Travelling around the world

Travelling around the world can be a wonderful experience. We visit different places, experience different cultures, different foods. It helps us open our horizons and see the world from a different perspective. However, there are a few things we should bear in mind when travel. We should be aware of cultural differences, possible localisation issues and travel and understand the travel codes, so we can ensure we will have a wonderful experience travelling around the world.

Cultural differences

When travelling around the world it is very important to understand cultural differences, so we don’t get in trouble or offend the locals. It is important to be aware of the laws and costumes of the countries we are visiting, so we not only comply with them but also have the opportunity to fully experiencing that country.

Translation has a very important role in all of this. Travel agencies and airlines sell their packages through brochures, websites, social media. It is very important that the information provided is 100% accurate and culturally adequate. They shall show the places on offer with all relevant information in a way that it also caters for the culture of the country where they are advertising. In other words, they need to make the visitor aware of the customes and rules of the country but in a way that is culturally acceptable for them. You don’t want to put possible clients off, but you also want them to be aware of what to expect, should they choose that holiday package.

Localisation issues

There’s also some localisation issues. Just like in any other industry, it is also very important to bear in mind that even in countries that share the same language, may have cultural and language differences. Not being aware of those may also result in some unsavoury experiences. Taking the example of Portugal and Brazil; in Portugal, the word “rapariga” (girl) is used very often to refer to a young woman. If you call a young lady in Brazil “rapariga”, you are calling her a prostitute. On the other hand, the word “menina” (little girl) in some regions of Portugal has the same meaning of prostitute, whereas in Brazil is used regularly to refer o to a woman.  Being aware of these little things is important, not only for the tourist who visits the country but for the translator who translates brochures that may be used in both countries.

The codes and rules for types of accommodation and meals regime can also be different. So, for translators is not only important to understand the differences in rules between the two languages and cultures, but also verify if there are any localisation issues that may lead to confusion. Understanding travel codes will ensure the right information is passed on to the clients and the right bookings are made.

The results

Travelling around the world is a magnificent experience. If everyone involved is aware of cultural and language differences, it could make it a smooth run for everyone. If brochures are linguistically and culturally adequate, they will be more appealing and easier to read. Ultimately, this will benefit tourists and travel agents.