Earlier this year, our APAC team had an offsite in Beijing, China. It was remarkable that the 50+ attendees came from 13 different countries, and most of them only knew how to say “Nihao” (你好). Yet, they had a wonderful trip thanks to the tour guide arranged by our local colleagues. This experience reinforced my belief that the language barrier shouldn’t deter any tourist from visiting major cities like Beijing or Shanghai.
1. Will I be able to communicate with locals if I don’t speak Mandarin?
The good news is that in major cities and tourist areas, you’ll find a surprising number of people who speak at least some English. Hotel staff, tour guides, and people working in the service industry are more likely to have basic English skills. In more rural areas, however, English proficiency might be less common. Don’t let this discourage you! A friendly smile, a few basic Mandarin phrases, and some helpful tools can bridge the gap.
2. Should I download a translation app before going?
Absolutely! A translation app is your best friend in China. Several excellent options are available, including:
- Pleco: A comprehensive Chinese dictionary and translation app with offline functionality.
- Google Translate: Offers real-time translation of text, speech, and even images.
- WeChat’s built-in translation: Handy for translating messages within the WeChat app.
Remember to download the necessary language packs and dictionaries before your trip, especially if you plan to visit areas with limited internet connectivity.
3. Are English menus common in restaurants?
In major cities and tourist-oriented establishments, you’ll likely find English menus or at least picture menus. However, in smaller restaurants or local eateries, menus might be exclusively in Chinese. Here are some tips for navigating this:
- Learn a few basic food phrases: “Wǒ xiǎng yào…” (I would like…) and “Zhè shì shénme?” (What is this?) can go a long way.
- Use your translation app: Point your phone’s camera at the menu to translate dishes in real-time.
- Ask for recommendations: Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for suggestions or point to dishes that look appealing.
4. Can I rely on signage and transportation information being in English?
In major cities and tourist destinations, you’ll often find bilingual signage and announcements in English. However, it’s always a good idea to be prepared:
- Learn key transportation phrases: “Qù…” (Go to…) and “Duōshǎo qián?” (How much?) are essential for getting around.
- Use maps and navigation apps: Download offline maps and use reliable navigation apps to help you find your way.
- Write down your destination in Chinese: Have the name and address of your hotel or other key destinations written in Chinese, in case you need to show it to a taxi driver or someone else.
Remember, communication is a two-way street. Be patient, use gestures and body language, and don’t be afraid to try your hand at a few Mandarin phrases. You’ll find that most locals appreciate your effort and will be eager to help you out. With a little preparation and a positive attitude, you’ll overcome any language barriers and have a fantastic experience in China!
Yin, Jeffrey