Traveling abroad can be incredibly exciting, and a great opportunity to expand your mind experiences new cultures. Stepping outside of your comfort zone is something that allows your personality to evolve and you will appreciate the world in a new light.
Sometimes, however, being in a foreign place when something difficult comes your way, can present an entirely new set of challenges. Instead of only having to translate something simple as asking “Where is the bathroom por favor?” you may find yourself having to ask, “Are you sure that was beef that I just ate? And do you have something to vomit in?”
Getting ill abroad can be frightening since you are in a new place and not feeling on your top form. Here are some tips for how to make it through should you find yourself sick while traveling in a place that doesn’t speak English.
Get Insurance Before Traveling
One of the best ways to ensure that you won’t be thrown any unfortunate curveballs in terms of medical bills is getting travel insurance. This way you can make sure that if you do have to consult with a doctor, buy medicine, or be treated in a hospital, you have your ducks in a row.
Often you may be surprised to find that your insurance company has fairly reasonable rates which you can simply add on to your existing coverage. Call your insurance company and get a feel for what kind of costs you're looking at and shop around before your trip to get the best value.
Bring Plenty Of Meds
Making sure that you bring an arsenal of medicine which you may need to reach for in the event of any circumstance is going to ease your mind considerably. Just make sure that you have a prescription for anything that isn’t sold over the counter. You should bring some anti-inflammatories, bandaids, first aid ointment, and food poisoning capsules.
You may still need to see a doctor or buy new medication at your destination but at least you will have a few options for things to ease the discomfort in the meantime.
Ask Your Accommodation For Language Assistance
Depending on what your accommodation is, you will likely have someone that speaks English if you are at a hotel or an Airbnb. Asking your host for help in how to translate what it is that you need to communicate to a pharmacist or doctor can be extremely helpful.
Often pharmacists will speak basic English as well, so try going in and giving it a try, otherwise having your host write it down or teach you a few basic translations of what you want should do the trick.
