¡Hola! Learn Basic Spanish Phrases for Travel
Your ticket is bought, your bags are packed, and your plans are underway. You’re headed to Guatemala! What’s that, you say? You don’t speak Spanish?! Have no fear, we’re here to help! Let’s brush up on some key words and some basic Spanish phrases for travel.
The best way to learn a language is in the moment during real-life exchanges. However, a little studying beforehand can go a long way. Yes, there are fun apps like Duolingo. And, our personalized tours feature local, bilingual guides. To give you a head start, we’ve created this Naturally Smart Travel post as a reliable Spanish language cheat sheet. Below, you’ll discover a practical guide to basic Spanish, including words and phrases that’ll help you navigate traveling to Guatemala with ease!
Greetings in Spanish
Let’s get started with the most frequently spoken words and basic Spanish phrases for travel. When you get familiar with and learn everyday expressions, you’ll build confidence and get comfortable with a new language. Here are ways to say hello and goodbye in Spanish.
Basic Introductions in Spanish
After “hello” and “goodbye”, it’s time to start having basic conversations. This includes introducing yourself and asking how someone is doing! Here’s a quick list of some words that’ll help you start the conversation with these basic Spanish phrases for travel!
How are you? = Cómo está?
I’m fine, thank you = Bien, gracias
What's your name? = ¿Cómo te llamas?
My name is = Me llamo
Nice to meet you = Mucho gusto
Do you speak English? = ¿Habla inglés?
General Questions & Responses in Spanish
Next are some regularly used questions and responses. One of the most important questions can be “how do you say?” And, it’s always good to have a little manners! Although gestures can go a long way, adding a “please” and “thank you” is always appreciated!
I’m sorry = Lo siento
Excuse me = Perdón or Disculpe
How do you say ___? = ¿Cómo se dice ___?
I don’t understand = Yo no entiendo
What’s the address? = ¿Cuál es la dirección?
What is the Wifi password? = ¿Cuál es la contraseña de Wifi?
Directional Phrases & Places
Being in a new place is exciting, but sometimes we get turned around and need to ask for directions! Sure, your phone can always help you navigate, but what about when the WiFi isn’t working?! Or, maybe you’re feeling brave and want to practice your Spanish! Here are some basic Spanish phrases for travel that’ll help you get to where you need to go!
Where is the bathroom? = Dónde está el baño?
Where is the bank? = Dónde está el banco?
Where can I get a taxi? = Dónde puedo encontrar un taxi?
Read more like this: Welcome to the Land of Eternal Spring: Guatemala City Airport
Basic Spanish Phrases for Travel, Ordering & Eating
There’s so much delicious food to try in Guatemala! Eating is one of the best parts of traveling, of experiencing a new place, and learning about a new culture. So, when you’re hungry and it’s time to eat, these basic Spanish phrases for travel will help you out.
How much is it? = ¿ Cuánto cuesta?
The bill, please = La cuenta, por favor
A table for two, three, four = Una mesa para dos, tres, cuatro
I have a reservation under the name of = Tengo una reserva a nombre de…
Do you accept credit cards? = ¿Aceptan las tarjetas?
Cash only = Solo se acepta efectivo
What do you recommend? = Qué me recomienda?
What’s in this dish? = ¿Qué hay en este plato?
Breakfast = desayuno
Lunch = almuerzo
Dinner = cena
Hot = caliente
Cold = frío
Spicy = picante
Read more like this: Delightful Guatemalan Cuisine: Exploring the Top Local Foods
Utensils
A spoon = una cuchara
A fork = un tenedor
A knife = un cuchillo
A glass = un vaso
A bowl = un bol
A plate = un plato
A napkin = una servilleta
Basic Spanish Phrases for Travel to Help You Navigate Guatemala with Ease
We hope you’ve learned a few basic Spanish phrases for travel! We’re wishing you fun and safe travels that are full of speaking Spanish! Feel free to bookmark this post to use it as a continual reference.
As always, you’re welcome to join us on a curated tour of Guatemala. When you book a tour with us, we provide a bilingual guide and host to accompany you every step of the way!
Reach out today to find more and start planning the trip of a lifetime!
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You can travel to Guatemala throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Guatemala is during the dry season from November to April. These months offer optimal weather conditions, ideal for exploring Mayan ruins and outdoor activities like hiking volcanoes and exploring the country’s stunning landscapes and archaeological sites.
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Guatemala has a tropical climate, with over 360 microclimates in the country. The weather varies depending on altitude and season. The dry season runs from November to April, and the wet season brings afternoon showers from May to October.
In the Highlands, like Antigua, the weather is mild year-round with warm days and cool evenings. In the lowlands, it’s hot and humid. The coastal areas have a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity.
Always check the local forecast for the most up-to-date weather forecast in the specific regions you’ll be visiting.
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Guatemala offers a plethora of outdoor activities and natural wonders to explore. This includes the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal, hiking active volcanoes, and natural wonders like cloud forests and Semuc Champey. The picturesque villages of Lake Atitlán offer kayaking, swimming, and adventuring!
