Arta: The Hidden Gem of Djibouti

• HelloSalaam
  [sah-lahm]
• GoodbyeMa'a salaama
  [mah-ah sah-lah-mah]
• YesEey
  [ee-y]
• NoMaya
  [my-yah]
• Please/You're welcomeMarhaba
  [mar-hah-bah]
• Thank youShukran
  [shook-rahn]
• Excuse me/SorrySamahani
  [sah-mah-hah-nee]
• How are you?Kifik?
  [kee-feek]
• Fine. And you?Nzuri. Na wewe?
  [n-zoo-ree. nah weh-weh]
• Do you speak English?Unazungumza Kiingereza?
  [oo-nah-zoon-goom-zah keen-geh-reh-zah]
• I don't understandSielewi
  [see-eh-leh-wee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNingependa kuona menyu, tafadhali
  [nee-neh-pen-dah koo-oh-nah men-yoo, tah-fah-dah-lee]
• I don't eat meatSili nyama
  [see-lee nyah-mah]
• Cheers!Afya!
  [ah-fyah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNingependa kulipa, tafadhali
  [nee-neh-pen-dah koo-lee-pah, tah-fah-dah-lee]

• Help!Msaada!
  [msah-ah-dah]
• Go away!Ondoka!
  [ohn-doh-kah]
• Call the Police!Piga polisi!
  [pee-gah poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Piga daktari!
  [pee-gah dahk-tah-ree]
• I'm lostNimepotea
  [nee-meh-poh-teh-ah]
• I'm illMimi ni mgonjwa
  [mee-mee nee m-gohn-jwah]

• I'd like to buy...Ningependa kununua...
  [nee-neh-pen-dah koo-noo-noo-ah]
• I'm just lookingNatazama tu
  [nah-tah-zah-mah too]
• How much is it?Bei gani?
  [bayee gah-nee]
• That's too expensiveHiyo ni ghali sana
  [hee-yoh nee gah-lee sah-nah]
• Can you lower the price?Unaweza kupunguza bei?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-poong-goo-zah bayee]

• What time is it?Saa ngapi?
  [sah-ah ngah-pee]
• It's one o'clockSaa moja
  [sah-ah moh-jah]
• Half past (10)Nusu ya (kumi)
  [noo-soo yah (koo-mee)]
• MorningAsubuhi
  [ah-soo-boo-hee]
• AfternoonMchana
  [m-chah-nah]
• EveningJioni
  [joh-nee]
• YesterdayJana
  [jah-nah]
• TodayLeo
  [leh-oh]
• TomorrowKesho
  [keh-shoh]
• 1Moja
  [moh-jah]
• 2Mbili
  [m-bee-lee]
• 3Tatu
  [tah-too]
• 4Nne
  [nn-eh]
• 5Tano
  [tah-noh]
• 6Sita
  [see-tah]
• 7Saba
  [sah-bah]
• 8Nane
  [nah-neh]
• 9Tisa
  [tee-sah]
• 10Kumi
  [koo-mee]

• Where's a/the...?Iko wapi...?
  [ee-koh wah-pee]
• What's the address?Ni anwani gani?
  [nee ahn-wah-nee gah-nee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Unaweza kunionyesha (kwenye ramani)?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-nee-oh-nyeh-shah (kweh-neh rah-mah-nee)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ni lini basi inayofuata?
  [nee lee-nee bah-see ee-nah-yoh-foo-ah-tah]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (kwenda ...)
  [tee-keh-tee (kwehn-dah)]

The town of Arta, located in Djibouti, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Positioned strategically along the Gulf of Tadjoura, it served as a hub for early settlers and traders. The region's fertile land and access to the coast made it an ideal location for communities to thrive.

During the late 19th century, Arta became a focal point during the period of French colonial expansion in the Horn of Africa. The establishment of French Somaliland brought significant changes to the area, including infrastructure development and the introduction of new administrative practices.

Djibouti gained independence from France on June 27, 1977, and Arta played a vital role in the newly formed nation's development. The town saw increased investment in education, healthcare, and local governance, transforming it into a modern urban center.

One of the most notable historical events in Arta's recent history is the Arta Peace Conference held in 2000. This conference was a pivotal moment in Somali history, as it brought together various factions to negotiate peace and establish a transitional government for Somalia, highlighting Arta's role in regional diplomacy.

Arta is not only significant for its historical events but also for its rich cultural heritage. The town is known for its traditional Afar and Issa communities, who have preserved their unique languages, customs, and crafts. Festivals, music, and dance continue to be integral aspects of life in Arta, offering visitors a glimpse into the vibrant local culture.

Arta's geographical location provides a unique blend of natural attractions, including the Arta Beach along the Gulf of Tadjoura and the scenic Arta Mountains. The region is also home to diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism and nature enthusiasts.

Arta is located in the central region of Djibouti, approximately 50 kilometers from the capital city, Djibouti City. The nearest international airport is Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport (JIB). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Arta, which typically takes around an hour by road. Alternatively, you can use local buses or shared taxis, known as 'minibuses', which are a more budget-friendly option.

Getting around Arta is relatively straightforward. The town is small, so many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, local taxis are readily available and reasonably priced. Minibuses are the most common form of public transport and are an affordable way to travel. Renting a car is another option if you prefer to explore at your own pace. Ensure to negotiate taxi fares in advance, as meters are not commonly used.

The official currency in Djibouti is the Djiboutian Franc (DJF). While credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller shops and local markets. ATMs are available in Arta, but it is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash in Djibouti City to avoid any inconvenience.

Arta is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places like markets. While Arta does not have 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 19 for medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Arta. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies in the town can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.

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 considerate. 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 Arta like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Djiboutian 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 Arta Beach, which offers stunning views of the Gulf of Tadjoura. For a unique experience, hike up to the Arta Mountains for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.