Language is a treacherous game. It promises communication but delivers confusion the moment you step beyond the borders of your mother tongue. Place names, in particular, seem designed less for navigation and more for public humiliation. They lure you in with exotic vowels, seductive consonants, and then - snap! - you’re face-first in a syllabic bear trap, correcting yourself mid-sentence while the locals look on, bemused and faintly pitying. It’s enough to make you want to book a holiday in Paris, Texas, where everyone says it the same way you do - flat and unapologetic. But then again, what’s adventure without the occasional linguistic pratfall?
Of course, mispronouncing a place isn’t just a faux pas; it’s a rite of passage. It marks you as a stranger, a well-meaning outsider, a pilgrim stumbling toward enlightenment - or at least the nearest café. Because here’s the thing: Places that twist your tongue tend to twist your imagination too. They’re steeped in stories, culture, and history that your language can’t quite wrap itself around. If a name is too easy, it probably comes with a fast-food drive-thru and a strip mall. But if it’s hard - gloriously, stubbornly hard - it’s likely hiding something worth discovering.
So, while it’s tempting to stick to the places you can pronounce without sounding like you’ve swallowed a kazoo, where’s the fun in that? A little linguistic struggle is good for the soul. It reminds us we’re human - clumsy, curious, and occasionally ridiculous. And if you’re willing to risk a verbal misstep or two, you might just find yourself somewhere unforgettable, standing in a marketplace or atop a mountain, marveling at how beautifully strange the world can be. Which is why in today’s pseudo-travel blog we’re going to visit some of the most mispronounced places worth a visit. Now, let’s wade into the phonetic quagmire and see where it takes us, some just might surprise you.
Common mispronunciations: foo-ket, fuh-ket, (and the occasional fuh-kit)
Correct pronunciation: poo-ket
We start with an island whose name seems engineered to test the maturity of English speakers everywhere. With “ph” often sounding like an “f” in English, many approach it hesitantly, fearing their attempt might risk offending delicate ears with a resounding “FUH-ket.” The correct pronunciation is “poo-KET,” with a firm “P” and the stress graciously placed on the second syllable. Of course, this doesn’t entirely defuse its comedic potential - there’s just something about those syllables that brings out the schoolchild in all of us. Yet, if you can make it past the phonetic pitfalls, you’ll find an island so breathtaking it might even render your inner 12-year-old speechless.
Some things to do when visiting Phuket:
1. Explore stunning neighboring islands like Phi Phi and James Bond Island.
2. Relax on pristine beaches like Patong, Kata, and Karon.
3. Visit temples like Wat Chalong in Old Phuket Town.
4. Try snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and rock climbing.
5. Experience the vibrant nightlife of Patong Beach.
Common mispronunciations: bwey-nuhs ahyuhr-iz, boh-nuhs ahyuhr-iz
Correct pronunciation: bwe-naws ahy-res
Buenos Aires - literally translating to “good airs” or “fair winds” - is a name that sounds straightforward until your tongue starts tripping over its syllables. English speakers often wrestle with the Spanish pronunciation, landing somewhere between “BWAY-nos” and “BWEN-us,” while valiantly ignoring the more subtle “ai-RES” at the end. Its full original name - Puerto de Nuestra Señora Santa María del Buen Aire - offered even less hope to foreign tongues, but thankfully that was trimmed down to its breezier, if still deceptively tricky, modern form. Buenos Aires is one of those places that can sweep you off your feet.
Some things to do when visiting Buenos Aires:
1. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Palermo Soho and Recoleta, known for their trendy shops, cafes, and art galleries.
2. Get lost in the beautiful architecture of the Palacio Barolo, a stunning Art Deco building with panoramic city views.
3. Experience the passion of Argentine tango by attending a live show or taking a tango lesson.
4. Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Argentine cuisine, from juicy steaks to empanadas and dulce de leche.
5. Wander through the historic streets of La Boca, a colorful neighborhood famous for its tango roots and vibrant street art.
Common mispronunciations: lie-chester, lie-ester
Correct pronunciation: lester
Few things provoke existential dread quite like English place names stuffed with surplus letters, serving no purpose other than to humiliate the unsuspecting tourist. Leicester is a prime offender - a name that seems to promise an elegant trinity of syllables but instead cruelly collapses into the unassuming “Lester.” The silent “c” lounging smugly in the middle has been disregarded since the 1700s, when William Johnston’s A Pronouncing and Spelling Dictionary pointed out that the likes of Leicester, Gloucester, and Worcester had no time for such phonetic frills. And yet, despite centuries of linguistic simplification, the name continues to baffle outsiders. But In Leicester, there’s as much to see and do as there are unnecessary letters in its name.
Some things to do when visiting Leicester:
1. Explore historic Leicester Cathedral, home to the remains of King Richard III.
2. Learn about the life and times of the infamous king and see fascinating artifacts at the King Richard III Visitor Centre.
3. Indulge in a shopping spree and sample delicious local food on the vibrant streets of Leicester Market.
4. Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the picturesque Abbey Park, perfect for picnics, cycling, and boating.
5. Experience world-class performances of drama, comedy, and musicals at the Curve Theatre.
Common mispronunciations: OAK-suh-kuh, oh-AX-uh-cuh
Correct pronunciation: wah-HAH-kah
Oaxaca - a name that delights linguists and torments everyone else. A recent survey revealed that a staggering 76% of travelers butcher its pronunciation, and even Spanish speakers outside the region aren’t immune to its phonetic ambush. The culprit? A rebellious “X” that refuses to play by the usual modern Spanish rules of a crisp “ks” sound, as in taxi. Instead, Oaxaca traces its roots back to Nahuatl, the Aztec language where the “X” began life as a soft “-sh” before evolving into the breathy “-h” we know today. The result? A melodious cascade of syllables: “wah-HAH-kah.” For those who nail it, a sense of accomplishment; for the rest, well, there’s plenty to see and do there anyway.
Some things to do when visiting Oaxaca:
1. Immerse yourself in the colonial charm and vibrant culture of Oaxaca City's historic center.
2. Discover the ancient ruins of the pre-Columbian Zapotec city of Monte Alban and marvel at its intricate carvings and pyramids.
3. Indulge in the rich flavors of Oaxacan cuisine, famous for its moles, tlayudas, and mezcal.
4. Witness the colorful traditions of the Day of the Dead Celebrations, a unique cultural experience.
5. Go on a Mezcal tour to learn about the production of mezcal, Mexico's national spirit, and taste a variety of flavors.
Common mispronunciations: mawn-tree-awl
Correct pronunciation: mawn-re-awl
Montreal owes its name - and its silent consonant intrigue - to French explorer Jacques Cartier, who christened the nearby mountain mont Royal with characteristic Gallic flair. As the years rolled on and the city emerged, the name morphed, shedding syllables and leaving behind a particularly French flourish: a silent “T,” as if to remind everyone that elegance is best whispered, not shouted. Today, anglophones persist in over-enunciating, while the French-speaking locals casually glide over the “T,” as if to say, “We’re not here to argue; we’re here to savor.”
Some things to do when visiting Montreal:
1. Wander the cobblestone streets of the historic Old Montreal district with its charming architecture and boutique shops.
2. Hike to the top of Mont-Royal Park for panoramic city views or enjoy a leisurely picnic in the park.
3. The Underground City is perfect for escaping the winter cold where you can explore the extensive network of underground shops, restaurants, and attractions.
4. Experience world-class performances of opera, ballet, and theater at the Place des Arts.
5. Indulge in the iconic Canadian dish Poutine, a calorie destroying combination of french fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
Common mispronunciation: ray-ka-jav-ik
Correct pronunciation: rayk-yah-vik or rayk-yah-veek
Iceland is a land of geological drama and linguistic chaos, with place names that seem designed to break the spirits of English speakers. (Here's looking at you Eyjafjallajokull volcano.) However, its capital city of Reykjavik particularly confuses many of its annual tourists every year. The real stumbling block? That improbable cluster of consonants in the middle – ykj - which looks less like a word and more like a Scrabble board in revolt. The trick is to pronounce the ‘j’ as a ‘y’ - now, the city easily becomes ‘Rayk-yah-vik.’ (Though ‘Rayk-yah-veek’ is also correct.)
By the way, Eyjafjallajokull volcano is pronounced EYJA-FJALLA-JOKULL, in case you were wondering.
Some things to do when visiting Reykjavik:
1. Witness stunning natural wonders like Gullfoss waterfall, Þingvellir National Park, and Geysir geothermal area.
2. Relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters of The Blue Lagoon, a world-famous geothermal spa.
3. Go whale watching to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
4. Experience the Northern Lights. The elusive Aurora Borealis is a breathtaking natural light display.
5. Reykjavík was just listed as the #3 most friendly city in the world by Conde Nast Traveler
Common mispronunciations: edin-burg, edin-borough
Correct pronunciation: edin-buh-ruh (edin-bruh is also acceptable)
Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital and home to the famous Fringe Festival, is as charming as it is linguistically tricky. Americans often fall into the Pittsburgh trap, rendering the “-burgh” with a heavy-handed “berg,” while others veer toward “burrow,” as though the city were hosting rabbits instead of Shakespearean monologues. The reality, of course, is far more refined: “Edin-buh-ruh” (or, if you prefer brevity, “Edin-bruh”) rolls off the tongue with a distinctly Scottish lilt, leaving the mispronounced hordes to nurse their wounded pride over a pint.
Some things to do when visiting Edinburgh:
1. Explore Edinburgh Castle, the historic fortress perched atop Castle Rock, offering panoramic city views.
2. Wander through the heart of the Old Town, lined with historic buildings, shops, and pubs.
3. Admire a world-class collection of Scottish and international art at the Scottish National Gallery
4. Experience the stunning natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands, including the Isle of Skye and Loch Ness.
5. Enjoy a night out on the Grassmarket where you can sample local beers, listen to live music, and experience Edinburgh's vibrant nightlife.
Common mispronunciations: lao, la-os
Correct pronunciation: louse (rhymes with house)
Tucked between Thailand and Vietnam, the landlocked nation of Laos often gets overshadowed – and mispronounced. Many assume the “s” is silent, mimicking how locals pronounce their homeland “Muang Lao” in their own language. Fair guess, but not quite. Just as English speakers don’t feel obligated to call Germany “Deutschland” at dinner parties, we’re working with the anglicized version here. For English tongues, the “ao” morphs into an “ow,” leaving us with “Louse.” Yes, like the singular of lice - unfortunate, perhaps, but linguistically accurate.
Some things to do when visiting Laos:
1. Explore Luang Prabang, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning temples, serene atmosphere, and vibrant night market.
2. Visit the Plain of Jars, the mysterious prehistoric megalithic site, scattered with thousands of large stone jars.
3. Cruise the Mekong River, passing through picturesque villages and lush landscapes.
4. Trek through the jungle to reach the beautiful turquoise Kuang Si waterfalls, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
5. Experience the Night Market in Vientiane where you can indulge in delicious street food, shop for souvenirs, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
(Read more about Laos here in our travel blog post from November 2023)
Common mispronunciations: kuh-TAAR, KAT-aar
Correct pronunciation: KUH-ter
Here’s the harsh truth: unless you’re prepared to immerse yourself in Arabic phonetics, you’re never going to nail the native pronunciation of Qatar. The three consonants in its name simply don’t have equivalents in English, with the “Q” landing somewhere between a guttural “K” and the sound of clearing your throat mid-sentence. So, what’s a well-meaning English speaker to do? For years, “kuh-TAAR” held the crown, but lately, “KUH-ter” has gained traction as a closer approximation. The best advice? Aim for something recognizable, and if your attempts still miss the mark, consider the foolproof option: just point at a map and smile.
Some things to do when visiting Qatar:
1. Visit the Museum of Islamic Art and admire a vast collection of Islamic art and artifacts from around the world.
2. Take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, the beautiful waterfront promenade, offering stunning views of the Doha skyline.
3. Explore Souq Waqif. This vibrant traditional market is filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural performances.
4. Visit the National Museum of Qatar where you will discover the rich history and culture of Qatar through interactive exhibits and stunning architecture.
5. Catch a Game at Khalifa International Stadium.
Although we’ve only just scratched the surface of hard to pronounce places, it’s time to wrap up this week’s post. Language is a tool designed to connect us, yet it often serves as a hurdle, a test, and occasionally a trapdoor to our dignity. Mispronounced places aren’t just linguistic challenges - they’re little reminders that the world doesn’t revolve around us, our tongues, our alphabet, or our rules. They humble us, force us to pause, and maybe, if we’re lucky, teach us that not everything has to be immediately accessible to be worth exploring.
There’s something beautiful, even poetic, about standing in a foreign land, mangling the name of a city while its residents patiently smile (or stifle laughter). It’s not just about words - it’s about culture, history, and the realization that a place exists far beyond our ability to say it properly. A place doesn’t lose its magic because we can’t pronounce it; in fact, the struggle might just make it feel even more alive, more layered, more real.
So, here’s to the unpronounceable corners of the world, the places that trip us up and laugh in our faces. They remind us that the journey is as much about humility as it is about discovery. Sure, the locals might chuckle when we say “Edin-burg,” and our attempt at “Oaxaca” might sound like a sneeze - but in those moments, we’re not just a tourist; we’re a part of the story. And isn’t that better than getting it right on the first try?
By the way, if you’re ever in doubt about how to pronounce something, ask www.forvo.com how to pronounce it. It was a great help to us in writing today’s blog post.
I loved the trip down pronunciation lane! Lester and Kuh-ter don’t make sense, but they aren’t supposed to, they just exist! I had a friend who got tired of their name being butchered, they legally changed it from Nguyen to Wynn.
Made me sad
Articles like this one should use the International Phonetic Alphabet so that readers aren't left to their own devices trying to divine the intended pronunciations of an ad hoc system presented in the moment.