The Enchanting Capital: Roseau, Dominica

• HelloBonjou
  [Bon-joo]
• GoodbyeOrevwa
  [O-rev-wa]
• YesWi
  [Wee]
• NoNon
  [Non]
• Please/You're welcomeTanpri
  [Tahn-pree]
• Thank youMèsi
  [Meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [Es-kee-zay mwen]
• How are you?Kijan ou ye?
  [Kee-jan oo yay]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [Byen. Ay oo]
• Do you speak English?Eske ou pale angle?
  [Es-kay oo pah-lay an-glay]
• I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [Mwen pa kon-pran]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni a, tanpri
  [Mwen ta ren-men way men-ee ah, tahn-pree]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
  [Mwen pa manj vyan]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [San-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, tanpri
  [Mwen ta ren-men pay-yay, tahn-pree]

• Help!Ed
  [Ehd]
• Go away!Ale wè
  [Ah-lay way]
• Call the Police!Rele lapòl!
  [Reh-lay la-pohl]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [Reh-lay yohn dok-tay]
• I'm lostMwen pedi
  [Mwen peh-dee]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [Mwen mal-ahd]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [Mwen ta ren-men ach-tay]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis gade
  [Mwen zjee gah-day]
• How much is it?Konbyen li ye?
  [Kon-byen lee yay]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [Sa twa sheh]
• Can you lower the price?Eske ou ka ba pri a?
  [Es-kay oo ka bah pree ah]

• What time is it?Ki lè li ye?
  [Kee lay lee yay]
• It's one o'clockLi senk
  [Lee sank]
• Half past (10)Demi pas (10)
  [Deh-mee pahs]
• MorningMaten
  [Mah-tayn]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [Ap-ray-mee-dee]
• EveningAswè
  [Ah-sway]
• YesterdayYè
  [Yay]
• TodayJodi a
  [Joh-dee ah]
• TomorrowDemen
  [Deh-men]
• 1Yon
  [Yohn]
• 2De
  [Day]
• 3Twal
  [Tway]
• 4Kat
  [Kaht]
• 5Senk
  [Sank]
• 6Sis
  [Sees]
• 7Sèt
  [Set]
• 8Wit
  [Weet]
• 9Nèf
  [Nef]
• 10Dis
  [Dees]

• Where's a/the...?Ki kote...
  [Kee koh-tay]
• What's the address?Ki adres la?
  [Kee ad-res lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Eske ou ka montre mwen (sou kat)?
  [Es-kay oo ka mon-tray mwen (soo kaht)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kile prochen (wout)?
  [Keel pro-shen (woot)]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [Yohn tee-kay (poo)]

Before European colonization, the area now known as Roseau was inhabited by the Kalinago people. They called the island 'Waitukubuli,' which means 'Tall is her body' in the Kalinago language. The Kalinago people were skilled in fishing, farming, and crafting and had a rich cultural heritage that included storytelling and traditional ceremonies.

In 1493, Christopher Columbus sighted the island during his second voyage to the Americas and named it Dominica, after the day of the week he found it—Sunday. The French were the first Europeans to settle in Roseau in the early 18th century, establishing a small trading post. The town's layout reflects French colonial urban planning, characterized by narrow streets and a central square.

In 1763, after the Seven Years' War, the Treaty of Paris was signed, and Dominica was ceded to the British. Roseau was developed as the island's administrative and economic center. The British influence is evident in the town's architecture, such as the Anglican St. George's Church, built in 1820. Under British rule, Roseau became a hub for the island's sugar and coffee plantations.

The abolition of slavery in 1834 was a significant turning point for Roseau and Dominica as a whole. Freed African descendants settled in the town, contributing to its cultural and social fabric. The Morne Bruce Garrison, built in the 18th century and named after Sir James Bruce, a Lieutenant Governor, became a symbol of the colonial military presence. Today, it offers panoramic views of Roseau and serves as a historical landmark.

In the 20th century, Roseau evolved with modern infrastructure while retaining its historical charm. Independence from Britain was achieved on November 3, 1978, marking a new chapter in the city's history. The Old Market Plaza, once a site for slave auctions, has been transformed into a vibrant market space showcasing local crafts and produce, reflecting the city's resilience and cultural richness.

Roseau is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from the indigenous Kalinago, African traditions, and European colonial heritage. The annual World Creole Music Festival celebrates this diversity, attracting visitors worldwide. The Dominica Museum, located in the Old Market Plaza, offers extensive exhibits on the island's history, from pre-colonial times to the present day, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Roseau, the capital of Dominica, is accessible primarily via air and sea. The nearest international airport is Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM), located about an hour's drive from Roseau. Regular flights connect Dominica to neighboring islands, such as Antigua, Barbados, and Puerto Rico. Ferry services are also available from Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Saint Lucia. Taxis and rental cars are available at the airport for the journey to Roseau.

In Roseau, getting around is relatively straightforward. Taxis are widely available and are the most convenient mode of transportation for tourists. Buses and minivans (locally called 'buses') operate on set routes and are an economical option. They can be flagged down anywhere along their route. Renting a car is another option, and it allows for more flexibility in exploring the island. However, be mindful that driving is on the left side of the road.

The official currency in Dominica is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). US dollars are also widely accepted. Credit and debit cards can be used in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Roseau, but check with your bank about any international transaction fees.

Roseau is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, so be vigilant in crowded places such as markets and bus terminals. Areas to exercise caution include the neighborhoods around the Roseau Market. Always secure your valuables and documents.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The Princess Margaret Hospital in Roseau provides medical services. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress casually but modestly. Swimwear should be reserved for the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. Public Transport: Do greet the driver and fellow passengers; it's a common courtesy. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'good morning' or 'good afternoon.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offered by locals graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Roseau like a local, visit the Roseau Market to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and local crafts. Engage with the vendors and residents, as they are often willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss a visit to the Botanical Gardens and a hike up Morne Bruce for a panoramic view of Roseau. For a unique cultural experience, attend a local festival or event, such as the World Creole Music Festival.