do you plan to stay in Australia?

• Our flight is in ten days, but we have been here over a month already.
• Just a week.

What do you think of the food here?

• The portions are huge!
• I really like it, it’s so different from what I usually eat.

What do you think of New York so far?

• It’s a crazy city! There is so much to see.
• I love the culture but the streets are very dirty.

Can you be a bit quieter, please? I’m trying to sleep.

• Sorry, we’ll go to the common room.
• It’s a hostel, deal with it!

Can I borrow your phone charger?

• I’m using it right now but you can borrow it in half an hour or so.
• Sure! Go ahead.

Have you seen my bag?

• I’m not sure. What does it look like?
• Yes, I think I saw it in the kitchen

Can you turn off the light? I’m trying to sleep!

• I need to pack! Just get an eye mask!
• Sorry, yes, of course.

Do you mind if I switch the light on?

• Of course not, go ahead.
• I’m about to go to sleep soon, so I’d rather you didn’t.

Do you want to borrow some sunscreen?

• No thanks, I’m alright.
• Yes, please!

Questions you might be asked (and answers you might give!)

Do you want to come out with us tonight?

• I can’t, I have a flight in the morning.
• Sure! Shall we meet in the hostel bar at 8?

What languages do you speak?

• French, Spanish, a little bit of English.
• My native language is Japanese, but I’m learning English and Portuguese.

Do you snore?

• Yes, sorry, you’re in for a loud night.
• I don’t think so! Throw a pillow at me if I do.

Want to play a board game?

• Sure! What games do they have here?
• No thanks, I’m going out soon.

Do you travel a lot?

• Yes, I love traveling.
• Not really. I enjoy it though.

Can I have your phone number?

• Sure, it’s 9876788 2990.
• No, sorry, my phone doesn’t work in this country.

What do you do for a living?

• I’m a music student. How about you?
• I quit my job to go traveling, but I was a journalist before that. And you?

Check out our guide to 28 small talk questions for more on this.

The best way to prepare for your travels

English is often used in travel situations as a common language which many people can speak. This means that knowing some English phrases can make your trip safer and more fun, even if you’re not traveling to a place where English is the official language. Travel is also an amazing reason to improve your English. This was Andrea’s goal to help her improve, and she achieved English fluency in 6 months!

Want to get some practice speaking English before your vacation? Try a few sessions with a Preply English tutor or discover the Preply business trip English lessons. You can practice all the speaking skills you’ll need. Just a few sessions will make a huge difference to your confidence, and will help you get the most out of your adventure!