The Coastal Charm of Bir El Djir

• Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [Wadaa'an]
• Yesنعم
  [Naam]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [Min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [Aathiru]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bikhayr. Wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatakallam al'injilia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [Ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [Uriid 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, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [Awad 'an 'adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [Annajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [Ansaarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Atasil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [Atasil bitalib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [Laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد شراء...
  [Uriid shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا أتصفح فقط
  [Ana atasafah faqat]
• How much is it?كم تكلف؟
  [Kam takalaf?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [Hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuk khifd als'ar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam alsaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [Alsaa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (10)
  [Alnisf ba'd (10)]
• Morningالصباح
  [Assabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [Adhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [Almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [Ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [Alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [Arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [Sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamaneya]
• 9تسعة
  [Tis'a]
• 10عشرة
  [Ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [Ayna huwa/hya...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma huwa al'awn?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuk 'an turini (ala alkhariata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [Mata yati alhafilat altaaliat?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [Tadhkirat (ila ....)]

Bir El Djir is a neighborhood that developed significantly during the French colonial period in Algeria. Originally a small agricultural area, it became increasingly urbanized as Oran expanded. The establishment of colonial infrastructure transformed Bir El Djir into a vital residential area for workers and their families, reflecting the broader patterns of settlement and urbanization prevalent in Algeria during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

During World War II, Bir El Djir played a significant role due to its proximity to Oran, a strategic port city. The neighborhood was affected by military activities, and its infrastructure was utilized for various purposes by both the Allied and Axis powers. The impact of the war on local communities shaped the social fabric of Bir El Djir, with many families affected by the economic and social upheaval of the time.

After Algeria gained independence in 1962, Bir El Djir experienced rapid growth as many urban dwellers migrated from rural areas in search of better opportunities. This influx led to the development of new housing projects and public services, significantly altering the neighborhood's demographics and culture. The post-independence period saw a rise in local identity and community initiatives, reflecting Algeria's broader efforts to forge a national identity.

Bir El Djir is characterized by its diverse population, including various ethnic groups and communities, which contribute to its rich cultural tapestry. The neighborhood hosts numerous cultural events, festivals, and local markets, reflecting the blending of traditions and lifestyles. This diversity is a testament to Oran's historical role as a melting pot of different cultures, influenced by Berber, Arab, French, and Spanish heritages.

In recent years, Bir El Djir has faced challenges related to urbanization, including infrastructure development and housing shortages. Efforts are being made to improve living conditions and public services, while also preserving the neighborhood's unique cultural heritage. The balance between modernization and maintaining local identity remains a critical issue for residents as they navigate the changes in their community.

Bir El Djir is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Oran. Taxis are the most convenient option, with fares being relatively inexpensive. Public transportation, including buses and minibuses, also connects Bir El Djir to central Oran, with frequent services throughout the day. If you're coming from Oran's main train station, you can take a taxi directly to Bir El Djir, which is approximately 10 kilometers away.

Bir El Djir is a residential area where walking is common for short distances. For longer journeys, taxis are readily available. Public buses run regularly, connecting you to different parts of the neighborhood and surrounding areas. Bicycles can also be a fun mode of transport, but the availability of rental services may vary, so checking local shops is advisable.

Bir El Djir is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it is wise to remain vigilant. Avoid wandering alone at night in poorly lit areas. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, caution is advised in less crowded parts of the neighborhood. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious in busy markets.

In case of emergencies, dial 17 for police assistance and 14 for fire services in Algeria. For medical emergencies, locate the nearest hospital or clinic, such as the EPH Bir El Djir. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical needs. Pharmacies are available in the area for minor health issues, and they can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly in public and religious spaces. Avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; removing shoes when entering homes is customary. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly and women with children; don't eat or drink on buses. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake; a smile is welcomed. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offers; don't waste food or refuse hospitality, as it's seen as impolite.

To experience Bir El Djir like a local, visit the local markets for fresh produce and traditional foods. Engage with shopkeepers and residents, who can share valuable insights and stories about the neighborhood. Try to learn a few basic Arabic phrases, as it can enhance interactions. Don't miss sampling local specialties such as couscous and pastries at street vendors. Attend local festivities if possible; they provide a glimpse into the culture and community spirit.