Our top destinations that you might be mispronouncing
Place names across the world can trip up even the most seasoned travellers, but what are the trickiest and how do you say them?
No matter how well-meaning the attempts might be, trying (and failing) to pronounce place names while abroad can lead to some awkward glances from locals. It’s something we can all appreciate, whether you’re wincing at the pronunciation of Worcestershire (Wuster-shire, for those not in the know) or trying to get your tongue around Saskatchewan. That’s not to say that a little effort isn’t appreciated – more often than not, it’s the thought that counts – but managing to get the pronunciation of your chosen destination right can make all the difference.
With that in mind, we’ve been thinking about the global destinations that consistently trip visitors up and have put together a handy list of how to properly pronounce them. From Machu Picchu, Peru’s iconic ‘lost city of the Incas’, to the elegant Ljubljana, here are our top holiday hotspots that are often mispronounced.
Cappadocia, Turkey – Cappa-doe-shuh
Starting off in Turkey’s unique central region, Cappadocia seems straightforward on paper but catches more visitors out than you’d expect. Pronounced Cappa-doe-shuh, this fascinating area is known for its world-famous rock-cut architecture, underground cities and picturesque desert skyline, and promises a totally different version of Turkey to Istanbul or coastal Ephesus. That being said, it’s every inch as impressive as its better-known neighbours, with highlights including the magnificent Kaymakli Underground City and the region’s distinctive ‘fairy chimneys’.
Our recommended tour: Istanbul & Cappadocia – Turkey’s Historic Gems
Ljubljana, Slovenia – Lieu-Blee-Yana
The elegant Slovenian capital, Ljubljana, can be a little more intimidating and is a bit trickier given that we don’t have a direct equivalent to the ‘Lju’ sound in English – it helps to think of it as ‘lieu’. The city, pronounced Lieu-Blee-Yana, features a rich history and promises memorable exploration among its ornate baroque landmarks and charming riverside markets. What’s more, the city is based within easy reach of other extraordinary Slovenian highlights, from serene Lake Bled to the sprawling Postojna Caves.
Our recommended tour: Adriatic Discovery – Slovenia, Croatia & Italy
Curaçao, The Caribbean – Cure-a-sow
Famed for its sweet blue liqueur, Curaçao embodies the easy-going atmosphere and vibrant culture of the Dutch Caribbean. Pronounced Cure-a-sow, this delightful island nation, based just north of Venezuela, is a hub of pristine white-sand beaches, pastel-coloured buildings and abundant coral reefs, perfect for a fascinating day’s shore excursion. From the island’s rural ostrich farms and colonial-era landmarks to the thriving liqueur distilleries that produce the country’s famous spirit, there are plenty of fascinating ways to spend time in Curaçao.
Our recommended tour: Caribbean Cruise to Panama Canal & Costa Rica with Miami Beach
Seoul, South Korea – Sole
It might look complicated, but Seoul is fairly straightforward to pronounce for English speakers. It might be tempting to spell it out phonetically, but the city’s name is even simpler to say, essentially using the same sounds as Sole. As the glittering capital of South Korea, Seoul boasts a wide range of enticing highlights, from the towering N Seoul Tower to its ‘Five Grand Palaces’, to enjoy throughout your stay. Combined with a lively culinary scene and bustling shopping areas, such as the renowned Gwangjang Market, it’s no surprise that so many visitors keep returning to Seoul every year.
Our recommended tour: South Korea & Japan Discovered
Machu Picchu – Machoo-Peek-Choo
Voted one of the New Wonders of the World in 2007, Machu Picchu, nestled high in the Peruvian Andes, is a name at the very top of many a travel wish-list. That being said, this towering Incan citadel is actually one of the most commonly mispronounced spots in the world. Contrary to popular belief, local people pronounce the alpine landmark as Machoo-Peek-Choo rather than the Machoo-Peeshoo you might hear elsewhere. With panoramic views over the Andes and captivating historical treasures to uncover, lifelong experiences are waiting to be made amongst the lofty heights of Machu Picchu.
Our recommended tour: Peru – Land of the Incas
Aotearoa, New Zealand – Au-Tay-Uh-Roa
Now, we’re cheating a little bit by including Aotearoa here since it’s just the traditional Māori name for what we know in English as New Zealand. While it might seem challenging at first glance, the name can be easily broken down into four recognisable sounds – au (as in ‘aura’), tay, uh and roa. This magnificent island nation, home to a vibrant shared culture, rich Māori heritage and breath-taking natural wonders, offers sightseeing opportunities that few other destinations can rival.
Our recommended tour: New Zealand Odyssey – North to South Islands
Friuli-Venezia, Italy – Free-Ooli-Vuh-Net-See-Uh
Dominating much of Italy’s northeast, Friuli-Venezia – which is pronounced Free-Ooli-Vuh-Net-See-Uh – is a remarkable region of sprawling vineyards, Venetian star forts and ancient Roman ruins nestled on the Adriatic Sea. Live la dolce vita in the Austrian-influenced coffee capital, Trieste, sample the finest local labels in the twin city of Gorizia or perhaps just unwind amongst Grado’s idyllic coastal stretches.
Our recommended tour: Hidden Italy – Trieste & Friuli-Venezia
Live like a local with Newmarket Holidays
Fancy testing your pronunciation on location across one of these extraordinary wish-list destinations? Our friendly holiday planners are on hand to help you get the ball rolling or simply chat through your options. For our full range of itineraries, check out our destinations page or choose from our featured tours below.
