Tadjoura: The Pearl of the Gulf of Tadjoura

• HelloMarhaba
  [mar-ha-ba]
• GoodbyeMa'a Salama
  [ma-a sa-la-ma]
• YesAywa
  [ay-wa]
• NoLa
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeMin Fadlik
  [min fa-dlik]
• Thank youShukran
  [shuk-ran]
• Excuse me/SorryAfuwan
  [a-fu-wan]
• How are you?Kifashalak?
  [ki-fa-sha-lak]
• Fine. And you?Mniha. Winta?
  [mni-ha. win-ta]
• Do you speak English?Tatakalam Inglizi?
  [ta-ta-ka-lam in-gli-zi]
• I don't understandAna Ma Fehim
  [a-na ma fe-him]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAza Ara Ayat Alqimah, Min Fadlik
  [a-za a-ra a-yat al-ki-ma, min fa-dlik]
• I don't eat meatAna Ma Akol Lahm
  [a-na ma a-kol lah-m]
• Cheers!Sahtain!
  [sa-h-tain]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAza Ara Ayal, Min Fadlik
  [a-za a-ra a-yal, min fa-dlik]

• Help!Musaid!
  [mu-said]
• Go away!Imshi!
  [im-shi]
• Call the Police!Itasil Billashurta!
  [i-ta-sil bil-la-shur-ta]
• Call a doctor!Itasil Biltabib!
  [i-ta-sil bil-ta-bib]
• I'm lostAni Dalal
  [a-ni da-lal]
• I'm illAna Mareed
  [a-na ma-reed]

• I'd like to buy...Aza Ashtry...
  [a-za ash-try]
• I'm just lookingAna Bas Bafham
  [a-na bas ba-fham]
• How much is it?Kam Hawa?
  [kam ha-wa]
• That's too expensiveHatha Ghali Jiddan
  [ha-tha gha-li jid-dan]
• Can you lower the price?Hal Yomkinuk Tahqiq Althaman?
  [hal yom-ki-nuk tah-kiq al-tha-man]

• What time is it?Kam Sa'ah Al'an?
  [kam sa-ah al-an]
• It's one o'clockSa'atin Wahida
  [sa-a-tin wa-hi-da]
• Half past (10)Nisf Ba'd Al-Asharah
  [nisf ba-d al-a-sha-rah]
• MorningSabah
  [sa-bah]
• AfternoonBa'd Alduhur
  [ba-d al-du-hur]
• EveningAlmsa'
  [al-ma-sa]
• YesterdayAlamis
  [al-a-mis]
• TodayAlYawm
  [al-yawm]
• TomorrowGhadan
  [gha-dan]
• 1Wahid
  [wa-hid]
• 2Itnan
  [it-nan]
• 3Thalatha
  [tha-la-tha]
• 4Arba'a
  [ar-ba-a]
• 5Khamsa
  [kham-sa]
• 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
• 7Sab'a
  [sa-ba-a]
• 8Thamania
  [tha-ma-ni-a]
• 9Tis'a
  [tis-a]
• 10Ashara
  [a-sha-ra]

• Where's a/the...?Wayn Al...
  [wayn al]
• What's the address?Shno L'Address?
  [sh-no l'ad-dress]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Hal Tumkinuni Muriat Alkhari'ta?
  [hal tum-ki-nu-ni mu-ri-at al-kha-ri-ta]
• When's the next (bus)?Mata Alqiyanat Alqadima?
  [ma-ta al-qi-ya-nat al-qa-di-ma]
• A ticket (to ....)Taqit (ila ...)
  [ta-qit (il-a)]

Tadjoura, one of the oldest towns in Djibouti, has roots tracing back to ancient times. It is believed that the area was inhabited by Afar people for centuries, who lived as nomadic pastoralists and fishermen. The town's strategic location along the Gulf of Tadjoura made it a vital stop in ancient trade routes connecting Africa, the Middle East, and India.

By the 16th century, Tadjoura had become a significant trading hub, renowned for its bustling port. It facilitated the exchange of goods such as ivory, slaves, and textiles between Africa and Arabia. The town’s prosperity attracted traders from across the Red Sea and established its importance in the region.

In the late 16th century, Tadjoura came under Ottoman influence. The Ottomans recognized the strategic importance of the port and established a presence to control trade routes and exert influence over the Red Sea. This period saw the introduction of Ottoman architectural styles and cultural practices in Tadjoura.

In the 19th century, Tadjoura became a focal point for European colonial ambitions. The French established a protectorate over the region in 1884, integrating Tadjoura into French Somaliland. The town witnessed significant infrastructural development, including roads and administrative buildings, under French rule. This period also saw the introduction of Western education and administration.

Djibouti gained independence from France on June 27, 1977. Tadjoura, like the rest of the country, embarked on a journey of modernization. Infrastructure and public services were expanded, and the town began to develop its own identity within the newly established Republic of Djibouti. The port of Tadjoura continued to play a vital role in the country's economy, particularly in trade and fishing.

Tadjoura is renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage, influenced by Afar traditions and Islamic customs. The town is famous for its traditional dances, music, and festivals, such as the annual 'Assaida' festival, which celebrates local customs and communal harmony. Tadjoura’s white-walled houses and narrow streets reflect a blend of traditional and colonial architecture, offering a glimpse into its rich history.

Tadjoura is not only a historical town but also a gateway to some of Djibouti's most stunning natural landscapes. The Gulf of Tadjoura is known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, attracting divers and snorkelers from around the world. The nearby Day Forest National Park offers a unique biodiversity, including rare species of flora and fauna, making Tadjoura a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

Tadjoura is accessible primarily via Djibouti–Ambouli International Airport in Djibouti City, located about 150 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a rental car to reach Tadjoura, which usually takes around 2 to 3 hours by road. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Djibouti City to Tadjoura, which offers a scenic and more leisurely route across the Gulf of Tadjoura.

Once in Tadjoura, transportation options include taxis, which are the most common way to get around. There are also local buses and minibuses (locally known as 'bush taxis') that operate within the town and to nearby areas. For a more flexible travel experience, renting a car is advisable, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding regions.

The official currency in Djibouti is the Djiboutian Franc (DJF). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments, but it is highly recommended to carry cash, particularly in smaller shops and local markets. ATMs are available in Tadjoura, but it’s wise to withdraw enough cash in Djibouti City before heading to Tadjoura to ensure you have sufficient funds for your trip.

Tadjoura is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it’s important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.

In case of emergency, dial 17 for police assistance and 18 for medical emergencies. There are local police and medical facilities in Tadjoura. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the hot climate. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques, cover your head and remove your shoes. Public Transport: Do be respectful to other passengers and avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a slight bow. Using 'Salam Alaikum' (peace be upon you) is a common and respectful greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Tadjoura like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Djiboutian goods. Engaging with locals can offer valuable insights into the town’s history and culture. Don’t miss out on visiting the pristine beaches and the Tadjoura Bay, which offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Additionally, take time to explore the nearby Day Forest National Park, which is renowned for its unique flora and fauna.