Do You Need to Speak Spanish in Cabo?
Do you need to speak Spanish in Cabo? No, you don’t need to. Would it help to speak a little Spanish, though? ¡Sí!
Whether you are vacationing in Cabo or moving here, learning some basic words and phrases in Spanish is very helpful.
Basic Spanish Words and Phrases
Many of the local Mexicans you interact with in Cabo will be able to speak at least a little English; some will speak excellent English. This is especially true at resorts, restaurants, and bars. However, once you venture outside these more touristy spots, you’ll find that a little Spanish will go a long way.
Let’s explore some basic Spanish words and phrases that will make your stay in Mexico a more pleasurable experience.
Helpful Words and Phrases
Hola (hello)
Adios (goodbye)
¿Quién? (Who?)
¿Qué? (What?)
¿Dónde? (Where?)
¿Cuándo? (When?)
¿Cómo? (How?)
¿Cuánto? (How much?)
¿Cuántos? (How many?)
¿Cada cuanto? (How often?)
¿Por cuánto tiempo? (How long?)
Por favor (please)
Gracias (thank you)
Si (yes)
No (no)
Por qué (why?)
Porque (because)
Alguno (some)
Todo (all)
Un poco (a little)
Otra (another)
No más (no more)
Empezar (start)
Finalizar (finish)Caliente (hot – but only “hot to the touch”)
Calor (hot, as in the weather)
Picante (hot, as in spicy)
Frio (cold)
Lluvia (rain)
Sol (sun)
Luna (moon)
Nieve (snow)
Viento (wind)
Buenos Dias (good morning)
Buenas Tardes (good afternoon)
Buenas Noches (good night)
¿Que hora es? (what time is it?)
Me llamo es ___ (my name is ____)
¿Me puede ayudar? (can you help me?)
¿Donde está ___? (where is ___)
Disculpeme (excuse me; e.g., if you bump into someone)
Con Permiso (excuse me; e.g., if asking to pass someone)
Lo Siento (sorry)
Puedo tener (can I have)
No hablo español. ¿Habla usted inglés? (I don’t speak Spanish. Do you speak English?)
¿Cuanto cuesta? (how much does this cost?)
La cuenta por favor (the check please)
Leveling Up
Once you’ve mastered this list, you can expand your Spanish with language apps like Duolingo or Babbel. These all have the added benefit of audio so that you can learn proper pronunciation. Pro TipEven with your newfound Spanish skills, you may find yourself in situations where a translator is necessary. Fortunately, you can download one of several smartphone applications that allow you to have full conversations with Spanish-speaking individuals – Google Translate is a popular one.
A Little Goes a Long Way
While it’s not absolutely necessary to learn Spanish ahead of your visit to Cabo, you will find that some basic Spanish will make your trip more enjoyable. It’ll also endear you to the local Mexican people you interact with; they’ll appreciate your efforts and are often eager to help you with your pronunciation, grammar, and regional colloquialisms. Finally, remember that the goals of communication are to understand and to be understood. So don’t be shy; habla español with confidence – they’ll get it!
