Essential Spanish Phrases for International Business Travel


Traveling to Spanish-speaking countries for business can be smooth and successful when you are prepared with the right language skills. Using essential Spanish phrases helps build rapport, show professionalism, and navigate meetings, transportation, and accommodations effectively.

Greetings and Introductions

Starting conversations politely sets the tone for a professional relationship:

  • “Buenos días / Buenas tardes, mucho gusto en conocerle.”
    – Good morning / Good afternoon, nice to meet you.

  • “Mi nombre es [Name] y represento a [Company Name].”
    – My name is [Name], and I represent [Company Name].

  • “Encantado(a) de trabajar con usted.”
    – Pleased to work with you.

Meeting and Appointment Phrases

Scheduling and attending meetings requires clarity:

  • “¿Cuál sería un buen momento para reunirnos?”
    – What would be a good time for us to meet?

  • “Confirmo nuestra reunión para [día/hora].”
    – I confirm our meeting for [day/time].

  • “¿Dónde se llevará a cabo la reunión?”
    – Where will the meeting take place?

  • “Gracias por su tiempo y atención.”
    – Thank you for your time and attention.

Discussing Business Topics

Expressing ideas clearly ensures professional communication:

  • “Nos gustaría presentar nuestra propuesta.”
    – We would like to present our proposal.

  • “¿Podría explicarme más sobre su proceso?”
    – Could you explain your process in more detail?

  • “Estamos interesados en explorar oportunidades de colaboración.”
    – We are interested in exploring collaboration opportunities.

  • “¿Cuáles son los próximos pasos después de esta reunión?”
    – What are the next steps after this meeting?

Travel and Accommodation

Handling logistics efficiently helps avoid confusion:

  • “Necesito un taxi al hotel, por favor.”
    – I need a taxi to the hotel, please.

  • “¿Podría recomendar un buen restaurante cerca de aquí?”
    – Could you recommend a good restaurant nearby?

  • “Quisiera hacer el check-in/check-out, por favor.”
    – I would like to check in/check out, please.

  • “¿Dónde puedo encontrar transporte público?”
    – Where can I find public transportation?

Dining and Networking

Business meals and networking require polite expressions:

  • “Gracias por invitarme a esta comida.”
    – Thank you for inviting me to this meal.

  • “¿Qué me recomienda del menú?”
    – What do you recommend from the menu?

  • “Es un placer conocerle y conversar con usted.”
    – It’s a pleasure to meet and talk with you.

  • “Salud”
    – Cheers! (used for toasts)

Politeness and Professional Etiquette

Maintaining professionalism is key in international business:

  • “Por favor” / “Gracias” / “Disculpe”
    – Please / Thank you / Excuse me

  • “Con su permiso”
    – With your permission

  • “Lo siento, no hablo español con fluidez.”
    – I’m sorry, I don’t speak Spanish fluently.

  • “¿Podría repetirlo, por favor?”
    – Could you repeat that, please?

Tips for Business Travelers

  • Learn basic industry vocabulary: Knowing key terms related to your business can make meetings more productive.

  • Practice pronunciation: Clear speech helps avoid misunderstandings.

  • Use formal address: “Usted” is preferred over “tú” in professional settings.

  • Carry a bilingual business card: Facilitates introductions and follow-up.

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