The majority of islanders you’ll encounter speak at least some English. Hotel reception, tour operators, waiters and bartenders in the touristy places on Isla Mujeres are usually fluent. But once you get off the beaten track, the “English” becomes more “Spanglish” so leaning a few phrases will help, plus it’s a whole lot of fun!
Handy Translation Apps
Download Google Translate app for your phone and be sure to download Spanish so you can get translations offline. You can translate signs using the camera, translate bilingual conversations on the fly – a little awkward but it works and of course just by typing or speaking English to get the Spanish translation. Free and easy to use and if you sign into your google account you can save translated words and phrases for future reference.
There are loads of other apps available and for iPhone users Apple has a built-in translator app available on iOS 14 or higher. Supports real-time conversation, text, and speech translation
But since you’re already here – take this opportunity to learn a few basic phrases. And remember, even a ‘hola’ or ‘gracias’ goes a long way. It’s like smile – easy to give, always appreciated and best of all, a bridge to new friendships!
Always ask before you get into a taxi
In traditional Spanish, many words have a gender. Words ending in ‘o’ are usually masculine, while those ending in ‘a’ are feminine. While north of the border carefully navigates the world of pronouns, Spanish nouns are confidently flaunting their gender. In Spanish, a friend is not just a friend. Depending on who you’re talking about, it could be ‘amigo’ (masculine) confidently strutting its ‘o’, or ‘amiga’ (feminine), gracefully embracing its ‘a’.
That said, there is a growing awareness and movement towards gender neutrality in the Spanish language. In its simplest form, just replace the ‘o’ or ‘a’ with an ‘e’ or an ‘x’. Sure, most will think you’re just giving the words a new twist, but hey, it’s always good for a chuckle. 🌈🇲🇽
Your beachfront escape, where sunsets have a love affair with luxury. Perfect for families, fun, and those unforgettable ‘wish you were here’ moments!
Start your day with delectable and unforgettable flavors—an Isla Mujeres breakfast tradition unlike any other!
A private slice of paradise where the sun rises on your perfect vacation and sets on fun, comfort and unforgettable memories.
Gorgeous and comfortable rooms with beautiful Playa Norte right outside your door, perfect for relaxing, romance or family fun.
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Careful when wishing someone Feliz Año Nuevo (Happy New Year). If you mispronounce “Año” (ah-nyo) and say “Ano” (ah-no), you’re actually saying
Happy New Anus!