Oran: The Radiant Jewel of Algeria's Mediterranean Coast

• Helloسلام
  [salam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaan]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shokran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathiraa]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid ru'ya alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [inseraf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [atassil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostأنا ضائع
  [ana dae']
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatalla]
• How much is it?كم ثمنه؟
  [kam thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfid alsiar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)ونصف (عشرة)
  [wansif (asharah)]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [ba'd aldhuhur]
• Eveningمساء
  [masa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayn...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'uan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى القادم؟
  [mata alqadim?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [tazkirah (ila...)]

Oran was founded in 903 AD by Moorish Andalusi traders. The city's strategic location on the Mediterranean coast made it a crucial hub for trade and commerce during its early years, attracting a diverse mix of cultures and people.

In 1509, the Spanish Empire, led by Cardinal Francisco Jiménez de Cisneros, captured Oran from the Moors. The Spanish built several fortifications, including the Santa Cruz Fortress, to protect the city from Ottoman and pirate attacks.

In 1708, the Ottoman Empire seized Oran from the Spanish. The city became part of the Ottoman Regency of Algiers. However, the Spanish briefly recaptured Oran in 1732 before finally ceding it to the Ottomans in 1792 after a devastating earthquake.

In 1831, Oran fell under French control as part of the broader colonization of Algeria. The French period saw significant urban development, including the construction of new streets, buildings, and public amenities, which shaped the modern layout of the city.

During World War II, Oran was a key strategic location. In 1940, the British Royal Navy launched Operation Catapult, attacking the French fleet anchored in Oran to prevent it from falling into German hands. Later, in 1942, the city was a pivotal site during Operation Torch, the Allied invasion of North Africa.

Oran played a significant role in the Algerian War of Independence (1954-1962). The city witnessed numerous uprisings and violent confrontations between French forces and Algerian nationalists. The war culminated in Algeria gaining independence from France in 1962.

Post-independence, Oran has grown into a vibrant cultural and economic center. The city is known for its rich musical heritage, particularly Raï music, and hosts numerous festivals and cultural events. Its historic sites, bustling port, and diverse neighborhoods continue to attract visitors from around the world.

Oran is accessible via Ahmed Ben Bella Airport (ORN), which is approximately 12 km from the city center. International flights from several European and Middle Eastern cities land here. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to the city. Alternatively, Oran is well-connected by train and bus services from major Algerian cities like Algiers and Constantine. The train journey from Algiers to Oran offers scenic views of the Mediterranean coast and typically takes around 4 to 5 hours.

Oran has a variety of transportation options. Taxis are widely available and relatively inexpensive; it's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey. The city also has a public bus network, but it can be crowded and less reliable. For a more immersive experience, consider walking through the central districts. Car rentals are available for those who wish to explore beyond the city limits. Remember to drive cautiously, as traffic can be hectic.

The official currency in Algeria is the Algerian Dinar (DZD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and major stores, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Oran, and it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and tips. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, major banks, and some hotels.

Oran is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas such as Sidi El Houari and the outskirts of the city. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, so keep an eye on your belongings. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and avoid displaying valuable items.

In case of emergency, dial 14 for police assistance and 17 for medical emergencies. The University Hospital of Oran provides comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Keep a copy of important documents such as your passport and travel insurance policy.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; women should consider covering their shoulders and knees. Don't wear overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Don't enter mosques during prayer times unless invited. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; men should wait for women to extend their hand first. Don't use first names unless invited to do so. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Oran like a local, visit the bustling Souk El Had market where you can buy authentic Algerian products and spices. Spend an evening at the Place du 1er Novembre to enjoy local music and street performances. For a taste of local cuisine, try a brik or couscous at a traditional eatery. Don’t miss exploring the Santa Cruz Fortress for panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and eager to share stories about their city.