The Elegant Enclave of Hydra, Algiers

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaban]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeana]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathiraa]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة من فضلك
  [urid an ara alqaima min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakol allahm]
• Cheers!صحتين!
  [sahatayn]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع من فضلك
  [urid an adfaa min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajda!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [idhab baeedan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itassal batabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضاعت مني
  [laqad daeat mni]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [bikam hatha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfid alsiar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alssaa?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alssaa alwahida]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [alashira wannahf]
• Morningالصباح
  [assabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [aldhuhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasaa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arbaaa]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sabaa]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tisaa]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [ayn huwa/hia...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala alkhareeta)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata alhafilat alqadima?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tadhkira (ila ....)]

Hydra, known as 'El-Hydra', was established during the Ottoman period in the 16th century when it served as a retreat for the elite of Algiers. The neighborhood's name is derived from the Greek word 'Hydra', meaning 'water', reflecting the abundant springs in the area. The Ottomans built luxurious residences and gardens, making it a hub for the wealthy class who sought solace away from the bustling medina.

With the French colonization of Algeria in the 19th century, Hydra underwent significant transformations. The French administration developed the area into a residential suburb, constructing wide boulevards and European-style villas. This period marked the introduction of modern amenities, which attracted a mix of French settlers and affluent Algerians, altering the neighborhood's demographic and architectural landscape.

In the 20th century, Hydra became home to several important cultural institutions, including the National School of Fine Arts and the National Library. These establishments fostered a vibrant artistic community and played a crucial role in promoting Algerian art and literature. The area became a center for intellectuals and artists, contributing to the cultural renaissance that characterized post-independence Algeria.

During the Algerian War of Independence (1954-1962), Hydra was a focal point for political activism. The neighborhood witnessed significant events as nationalists sought refuge and organized resistance against French colonial rule. Hydra's strategic location allowed it to act as a meeting ground for activists and played a vital role in the struggle for independence.

After Algeria gained independence in 1962, Hydra continued to evolve as a residential area, attracting a diverse population. The neighborhood became known for its blend of modern and traditional architecture, with villas, apartments, and local markets coexisting. Hydra also saw an influx of expatriates and diplomatic missions, further enriching its cultural tapestry.

Hydra is well-connected to other neighborhoods in Algiers. You can take the Algiers Metro to the El Madania station and then switch to bus number 35 or a taxi to reach Hydra. Alternatively, trams operate from the city center, providing another convenient option. If coming from the Houari Boumediene Airport, taxis are available, and the journey takes about 30 minutes depending on traffic.

Hydra is a relatively small neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transport options include buses and taxis, which are readily available. Bicycles can be rented from local shops, and some areas have bike lanes. Alternatively, consider using ride-hailing apps for convenient transportation around the neighborhood.

Hydra is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. Areas near the outskirts may see more petty crime, so it's advisable to stay within the main streets and well-populated areas.

In case of an emergency, dial 19 for police, 14 for fire services, and 21 for medical assistance. Local hospitals are available if needed. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies in Hydra can provide basic over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly to respect local customs, especially in religious sites. Don't wear overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local traditions and customs; refrain from public displays of affection. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly and be polite. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake and a warm smile. Don't forget to make eye contact as a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes, and if offered food, accept graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it's considered rude.

To experience Hydra like a local, visit the local cafes and pastry shops to try traditional Algerian sweets. Engage with local artisans in the area, showcasing crafts and artwork. Don't miss the beautiful gardens and parks in the neighborhood, which are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Attend local events and festivals if your visit coincides with one for a richer cultural experience.