22 phrases to learn for your overseas honeymoon

You got through the seating chart, the vows, the group chats, and the never-ending vendor emails. Now it’s time to jet off on the trip of a lifetime. But here’s the deal: while your love might be universal, your language probably isn’t. Enter: phrases that you need to know.

Unless you’re heading somewhere where English is the go-to, you’re going to want to brush up on a few handy local phrases. Because let’s be real, Google Translate is great until your WiFi drops out mid-taxi ride and you’re stuck miming “no onions.”

So whether you’re sipping coconuts in Thailand, eating your way through Italy, or living your best island life in Fiji, here are 22 phrases you’ll actually use on your overseas honeymoon.

The essential phrases for getting around

Let’s be real: getting lost on your honeymoon sounds cute in theory, but not when you’re jetlagged, hungry, and your phone’s on 3%. That’s where the essentials come in. Knowing just a few basic phrases can save you from full-blown tourist panic. Plus, locals are way more likely to help you out when you’ve made the effort to speak their language (even if your accent’s tragic).

1. Hello

Start strong. Say hi. Friendly vibes = friendly help.

2. Thank you

The most used phrase on any trip. Learn it first, use it constantly.

3. Please

Polite people get better service. Every. Time.

4. Yes / No

The building blocks of every convo you’ll have. Just learn them.

5. Excuse me / Sorry

Perfect for bumping into someone, asking for help, or just general Aussie politeness.

6. Do you speak English?

The most respectful way to figure out if you’re about to have a real convo or just do dramatic hand gestures.

7. I don’t speak [local language]

Useful when they go full-speed in Italian and you’re still stuck on “ciao.”

8. Can you speak slower?

For when they do speak English but at 2x speed.

9. Can you repeat that?

A non-awkward way to ask again without faking that you understood.

 

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Food & drink (aka the important stuff)

We get it: food is half the reason you booked the trip. But nothing kills the vibe like ordering something random and realising it’s got meat, spice, or mystery sauce you didn’t sign up for. Learning a few key food and drink phrases means you can confidently order, ask questions, and hype up the chef when the meal slaps.

10. Can I see the menu, please?

Because you’re not out here trying to play menu roulette.

11. I don’t eat meat / I’m vegetarian

Save your stomach and your morals.

12. No spice, please

Because Thai “mild” can still melt your face off.

13. That was delicious!

Perfect after a 10/10 pasta or unexpectedly good street food.

14. Water, please

Hydration station, let’s go.

15. Can I have the bill, please?

So you can wrap up the meal and head straight to gelato.

 

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Directions and help

16. Where is the bathroom?

Says more than your face ever could.

17. Where is the train/bus/taxi station?

For when your phone has 1% and you need to get back to the hotel.

18. How long does it take to get there?

Useful for deciding whether to walk or just pay for the tuk-tuk.

19. We are lost

Say it calmly. Laugh if you must. Everyone gets lost at least once.

20. Can you help me?

For train stations, airports, maps, and mystery ticket machines.

Shopping, spending, and survival

21. How much does this cost?

You will want to buy something. And you will need to ask this.

22. Where can I buy…?

Fill in the blank: water, toothpaste, SIM card, snacks, hangover meds.

Honeymoon phrases tips

Here’s our top tips for sounding semi-slick in another language:

• Use Google Translate offline. Download the languages for your destination so you’re not stuck when the WiFi ghosts you.
• Make a Notes app list. Copy these phrases, add the translation, and keep it in your pocket.Learn the pronunciation. YouTube > Duolingo when it comes to hearing real locals speak.
• Don’t be shy. Locals love it when you try, even if you butcher the accent.
• Team effort. You learn food + shopping, your partner learns directions + transport. Divide and conquer.

Have your wedding and your honeymoon in one dreamy destination

Thinking about tying the knot overseas? Destination Weddings @ Easy Weddings connects you with venues, vendors, and inspo to help you plan the ultimate destination wedding: no passport panic required.