3 Reasons to Learn Some Spanish Before Your Next Trip to Mexico

One of the top google searches for new travelers is “Do I need to speak Spanish to go to Mexico?” (go ahead, I’ll wait while you check)

Of course, the answer is no.

Learning to speak Spanish certainly isn’t a necessity in Mexico. To be sure, plenty of foreign residents live in the country for decades but have never moved beyond the basics required to order food in a restaurant or direct a taxi to their home. Many of these people love Mexico, have Mexican acquaintances, and have taken beginning language classes.

However, most of these people would tell you that they’re missing out by not being able to use the language.

What are you missing?

• People. People. People. Socially, speaking Spanish will open up the possibility of creating friendships in the local community without being limited by your language skills. Speaking only English does not preclude the possibility of having Mexican friends, but it certainly limits you to English-speaking people and functions. Finally, learning to speak Spanish is a matter of respect. Anywhere in the world, immigrants are expected to learn the basics they need to communicate with locals. And, just like anywhere…