Limbe: The Jewel of the Atlantic Coast

• HelloSawa
  [Sa-wa]
• GoodbyeKu jia
  [Ku ji-a]
• YesEya
  [E-ya]
• NoMba
  [Mba]
• Please/You're welcomeMola
  [Mo-la]
• Thank youNa nde
  [Na N-de]
• Excuse me/SorryNjoka
  [Njo-ka]
• How are you?Wuna dey?
  [Wu-na de-y?]
• Fine. And you?Na njangi. Wuna?
  [Na n-ja-ngi. Wu-na?]
• Do you speak English?Wuna sabi English?
  [Wu-na sa-bi English?]
• I don't understandA no siam
  [A no si-am]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNa fain plenti, mola
  [Na fain ple-nti, mo-la]
• I don't eat meatA no di chop nyama
  [A no di chop nya-ma]
• Cheers!Bless
  [Bless]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNa fain pay, mola
  [Na fain pay, mo-la]

• Help!Nyi
  [Ny-i]
• Go away!Waka
  [Wa-ka]
• Call the Police!Na fain call polis
  [Na fain call po-lis]
• Call a doctor!Na fain call dokita
  [Na fain call do-ki-ta]
• I'm lostA lost
  [A lost]
• I'm illA di sick
  [A di sick]

• I'd like to buy...Na fain buy...
  [Na fain buy...]
• I'm just lookingA di waka pekin
  [A di wa-ka pe-kin]
• How much is it?E di costam na how moch?
  [E di co-stam na how mo-ch?]
• That's too expensiveNa too much
  [Na too much]
• Can you lower the price?Wuna fit reduce the price?
  [Wu-na fit re-duce the price?]

• What time is it?Na how mami?
  [Na how ma-mi?]
• It's one o'clockNa one o'clock
  [Na one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
• MorningMornin
  [Mor-nin]
• AfternoonAftanun
  [Af-ta-nun]
• EveningIvenin
  [I-ve-nin]
• YesterdayYeside
  [Ye-si-de]
• Today2day
  [2-day]
• Tomorrow2moro
  [2-mo-ro]
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• Where's a/the...?Wey...?
  [Wey...?]
• What's the address?Na which sidong?
  [Na which si-dong?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Wuna fit show mi for map?
  [Wu-na fit show mi for map?]
• When's the next (bus)?Na when di next (bus)?
  [Na when di next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A tiket go ...
  [A ti-ket go ...]

Limbe was originally named Victoria, after Queen Victoria of England. The town was founded on December 28, 1858, by Alfred Saker, a British missionary. Saker and his team established a settlement at the foot of Mount Cameroon, which would later become a significant port and trade center.

In 1884, Limbe, like the rest of Cameroon, came under German colonial rule. The Germans renamed the town to 'Victoria' and started to develop it as an important administrative and commercial hub. They built roads, schools, and hospitals, and the town began to grow rapidly.

After Germany's defeat in World War I, Cameroon was divided between France and Britain. Limbe, as part of British Cameroon, saw significant changes. The British continued to develop the town's infrastructure, making it a key port and administrative center in the region.

Cameroon gained independence from colonial rule in 1961. In 1982, the town of Victoria was officially renamed Limbe, reflecting a move towards reclaiming local identity and heritage. The name 'Limbe' is derived from 'Limbi,' a local word meaning 'a place of abundance and prosperity.'

Limbe is known for its rich cultural diversity. The town is home to different ethnic groups, including the Bakweri, who are indigenous to the area. Cultural festivals, traditional dances, and local cuisine are integral to the town's vibrant cultural scene.

Established in 1892 by the Germans, the Limbe Botanic Garden is one of the oldest in Africa. It was initially set up to develop and test new plant species for agricultural use. Today, it serves as a center for botanical research, conservation, and education, attracting visitors from around the world.

The Limbe Wildlife Centre, established in 1993, is a sanctuary for rescued and endangered primates and other wildlife. It plays a crucial role in conservation and education, offering visitors a chance to learn about Cameroon's rich biodiversity and efforts to protect it.

Mount Cameroon, also known as 'Fako,' is the highest mountain in West Africa and a significant landmark near Limbe. The mountain attracts hikers and tourists from around the world, contributing to Limbe's reputation as a key destination for eco-tourism and adventure travel.

Limbe, located in the Southwest Region of Cameroon, can be accessed via the Douala International Airport, which is approximately 75 kilometers away. From Douala, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Limbe. The journey by road typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can use a private car service for a more comfortable and direct trip.

Once in Limbe, you can get around the city using local taxis, which are the most common form of transportation. Mototaxis are also available for shorter distances. For a more scenic and leisurely exploration, consider renting a bicycle or walking, especially along the coastline. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to drive themselves.

The official currency in Cameroon is the Central African CFA Franc (XAF). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Limbe, but it is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash in Douala before traveling.

Limbe is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should always be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in poorly lit areas. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places. Areas like Down Beach can get quite busy, so keep an eye on your belongings. It is advisable to avoid isolated areas and always stay aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance and 112 for medical emergencies. Limbe has a few medical facilities, including the Limbe Regional Hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Limbe like a local, visit the Limbe Botanical Garden, a historic site with beautiful flora. Spend time at Down Beach, where you can interact with local fishermen. Don't miss the Limbe Wildlife Centre, which focuses on the conservation of primates. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share insights about the city's history and culture. For a unique culinary experience, try the fresh seafood at local eateries.