Language Anxiety Retains Tens of millions Of Americans From International Journey

Survey reveals one-third of vacationers intentionally keep away from nations the place they will’t converse English

NEW YORK — Standing in a bustling Tokyo market, you odor unbelievable aromas from meals stalls however find yourself at McDonald’s as a substitute. You skip that dream journey to China’s historical temples as a result of navigating Mandarin feels unimaginable. Sound acquainted? You’re among the many thousands and thousands of Americans whose journey plans are dictated by language fears somewhat than wanderlust.

A brand new survey from language studying platform Preply reveals that just about one-third of Americans who’ve traveled overseas intentionally select locations the place they gained’t want to talk a overseas language. That represents over 64 million potential vacationers who’re ruling out whole areas earlier than they even begin planning.

The analysis, primarily based on responses from over 1,500 U.S. adults, reveals a hanging disconnect between intentions and actions. While 80% of Americans agree it’s essential to study a number of phrases earlier than touring overseas, solely 58% truly do it. Even extra telling: 40% admit to cramming language studying on the final minute by grabbing fast phrases on the airport, in comparison with simply 25% who begin training months forward.

Which Countries Give Americans The Most Language Anxiety?

China tops the checklist as essentially the most intimidating vacation spot for American vacationers, with 37% citing it as significantly daunting for language causes. Japan follows at 34%, and South Korea claims 23%. These nations use completely different writing techniques and tonal languages the place pitch adjustments can fully alter a phrase’s that means, a stark distinction to English pronunciation guidelines.

Thailand seems on the intimidation checklist at 13%, regardless of being a well-liked vacationer vacation spot. But right here’s the shock: France rounds out the highest 5 at 13%, regardless that it makes use of the identical alphabet as English. Cultural perceptions, together with stereotypes about French locals being much less affected person with non-fluent audio system, appear to gasoline anxiousness past pure language problem.

The causes Americans keep away from studying native languages break down into 5 primary classes. The largest barrier? Thirty-seven % consider language studying is just too tough, assuming they want fluency earlier than trying even primary phrases. Close behind, 35% assume English is broadly spoken sufficient to get by with out native language abilities.

One-third of Americans say they’re unhealthy at studying languages, usually due to adverse college experiences. Practical considerations additionally loom giant: 32% cite lack of time to arrange, and 31% fear about by chance offending locals through the use of the language incorrectly.

“There’s a noticeable gap between travelers’ good intentions and their actual preparation,” says Yolanda Del Peso Ramos, language skilled at Preply. “Many Americans genuinely want richer, more confident travel experiences, but fear, embarrassment, and outdated assumptions often hold them back.”

How Do Americans Cope With Language Barriers Abroad?

When language limitations come up, Americans resort to methods that vary from sensible to cringe-worthy. The commonest strategy, utilized by 35% of vacationers, includes pointing at menus to keep away from announcing overseas phrases. While this works for ordering meals, it might probably result in surprises and missed alternatives for cultural connection.

Other frequent ways embrace making pronunciation errors (32%), counting on journey companions to do the speaking (26%), and turning to translation apps solely after arriving (26%). More problematic behaviors embrace talking English slowly and loudly (23%), staying in acquainted locations like resorts (17%), consuming American quick meals to keep away from native delicacies (17%), and even mimicking native accents (15%).

Meanwhile, 26% report feeling responsible after they must ask if somebody speaks English.

What Benefits Do Travelers See From Learning Local Languages?

For Americans who do study some native language earlier than touring, the payoffs are substantial. More than half (54%) report that primary language preparation makes navigation considerably simpler, from asking instructions to studying indicators.

The advantages lengthen nicely past logistics. Nearly half (49%) say talking even easy native phrases results in extra satisfying interactions with locals, whereas an equal share discover that on a regular basis journey duties like ordering meals, checking into resorts, and dealing with emergencies grow to be a lot smoother.

The emotional rewards are equally robust. Forty-seven % really feel locals deal with them extra positively after they make language efforts, whereas 45% expertise a stronger cultural connection. Additional advantages embrace much less stress and anxiousness (43%), elevated confidence (40%), and private delight within the effort (39%).

Perhaps most telling: solely 3% of respondents noticed no profit in any respect to talking native languages, displaying that even minimal effort can considerably enhance journey experiences.

The broader affect turns into clear when contemplating that 45% of Americans say they might journey extra in the event that they spoke a overseas language. Language anxiousness isn’t simply affecting vacation spot decisions however figuring out whether or not individuals journey internationally in any respect.

Currently, 63% of Americans planning 2025 journeys need to study native languages whereas touring, however almost one-third intentionally select locations the place English dominates, limiting their choices from the beginning.

“The encouraging news is that learning just a few simple phrases can completely transform a trip, making it more immersive, enjoyable, and meaningful,” provides Del Peso Ramos. “With the right support, travelers can move from hesitation to connection. Just a few phrases can open doors to new cultures and make every journey more rewarding.”

Methodology: This evaluation relies on a complete survey of 1,526 U.S. by Preply adults aged 18 and over, carried out in June 2025. Results had been segmented by respondents’ worldwide journey expertise and their vacation plans for 2025, offering insights into each seasoned vacationers and people planning future journeys.