Bolkly: Alexandria's Hidden Gem

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/عفوا
  [min fadlak/afwan]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhara]
• How are you?أزيك؟
  [ezayak?]
• Fine. And you?تمام. وانت؟
  [tamam. w-inta?]
• Do you speak English?بتتكلم انجليزي؟
  [betetkalem ingilizi?]
• I don't understandمش فاهم
  [mesh fahem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseعايز اشوف القائمة، من فضلك
  [ayez ashuf el-qa'ima, min fadlak]
• I don't eat meatانا مش بآكل لحم
  [ana mesh baakol lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseعايز أدفع، من فضلك
  [ayez adfa', min fadlak]

• Help!النجدة!
  [elnajda!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [erhel!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [etisal besh-shorta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [etisal bateeb!]
• I'm lostانا ضايع
  [ana daye']
• I'm illانا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...عايز أشتري...
  [ayez ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingبس بشوف
  [bas boshuf]
• How much is it?بكام؟
  [bikam?]
• That's too expensiveده غالي أوي
  [da ghali awe]
• Can you lower the price?تقدر تخفض السعر؟
  [takdar tokhfid el-sa'r?]

• What time is it?كام الساعة؟
  [kam el-sa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة واحدة
  [el-sa'a wahda]
• Half past (10)الساعة نص فاعل
  [el-sa'a nes fa'el]
• Morningالصباح
  [el-sabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [ez-zuhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [el-masa']
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [el-bareh]
• Todayاليوم
  [el-yom]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنين
  [ithnayn]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [seta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniya]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?وين ال...؟
  [wein el...?]
• What's the address?ايه العنوان؟
  [aih el-anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?تقدر توريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [takdar tureeni (ala el-khareeta)?]
• When's the next (bus)?ايه الوقت بتاع القادمة؟
  [aih el-waqt beta' el-qaadima?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (الى ...)
  [tazkara (ila ...)]

Bolkly, located in the eastern part of Alexandria, has its origins as a small fishing village before it gradually transformed into a residential area. The neighborhood's name is derived from the Arabic term 'Bolkli' which refers to the local landscape and environment. The area saw an increase in development during the 19th century as Alexandria expanded, attracting more inhabitants and businesses.

During the late 1800s, Bolkly experienced significant growth due to the influx of European expatriates and the burgeoning trade in Alexandria. This period marked the construction of notable buildings and villas in various architectural styles, showcasing the eclectic influences that characterized Alexandria. The neighborhood became a desirable location for both local elites and foreign nationals alike.

Bolkly has long been recognized as a cultural melting pot, reflective of Alexandria's diverse population. The neighborhood became home to various religious communities, including Copts, Muslims, and Jews, resulting in a rich tapestry of cultural practices and traditions. This diversity is still evident today in the local cuisine, festivals, and community interactions.

The effects of World War II were felt in Bolkly, as Alexandria served as a strategic naval base during the conflict. The neighborhood witnessed military activity and the presence of foreign troops. Post-war, Bolkly underwent further urban development as many displaced families sought shelter in Alexandria, contributing to the neighborhood's demographic changes.

In recent decades, Bolkly has faced challenges typical of urban neighborhoods in Alexandria, including overcrowding and infrastructure strain. However, it has also seen revitalization efforts aimed at preserving its historical character while accommodating modern needs. The local community continues to engage in initiatives to maintain Bolkly's cultural heritage and enhance its livability.

Bolkly is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Alexandria. If you are coming from the city center, you can take a local minibus or taxi, which will take around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. If you are coming from the Alexandria Railway Station, taxis are available outside the station, and the journey to Bolkly should take approximately 10 minutes. For those arriving from other neighborhoods, consider using the tram system, as several tram lines pass through Bolkly.

Bolkly is a compact neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transport options include trams and buses, with several routes serving the area. Additionally, taxis are readily available and affordable for longer distances. For those looking to experience the area like a local, consider renting a bicycle to navigate the streets at a leisurely pace.

Bolkly is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas, especially near the outskirts. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, areas near the train station can sometimes attract petty crime, so remain vigilant in crowded places.

In case of an emergency, dial 122 for police assistance or 123 for medical emergencies. Major hospitals and clinics are available in Alexandria, with some located in Bolkly. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies throughout the neighborhood where you can find over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly; avoid revealing clothing, especially in religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs, and if visiting a mosque, cover your head and remove your shoes. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers and be polite. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food and accept hospitality graciously. Don't refuse food offerings, as it may be seen as impolite.

To experience Bolkly like a local, visit local cafes and tea houses where you can sip traditional Egyptian tea and engage in conversation with residents. Explore the neighborhood's markets to find fresh produce and local specialties. Joining a local cooking class can also be a great way to learn about Egyptian cuisine while making new friends. Keep an eye out for local events or festivals, as they provide a unique glimpse into the culture of Bolkly.