Foreign Language Learning Tips for Travel

Foreign Language Learning Tips for Travel

Author: Kit Parks July 10, 2025 Duration: 46:33

How to Learn a Foreign Language

In today's show I interview Kerstin Cable of the Fluent Company about ways we can improve our language learning skills.  We learn what works and what doesn't in our quest of how to learn a new language.

We cover:

  • Why it's smart to learn at least a few phrases of a foreign language before you visit a country that speaks it
  • Why bumbling and massacring a language is a great way to learn
  • The importance of +1 or 'zone of proximal development' is important
  • How much time it usually takes to learn the key phrases of a new language before traveling
  • Why it's great to be in the 'waffle' stage of learning before going in country
  • About trying to learn several new languages simultaneously
  • Why motivation can mean more than aptitude
  • How to deal with locals who switch to English on you
  • Why grammar isn't the most important thing
  • Great ways to immerse yourself in a new language
  • How to use the internet to speed language acquisition
  • The most effective way to use flash cards and four great apps
  • The importance of 'pattern spotting' when it comes to grammar
  • The most effective way to spend your time when learning a new language
  • And much more!

COMPLETE SHOW NOTES  See important links and tips for learning a foreign language

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Join host Kit Parks as we explore the globe one step, pedal, and paddle stroke at a time on the Active Travel Adventures podcast. This isn't about elite endurance; it's about accessible, multi-day journeys that connect you deeply to a landscape and its culture. Each episode dives into the specifics of a single trip, whether it's a renowned long-distance trek, a scenic coastal bike tour, or a serene paddling expedition. You'll hear practical details about terrain, daily distances, and the unique cultural encounters that naturally happen when you travel this way. The focus is on adventures that are achievable for anyone who is reasonably fit and willing to prepare, proving that transformative travel doesn't require superhuman effort. Tune in for honest conversations, logistical insights, and the genuine inspiration needed to move a dream trip from your imagination to your calendar. This podcast is your guide to experiencing the world actively, at a pace that lets you truly absorb it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Active Travel Adventures podcast I Inspiring Multi-Day Adventure Trips Around the World
Podcast Episodes
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Duration: 18:19
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Duration: 13:29
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Duration: 32:20
Learn how to safely cross rivers while hiking with expert tips on gear, technique, and decision-making. Avoid one of the top causes of trail deaths with these essential tips. Crossing rivers may not seem as frightening a…
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Duration: 1:00:12
Learn new ways to save money for your next adventure! Today's episode teaches you areas that you can tap into to build your travel savings account (or any saving account for that matter). You'll learn ways to spend less,…
Learn How to Backpack [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:15
I learned how to backpack after the age of 50, when at the time, I didn't even hike. Which means if I can do it, so can YOU! I've now been backpacking over a dozen years and have compiled a system of the best practices t…