One of the perks of being a digital nomad is the opportunity to travel to different countries and experience different cultures. But what if you want to learn the local language as well? Learning a new language can be challenging, especially when you have to balance your work and travel schedule. However, it can also be rewarding, as it can help you communicate better with the locals, understand their culture more deeply, and enrich your personal and professional growth.
In this blog post, we will share some tips and resources for learning a new language while on the road as a digital nomad. Whether you want to learn the basics or become fluent, these tips and resources can help you achieve your language learning goals.
Tip #1: Choose a language that interests you and matches your travel plans
The first step to learning a new language is to choose one that interests you and matches your travel plans. For example, if you plan to visit several Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America or Europe, learning Spanish can be a good choice. If you are interested in Asian cultures and markets, learning Mandarin Chinese or Japanese can be useful. If you want to challenge yourself and learn a rare or exotic language, you can opt for languages like Arabic, Swahili, or Icelandic.
Choosing a language that interests you and matches your travel plans can help you stay motivated and engaged in your learning process. It can also help you find more opportunities to practice and use the language in real-life situations.
Tip #2: Set realistic and specific goals for your language learning
The next step to learning a new language is to set realistic and specific goals for your language learning. For example, instead of saying “I want to learn French”, you can say “I want to learn how to introduce myself, order food, and ask for directions in French”. Instead of saying “I want to be fluent in German”, you can say “I want to be able to have a 10-minute conversation with a native speaker about my hobbies and work in German”.
Setting realistic and specific goals for your language learning can help you measure your progress and adjust your strategies accordingly. It can also help you avoid frustration and burnout by breaking down your big goal into smaller and achievable steps.
Tip #3: Use online courses and apps to learn the basics and grammar
One of the most convenient and effective ways to learn the basics and grammar of a new language is to use online courses and apps. There are many online courses and apps available for different languages and levels, such as Duolingo, Babbel, Rosetta Stone, Memrise, Busuu, etc. These online courses and apps can help you learn vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar rules, sentence structure, etc. through interactive exercises, games, quizzes, etc.
Using online courses and apps to learn the basics and grammar of a new language can help you build a solid foundation for your language learning. It can also help you learn at your own pace and schedule, as you can access them anytime and anywhere with an internet connection.
Tip #4: Use podcasts, videos, books, and music to improve your listening and reading skills
Another way to improve your listening and reading skills in a new language is to use podcasts, videos, books, and music. These resources can help you expose yourself to authentic and diverse content in the target language. You can choose podcasts, videos, books, and music that match your interests and level of proficiency. For example, if you are interested in business and entrepreneurship, you can listen to podcasts like Entrepreneurs en Español or Entrepreneurs on Fire en Français. If you are interested in culture and history, you can watch videos like Easy German or Easy Chinese. If you are interested in fiction and literature, you can read books like Harry Potter or The Little Prince in different languages. If you are interested in music and entertainment, you can listen to songs by artists like Shakira or BTS in different languages.
Using podcasts, videos, books, and music to improve your listening and reading skills in a new language can help you expand your vocabulary, improve your comprehension, learn about different topics and perspectives,
and enjoy the beauty of the language.
Tip #5: Use online platforms and communities to practice your speaking and writing skills
Learning a new language while on the road as a digital nomad is to use online platforms and communities to practice your speaking and writing skills. These platforms and communities can help you connect with native speakers or other learners of the target language. You can practice your speaking skills by having audio or video calls with them through platforms like Italki, HelloTalk, or Tandem. You can practice your writing skills by exchanging messages or feedback with them through social media groups, language exchange websites, or language learning apps like Speaky or Penpaland.
Using online platforms and communities to practice your speaking and writing skills in a new language can help you gain confidence, get feedback and corrections, learn about different cultures and accents, and make friends from around the world.
Tip #6: Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture
Another tip for learning a new language while on the road as a digital nomad is to immerse yourself in the local culture. Learning a language is not just about memorizing grammar rules and vocabulary; it’s also about experiencing the culture and the people who speak the language. By immersing yourself in the local culture, you can practice what you’ve learned, expand your vocabulary, learn colloquial expressions, and get a deeper understanding of the language.
Some ways to immerse yourself in the local culture include:
- Attending cultural events and festivals
- Visiting local museums, art galleries, and historical sites
- Trying local foods and drinks
- Participating in language exchange meetups or conversation groups
- Volunteering in the local community
- Joining local interest groups or clubs.
By immersing yourself in the local culture, you can enhance your language learning experience and create meaningful connections with the locals.
Tip #7 Get a Language Tutor
Another tip for learning a new language while on the road as a digital nomad is to get a language tutor. A language tutor can help you improve your language skills faster and more efficiently than just relying on self-study. They can provide personalized feedback, corrections, and guidance based on your level and goals. They can also teach you more practical and real-life language usage and cultural insights.
You can find a language tutor through online platforms or language schools. Some popular options include online tutoring platforms like Italki, Verbling, or Preply, or language schools like Berlitz, EF Education First or International House. Many of these platforms and schools offer one-on-one or group lessons, and you can choose the level, frequency, and language tutor that fit your needs and schedule.
By getting a language tutor, you can accelerate your language learning progress, gain confidence, and practice speaking with a native speaker.
Final Thoughts
Learning a new language while on the road as a digital nomad can be a fulfilling and enriching experience. Not only can it help you communicate better with the locals and immerse yourself in the local culture, but it can also expand your personal and professional opportunities. By following these tips and utilizing the many resources available both online and in-person, you can achieve your language learning goals while enjoying the flexibility of a digital nomad lifestyle. Remember to set realistic goals, stay motivated, immerse yourself in the target language and culture, and practice speaking and writing the language as much as possible. Happy learning!