Lesson 34 – Networking with International Travellers
🎯 Lesson goal
You will practise confident communication when meeting and networking with travellers from different countries. Focus on asking detailed questions and exchanging useful travel information smoothly.
💬 Travel dialogue
🧳 Hi, I noticed you are from Brazil. Are you here for work or leisure?
🧳 I’m here on vacation. How about you? What brings you to this city?
🧳 I’m attending a conference related to my job, but I plan to explore a bit afterward.
🧳 That sounds interesting. Do you often mix business with travel?
🧳 Yes, I find it a great way to make the most of trips. By the way, have you found any good local spots to recommend?
🧳 Actually, yes. There’s a market nearby with fantastic local food and crafts. Would you like me to share the exact location?
🧳 That would be great, thanks. Also, do you usually travel alone or with a group?
🧳 Usually with friends, but this time I’m solo to meet new people like you. Networking during travel is quite rewarding.
🧳 I agree. Making international contacts helps me learn about different cultures. Do you use any apps to connect with travellers?
🧳 I do. Apps like Meetup and Couchsurfing have connected me with locals and other tourists. Have you tried them?
🧳 I’ve tried Meetup but not Couchsurfing. From your experience, which one offers better chances to build meaningful connections?
🧳 Couchsurfing tends to be more personal, while Meetup has larger groups for activities. It depends on what you prefer.
🧳 Thanks for clarifying that. Speaking of preferences, I usually avoid large groups because it’s harder to have deep conversations.
🧳 That’s true. Smaller groups or one-on-one meetings feel more genuine. Would you be interested in joining a small dinner with some travellers tonight?
🧳 I’d love to. Could you send me the details later? Also, do you think it’s appropriate to bring a small gift or just show up?
🧳 Usually, showing up is fine, but a small local souvenir is always appreciated. I’ll send you the time and place now.
🧳 Perfect! Looking forward to it. Thanks for making this connection so smoothly.
🧠 Explanation
In this situation, the traveler meets another international traveler and builds a network through natural, polite conversation. The lesson focuses on explaining reasons, asking precise questions, and negotiating plans to join social activities. This kind of communication is useful for gaining contacts and cultural insights while traveling confidently.
🧳 Survival English
🧳 Could you please share the exact location of that place? (Ask for clear directions.)
🧳 Would you be interested in joining a small group dinner? (Invite politely to meet others.)
🧳 Is it appropriate to bring a gift to this meeting? (Clarify social expectations.)
💡 Common English mistake
❌ Do you use any apps for connect with travellers?
✅ Do you use any apps to connect with travellers?
🔊 Pronunciation
Focus on the intonation of ‘Would you be interested,’ stressing ‘interested’ strongly to sound natural and polite.
🌍 Travel tip
When networking, briefly explain your travel purpose and ask about others’ experiences. This builds genuine connections and opens opportunities to share useful local information.
🎧 Listen and repeat
🎧 Hi, I noticed you are from Brazil. Are you here for work or leisure?
🎧 I’m attending a conference related to my job, but I plan to explore a bit afterward.
🎧 Yes, I find it a great way to make the most of trips. By the way, have you found any good local spots to recommend?
🎧 That would be great, thanks. Also, do you usually travel alone or with a group?
🎧 I agree. Making international contacts helps me learn about different cultures. Do you use any apps to connect with travellers?
🎧 I’ve tried Meetup but not Couchsurfing. From your experience, which one offers better chances to build meaningful connections?
🎧 Thanks for clarifying that. Speaking of preferences, I usually avoid large groups because it’s harder to have deep conversations.
🎧 I’d love to. Could you send me the details later? Also, do you think it’s appropriate to bring a small gift or just show up?
🎧 Perfect! Looking forward to it. Thanks for making this connection so smoothly.
🧩 Mini Practice
Repeat these sentences aloud.
Ask: Are you here mainly for business or leisure?
Say: I usually prefer traveling alone to meet new people.
Ask: Could you recommend any local places to visit?
Say: Networking with travellers helps me understand different cultures better.
Ask: Do you use special apps to connect with other travellers?
Say: I prefer smaller groups because it’s easier to have meaningful conversations.
Ask: Would it be appropriate to bring a small gift to the group meeting?
Say: Thanks for sharing the information about the local market.
Ask: Can you confirm the time and place of the dinner later?
Say: I look forward to meeting more international travellers this evening.
🧳 Glossary
| English | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Networking | Connecting with other people to share information and build relationships. |
| Conference | A formal meeting for discussion, often related to work. |
| Leisure | Free time when you are not working or busy. |
| Local spots | Popular or interesting places in the area. |
| Meetup | An app used to arrange social gatherings or events. |
| Couchsurfing | An app for finding guests or hosts for free accommodation. |
| Group dinner | A meal shared by several people at the same time. |
| Meaningful conversation | A discussion that is deep and important, not just small talk. |
| Small gift | A modest present given as a polite gesture. |
✅ Quick check
Can you understand the dialogue and repeat the important sentences?