Les Castors: A Hidden Gem in Oran, Algeria

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaa'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlik/ala al-rahb was-sa'ah]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [azraan]
• 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-ingliziyya?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uridu an ara al-qa'imat, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا أأكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awadu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [an-najda!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [idhaba ba'eedan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atasil bish-shurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atasil bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt al-tariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uridu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atafarraj]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam sa'ruhu?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd al-sa'ar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [al-sa'ah al-'ashirah wa an-nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [al-subah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [adh-dhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-masaa]
• Yesterdayالأمس
  [al-ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniya]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين ال...؟
  [ayn al...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata al-hafilat at-taliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirah (ila ...)]

Les Castors was developed during the French colonial period in the mid-20th century. This neighbourhood was part of a larger effort to accommodate the growing population in Oran, which had become a significant urban center due to its strategic port location. The architecture reflects a blend of modernist influences favored by French planners, with a focus on functionality and aesthetics.

After Algeria gained independence in 1962, Les Castors saw significant changes as the new government sought to reshape urban spaces to reflect national identity. The area became a hub for new residential developments aimed at addressing the housing crisis in Oran. Many families relocated to the neighbourhood, bringing diverse cultural influences that enriched the community.

Les Castors is known for its cultural diversity, shaped by the various communities that settled in Oran over the decades. The neighbourhood showcases a mixture of Berber, Arab, and French influences, evident in local festivals, cuisine, and daily life. This blend contributes to the vibrant atmosphere of the area, making it a microcosm of Oran’s broader cultural landscape.

In the 21st century, Les Castors has undergone urban renewal projects aimed at improving infrastructure and public spaces. These developments reflect the city’s broader efforts to modernize and enhance the quality of life for residents. The revitalization includes parks, community centers, and improved transportation links, making the neighbourhood more accessible and appealing.

The community in Les Castors is actively engaged in local governance and cultural activities. Residents participate in various associations that promote social cohesion and cultural heritage. Events such as local markets, music festivals, and art exhibitions are common, reflecting the neighbourhood's commitment to community development and cultural expression.

Les Castors is located in the heart of Oran, Algeria. To reach Les Castors from other neighborhoods, you can take a taxi or use public transportation. Buses are available from the central bus station in Oran, heading towards Les Castors. If you are arriving at Oran's Ahmed Ben Bella Airport, taxis are readily available, and the journey to Les Castors typically takes around 30 minutes.

Les Castors is well-connected by public transportation, including buses and taxis. Buses run frequently and cover most areas of the neighborhood. Taxis are also an efficient way to navigate, and they can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. For those who prefer to explore on foot, many local shops and attractions are easily accessible by walking.

Les Castors is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it is advisable to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Areas around the central market can be crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty theft can occur, so exercise caution.

In case of emergency, dial 19 for police assistance or 14 for medical emergencies. Local hospitals and clinics are available in Oran, and it is advisable to have travel insurance covering medical issues. Pharmacies are also present in Les Castors for minor health needs.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public places. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; be mindful of prayer times. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to the elderly and pregnant women. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a polite handshake. Avoid overly casual greetings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept invitations to eat. Don't refuse food or drink offered by locals, as it can be seen as disrespectful.

To experience Les Castors like a local, visit the small markets and street vendors for authentic Algerian snacks and meals. Engage with shopkeepers and locals, as they are often friendly and helpful. Consider learning a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your interactions. For a unique perspective, explore the neighborhood on foot to discover hidden gems, such as local cafes and parks, which are often missed by tourists.