One of the most widely-used languages today is Mandarin. It is China’s primary dialect, used by about 70% of the country’s population. On a global scale, it’s spoken by nearly a billion people as the Chinese are opting for globalization in business, entertainment, and travel. Given that fact, it is important to note how important it is to learn Mandarin while traveling, especially in China or any other part of East Asia.
However, learning fluent Mandarin may be challenging at the beginning. But, with an excellent tutor and program, you can learn it efficiently in about a year and be fluent in the language in four years with persistence and dedication. Being aware of the benefits you’ll get from learning Mandarin while traveling can also be a great motivation, which is what this post is all about.
On that note, here are the benefits of learning Mandarin while traveling:
To Travel With Confidence
If you know Mandarin, it can help you communicate with locals effectively and navigate unfamiliar situations with ease. Especially if you’re visiting China for the first time, the language barrier may surprise you as some estimate that only less than 1% of Chinese people in Mainland China are conversational in English.
You’ll be able to read vital signs and notices in places you’ll visit and be better equipped to handle various situations that may arise during your travels, like asking locals for directions or buying items at a store with no English-speaking staff. Learning the language can also enhance your cultural awareness and sensitivity, making you more comfortable and confident in diverse cultural settings.
Although the Chinese are generally not very sensitive people, there are a few visitor etiquettes you might need to follow. For example, it’s customary to accept a business card with two hands and read it before putting it away in your wallet or front pocket but never in your back pocket. It’s a sign of respect and courtesy.
Knowing the language can give you a head start in learning their culture and basic tourist etiquette, so you’ll avoid uncomfortable situations that may arise while traveling.
For Better Cultural Understanding
As mentioned earlier, learning Mandarin can help you appreciate Chinese culture more deeply. The Chinese culture has a long and rich history reflected in language, literature, art, and entertainment. By learning Mandarin, you can read and understand Chinese literature, watch Chinese films, and listen to Chinese music, which has also gained massive popularity these days.
You’ll also have a deeper appreciation for their history. For example, when you visit significant UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Terra Cotta Army in Shaanxi, China, you can deep dive into the story of Emperor Qin Shi Huang and how he became valuable in their history if you know Mandarin.
Moreover, Chinese society is rich and complex, with many cultural nuances that may be difficult for outsiders to understand fully. One of them is social hierarchy. They have a deep respect for authority and age. By learning Mandarin, you’ll be able to understand the nuances of how people address and interact with each other based on their position in the hierarchy. This way, you’ll know how to behave accordingly and show respect to the locals.
In Chinese society, ‘face’ is a highly-valued concept that refers to a person’s reputation and social standing. Saving face is a crucial aspect of social interactions in China, and learning Mandarin can help you understand the subtleties of how to show respect and avoid causing embarrassment.
To Create Business Connections
If you travel to China for business, learning Mandarin will allow you to communicate more effectively with potential business partners, clients, and customers. Speaking the language can give you a significant advantage in building relationships and closing deals.
China’s growing economy is unprecedented, and the future looks very promising in their country, affecting their neighboring countries and their partner economies. Although the country’s economy suffered in 2020 because of the pandemic, it’s projected to regain its position as the world’s largest economy in 2023. If you’re an entrepreneur traveling to China, you can take advantage of this golden opportunity and utilize Mandarin to secure new business partners and leads.
To Make New Friends
Most Chinese people are shy and introverted, but once they get comfortable, they can offer you the biggest smile and the warmest hospitality. As you learn Mandarin, you’ll be able to meet people with the same interest as yours and connect with them on a personal level.
Aside from understanding their culture through language, you’ll be able to make them understand yours. The exchange can be enriching and fulfilling, and you’ll be able to gain friends with whom you can connect anytime.
To Better Appreciate Chinese Food
Many Chinese restaurants have menus written in Mandarin, and knowing the language can help you understand the ingredients and dishes they offer. This way, you can choose the dishes to enjoy and avoid dishes with ingredients that may trigger your allergies. By being able to read what’s on the menu, you’ll appreciate Chinese food more because having food adventures is an integral part of any traveling experience.
To Haggle For Prices Effectively
When you speak Mandarin, you can build rapport with vendors in the market, which can give you an advantage when negotiating prices. You’ll also be able to communicate clearly with vendors and avoid misunderstandings that could lead to higher prices. If you know Mandarin, you can ask questions about the product, its features, and its quality, which can help you shop for quality products to bring home after your travel.
Conclusion
Learning a new language like Mandarin can be very advantageous as globalization continues to prosper in business, entertainment, and travel. The benefits mentioned in this post are just a few ways Mandarin can open up a world of possibilities for you. If you’re planning a trip to China or simply looking to broaden your horizons, consider investing time and effort to learn this fascinating and valuable language. It may be the key to unlocking a new world of travel experiences.
