Giving directions

Phrases to Check for Understanding

Double-check what you heard

If you work in the tourism industry, you probably have experience with miscommunication.

As a guide, host or receptionist, it’s your job to make sure that you’re double-checking for understanding. These phrases are simple and quick ways to make sure you and your guest are on the same page.

• I heard you ask (about flights). Is that correct?

• So, you said (you wanted to visit the ruins), right?

• Okay, I understand that (your flight leaves at 3 PM). Is that correct?

Take the time to ask for clarification with these phrases

Even though you’re both speaking English, your guest may use vocabulary that you’re unfamiliar with. Likewise, they might have an accent that’s difficult for you to understand. Here are some polite ways to ask them to repeat or clarify what they said.

• I’m sorry, I didn’t quite understand that. Can you say that again?

• Pardon my English, but I didn’t quite understand that. Can you say that again?

• I’m sorry, but I didn’t catch that. Can you describe what you mean?

Invite your guests to ask questions with these phrases

Some cultures encourage people to be outspoken, while those from other parts of the world prefer people to act in a more reserved manner. Make all of your guests feel welcome by encouraging them to ask questions.

• Does anyone have any questions?

• Yes, sir/ma’am? Do you have a question?

• Please feel free to raise your hand any time if you have a question.

• So, any questions?

Practice and Expand Your English Tourism Vocabulary with These Common Scenarios

Depending on your job, you’ll probably be required to give directions to tourists, provide them with recommendations for a good restaurant or attraction and in general make friendly conversation that makes them feel welcome.

In these scenarios, you’ll play the part of the “guide,” but it could really be anyone a tourist might come in contact with. Practice these dialogues so that you feel confident using these words and phrases in your interactions.

Giving recommendations

Phrases

• For (authentic cuisine, family activities, etc), I recommend…

• My favorite place is…

• Personally, I suggest…

Dialogue

Tourist: Excuse me, do you know a good place for ice cream?

Guide: Oh, yes. For really good ice cream, I recommend “Maria’s.” It’s located about six blocks from here, and it’s my favorite place. Personally, I suggest the chocolate cherry flavor, but they’re famous for their award-winning lemon flavor. I think your family will like it.

Tourist: Great, thanks!

Providing directions and describing places

Phrases

• Turn left

• Turn right

• Go straight

• Stop at the…

• Continue until…

• Take the (subway, bus, etc.)

• Follow the signs for…

Points of reference

• At the traffic light

• At the next (street, light, block, etc.)

• In (five) blocks

• Near the (hotel, beach, station, etc.)

• On the main plaza

Dialogue

Tourist: Can you tell me how to get to the theater?

Guide: Sure! The theater is near the train station. You need to go straight down this street for one block. At the next street, turn left. Continue until you see a sign for the theater, in about five blocks. If you’re lost, you can follow the signs for the train station. Does that make sense?

Tourist: Yes, thank you!

Here’s a helpful video to practice basic phrases for giving directions.

Using simple “ice breakers” to make friendly small talk

Here are some phrases that you can use when you want to get to know the tourists a little bit better.

• So, are you enjoying your time in (Paris) so far?

• Tell me, what is your favorite part of the city so far?

• I’m curious, do you think this city seems friendly?

• Tell me, what do/did you think of the (architecture, food, beach, festival, etc.)?