Don't Forget Your Dictionary!

On my first trip to Peru, in my excitement I forgot to pack several things. Somehow, I made it out of my house without my toothbrush and toothpaste, but fortunately I was able to replace them as soon as I realized my mistake. Far worse than forgetting those things, however, was the realization that I had forgotten my Spanish dictionary that I had bought and practiced with just for this trip.

Many people told me that having a Spanish dictionary would be one of the best tools for living in Peru. I certainly believed it, but I had no real idea until I got here just how true it really was. I was like a lost puppy! My Spanish wasn't as good as I thought it was. I couldn't really talk with locals and could only make out the simplest words on signs or billboards.

The only way I was able to make it through in the beginning was by having my husband there to translate nearly everything for me. I eventually bought a new dictionary, and then of course became much more fluent in Spanish as time went on. However, I learned quickly that gestures and pointing can go a long way when no words can be communicated.

If you're learning Spanish to travel, you may not have the luxury of a "husband/translator" traveling with you. Forgetting your Spanish/English dictionary or phrasebook can put a big damper on your trip, and cost you the chance to really get to know the people who live in the country you're visiting.