Episode 60 Lost in Translation: Hilarious English Mix Ups on Your Adventures Abroad
In this week’s episode of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy is joined by guests 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.
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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
