Episode 60 Lost in Translation: Hilarious English Mix Ups on Your Adventures Abroad
In this month’s Ladies Who Travel segment on the Global Travel Planning Podcast (episode 60), Tracy is joined by Shelly and Melissa for a fun and insightful conversation about the language mix-ups and cultural quirks travellers encounter around the world.
From English slang misunderstandings to tips for communicating in non-English-speaking countries, this episode is full of laughs and practical advice.
Click the blue button below to listen:
Episode 60 – Show notes
What you’ll learn in this episode
- 📍 How to decode English slang and cultural lingo in different countries
- 📅 Practical tips for preparing to communicate in non-English speaking destinations
- 🚄 How to use translation apps and non-verbal cues for smoother travel
- 🛏️ The importance of reading the social “room”—from public transport etiquette to queuing customs
- 🥢 Navigating unfamiliar menus and understanding dining etiquette abroad
- 😲 Why embracing mistakes (with a smile!) leads to better travel experiences and cultural connections
Places, foods and words/concepts mentioned
Places
- Brisbane, Australia: Where both Tracy and Melissa were recording from; also a backdrop to several language surprises for Shelly.
- Lady Elliot Island, Great Barrier Reef: The site of Shelly and Melissa’s now-famous language pop quiz.
- Florida, USA: Shelly’s sun-soaked base during recording, contrasting with wintry Brisbane.
- Antarctica: Mentioned as Tracy’s upcoming “cold” adventure further highlighting geographic diversity in the chat.
- St. Augustine & Daytona Beach, Florida: Shelly’s recent and upcoming US travel spots noted for their charm and history.
- South Korea, Japan, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, France, UK, New Zealand, South Africa: Discussed as places where language and cultural customs provided travel lessons.
Foods
- Hot Chips (Australia): Thick-cut fries that can be confusing for visitors—unlike “crisps” or “fries.”
- Crisps (UK): What Americans and Aussies would simply call “chips.”
- Pepperoni (Italy): Means “peppers” in Italian, not the spicy sausage familiar to Americans.
- Sandwiches & Chips (US/UK): The different expectations and realities of sides in various countries.
- 7-Eleven Snacks (Japan & Asia): Used as examples for translating ingredient labels when navigating local shops.
Words/Concepts
- Thongs (AUS): Flip-flops in Australia, but “string underwear” in the UK—a classic language trap!
- Fanny (US/UK): Means “bum” in the US, but something much more private in British English – don’t call it a “fanny pack” in the UK!
- Route/Root (AUS/UK/US): Pronunciations and regional slang create some blush-worthy mishaps.
- Restroom/Toilet/Water Closet: The ever-changing names for public bathrooms, with important implications for international travellers.
- Queue (UK)/Line (US): Waiting in line is a British institution—breaking “queue etiquette” is a travel faux-pas.
Links
Podcasts
- Hear more episodes with the Ladies Who Travel
- Episode #14: Visiting Japan: Top Tips for First-Time Travellers
Articles
- Guide to Japan for first time visitors
- Guide to India for first time visitors
- Guide to Vietnam for first time visitors
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