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Meaning of bon voyage in English

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  • acciaccatura
  • pas de deux
  • the Internationale
  • vivacissimo

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

  • Flora's voice wished me " bon voyage " in a most friendly but tremulous tone.  
  • He wished us bon voyage, removed his hand, and we were off.  
  • It's best to say 'good-bye' and 'bon voyage' right here.  
  • Numerous devoted friends were on hand to say good bye and "bon voyage", but they were permitted only on the dock.  
  • There was a short drive to the river amid polite calls of "good-bye" and " bon voyage," and there lay the Mayflower, like a great white bird with comfortably folded wings.  

Translations of bon voyage

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French Together – Learn French

All About the Phrase “Bon Voyage” – and the Travel Habits of the French

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French people have been wishing each other Bon voyage (Have a nice trip) for centuries. The saying is so common that it’s one of those French phrases that’s been adopted into other languages, including English .

Despite how frequently you might hear it, like any ultimate travel destination, bon voyage offers a lot more to discover than you might expect.

Let’s take a guided tour of Bon voyage  and learn about the travel habits of the French along the way!

What does bon voyage mean?

Bon voyage means “Have a good trip”. But as you can see, there aren’t quite as many words to it. Literally, it’s just “Good trip/voyage”.  So, how did we get there?

Wishes in French with bon(ne)(s)

bon voyage activity meaning

Bon voyage is a shortened form of a phrase like Je vous souhaite un bon voyage. (I wish you a good trip.) or Fais bon voyage (Have a good trip.).

Both of these sentences are still used today, but they tend to be more formal (for the first) or uncommon (for the second).  This is because the French like to keep things brief, so why not just say it in two words?

Bon voyage isn’t the only phrase that expresses a wish like this. There’s a whole list of them, and you may know at least a few already.

These include:

  • Bonne année  – Happy New Year
  • Bonnes vacances – Have a nice vacation
  • Bon appétit – Enjoy your meal
  • Bonne journée / Bonne soirée – Have a nice day/evening
  • Bon weekend – Have a nice weekend
  • Bonne route – Have a good/safe drive
  • Bon anniversaire – Happy birthday! This is a less common equivalent of Joyeux anniversaire .

You’ll frequently hear and see these phrases – and you may discover some others, as well. In French, you can add Bon , Bonne, Bons, or Bonnes to a noun (often a gerund (a noun that describes an action)) to say “Have a good….” or “Enjoy…”.

For instance, if you run into someone as you’re headed to the movies, they might tell you << Bon film !>> (“Enjoy the movie!”).

Or you could hear Bonne baignade ! (Have a nice swim!),  and so on.

The structure Bon(ne)(s) + noun works for so many situations, but it can be tricky for us non-native speakers sometimes. For instance, if you want to say “Enjoy the book!”, you can’t use the word livre (book); it would be Bonne lecture! (Happy reading!).

Expressing a complex wish, like “Have a nice day at work!” can also be confusing. You can’t just say Bon travail ! – that literally means “Good work/Good job!”. 

So, what can you do to be sure you get these phrases right?

Sometimes, using these expressions is something that will come from listening to and absorbing French.

Other times, you might be able to correct yourself if you realize you’re using an expression that already means something, as in the case of Bon travail . 

And when it comes to one of those complex wishes, like “Have a good day at work,” it’s probably best to just say it in a different way – it’s not a simple idea, after all.

So, “Have a good day at work” could be Passe une bonne journée au bureau! or in a more formal conversation, Je te/vous souhaite une bonne journ é e au bureau!

….Then again, since the French prefer to keep things concise, you could probably just say Bonne journ ée and leave it at that.

If this seems overwhelming, don’t worry. The phrases with bon(ne)(s) that I’ve listed, as well as a few others , are the most common ones, and are important to know. But if you feel unsure about using bon(ne)(s) + noun otherwise, remember that there are always other ways to say what you want.

For example, I could say «  J’esp è re que tu passeras une bonne journée au travail. » (I hope you’ll have a good day at work) or « J’esp ère que ce livre te plaira. »  (I hope you’ll like this book.). Just think about the meaning behind the wish.

Other ways to wish people well in French using bon(ne)(s)

bon voyage activity meaning

The expressions we’ve just learned about translate to “Have a good____”. But there are some other expressions in French that use bon(ne)(s) to wish people well in a slightly different way.

In these cases, instead of talking about something concrete or expected, these expressions refer to things like luck or the future.

You’ve probably come across one of the most famous before:

Bonne chance – Good luck

Other common phrases like this include:

  • Bonne continuation   – Keep it up! or Good luck with your future endeavors!
  • Bon rétablissement – Get well soon
  • Bon courage – Hang in there (Although this phrase isn’t necessarily as informal is “Hang in there,” and can be used in most situations)

There’s no major difference between these expressions and others like them , and the ones we looked at earlier, but there are two subtle ones you may come across:

• These well-wishes tend to stay in their original structure. Whether they’re stand-alone statements, or used in a longer phrase (ex: Je vous souhaite une  bonne continuation ), you wouldn’t replace Bon/Bonne with Super in any of these phrases.

• When you’re talking about events, like your continued career or your path back to health, you add un or une before bon/bonne when it’s used in a sentence, as you can see in the example in the previous paragraph. But when you talk about a totally abstract concept or feeling like luck or courage, you don’t use an article (ex: Je te souhaite bon courage. ) .

How to take bon voyage to the next level

Although you can’t add to or change the core phrases we saw in the last section, you can modify bon voyage and its closest cousins a bit.

Most of the time, Bon voyage is a perfectly normal way to wish someone a good trip. But maybe you want them to know you hope they have an EXTRA good trip.

In this case, you can add tr è s (very), like so: Passe(z) un tr è s bon voyage. or Je vous/te souhaites un tr è s bon voyage.

In informal situations, like when you’re talking to a friend, you could replace tr ès bon or just tr ès with super.  For example: Passe(z) un super voyage OR Passe(z) un super bon voyage.

For more formal situations, excellent would be a good replacement.  For example: Je vous souhaite un excellent voyage.

You’ve probably realized that when you add tr ès, super , or excellent , you can’t just use Bon voyage on its own, though.

Do the French say Bon voyage a lot?:  The French and travel

bon voyage activity meaning

The average working French person gets five weeks of paid vacation a year, plus about a week’s worth of personal days. There are also a number of national holidays in France, and schools have two-week vacations every six weeks, plus two months of summer vacation. Train tickets are usually affordable, and low-cost airlines operate out of many French airports. So it’s no wonder that the French are among the nationalities that travel the most . 

Where and when do the French travel?

But where do they like to go?  It turns out that most French people tend to travel primarily within France .

Part of this can be explained by the French rail system, which is highly developed and fairly affordable. It’s easy to go to major cities or even small towns, and since many trains are high speed, a trip like that might only take a few hours. Add to this the wide range of landscapes to be found in mainland France alone – from the warm beaches of the Côte d’Azur, to the ski slopes of the Alps, to attractions in major cities like Paris. France is even home to Europe’s only Disney theme park.

And of course, many French people use at least some of their vacation time to visit family and friends who also live in France.

As for when the French travel, there are some traditions around that. But it turns out they don’t totally reflect reality.

For instance, French people typically go on their longest or even only vacation in summer. August is considered a month when everything shuts down (well, except in vacation/tourism destinations, of course). Entire businesses will close their doors because everyone is on vacation.

But with globalization, as well as new, strategic ways of thinking, that’s changed in recent years. According to recent statistics, 69% of the French population takes a summer vacation. But many companies have at least a few employees who stay behind in August – and those people aren’t always disappointed about it. Some French people prefer to work during this time because their offices are usually calmer since so many of their coworkers and bosses are away. They take a vacation another time – when most destinations will be less crowded and pricey, besides.

Similarly, in winter, especially during the winter school holidays, French people traditionally go on ski trips. And yet, it turns out that only 1 in 10 French people go skiing every year.

Part of these lower-than-expected numbers is due to cost. Not everyone can afford to travel – especially taking a ski trip, which involves a lot of expenses beyond room and board.

Which countries do the French travel to most?

Although France itself is the number-one travel destination for French people, the French do go abroad, as well. And when you think about it, with all of the vacation time they have, a majority of a French person’s travel might be national, but they might go beyond their borders for at least one of those trips.

The top countries visited by the French in 2019 include Spain, Greece, Italy, Tunisia, Turkey, Egypt, and Russia, as well as Canada and the United States.

What do people think of French tourists?

All of this traveling has earned the French  a reputation in the hospitality and tourism industries, as well as with locals in certain places. The typical French tourist is known to be critical, curious, cheap, and seductive.

As some of the people interviewed in this article suggest , seemingly negative traits like being critical may also make them have a more in-depth travel experience. For instance, a tour guide in India explains that instead of saying that they like or don’t like an ice cream flavor, a French tourist will often ask about what’s in it.

They might also make suggestions for how its taste might be improved, which goes with another way the French are perceived: as comparing everything to how good it is or how much it costs back in France.

None of this is to say that the French are terrible tourists (even though they often joke about this amongst themselves). After all, tourists from every country have their good and bad points , and a lot of times it has to do with how well their culture meshes with the local one.

For what it’s worth, one thing I’ve noticed about French people who travel to other countries is that whether or not they complained or made comparisons to France on-site, they generally seem to see their experience as positive, even as a way to expand their knowledge and perspective on the world. Whether they spent a week sunbathing on a beach somewhere, or visited a new city or monument, they come home with a sense of having learned something, and (understandably) often nostalgia for the place they left.

This Egyptian tour guide agrees with me. She loves French tourists because [ i]ls sont très cultivés, ils s’intéressent aux monuments. Ils ne voyagent pas seulement pour prendre des photos (They’re very educated, they’re interested in monuments. They don’t travel just to take pictures.).”

A recent survey shows that 53% of French people see taking a vacation as important and something they’re willing to make sacrifices for.  In addition to self-care and getting away from it all, I think some of this could also be chalked up to wanderlust and a natural curiosity and fascination with other places.

Do you have a favorite place to travel? How about somewhere you dream of going – particularly in France? Whether you’re planning a trip or just armchair traveling, Bon voyage!

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Alysa Salzberg

Alysa Salzberg is an American writer, worrier, teacher, and cookie enthusiast who has lived in Paris, France, for more than a decade. She has taught English and French for more than ten years, most notably as an assistante de langue vivante for L'Education Nationale. She recently published her first novel, Hearts at Dawn , a "Beauty and the Beast" retelling that takes place during the 1870 Siege of Paris. You can read about her adventures here , or feel free to stop by her website .

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Everything about the French sentence "Bon voyage"

You are in the right place to find out all the things you need to know about the basic sentence "Bon voyage". To be more specific, this includes a detailed explanation of what it is and how to use it in a normal conversation with an audio example. Along with the useful things we sprinkled like dialogue example, slow pronunciation audio, synonyms and more!

French to English translation

Translation : Have a nice trip

Register : Neutral - Basic

Audio pronunciation

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IPA : / bɔ̃ vwajaʒ /

aesthetic french quote bon voyage

What does bon voyage mean?

It literally means:

  • Voyage → Trip

It means "Have a good trip " or "Have a nice trip ". We use it when saying goodbye to someone (or a group of people) leaving for a trip, to wish a safe and nice time during the trip.

Cool thing: "bon voyage " is also used in English with the exact same meaning.

When you want to wish a safe and good trip to someone or a group of people, you can simply add "Bon voyage ". 

If you want to make a sentence out of it, you can say: "Fais bon voyage " (Have a nice/good trip). And for a formal version, use instead: "Je vous souhaite un bon voyage → I wish you a good/nice trip "

If the trip involves driving on the road, you can use "Bonne route → Have a nice (trip on the) road ". And if it's a flight: "Bon vol → Have a good/nice flight ".

Finally, if the trip is about going home, you can also use "Bon retour → Have a good/nice journey home ".

A little trick, if you add "bon(ne) " before a noun, it will mean: "enjoy *noun* " or "have a nice/good *noun* ".

Few examples:

  • Bonne journée → Have a nice day
  • Bon week-end → Have a nice weekend
  • Bon appétit → Enjoy your meal
  • Bonne visite → Enjoy your visit
  • Bon match → Enjoy the game
  • Je vous souhaite un bon voyage → I wish you a good/nice trip
  • Fais bon voyage → Have a good/nice trip
  • Bonne route → Have a nice (trip on the) road / Be safe on the road
  • Bon vol → Have a good/nice flight
  • Bon retour → Have a good/nice journey home

Example in a dialogue with French audio

Allez, on y va !

Come on, let's go!

Ça marche ! Bon voyage !

All right! Have a nice trip

Merci ! À plus tard !

Thanks! See you later!

Learn French the easy way with our French - English parallel texts with slow French audio

bon voyage activity meaning

C'est n'importe quoi

To vocabulary list

C'est combien ?

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Definition of bon voyage exclamation from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

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Nearby words

Bon Voyage: French Vocabulary Explained

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Expression: Bon voyage Pronunciation: [bo(n) vwa yazh] Meaning: have a good trip Literal translation: good trip Register : normal Notes: The expression bon voyage is used in both French and English to say goodbye to travelers and wish them well.

Related Expressions

  • bonnes vacances - enjoy your vacation/holiday
  • bonne route - safe journey, drive safely
  • bon retour - safe journey home

In French, bon can be added to pretty much any noun to wish someone well:

  • bon appétit - enjoy your meal
  • bon match - enjoy the game, have a good game
  • bonne promenade - have a nice walk, enjoy your walk
  • bon vélo - have a nice bike ride, enjoy your bike ride
  • bon week-end - have a nice weekend

And it means "happy" in relation to special occasions:

  • bonne année - happy New Year
  • bon anniversaire - happy birthday
  • "Bon Anniversaire": Saying Happy Birthday in French
  • The Universal Wish: 'Bon appétit'
  • Common French Phrases
  • French Idiomatic Expressions With 'Bon'
  • Typical New Year's Greetings in French
  • Vocabulary Lesson: French for Travelers
  • French Vocabulary: Hobbies, Sports, and Games
  • Must-Know Vocabulary for French Restaurant Dining
  • How to Use the French Adverb 'Enfin' ('At Last, Finally')
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  • Using the French Expression "À la rentrée"
  • 11 Synonyms for "Great" in French
  • The French Expression "Meilleurs Vœux"
  • French Vocabulary: Driving and Cars
  • Tips to Improve Your French Vocabulary

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36 Memorable Bon Voyage Theme Party Ideas

Bon Voyage Theme Party

Updated on: Mar 03, 2024

Saying farewell to someone close to you? Are you trying to think of ideas for the best kind of party to throw in their honor? Maybe you're wondering how to plan a party that they'll remember? Throwing a bon voyage theme party is the perfect opportunity for friends and family to say their temporary goodbyes and still enjoy a fun night for the person leaving. We’ve put together recommendations for a bon voyage theme party from decorations to invitations, in order to throw a memorable party that your guests will never forget. In order to have an amazing party, it's important to make sure you've properly budgeted all of your checklist items so you can enjoy the party and not the stress of planning.

Bon Voyage Theme Party Decorations

1. banner and signs.

No bon voyage theme party is complete without decorations like a banner or travel sign . Hang these signs on doorways, chairs, tables, and walls at your venue. These decorations are often made and constructed very nicely, so you can also give them to the traveling guest of honor as a remembrance of the party.

2. Photo Wall

Have guests bring pictures of their favorite memories with the guest of honor and create a photo wall by displaying the pictures for everyone to reminisce on. These images are sure to make your party one to remember while allowing guests to say good bye!

3. Globe Paper Lanterns

For some out-of-this-world decorations, hang globe paper lanterns from the ceiling. You can always purchase solid color paper lanterns as an alternative that matches your color scheme for your bon voyage theme party. Perfect for your going away theme!

4. Suitcases and Duffel Bags

Can't travel the world without a piece of luggage! Create suitcases and duffel bags out of paper, cardboard, or wood to place around your venue. To make it more personalized, have each guest bring a piece of their own luggage for the decorations.

5. Welcome to...

Decorate and transform your venue into the city, state, or country that the guest of honor is traveling to. For example, if the destination is Italy, decorate with Italian-theme colors and symbols. You can even make your centerpieces Italian-themed!

6. Bye Bye Balloons

Hang or tie bon voyage balloon letters or travel-themed balloons anywhere at your event to bid farewell. This will bring your party to life because they are especially festive if you are looking to spice up your balloon decorations.

A large map is perfect for a travel or bon voyage theme party. It can just be for decorations or used as a backdrop for pictures.

8. Adventure Awaits

To continue with your bon voyage theme party, but to change the wording slightly, try to encourage that adventure awaits .

Bon Voyage Theme Party Favors

9. baggage claim.

Place all the party favors on a designated table and set it up and call it the baggage claim , for guests to grab their gifts and head off on their next adventure.

10. Mini Globes

Where to travel next? Mini globes as party favors can encourage guests to see the world. If it can be opened, fill it with sweet treats!

11. Compass

What direction should you take? Give a compass as a party favor to figure out! Add this to your list of traveling party ideas!

12. Party Favor Bags

Give guests party favor bags with an airplane or cruise ship on them that say "Bon Voyage!"

13. Picture Frames

World travelers need a keepsake for their memories. Small picture frames are just what guests need to remember your party.

14. Keychains

Keychains are the perfect souvenir from a trip or party.

15. Mini Suitcases

Make mini suitcases out of paper or card-stock and fill them with candy to send guests on their way!

Bon Voyage Theme Party Food Ideas

Take the party outside and follow a tasty recipe video or recipe book to grill kabobs! An awesome addition to any menu!

17. Lifesavers

For an easy and simple snack in a bowl, lifesavers are perfect since they match the theme.

18. Cupcakes

If you decide to serve your guest of honor's favorite food, don’t forget an honorary cake or cupcakes with toppers . A cupcake is a sweet way to say goodbye.

19. Cocktail Bar

Want a vacation-style vibe? Create your own cocktail bar , hire a catering team, or a bartender to provide food for your party.

20. Themed Food

Research the destination your guest of honor is traveling to, and then buy or make that region's local foods and snacks. Add the flags and symbols of the destination to the tables and food dishes. For instance, if you’re serving Italian food, decorate tables with miniature Italian flags and mini chef hats.

Bon Voyage Theme Party Games and Activities

For a fun and quick game, play a couple of rounds of bingo . Always embrace creativity and change the squares if you want to!

22. Who Said It?

If you're looking for more fun activities try this one out! On each party table, place a container out with strips of paper in them. Have each guest write an anonymous statement about their favorite memory with the guest of honor. Collect the statements and read them aloud. Have the guest of honor try to guess which person wrote each one.

23. Photography

Make sure each guest gets their picture taken with the guest of honor. Set up a photo booth with props or find local photo booth services . Don’t forget to take candid photos of everyone together with the guest of honor at the party. Create a scrapbook using a bon voyage-themed photo album with all the photos from the party. This makes for a great going-away present for the guest of honor to have on their trip.

24. Where Am I From?

Write the names of different countries or cities onto name tags , and place one onto each guest’s back as they walk in. If your guest of honor has traveled a lot previously, use these specific places as the options to put on the guests’ backs. Each guest must figure out which country or city they have by asking only yes or no questions. For some extra fun, place the destination that the guest of honor is traveling to on a different guest’s back. Whoever has this destination can win a prize!

25. Suitcase Race

Ready, set, GO! Challenge guests' packing skills by providing them with numerous items and see who can pack the suitcase the fastest. This is sure to be funny and receives many laughs!

Bon Voyage Theme Party Supplies

26. tablecloths.

Cover your tables with map tablecloths as a creative option rather than just solid colors. This is the perfect touch to your bon voyage decor that your guests and guest of honor will appreciate.

Put the meals on the map with these travel-themed plates .

28. Centerpiece

Place a world traveler centerpiece on the tables to hold pictures or balloons to share the adventures!

29. Napkins

These napkins are much needed to wipe away the happy and sad tears.

30. Photo Booth Props

The perfect addition for your bon voyage theme party photo booth !

31. Backdrop

Set up a map of the destination the guest of honor is traveling to for an instant backdrop .

Bon Voyage Theme Party Invitations

32. passport.

Create an invite inspired by a passport . Fold a card the same size as a passport, and glue the front copy of a passport to the top of the card. Glue on the back copy. On the inside, add a photo of the guest of honor as the passport photo, and include all the party details.

33. Luggage

Make the card into the shape of luggage or luggage tag ! This is a nod to traveling and would be great for a goodbye party. Personalize it by including fun colors and the destination of where your friend is going for a fun little twist.

34. Boarding Pass

All aboard! These boarding pass invitations fit perfectly with your bon voyage theme party.

35. Postcards

This is definitely a cute way to send invitations, and they can be personalized or actual postcards .

36. Oh The Places You'll Go!

The possibilities are endless with these "Oh The Places You'll Go!" themed invitations .

Bon Voyage Theme Party: Conclusion

Traveling to a new destination can be intimidating, but it can also be one of the best experiences of a lifetime. Throwing a bon voyage theme party for your guest of honor is a great way to make them feel special and appreciated before they leave for a new place. We hope your next party is inspired by these great ideas. Check out more of our blogs for other ideas about planning events!

Written by Jessica Bundy, Natalie Davidson, and Mackenzie Hogan; Contributors: Amber Phipps and Maisy Wingert

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How to Say Bon Voyage: Guide on Formal and Informal Ways to Wish Someone a Good Trip

Planning a journey or having a loved one embark on a trip can be an exciting time. As you bid them farewell and wish them a safe and enjoyable voyage, it’s essential to convey your warm thoughts and well wishes. One popular phrase used to express this sentiment is “bon voyage.” In this comprehensive guide, we will explore different ways to say “bon voyage,” both formally and informally, to ensure you find the perfect way to send off your friends, family, or colleagues.

Formal Ways to Say Bon Voyage

When it comes to formal situations, such as bidding farewell to a business associate or your boss on a work-related trip, it’s crucial to use appropriate language and maintain a professional tone. Here are a few ways to express your well wishes formally:

1. Safe Travels

Wishing someone “safe travels” is a universally accepted way to express your concern for their well-being during their trip. It conveys a sense of care and caution.

“Wishing you safe travels on your journey. May your trip be devoid of any troubles and filled with joyful experiences.”

2. Have a Wonderful Trip

By saying “have a wonderful trip,” you are acknowledging the positive aspects of the journey ahead and wishing the person an enjoyable experience.

“We hope you have a wonderful trip! May each day be full of new adventures and cherished memories.”

3. Enjoy Your Journey

When you say “enjoy your journey,” you are emphasizing the importance of relishing the experiences and moments that the person will encounter during their trip.

“Enjoy your journey to the fullest. Make the most of every destination and embrace the unique cultures you encounter.”

Informal Ways to Say Bon Voyage

When it comes to friends, family, or close colleagues, a more informal tone is often appropriate. You can use these expressions to wish them a good trip in a relaxed and friendly manner:

1. Have an Amazing Adventure

By using the phrase “have an amazing adventure,” you are encouraging the person to fully immerse themselves in their journey and enjoy all the exciting experiences.

“Hey! Have an amazing adventure! Try new things, meet new people, and create incredible memories to cherish forever.”

2. Bon Voyage, Enjoy Every Moment

Combining the traditional “bon voyage” with an extra sentiment of “enjoy every moment” adds a personal touch to your farewell. It conveys your desire for them to make the most of their trip.

“Bon voyage! Wishing you a journey filled with laughter, discovery, and enjoyment. May you relish every moment along the way.”

3. Have a Blast

An informal way to say “bon voyage” is to say “have a blast.” It’s a fun and lighthearted way to wish someone an exciting and memorable trip.

“Have a blast on your trip! Dance, sing, explore, and make unforgettable memories. Can’t wait to hear all about it when you’re back!”

Tips for Saying Bon Voyage

Saying “bon voyage” is an art in itself, and here are some valuable tips to consider while expressing your good wishes:

1. Personalize Your Message

Add a personal touch to your message by including details that are specific to the person or their trip. It shows that you have taken the time to think about their journey.

2. Use Emotive and Positive Language

Choose your words carefully to create a positive impact. Emotive and uplifting language will help set a joyful tone for their journey.

3. Be Genuine and Sincere

Authenticity goes a long way when wishing someone a good trip. Make sure your words are heartfelt and genuine, reflecting your true emotions.

4. Tailor Your Message to the Occasion

Consider the purpose of the trip, the destination, and the relationship with the person while crafting your message. A tailored message is always more meaningful.

5. Add Travel Quotes or Poems

If you’re feeling creative, include a travel quote or poem to add a touch of inspiration or wanderlust to your message. It can make your wishes even more memorable.

Remember, the most important aspect of saying “bon voyage” is to convey your heartfelt wishes and thoughtful sentiments. Choose the style and expression that best suits the person and the context, and let your genuine emotions shine through. Safe travels and enjoy the journey!

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Bon voyage, a phrase that originated in French, is commonly used in English to wish someone a good journey or a pleasant trip. Whether you're bidding farewell to a friend, a family member, or a colleague, saying bon voyage is a thoughtful way to express your well-wishes and convey your excitement for their upcoming adventure. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say bon voyage, along with tips, examples, and slight regional variations.

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How to Say Bon Voyage in Arabic

When it comes to bidding farewell to someone embarking on a journey, expressing your well-wishes and saying "bon voyage" is a thoughtful gesture. If you find yourself in an Arabic-speaking country or connecting with Arabic-speaking individuals, it's helpful to know how to convey this sentiment in their language. In this guide, we will explore formal and informal ways to say "bon voyage" in Arabic, alongside some useful tips and examples.

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English translation of 'bon voyage'

IPA Pronunciation Guide

Examples of 'bon voyage' in a sentence bon voyage

Browse alphabetically bon voyage.

  • bon vouloir
  • Bon voyage!
  • bon week-end
  • Bon week-end!
  • All FRENCH words that begin with 'B'

Related terms of bon voyage

  • faire bon voyage
  • Bon voyage !
  • bon voyage !

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Bon voyage / have a good journey in many languages

Jump to phrases

How to wish people a good or safe journey. The phrase, bon voyage, is used in English without change, though the pronunciation is quite like the French.

People who have contributed to this section

If you would like to make any corrections or additions to this page, or if you can provide recordings, please contact me .

http://www.nypl.org/branch/central/dlc/df/expressions/bonvoyage.html

Other phrases

Welcome | Hello | How are you? | Long time no see | What's your name? | Where are you from? | Pleased to meet you | Good morning | Good afternoon | Good evening | Good night | Goodbye | Good luck | Cheers! | Have a nice day | Have a nice weekend | Bon appetit | Bon voyage | Yes, No | Maybe | I don't know | Do you understand? | I understand | I don't understand | Please speak more slowly | Please say that again | Please write it down | Do you speak English? | Do you speak [your language]? | I'm learning [your language] | How do you say ... in [your language]? | Speak to me in [your language] | Excuse me | I would like ... | How much is this? | Sorry | Please | Thank you | Where's the toilet? | This gentleman/lady will pay for everything | Would you like to dance? | Do you come here often? | I miss you | I love you | Get well soon | Go away! | Leave me alone! | Help! | Fire! | Stop! | Call the police! | Merry Christmas | Happy New Year | Happy Easter | Happy Birthday | Congratulations | One language is never enough | My hovercraft is full of eels

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Synonyms of bon voyage

  • as in farewell
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Thesaurus Definition of bon voyage

Synonyms & Similar Words

  • leave - taking

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

  • greeting(s)

Thesaurus Entries Near bon voyage

bon voyages

Cite this Entry

“Bon voyage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bon%20voyage. Accessed 28 Apr. 2024.

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Getting To Know Italy

How Do You Say BON VOYAGE in Italian?

Is someone you know going on a trip? Perhaps even to Italy? Say buon viaggio to wish them bon voyage in Italian! 

Table of Contents

BON VOYAGE AND BUON VIAGGIO

Buon viaggio means have a good trip or have a good journey in Italian, just like bon voyage does in French. Buon means good in Italian, and viaggio means trip or journey , so buon viaggio literally means good trip , or good journey . 

In French, bon means good , and voyage means trip/journey , so the French bon voyage has the same construction and meaning as the Italian buon viaggio .

The pronunciation of buon viaggio is: boo-OHN vee-AH-jee-oh

Listen to how to pronounce buon viaggio here:

A: Domani vado in Spagna. Tomorrow I’m going to Spain. B: Davvero? Buon viaggio! Really? Bon voyage!

Boy waves to old train and says in graphic speech bubble, 'Buon Viaggio!'  You can see low, tree-covered mountains in the background.

ANOTHER WAY TO SAY BON VOYAGE IN ITALIAN

You can also tell someone to explicitly have a good trip by using the Italian verb fare in the imperative form ( l’imperativo ), otherwise known as the command form. Fare means to make or to do , as well as to have in this context.

Fai buon viaggio! means Have a good trip! in the informal singular you form. Use it when speaking to someone you know well.

Faccia buon viaggio! means Have a good trip! in the formal singular you form. Use it when speaking to someone you don’t know well, an elder, or someone with superior social status.

Fate buon viaggio! means Have a good trip! in the plural you form. Use it when speaking to a group. 

USING THE WORD BUON

Buon isn’t just for trips! You can use the Italian word buon , or good , in a variety of situations, like to wish people a good day, a good weekend, a good vacation, a happy birthday , happy holidays , and much more. 

Here are some examples:

In English, when we tell someone to have a good trip we often mean their whole vacation, not just the part when they are traveling. In Italian, buon viaggio refers to the journey part, when the person is traveling to their destination. If you’d like to give someone best wishes for their entire vacation, say buona vacanza , or buone ferie .

A SONG ABOUT BON VOYAGE! IN ITALIAN

The Italian singer-songwriter Cesare Cremonini’s 2015 hit Buon Viaggio (Share the Love), or Bon Voyage , encourages us to gather our courage to take that trip, no matter where it takes us. 

Buon ascolto! Happy listening!

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  5. What is the Meaning of Bon Voyage

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  6. 70+ Bon Voyage Wishes, Messages and Quotes

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COMMENTS

  1. Bon voyage Definition & Meaning

    The meaning of BON VOYAGE is an expression of good wishes when someone leaves on a journey : goodbye —often used interjectionally. How to use bon voyage in a sentence. an expression of good wishes when someone leaves on a journey : goodbye —often used interjectionally… See the full definition Games & Quizzes ...

  2. BON VOYAGE

    BON VOYAGE definition: 1. a phrase said to people who are going away, meaning "I hope you have a safe and enjoyable…. Learn more.

  3. Bon voyage

    bon voyage: 1 n an organized expression of goodwill at the start of a trip or new venture Synonyms: send-off Type of: farewell , word of farewell an acknowledgment or expression of goodwill at parting

  4. All About the Phrase "Bon Voyage"

    Bon voyage is a shortened form of a phrase like Je vous souhaite un bon voyage. (I wish you a good trip.) or Fais bon voyage (Have a good trip.). Both of these sentences are still used today, but they tend to be more formal (for the first) or uncommon (for the second). This is because the French like to keep things brief, so why not just say it ...

  5. Bon voyage

    Definition. It literally means: Bon → Good. Voyage → Trip. It means "Have a good trip " or "Have a nice trip ". We use it when saying goodbye to someone (or a group of people) leaving for a trip, to wish a safe and nice time during the trip. Cool thing: "bon voyage " is also used in English with the exact same meaning.

  6. BON VOYAGE definition and meaning

    A phrase used to wish a traveller a pleasant journey.... Click for English pronunciations, examples sentences, video.

  7. BON VOYAGE Definition & Meaning

    Bon voyage definition: (have a) pleasant trip.. See examples of BON VOYAGE used in a sentence.

  8. bon voyage exclamation

    Definition of bon voyage exclamation in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

  9. bon voyage exclamation

    Definition of bon voyage exclamation in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. ... See bon voyage in the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Check pronunciation: bon voyage. Nearby words. bonus noun; bon vivant noun; bon voyage exclamation; bony adjective;

  10. Bon voyage Definition & Meaning

    bon voyage /ˌbɑːnvoɪ ˈ ɑːʒ/ noun. Britannica Dictionary definition of BON VOYAGE. [noncount] : 2 farewell 1. The crowd waved bon voyage as the ship left the dock. — usually used to say that you hope someone who is leaving on a trip will have a good journey. People in the crowd shouted " Bon voyage !" as the ship left the dock.

  11. Bon Voyage: French Vocabulary Explained

    By ThoughtCo Team. Updated on July 31, 2019. Expression: Bon voyage. Pronunciation: [bo (n) vwa yazh] Meaning: have a good trip. Literal translation: good trip. Register: normal. Notes: The expression bon voyage is used in both French and English to say goodbye to travelers and wish them well.

  12. 36 Memorable Bon Voyage Theme Party Ideas

    Bon Voyage Theme Party: Conclusion. Traveling to a new destination can be intimidating, but it can also be one of the best experiences of a lifetime. Throwing a bon voyage theme party for your guest of honor is a great way to make them feel special and appreciated before they leave for a new place.

  13. bon voyage

    bon voyage. From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English bon voy‧age /ˌbɒn vɔɪˈɑːʒ $ ˌbɒːn-/ interjection used to wish someone a good journey Origin bon voyage (1600-1700) French "good trip". bon voyage meaning, definition, what is bon voyage: used to wish someone a good journey: Learn more.

  14. Bon voyage

    Somewhat synonymous. bon retour - have a safe journey home, get home safely; bonne route - drive safely, have a safe journey; bonnes vacances - enjoy your vacation/holiday; à la rentrée - see you after summer vacation; Related expressions. You can add bon to just about any noun in order to say "enjoy ___" or "have a good/nice ___":. bon appétit - enjoy your meal

  15. How to Say Bon Voyage: Guide on Formal and Informal Ways to Wish

    2. Bon Voyage, Enjoy Every Moment. Combining the traditional "bon voyage" with an extra sentiment of "enjoy every moment" adds a personal touch to your farewell. It conveys your desire for them to make the most of their trip. Example: "Bon voyage! Wishing you a journey filled with laughter, discovery, and enjoyment.

  16. bon voyage

    The meaning of bon voyage. Definition of bon voyage. English dictionary and integrated thesaurus for learners, writers, teachers, and students with advanced, intermediate, and beginner levels.

  17. BON VOYAGE definition in American English

    A phrase used to wish a traveller a pleasant journey.... Click for pronunciations, examples sentences, video.

  18. English translation of 'bon voyage'

    English Translation of "BON VOYAGE" | The official Collins French-English Dictionary online. Over 100,000 English translations of French words and phrases.

  19. Translations of bon voyage in many languages

    The phrase, bon voyage, is used in English without change, though the pronunciation is quite like the French. Veilige reis! Voorspoedige reis! تروح و تيجي بالسّلامة! (tirooh wa tigi bis salaama!) Ondo ibili! Добрай дарогi! (Dobraj darohi!) Mwende bwino!

  20. BON VOYAGE Synonyms: 16 Similar and Opposite Words

    Synonyms for BON VOYAGE: farewell, congee, good-bye, good-by, ave, Godspeed, au revoir, congé; Antonyms of BON VOYAGE: salute, salutation, welcome, greeting(s), hello

  21. bon voyage

    The meaning of bon voyage. Definition of bon voyage. Best online English dictionaries for children, with kid-friendly definitions, integrated thesaurus for kids, images, and animations. ... Legacy activities: Word Explorer Children's Dictionary Advanced Dictionary : More results. Show multi-word results: Browse in wordlist:

  22. How Do You Say BON VOYAGE in Italian?

    Buon means good in Italian, and viaggio means trip or journey, so buon viaggio literally means good trip, or good journey . In French, bon means good, and voyage means trip/journey, so the French bon voyage has the same construction and meaning as the Italian buon viaggio. The pronunciation of buon viaggio is: boo-OHN vee-AH-jee-oh.

  23. The Meaning Behind The Song: Bon Voyage by Sparks

    The meaning behind Bon Voyage can be interpreted in various ways, as Sparks deliberately leaves room for individual interpretation. At its core, the song explores the bittersweet emotions surrounding departure and the journey of life. It delves into the idea of bidding farewell to someone or something, acknowledging that the journey ahead is ...