Iconi: The Hidden Gem of Comoros

• HelloSalam
  [sa-laam]
• GoodbyeKwaheri
  [kwa-he-ri]
• YesEwe
  [e-we]
• NoAyi
  [a-yi]
• Please/You're welcomeTafadhali
  [ta-fa-dha-li]
• Thank youAsante
  [a-san-te]
• Excuse me/SorrySamahani
  [sa-ma-ha-ni]
• How are you?U hali gani?
  [u ha-li ga-ni]
• Fine. And you?Salama. Na wewe?
  [sa-la-ma. na we-we]
• Do you speak English?Unasema Kiingereza?
  [u-na-se-ma ki-in-ge-re-za]
• I don't understandSifahamu
  [si-fa-ha-mu]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNingependa kuona menyu, tafadhali
  [nin-ge-pen-da ku-o-na me-nyu, ta-fa-dha-li]
• I don't eat meatSili nyama
  [si-li nya-ma]
• Cheers!Afya!
  [af-ya]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNingependa kulipa, tafadhali
  [nin-ge-pen-da ku-li-pa, ta-fa-dha-li]

• Help!Usaidizi!
  [u-sai-di-zi]
• Go away!Ondoka!
  [on-do-ka]
• Call the Police!Piga polisi!
  [pi-ga po-li-si]
• Call a doctor!Piga daktari!
  [pi-ga dak-ta-ri]
• I'm lostNimepotea
  [ni-me-po-te-a]
• I'm illNinaumwa
  [ni-na-um-wa]

• I'd like to buy...Ningependa kununua...
  [nin-ge-pen-da ku-nu-nu-a]
• I'm just lookingNatazama tu
  [na-ta-za-ma tu]
• How much is it?Ni bei gani?
  [ni bei ga-ni]
• That's too expensiveHicho ni ghali sana
  [hi-cho ni gha-li sa-na]
• Can you lower the price?Unaweza kupunguza bei?
  [u-na-we-za ku-pun-gu-za bei]

• What time is it?Saa ngapi?
  [sa-a ngap-i]
• It's one o'clockNi saa moja
  [ni sa-a mo-ja]
• Half past (10)Nusu ya kumi
  [nu-su ya ku-mi]
• MorningAsubuhi
  [a-su-bu-hi]
• AfternoonMchana
  [m-cha-na]
• EveningJioni
  [jo-ni]
• YesterdayJana
  [ja-na]
• TodayLeo
  [le-o]
• TomorrowKesho
  [ke-sho]
• 1Moja
  [mo-ja]
• 2Mbili
  [m-bi-li]
• 3Tatu
  [ta-tu]
• 4Nne
  [n-ne]
• 5Tano
  [ta-no]
• 6Sita
  [si-ta]
• 7Saba
  [sa-ba]
• 8Nane
  [na-ne]
• 9Tisa
  [ti-sa]
• 10Kumi
  [ku-mi]

• Where's a/the...?Iko wapi...?
  [i-ko wa-pi]
• What's the address?Anuani ni ipi?
  [a-nua-ni ni i-pi]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Unaweza kunionyesha (kwenye ramani)?
  [u-na-we-za ku-ni-o-nye-sha (kwe-ne ra-ma-ni)]
• When's the next (bus)?Basi lijalo litakuwa saa ngapi?
  [ba-si li-ja-lo li-ta-ku-wa sa-a ngap-i]
• A ticket (to ....)Tikiti (kwenda ....)
  [ti-ki-ti (kwen-da)]

Iconi, one of the oldest towns in the Comoros archipelago, traces its roots back to early settlements by Swahili traders and Bantu-speaking people. The town's strategic coastal location made it a significant hub for trade and cultural exchange in the Indian Ocean.

During the medieval period, Iconi became a bustling port town, part of the broader Swahili Coast trading network. Merchants from the Arabian Peninsula, Persia, India, and even China frequented its markets, bringing goods such as spices, textiles, and ceramics. This interaction led to a rich blend of cultural influences, visible in the town's architecture and customs.

In the 16th century, Portuguese explorers, seeking to dominate the spice trade, arrived at Iconi. Though their influence was relatively short-lived, their encounters left behind a legacy of fortified structures and a brief period of European interaction with the local Swahili culture.

In the late 17th century, Iconi, along with the rest of the Comoros, came under the influence of Omani Arabs. The period of Omani rule saw the introduction of new agricultural techniques, as well as the spread of Islam, which became deeply entrenched in the local culture and remains a significant aspect of Iconi's identity today.

The late 19th century marked the beginning of French colonial rule in the Comoros. Iconi, like other parts of the archipelago, experienced significant changes, including the introduction of new administrative structures, educational systems, and infrastructure projects. This period also saw the blending of French culture with the existing Swahili and Arab influences.

Iconi played a role in the broader Comorian struggle for independence, which culminated in 1975. Local leaders and residents participated in movements advocating for self-governance and the end of colonial rule. The town's history during this time reflects the broader national narrative of resistance and eventual liberation.

Today, Iconi is a vibrant testament to its diverse historical influences. The town's architecture, festivals, and daily life reflect a unique blend of African, Arab, and European elements. Key cultural sites, such as historic mosques and traditional Swahili houses, attract visitors and serve as reminders of Iconi's rich past.

Iconi is located on the island of Grande Comore in the Comoros archipelago. The nearest international airport is Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH) in Moroni, the capital city of Comoros, which is approximately 20 kilometers away from Iconi. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a hotel shuttle to reach Iconi. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes by road.

Iconi is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis and shared minibuses (known as 'bushtaxis') are available and relatively inexpensive. Renting a car can also be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace. It's advisable to agree on fares with taxi drivers before starting your journey.

The official currency in Comoros is the Comorian Franc (KMF). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Moroni, but they might not be as prevalent in Iconi, so it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

Iconi is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 17 for police assistance and 15 for medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Iconi. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques. 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. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Iconi like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Comorian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the historic forts and mosques that reflect the rich history of the region. For a unique experience, attend a traditional dance or music performance, which showcases the vibrant cultural heritage of Iconi.