Bastos: The Heartbeat of Yaoundé

• HelloBong
  [bɔŋ]
• GoodbyeAdieu
  [adjeu]
• YesIyo
  [ijo]
• NoTchop
  [tʃɔp]
• Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plait
  [sil vu plɛ]
• Thank youMerci
  [mɛrsi]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [paʁdɔ̃]
• How are you?Comment ça va?
  [kɔmɑ̃ sa va]
• Fine. And you?Ça va. Et toi?
  [sa va e twa]
• Do you speak English?Tu parles anglais?
  [ty paʁl ɑ̃ɡlɛ]
• I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [ʒə nə kɔ̃pʁɑ̃ pa]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plait
  [ʒə vu'drɛ vwaʁ lə məny, sil vu plɛ]
• I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [ʒə nə mɑ̃ʒ pa də vjɑ̃d]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [sɑ̃te]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plait
  [ʒə vu'drɛ peje, sil vu plɛ]

• Help!Au secours!
  [o səkuʁ]
• Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [alɛ vu ɛ̃]
• Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [aple la polis]
• Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [aple œ̃n medəsɛ̃]
• I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [ʒə sɥi pɛʁdy]
• I'm illJe suis malade
  [ʒə sɥi malad]

• I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [ʒə vu'drɛ aʃte]
• I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [ʒə ʁəɡaʁd ʒyst]
• How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kɔ̃bjɛ̃ sa kut]
• That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [se tʁo ʃe]
• Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [puve vu bɛse lə pʁi]

• What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kɛl œʁ ɛt il]
• It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [il ɛt yn œʁ]
• Half past (10)Dix et demi
  [di e dəmi]
• MorningMatin
  [matɛ̃]
• AfternoonAprès-midi
  [apʁɛ mi di]
• EveningSoir
  [swaʁ]
• YesterdayHier
  [jɛʁ]
• TodayAujourd'hui
  [oʒuʁdui]
• TomorrowDemain
  [dəmɛ̃]
• 1Un
  [œ̃]
• 2Deux
  [dø]
• 3Trois
  [tʁwa]
• 4Quatre
  [katʁ]
• 5Cinq
  [sɛ̃k]
• 6Six
  [si]
• 7Sept
  [sɛt]
• 8Huit
  [ɥit]
• 9Neuf
  [nœf]
• 10Dix
  [di]

• Where's a/the...?Où est le/la...?
  [u ɛ lə la]
• What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kɛl ɛt ladrɛs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [puvre vu mə mɔ̃ʁe syʁ la kaʁt]
• When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kɑ̃ ɛ lə pʁoʃɛ̃ bys]
• A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [œ̃ bijɛ (puʁ)]

Bastos, initially a sparsely populated area, began to develop during the German colonial period in the late 19th century. The neighborhood's name is derived from the term 'Bastos' meaning 'site of the old fort', reflecting its strategic significance. The Germans established administrative and military outposts, which laid the groundwork for future urban development.

Following World War I, Cameroon was mandated to France, and Bastos became a focal point for French administrative and diplomatic presence. This period saw significant infrastructure development, including the construction of roads and government buildings, which helped shape its identity. The neighborhood established itself as a residential area for expatriates and civil servants.

Bastos evolved into a vibrant cultural hub over the decades, attracting a diverse population from various ethnic groups across Cameroon. The neighborhood is known for its blend of traditional and modern influences, with bustling markets, local eateries, and community events that celebrate Cameroonian heritage.

In the years leading up to independence in 1960, Bastos became a center for political activism and discourse. Activists and leaders frequently gathered in the area to strategize and organize movements, reflecting its importance in the fight for Cameroon's sovereignty. The neighborhood's political legacy continues to influence contemporary governance and community engagement.

In recent decades, Bastos has witnessed rapid urbanization, with the growth of modern amenities, upscale residences, and embassies. This transformation has attracted a cosmopolitan population, including diplomats, business professionals, and expatriates. The area is now recognized for its vibrant nightlife, art galleries, and cultural festivals that showcase the rich tapestry of Cameroonian life.

Bastos is centrally located in Yaoundé, making it accessible from various neighbourhoods. Taxis are the most common mode of transport, and you can easily hail one from the street or book through local ride-hailing apps. Buses and minibuses (known as 'bush taxis') also connect Bastos to other parts of the city, but they may be crowded and less comfortable. If you're coming from the airport, consider taking a taxi directly to your accommodation in Bastos, as it is approximately 30 minutes away, depending on traffic.

Bastos is a walkable neighbourhood, and many attractions are within a short distance of each other. Taxis are readily available and a convenient option for longer distances. While public transport is less developed in this area, you can use local buses for a true local experience. Bicycles are not commonly used for transport in Bastos, but you may find bicycle rentals in nearby areas. Be cautious while using motorbikes, as traffic can be unpredictable.

Bastos is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in less crowded areas. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, especially in busy marketplaces and public transport. Areas to avoid include the outskirts of Bastos after dark and any isolated streets. Always keep your belongings secure and do not flash valuables.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police assistance and 150 for medical emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical situations. Local hospitals and clinics are available, but language barriers may exist, so having a translator app can be helpful. For minor health issues, pharmacies in Bastos have over-the-counter medications. Familiarize yourself with the location of your nearest hospital or clinic upon arrival.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly in public places. Light, breathable clothing is advisable due to the warm climate. Avoid wearing overly revealing attire. Religion: Do respect local customs; when visiting religious sites, dress appropriately and be mindful of local practices. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to the elderly or pregnant women. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake and a smile. In more traditional settings, a slight bow of the head is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept invitations to share a meal. Don’t waste food or refuse hospitality, as it can be seen as rude.

To experience Bastos like a local, visit the bustling markets where you can find fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with vendors and practice your French or local dialect, as this is often met with warmth. Explore the local art scene by visiting galleries that showcase Cameroonian artists. Don't miss the vibrant nightlife; check out local bars and music venues for live performances. Try the street food, especially grilled meats and local snacks, but ensure that the food is fresh and cooked in front of you for safety.