Taking the time to learn the basics of the language of your destination country can be of great benefit to backpackers or holidaymakers, it has been claimed.

Having some knowledge of the local lingo can be of particular benefit when trying to use services such as public transport.

According to a recent TransPerfect survey, difficulties when using things like buses, underground and overground trains were a particular bugbear for those not fluent in a foreign language.

However, thetravelmagazine.net explained that those who make a bit of effort to learn the fundamentals will cope much more easily.

Editor Sharron Livingston noted that preparation is essential to ensure travellers get the most out of their trip.

"If you're going to a country where they don't speak your language, you're going to have to make some sort of preparation. Taking a list of key words is a very good idea," she said.

The expert added that visiting some Asian nations can be a particular culture shock due to the differences in language and writing.

However, those with an open mind and a desire to learn will have a good time in places that differ from the UK, Ms Livingston suggested.