The ‘No English Allowed’ Travel Challenge

Traveling is about more than just sightseeing—it’s about immersing yourself in new cultures. But what if you took that experience to the next level by banning yourself from using English? The ‘No English Allowed’ Travel Challenge forces you to communicate in the local language, rely on gestures, and truly engage with the people around you. It’s exciting, a little terrifying, and guaranteed to make your trip unforgettable. Here’s how to take on the challenge and survive.

Step 1: Pick Your Destination

Some places are easier for this challenge than others. If you’re a beginner, choose a country where English isn’t widely spoken but where locals are patient with travelers. Great options include:

• Japan: English is limited, but people are incredibly kind and helpful.
• Brazil: Portuguese is dominant, but gestures and smiles go a long way.
• Morocco: French and Arabic rule, and locals appreciate any effort to speak them.
• Vietnam: English isn’t as common outside major cities, making it a great test.
• Italy: Touristy areas speak English, but venture out, and you’ll need Italian.

Step 2: Learn the Basics Before You Go

You don’t need fluency, but knowing a few essential phrases will make a huge difference. Before your trip, learn how to say:

• “Hello” and “Goodbye”
• “Thank you” and “Please”
• “How much is this?”
• “Where is…?”
• “I need help.”
• Numbers (for money, addresses, and ordering food)

Apps like Duolingo, Google Translate, and Memrise can help you pick up key words quickly.

Step 3: Use Gestures and Body Language

When words fail, your body can do the talking. Pointing, miming, and even drawing pictures can help you get your message across. Just make sure you research cultural do’s and don’ts—some gestures that are harmless in one country might be offensive in another!

Step 4: Avoid English Safety Nets

The real challenge starts when you force yourself to avoid English. This means:

• No Google Translate voice option. Stick to typing or hand-written phrases.
• No English menus. Order by pointing or asking in the local language.
• No English-speaking guides. Opt for local tours in the native language.
• No English conversations with fellow travelers. This keeps you fully immersed.

Step 5: Embrace Mistakes (And Have Fun With It)

You will make mistakes. You will say something wrong. You might even ask for a chicken sandwich and accidentally order five. But that’s part of the adventure! Laugh it off, learn from it, and keep trying. Locals will appreciate the effort, and you’ll walk away with hilarious stories.

Step 6: Reflect on How It Changed Your Experience

By the end of the challenge, you’ll notice something amazing: You connected with people in a way you wouldn’t have if you stuck to English. Whether it’s a shared laugh with a shopkeeper, a local teaching you a new word, or the sense of pride when you successfully navigate a city without English, this challenge will transform how you travel.

No English = A More Authentic, Unforgettable Trip

The ‘No English Allowed’ Travel Challenge is more than just a fun experiment—it’s a way to truly immerse yourself in a new culture, push your limits, and create more meaningful connections. So pick a destination, brush up on the basics, and get ready to experience travel in a completely new way. No English? No problem.