How a Second Language Transforms Any International Experience

Written by Ana María Valero Ramírez

“This World Cup taught me more than I expected. Thank you, Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.!”

Amid all the mixed emotions surrounding the end of the tournament, there’s something I’ve realized all this time that has left me in awe. 

This great tournament went down in history not only for the soccer itself, but also for the human connections that were formed.

Since June, I've seen how people from different countries—even without ever having met—have started to converse in a naturally—and not they weren’t doing so in their native language—they were doing so in English.

Some may have had a smaller vocabulary than others, but their effort was evident, as was their understanding of the message. I know this because they nodded, gave a thumbs-up, or smiled with satisfaction.

Beyond the results, the World Cup taught us all a valuable lesson:

English is learned through conversation, and the world is much smaller than we imagine when we dare to speak it.

In this blog post, I'll explain why I'm so sure that now that the World Cup is over, that's when international connections are just getting started. 

Much More Than Just Soccer

Throughout this series of blog posts dedicated to the World Cup, we’ve talked about the possibility of making friends in a fan zone; we’ve also discussed unexpected networking opportunities after a game, and we’ve even talked about how to use public transportation to explore Canada and get to the stadium on time.

But in reality, the topic wasn't just about the World Cup, but about how English has become the universal language of conversation. 

This is something much bigger than just cheering for a goal together.

Of all the experiences I’ve had at this great tournament, the one that has moved me the most—as a bilingual Latina and soccer fan—is seeing so many people step out of their comfort zones to speak a second language and discover the world.

Because great journeys don't always begin when we board a plane; they also begin when we decide to learn a new language.

Travel is different when you can communicate

Arriving in a city like Toronto for the first time can be very rewarding, but if you don't speak English, that excitement starts to turn into anxiety. 

Imagine you're visiting Ontario as a tourist, you go out on the street, and you need to ask a local for restaurant recommendations. How would you go about it?

Maybe, after thinking it over, you'll blurt out: "Excuse me, where is St. Lawrence Market?"

That simple phrase will get you through the moment, but there's something bigger coming next.

When you study and master the language, that's when you really take the leap.

You can have more in-depth conversations with people from other provinces—and even other countries—understand the history behind a place, share a meal with someone you've just met, and, ultimately, handle any situation with confidence.

All of this is what completely transforms the travel experience. Because you’re no longer just a visitor: you’re someone who participates, connects with, and understands the place you’re discovering.

Language breaks down invisible barriers

We often think that the barriers to human connections are borders, or the great distances between countries—such as the more than 4,000 km that separate Colombia from Canada. 

We often think that cultural differences are what prevent us from understanding one another, but that's not the case.

One of the biggest barriers is the fear of not knowing how to communicate.

However, when we gain confidence in another language, we feel empowered, our self-esteem grows, and many of those barriers disappear.

So, we dare to ask questions without worrying about what others might say, to talk in order to connect. To meet people so we can share experiences. To accept invitations to change course and discover places that might go from being just tourist spots to becoming permanent homes.

And that's where the best stories begin.

The world is full of opportunities

These days, traveling isn't just about sightseeing.

People may travel for study or work; to attend conferences or to start businesses.

To volunteer and build international relationships.

The reasons for traveling are endless and varied, and they all lead to wonderful experiences, but they also have something in common: they all involve conversations in English.

Behind every opportunity, there is usually a person, and behind that person is a story that deserves to be heard.

Getting to know one another around the world starts with being able to speak a common language.

The World Cup is over. Your story is just beginning.

Perhaps during the weeks of June and July 2026, you dreamed of learning more about Canada. Or maybe you wanted to attend more than one event and make friends from around the world.

But these dreams don't end here. On the contrary, now is when you have the most time to make them come true.

Many people are already thinking about studying abroad and finding new career opportunities. Because your next big adventure doesn't have to wait four years. 

A language doesn't change your destiny, but learning it will help you live it to the fullest.

The world is waiting for you: Are you ready to connect?

On Planeta Immiland Education , we believe that learning a language isn’t just about studying grammar.

It means preparing yourself to experience the world with more confidence, more freedom, and many more opportunities.

That's why we offer programs designed to support you at every stage of your journey:

🍁 English and French courses.

📚 Preparation for international exams.

🎓 Programs focused on academic and immigration goals.

🌎 Conversation activities to build your confidence in real-life situations.

Visit our online academy and find out which program is right for you:

https://www.planeta-immiland-education.com/

If this special World Cup series has inspired you, share it with those who dream of traveling, studying, working, or discovering new cultures.

Remember: The World Cup taught us that English is learned through conversation and that the world is much smaller than we imagine when we dare to speak it.

⚽ Thank you for joining us for this special series on the 2026 World Cup. We’ll see you very soon with new articles where we’ll continue to show that learning a language not only opens doors… it also transforms the way we experience every international adventure.

"As someone who is passionate about soccer, languages, and international experiences, I realized that the most meaningful connections aren't made during a game, but through conversation."

Ana María Valero Ramírez

With love,

Planeta Immiland Education