Travel technology has revolutionized the way we cross language barriers, and to illustrate this, we’ve gathered seven stories from founders and CEOs. From a humorous misunderstanding resolved by technology to enriching international business through translation tools, discover how travel tech has facilitated successful communication across the globe.
- Voice Feature Aides a Humorous Misunderstanding
- Google Lens Is A Lifesaving Travel Companion
- Real-Time App Aids Business Negotiation
- AI-Powered Software Enhances Tokyo Travel
- Tech Bridges Gap in Japanese Business Deal
- Google Translate Connects Family Across Languages
- Translation Tools Enrich International Business
Voice Feature Aides a Humorous Misunderstanding
I was in Boracay with my family and some friends, one of the smallest islands in the Philippines, but also one of the most beautiful islands that I have ever seen. In particular, we were walking around the small village and we stopped for a quick break near one of the few bars that offer some refreshments for the tourists. At the same time, while we were waiting there for our turn in line, a situation happened.
Basically, a person started to approach me and my wife, talking in their native language and trying to tell us something, but of course, we couldn’t understand anything about it, but the man was looking very concerned so we were trying to understand what the situation was about. He also started pointing at my wife so we were very concerned about the situation and slightly scared because we had no idea what his intention was.
In the end, I decided to try something different and I started using the Voice Feature of Google Translate in order to understand what he was saying. From that moment, we realized that he was telling my wife to be careful because her dress was getting dirty from the street. It was no big deal in the end, but it was still fun to see how, no matter our differences, we could still understand each other, thanks to technology.
Giacomo Piva
CMO & Cofounder, Radical Storage
Google Lens Is A Lifesaving Travel Companion
My favorite travel-tech feature is Google Lens. You take a photo with your phone camera of text in a foreign language, and it translates it into your language.
I use it all the time when traveling, for timetables of bus or train schedules, and at the grocery store to see if the item I intend to purchase is cottage cheese, yogurt, or sour cream. I’ve used it to translate Greek, Bulgarian, German, and more languages into English. It’s been a lifesaver when traveling or living abroad.
Laurel Robbins
Founder, Monkeys and Mountains Hiking & Adventure Travel
Real-Time App Aids Business Negotiation
One of the most notable advancements in travel technology is the development of real-time translation applications and devices. These tools have revolutionized the way we communicate with people who speak different languages.
For instance, during a business trip to a foreign country, I encountered a language barrier while trying to negotiate a partnership agreement with a local company. Despite our language differences, we were able to overcome this hurdle by utilizing a mobile translation app.
The app allowed us to have a real-time conversation, with each person speaking in their preferred language and the app translating the dialogue instantly. This enabled us to understand each other’s points, clarify any misunderstandings, and ultimately reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Travel tech, particularly real-time translation applications and devices, has significantly aided in overcoming language barriers. These advancements have enabled seamless communication, fostering successful interactions and bridging cultural gaps.
Connor Ondriska
Co-Founder & CEO, SpanishVIP
AI-Powered Software Enhances Tokyo Travel
Travel tech has been instrumental in breaking down language barriers for our global clientele. Caption Easy’s innovative AI-powered translation software has empowered travelers to communicate seamlessly in any language. One remarkable instance involved a client navigating the bustling streets of Tokyo.
Despite limited Japanese proficiency, our app accurately translated menu items, directions, and even engaged in casual conversations with locals. Witnessing our technology facilitate genuine connections and enhance travel experiences reaffirms our commitment to revolutionizing cross-cultural communication.
Khurram Suhrwardy
CEO, Caption Easy
Tech Bridges Gap in Japanese Business Deal
Travel tech, particularly real-time translation apps, has been invaluable during my international business expansions. On one occasion in Japan, using a translation app enabled me to negotiate a complex web-development contract with local partners.
The ability to communicate seamlessly, despite the language difference, not only facilitated a successful negotiation but also helped establish a deeper, respectful business relationship. Technology effectively bridged the gap, ensuring clarity and mutual understanding throughout our discussions.
David Wilfong
Founder and CEO, DavidWilfong
Google Translate Connects Family Across Languages
When communicating with my Russian-speaking parents-in-law, Google Translate has been invaluable. We rely on its bidirectional live-translation feature, which, while not flawless, facilitates near-real-time communication with minimal interruptions.
It’s a crucial tool for bridging language gaps within my family circle, making interactions smoother and more meaningful. Highly recommended!
Rafael Sarim Özdemir
Founder & CEO, coachingausbildung.net
Translation Tools Enrich International Business
Travel tech, especially translation apps, has been indispensable in bridging language gaps during my international business operations. On a trip to Japan, real-time translation tools enabled seamless negotiations with local suppliers, fostering mutual understanding and respect.
These technologies not only facilitate clearer conversations but also enhance cultural exchanges. For anyone facing language barriers, leveraging these tools can transform potential challenges into opportunities for connection and collaboration, enriching the travel experience.
Robin Luo
Founder, ICRFQ
