Bags are packed, you’ve got your passport and travels jabs are up to date. Working or travelling in another county is a fabulous way to gain more experience in your chosen profession, as well as a chance to see the world.

 Unfortunately, however much prep you do beforehand to ensure things go smoothly, disaster can strike when you least expect it. This list of six super phrases will help you out in any emergency situation you may encounter. Keep them to hand to spare you angst abroad.
The current job market is tough; appeal to would-be employers by getting additional experience from a stint in another country. If you’ve got the skills then http://www.projects-abroad-pro.org has a scheme to put them to the test.

 Overseas voluntary work is a major part of projects; give developing countries a helping hand as a professional volunteer. Before you go, though, it’s important to be prepared. It’s likely you’ll be travelling to a country that speaks a foreign language. To avoid a sticky situation, memorise these six phrases and spare yourself further anguish in an emergency.

 “Do you speak English?”

 This is a must-know phrase, whatever sector you’re working or volunteering in. Don’t waste time struggling to make yourself understood in an emergency situation. Even if you know the language well, if you’re flustered you’re likely to forget everything. Save time by asking if they understand English.

 Argentina (Spanish): Hablas Inglés?

Thailand (Thai): Nun pôot paa-săa ang-grìt rĕu bplào?

Romania (Romanian): Vorbiţi engleză?

 “Where does it hurt?”

 If you’re working as a doctor or nurse in Togo, it’s vital you treat the patient as quickly as possible in an emergency. You won’t have time to flick through a phrase book – have this sentence to hand so you can immediately access the situation and decide the best course of treatment.

 Togo (French): Où avez-vous mal?

“Is it poisonous?”

 As a vet working in the Amazon rainforest, you’re likely in encounter animals you’ve never treated before. Don’t put yourself at unnecessary risk; find out if the animal is dangerous before rushing in to help. You won’t be popular with fellow volunteers if they have to carry you back to base camp.

Peru (Spanish): Dónde le duele?

“Call an ambulance”

 An injured child is a teacher’s worst nightmare but it’s important to keep a level head. When the situation escalates beyond your ability while volunteering in South Africa, call in the professionals to help.

 South Africa (Afrikaans): Bel 'n ambulans

“Is it safe?”

 Engineering projects abroad can involve building houses for the homeless, providing a fresh water supply or repairing damage after a natural disaster. Construction sites are dangerous places at the best of times – don’t be the numpty who makes things worse in Bolivia.

 Bolivia (Spanish): Es seguro?

“It’ll be ok”

 Many projects require the skills of midwives. In addition to attending to the medical needs of a woman, it’s important to provide reassurance. While attending a labour in Senegal, use this phrase to provide comfort to a new mum.

 Senegal (French): Il va bien se passer

 

Resource box

Foreign Office

Find out important travel information before you go.

BBC Languages

Take an online language course to help you learn the local lingo.

NHS

Important information about travel jabs.

From new family members to new jobs, here are six of the best things you can hear on the phone. Make sure you’re connected so you don’t miss the calls!

1. You have just become an uncle/aunt/grandparent

A new addition to the family is always an exciting occasion. Whether you are waiting to hear if you are a first-time grandparent or if you are finding out whether you have a new nephew or niece, hearing a family member tell you that they made it through labour is always good news!

2. You’re going to be a parent

One of the most amazing and life-changing things you can hear over the phone is the news that you are going to be a parent. The moment when your loved one calls you up to tell you that you will be a father is one that you will cherish forever.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/lojoluphotography/7857350050

3. You’ve got the all-clear

If you have been battling a long-term illness or you are waiting to get your test results from your doctor, getting a phone call giving you the all-clear can be the best feeling in the world.

4. You got the job

Getting a job is always a great feeling, but it is particularly satisfying when it is one that you really want and that you have truly worked hard for. Sitting by the phone waiting for a call back is a nerve-wracking process, but it is all worthwhile when you hear the wonderful news that the position is yours.

5. I love you

Finding out the depth of someone’s feelings for you is bound to be a magical moment. When someone tells you they love you over the phone for the first time you will feel truly special.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kawarthaphoto/6976280058/

6. I’m coming home

One of the most emotional things to hear over the phone is the news that someone you love is coming home after a long time spent abroad. Whether he/she is returning from the army or just from an extended trip abroad, the news of the return is bound to be exciting. Luckily, thanks to VoIP technology, calling overseas is easy.

Companies such as Vonage can set you up with cheap international rates so you can keep in touch while you wait for your loved one is away.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/basykes/9268936/

A lot of important information is spread via phone calls and you don’t want to miss out on hearing something special, so make sure that you’re set up and ready to receive great news over the phone.

Resource box

Helium

An article on things men love to hear.

Ask Men

A guide to ten things women want to hear from men.

BBC World Service

The BBC World Service gives tips on how to give and respond to good news.