Ahead of the European Day of Languages on 26th September, Heathrow Express is offering British travellers a unique opportunity to brush up on their language skills with 15-minute masterclasses, designed to teach key phrases in the time it takes to travel from Central London to Heathrow. The rail service, known for its rapid journey from London Paddington to the airport, has partnered with polyglot Wouter Corduwener, who speaks 29 languages, to deliver the virtual sessions.
The initiative, titled “Heathrow Express: Express Learning Linguistics,” is aimed at encouraging Brits to engage more with local languages while travelling abroad. New research commissioned by Heathrow Express reveals that nearly a quarter (23%) of UK travellers would love to learn a language but are often held back by fear of embarrassment (22%). The findings also show that while almost half (48%) of Brits travel abroad at least once a year, many feel they lack confidence in their linguistic abilities, with 42% avoiding language learning altogether.
Despite these concerns, there is a desire among Brits to communicate in foreign languages, with 43% making an effort to learn key phrases for their travels. Some go further, with 12% attempting to speak fluently when abroad. The masterclasses offer a quick and accessible solution for those looking to enhance their travel experiences by mastering essential phrases in just 15 minutes.
Wouter Corduwener, a self-taught polyglot, expressed his excitement about the initiative: “It’s always been my goal to motivate people to try speaking foreign languages. Travellers often tell me how much they enjoy the experience of speaking the local language, and how it helps them discover hidden gems they wouldn’t have found otherwise.”
Daniel Edwards, Business Lead & Director at Heathrow Express, highlighted the benefits of the programme: “We always want our passengers to start their journey in the most enjoyable way. Learning 15 phrases in the language of their next destination in the same time it takes to travel from Paddington to Heathrow is a great way to prepare for their trip.”
To take part in the free, virtual masterclasses, travellers can visit Heathrow Express’ Instagram page, where they can book a session. Places are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information and to book your tickets for the Heathrow Express journey, which takes just 15 minutes from London Paddington to Heathrow from £15, visit: www.HeathrowExpress.com.