ABOUT THE BOOK

Spanish-speaking countries flourish with a rich and integral culture. In backpacking around a foreign country, you will learn a lot about the cuisine, dance, history, people, traditions, customs, and other aspects of a new culture. The adventures that await you in any Spanish-speaking country differ by region but you are sure to take in some breathtaking scenery and ancient historical sites. Equipped with your backpack, maps, and belongings you feel ready to immerse yourself in a new way of life. Unfortunately, you cannot assume the people you encounter will speak English. You have to be equipped with a firm grasp on some important Spanish words and phrases in order to communicate.

Knowledge is power. When backpacking in a Spanish-speaking country, knowledge of Spanish terminology is power. While you already have your passport, you may not possess the necessary Spanish language skills to communicate with locals, get around a flea market, dine at a restaurant, or navigate around town. Maybe you took a Spanish course or two in high school, and you can remember a few key words or phrases. When you backpack, you need specialized vocabulary for a variety of situations. This guide provides you with easy-to-use categories of useful words and phrases that will help you get by in a country where the rs roll off people’s tongues with ease.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Katie Das is a lover of languages and uses her knowledge of Spanish to communicate, travel, read, and write. With a B.A. in philosophy and a teaching credential, she has had editing, translating, and teaching jobs and also likes to focus on reading and writing to keep her literary skills alive.

EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK

Cultural Awareness

While on vacation in South America, Central America, or Spain, you will need to have a cultural understanding of the people and their customs. Here are some useful tips to remember when traveling.

In most countries, people greet each other with a handshake and a kiss on the cheek. If you are not used to greeting people this way, it may be awkward. Be prepared to do so if your new friend initiates it.

Try to dress down as much as possible to not call attention to yourself and to show respect to the people native to the country. The website traveltaboo.com says that if you wear expensive jewelry or clothing, people can easily snatch it from you and it is a sign that you are willing to pay a lot of money for things.

Don’t worry about having an accent while speaking; just trying to speak Spanish with the help of the phrases in this book will show that you are making an effort, which people will greatly appreciate…

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