🇷🇪 Reunion Language Guide — Phrases & Communication Tips

The primary language spoken in Reunion is French, which is widely used in all aspects of life, including government, education, and daily communication.

Language Overview

Reunion, an overseas department of France, has a unique linguistic landscape. The official language is French, which is used in all official contexts, including government, education, and media. However, the most widely spoken language is Reunion Creole, also known as Creole Reunionnais, which is a French-based creole language that emerged as a result of contact between French colonizers and African slaves. Reunion Creole is used in informal settings, such as at home and among friends, and is an important part of the island's cultural identity. While many Reunionese people speak some English, particularly in the tourism industry, English proficiency is generally low, and visitors who speak French or Creole will have a much easier time communicating.

Regional dialects of French and Creole are also present in Reunion, with different areas of the island having their own distinct accents and vocabulary. For example, the dialect spoken in the north of the island is influenced by African languages, while the dialect spoken in the south is more closely related to European French. Minority languages, such as Malagasy and Tamil, are also spoken by small communities of immigrants from Madagascar and India. Despite the presence of these languages, French and Creole remain the dominant languages of Reunion, and visitors who do not speak these languages may face some communication challenges.

In terms of English language proficiency, Reunion is not as tourist-friendly as some other French-speaking destinations, such as Quebec or Belgium. While many hotel staff, restaurant workers, and tour operators speak some English, it is not as widely spoken as in other parts of the world. Visitors who do not speak French or Creole may need to rely on gestures, simple phrases, and translation tools to communicate. However, with a little effort and patience, it is possible to get by in Reunion without speaking French or Creole, particularly in areas with high tourist traffic.

Essential Phrases

Numbers & Bargaining

Communication Tips

• When interacting with locals, it's a good idea to use formal language and titles, such as Monsieur or Madame, until you are explicitly invited to use first names.
• Nonverbal communication, such as gestures and body language, can be important in Reunion, where physical touch and eye contact are valued.
• Avoid using gestures that may be considered rude, such as pointing with the index finger or making the "okay" sign with the thumb and index finger.
• When asking for help or directions, it's a good idea to approach someone who appears to be a local, such as a shopkeeper or a street vendor, and use formal language to show respect.
• Don't be afraid to ask for clarification or repetition if you don't understand something, and be patient with those who may not speak your language.
• Learn a few basic phrases in French or Creole, such as bonjour or merci, to show respect and appreciation for the local culture.
• Consider carrying a phrasebook or using a translation app on your phone to help with communication.

Translation Tools & Resources

• The Google Translate app is a useful tool for translating text and speech in real-time, and can be downloaded for free on most smartphones.
• Phrasebooks and dictionaries can be purchased at most bookstores or online, and can provide a more comprehensive guide to the French and Creole languages.
• Language learning apps, such as Duolingo, can be a fun and interactive way to learn basic phrases and vocabulary in French or Creole.
• Consider hiring a local guide or tour operator who speaks your language to help with communication and navigation during your trip.
• Language exchange websites and social media groups can also be a good way to connect with locals and practice your language skills before your trip.