One Language, Many Journeys: Make Every Lesson a Passport to New Places
Travel and tourism vocabulary is one of the most practical and empowering topics for English learners. Whether students dream of international adventures or simply want to navigate their local airport or hotel, this topic equips them with the language tools they need to feel confident and capable. From booking a flight and checking in to asking for directions or reading a map, the real-world applications are endless.
In today’s globalized society, travel-related interactions are common even for those who don’t leave their home country. English is the dominant language of the tourism industry worldwide—spoken in airports, hotels, train stations, and on guided tours. Students who work in hospitality or customer service need to understand and use this vocabulary to assist guests, explain policies, or promote local attractions. And for travelers themselves, being able to read signs, follow schedules, and ask for help in English can be the difference between a smooth trip and a stressful one.
Beyond the logistics of travel, this topic invites students into cultural exchange. Talking about travel opens up discussions around geography, customs, foods, traditions, and sightseeing. It gives learners the ability to describe where they’ve been, where they want to go, and what makes different places special. These are deeply human conversations, full of opportunities to connect with others on a personal level.
Including travel and tourism vocabulary in your lessons helps students expand both their language and their worldview. As they learn to talk about destinations, tickets, itineraries, and travel preferences, they’re also building the confidence to participate in a wider range of conversations in English—at school, at work, and while exploring the world.
Add these images to your classroom library to help students visualize and practice real travel scenarios. From airport check-ins to city tours, these visuals bring the language to life and spark meaningful discussion.