Posted in Travel Tips on February 1, 2012

Being born in a country where English is the first language gives you the benefit of being understood across large portions of the world. It is difficult travelling to non-English speaking countries around the world (unless you speak multiple languages). So, instead of not understanding your taxi driver or the road sign on your next overseas trip, there are many English speaking countries that are well worth a visit.

Australia

Australia is a fantastic place to visit but it is a gigantic country so you will need to plan your journey carefully. Sydney will be your likely arrival point and there are some iconic sites such as the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House to enjoy. This exciting capital city will keep you entertained for weeks. Check into a serviced apartment in Sydney for your stay, and from there travel out to wonders like the Blue Mountains or enjoy days on Manly Beach.

No visit to Australia can be complete without a trip to the Sunshine State however. Make sure you get an opportunity to spend a few days or weeks to appreciate the sun from a Gold Coast apartment. The Gold Coast is the greatest destination for anyone wishing to surf and it will also enable you to access the Great Barrier Reef, one of the greatest sights on earth.

United States of America

America is another huge country with a vast amount to offer. The country is famous for its diverse cultures as well as natural and man made wonders. Ranging from big cities to cultural and artistic centres their is something for all travellers. Depending on what attracts you, there are a variety of choices such as fast paced California or Florida contrasting with the delights of New Orleans and other cultural centres. America can offer beaches, shopping and art; not to mention a vast range of cuisine.

England

England is a tiny country compared to Australia and America. It does, however, have as much to offer despite its size. London in particular is a fantastic holiday destination. Whilst it will not provide beaches, London has everything else you could wish for. Between being at the top of the London Eye at sunset and visiting the West End to see a performance, there is a vast range of choice in the country’s capital city.

Historical buildings such as Westminster Hall and the Houses of Parliament are fantastic sights to see and they sit alongside towering modern structures. Visiting Hyde Park when there is an event on is an experience unlike any other. There is cultural diversity aplenty in London and you will not be left short of things to do and places to eat. Whilst there you will also have to visit the Royal Buildings of Buckingham Palace, of course, they are not a sight to be missed.

Ex-English Colonies and More

English speakers are lucky in that there are over 50 countries which have English as an official language:

•  India – As a former British colony, India has a large population of English speakers and a very high rate of tertiary education.
• South Africa - While South Africa was originally a Dutch colony, it was taken by the British in 1795 before the French could capture it.
• New Zealand - Settled by the Maori a long time before the British arrived, the treaty of Waitangi meant that a strong colony and nation developed.

There are now many other nations throughout the world where learning English is encouraged. So even if you are not visiting a country where English is the main language you will probably find many people that can speak at least a little bit of English.You will even find (in Asia and other non-English speaking countries) that you will be sought out so locals can practice their English on a native speaker.

However, in cases where English is not the first language it is always better to make an effort to speak in that countries’ native tongue. Even a few simple words such as ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ will go a long way, although, it is much easier to get around on your holidays if others can speak English as well.