Travel to a country where you can't speak the language can be both interesting and frustrating at the same time.

Of course, this depends on whether or not the majority of the country knows your language as well.  You just might not be able to speak German, but sure enough, you'll probably be able to find people who speak English back in Germany.

That's the best case scenario.  The worst case is when neither of you can speak the same language:  you and your taxi driver, you and your local travel agent or you and your waiter.  I've been in this situation countless times now, and it does get easier as long as you come prepared.

Don't get frustrated with a person that can't speak English. The first point I'd like to mention is to never just expect someone from another country to speak your language, and furthermore, don't get angry at him or her because of it.  Realize that you are in a foreign country and that you are in fact the foreigner.  Once you get past that point, you can mentally prepare for the communication process ahead.

Practice basic phrases and words in advance. Don't worry about becoming fluent; as long as you can do some numbers and ask basic questions like, “Where's the bathroom?” you'll be in a much better place than those who can't.  In a pinch, these phrases and words will help you bargain, make wise decisions and find a toilet asap!

Carry a dictionary or phrase book. If you have the time, these books will come in handy to look up unfamiliar words on signs and menus or give you the proper question to ask in order to get your drink with or without ice.  More than that, they are generally fun to read when waiting for a bus or train (at least I think so) and offer up a somewhat cheap language lesson.

Download some language apps. If you're a tech-savvy traveler, downloading some language apps to your iPhone or smartphone device before your European summer backpacking trip is just a smart idea.  There are apps today that can even speak the words you translated out loud for your communication counterpart to hear instead of you having to murder the pronunciation.

Use sign language and gestures. It feels silly to be frantically crossing your legs and hoping the guy at the restaurant understands this as the international, “I need a toilet sign,” but it usually works.  Before you throw a tantrum out of frustration (we've all been there) when you can't get your point across in a hurry, try using your hands, body, pens and paper to visualize your need.

Bring a picture guide. The best thing I ever stumbled upon was a picture language guide.  It was a pamphlet that folded out with pictures of everything you could possibly need on a trip so that all I had to do was point.  My guide has pictures of toilets, beds, money, ATMs, food items and so much more.  You can easily make your own guide by piecing together graphics pertaining to travel (hotels, toilets, trains, buses, etc.), and it is a fantastic idea to have a picture guide for those traveling with food allergies.

Flickr: Lollyknit