There are lots of different ways you can use languages to get more out of life. If you’re on holiday, it’s easier to talk to people and make friends. If you’re at home it’s easier to understand other people and cultures.

Let’s think about travel. The world is getting smaller and smaller as transport becomes ever faster and cheaper. You could go to Africa on a safari; to China to see the Great Wall; to Paris to see the Eiffel Tower; to lie on a beach and sunbathe somewhere hot. Or maybe you could go to Poland on business or to a conference in Brazil. Languages help make all of these experiences better – and you can really get involved with all aspects of the country and its people. You can talk business in their language, you can find your way around more easily and you can relax, make friends and go out with people who will give you a view of the world through their eyes – a totally different perspective from that of the tourist.

Don’t just take our word for all of this. Have a look through our celebrity linguists page and see how languages have had an impact on some familiar faces.