The history of Europe is found in the words you speak every day.

Coming up today on Travel with Rick Steve's Dutch linguist Gaston Doran takes us language spotting.

He tells us how the languages of Europe have borrowed and stolen from each other for centuries to become what they are today.

Of course, even with a dictionary, a language never really stands still.

One of the big changes over the last century,'s say is the leveling off of dialects.

Dialects of all these languages are becoming more similar, more like each other.

Many of the world's smaller languages of reasons to be threatened by the rise of English as the common tongue.

But in Ireland, the old Celtic language that had to be hidden from colonial rulers is now a

required course in school.

The Irish language is so close to our hearts

and it's an expression of what we stand for as Irish people.

We'll also get tips for taking in the best that Ireland has to offer this year.

Ireland is not a sun destination, it's a fun destination.

We're glad you could join us.

It's Travel with Rick Steeves.

One great way to connect with the locals is to speak the language or at least some of it.

Rosetta Stone is a fast fun way to learn.

It's got helpful tools like online video chats with native speaking teachers.

You can take the Rosetta Stone demo or purchase the program at a special discount at

Rosetta Stone.com.

slash Rick Steves. The language barrier can actually be a fun part of your travels.

Coming up in the hour ahead, we meet a Dutch linguist who grew up speaking Limburgish as well as Dutch,

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