I’m a Polyglot—These Are the Secrets to Learning New Languages

Unpacked by AFAR

What if they don’t understand me, speak too fast, or worse—ignore my attempt and revert to English? Polyglot and Babbel instructor Noël Wolf, is well-versed in overcoming barriers and connecting with locals through language learning. From how learning 10 phrases led to being treated like family, to learning Spanish by playing volleyball— she shares the secrets to having deeper travel experiences through language learning.

Learn a Language, Unlock a Culture.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Responses for when you’re in a sticky language misunderstanding.

The ways that language learning can enrich your travels—and your character.

How to set realistic goals and take steps toward fluency.

Language: A Cultural Currency of Appreciation.

Don’t miss these memorable moments:

[2:36] Becoming your full self and how culture shapes you.

[5:20] Don’t sweat the small stuff: Tips for speaking with confidence.

[16:27] The many benefits of embracing a new language.

[21:46] Love Is Blind and other avenues to success.

Tell Me: How Do People Really Speak?

Noel is a German polyglot — she speaks English, French, Spanish and Italian fluently and is currently learning Dutch and Brazilian Portuguese. Follow her tips to ditch the flashcards and make real-life connections with even the smallest amount of language knowledge.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to have more authentic travel experiences through language learning. Whether your goal is to order gelato or gain a better understanding of culture, follow these tips to set attainable goals and speak with confidence as soon as you land.

Resources

Learn from Noël at Babbel. *Afar listeners can use code 1432288 to get 55 percent off a lifetime subscription.*

Read the transcript of this episode.

Explore more Afar content for language learners:

The Easiest Languages for English Speakers to Learn.

Why We Shouldn’t Always Use Translation Apps When We Travel.

Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

And a special thanks to our Unpacked sponsor, Tourism Ireland, who shares our belief in the life-changing power of travel. It’s always a good time to visit Ireland—explore more and book your trip today.