I can't stress enough how important and rewarding it is, to be able to speak and understand the local language when you're traveling to a new destination. You don't have to get a master's degree in a new language, but even some basic knowledge and phrases will go a long way!

For starters, you will be well received.
The locals would appreciate that you're at least making an effort to fit into their culture even as a tourist / traveler.

+ You'll be able to understand, and enjoy the cities and people better.
You might even earn yourself a complimentary beer from a stranger - yes, that's experience speaking! :)

So go ahead and brush up your phrases.
Pick up a phrasebook from your local book store of course - but let's get you a great head start...

* Free language guides by Intrepid Travel

* Mango Languages

* Benny Lewis' Fluent in 3 Months blog

Planning your big trip and exploring a new country soon?

You will definitely be meeting a lot of new people, from a totally new place,
who would be eager to meet you too - why not exchange cultures, through music?


So don't forget to pack your MP3 player, but wait!

Get yourself one which can do FM radio also!

Either a player or a phone which supports radio.

Anything, as long as it's got FM radio.

It's incredible fun to be able to tune in to local radio stations on your loyal music/radio player. You never miss the latest music locally, the news if you are inclined - and of course, all the local must-know things.

Trust, me you'll be glad you packed that radio with you.

It's a trusted companion, especially on long bus/train journeys.

And the best part is, the music is always fresh and different!

Featured above: Sony ICF-S10MK2 Pocket AM/FM Radio, Silver ($ 9.99)

While researching on The Winterfox Project* to bring you something similar,
I stumbled upon these excellent, free PDF pocket guides for cities in Europe and Russia.

InYourPocket publishes local, updated PDF guides with great content, photos,
maps and even Metro maps, language tips and such great detail, all for free.

So you could read it all on your Kindle/iPad and keep your heavy guides at home.
Even if you choose to print them, they fit easily in your pocket - go get them now!

http://www.inyourpocket.com on Twitter: @inyourpocket

* The Winterfox Project aims to bring you great content electronically,
which can be easily printed into pocket sized foldables for ease of carrying and saving paper. 

Also check out their YouTube channel for some fantastic travel video tips.