Anfoushi: The Heartbeat of Alexandria

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [na'am]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [a'zra]
• How are you?أزي الحال؟
  [ezay el hal?]
• Fine. And you?تمام. وأنت؟
  [tamam. wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al ingilizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad an ara al qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحوم
  [ana la akol al lahoom]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al nijda!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [insraf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atasil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [atasil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [awad an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat attala]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam hu thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfid alsu'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al sa'ah al wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al ashrah wan nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [assabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [adhuhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arbahah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sitah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين يوجد...؟
  [ayn yujad...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al eanwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala alkhareetah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yati al hafilah altaliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ila ...)]

Anfoushi's roots can be traced back to the Ptolemaic period when Alexandria was a bustling center of learning and culture. The area was likely influenced by the nearby Great Library of Alexandria, which attracted scholars from all over the Mediterranean. Anfoushi, with its proximity to the ancient harbor, played a role in maritime trade and the exchange of ideas.

During the Roman Empire, Anfoushi became increasingly important as a residential area for the city's growing population. The Romans built various structures, including baths and villas, which reflected the cultural melting pot that Alexandria represented. The area's architecture from this period showcases a blend of Greek and Roman styles.

With the Islamic conquest of Alexandria in the 7th century, Anfoushi experienced significant cultural transformations. The introduction of Islamic architecture is evident in the mosques and public buildings that were constructed, symbolizing the neighborhood's adaptation to new social and religious norms. The local markets flourished, becoming vibrant centers for trade and community life.

The 19th century marked a period of modernization for Anfoushi and Alexandria as a whole. Under the rule of Muhammad Ali Pasha, extensive urban planning and infrastructure development took place. The neighborhood saw the introduction of new educational institutions and public amenities, reflecting the broader modernization efforts throughout Egypt.

Throughout the 20th century, Anfoushi became a cultural melting pot, attracting diverse communities, including Greeks, Italians, and Armenians. This diversity is reflected in the local cuisine, festivals, and daily life. The area is renowned for its seafood markets and restaurants, which serve as a testament to its maritime heritage.

Anfoushi is conveniently located in the heart of Alexandria, making it easily accessible from other neighborhoods. You can take a taxi or use ride-hailing apps like Uber for a direct route. Public transport options include the tram, which runs along the Corniche, connecting Anfoushi to areas like Raml Station and Moharram Bey. Buses and microbuses also operate throughout the city, with several routes stopping near Anfoushi.

Anfoushi is best explored on foot due to its compact size. The waterfront promenade is pedestrian-friendly and offers beautiful views. For longer distances, taxis and ride-hailing services are available. Public buses and trams provide additional options for reaching nearby neighborhoods. Bicycles can be rented from various shops, but be cautious of traffic and road conditions.

Anfoushi is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it is wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Avoid walking alone late at night and watch your belongings closely. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, areas around the harbor can be less secure after dark. Always use registered taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps.

In case of an emergency, dial 123 for medical assistance or 122 for police. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital, such as the Alexandria University Hospital. It’s advisable to carry a local SIM card for easy communication. Travel insurance that covers health emergencies is also recommended.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites, and avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices, including dressing appropriately when entering mosques and churches. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly and pregnant women; don’t eat or drink in public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake; don’t initiate physical contact with the opposite sex unless invited. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offers; don’t waste food or refuse hospitality, as it may be seen as disrespectful.

To experience Anfoushi like a local, visit the bustling fish market for fresh seafood and engage with vendors. Explore the nearby historical sites, such as the Citadel of Qaitbay, and try local delicacies from street food vendors, particularly at night. Interacting with locals can provide valuable insights into the neighborhood's culture and history. Additionally, attending local festivals can offer a unique glimpse into the community's traditions.