Montaza: Alexandria's Coastal Jewel

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaan]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadrena]
• How are you?ازيك؟
  [ezayak?]
• Fine. And you?تمام. وانت؟
  [tamaam. want?]
• Do you speak English?بتتكلم انجليزي؟
  [betetkalem ingilezi?]
• I don't understandانا مش فاهم
  [ana mesh fahem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseعايز اشوف القائمة من فضلك
  [ayez ashof el qa'ima min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatانا مباكلش لحم
  [ana mabakalsh lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseعايز ادفع من فضلك
  [ayez adfaa min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [elnajda!]
• Go away!اروح بعيد!
  [erouh ba'id!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [etssel belshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [etssel betabib!]
• I'm lostانا ضايع
  [ana daye']
• I'm illانا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...عايز اشتري...
  [ayez eshteri...]
• I'm just lookingانا بس بشوف
  [ana bas beshoof]
• How much is it?بكام؟
  [bikam?]
• That's too expensiveده غالي اوي
  [da ghaali awe]
• Can you lower the price?ممكن تنزل السعر؟
  [momken tenzel el sa'er?]

• What time is it?كام الساعة؟
  [kam el sa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالواحدة
  [el wahda]
• Half past (10)ونص العشرة
  [w nos el ashra]
• Morningالصبح
  [essobh]
• Afternoonالعصر
  [el asr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [el masaa]
• Yesterdayالامس
  [el ams]
• Todayالنهاردة
  [el naharda]
• Tomorrowبكرة
  [bokra]
• 1واحد
  [wahed]
• 2اتنين
  [etneen]
• 3تلاتة
  [talata]
• 4اربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [setta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tesa'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashra]

• Where's a/the...?فين...
  [fein...]
• What's the address?العنوان ايه؟
  [el enwan eh?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?تقدر تريني (على الخارطة)؟
  [takdar treeeni (ala el kharita)?]
• When's the next (bus)?امتى الباص الجاي؟
  [emta el bas el gay?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (الى ...)
  [tazkira (ila ...)]

Montaza, originally a royal garden, was established in the late 19th century when Khedive Abbas II commissioned the creation of a summer palace and extensive gardens. The area quickly became a retreat for Egyptian royalty, showcasing stunning landscaping and a blend of architectural styles, including Islamic and Moorish influences.

The Montaza Palace, completed in 1932, is a notable architectural highlight. The palace's unique design, characterized by its towers and intricate detailing, reflects the eclectic style of the period and stands as a testament to the opulence of the era. The surrounding gardens, which span over 370 acres, are adorned with exotic plants and provide a scenic backdrop to the Mediterranean Sea.

Montaza has long been a symbol of leisure and cultural gatherings in Alexandria. The area attracted intellectuals, artists, and writers, becoming a hub for cultural exchange. The gardens and the beachside have been venues for various events, celebrations, and artistic performances, contributing to Alexandria’s rich cultural tapestry.

During the mid-20th century, Montaza witnessed significant political changes as Egypt transitioned to a republic. The royal palaces were repurposed for public use, and the gardens were opened to the public, making Montaza a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The area has since evolved, balancing its historical significance with modern development.

Today, Montaza remains one of Alexandria's most cherished neighborhoods, blending historical charm with contemporary leisure. The Montaza Palace is now a museum, attracting visitors who wish to explore its grand halls and learn about Egypt’s royal past. The beach and gardens continue to serve as a retreat for residents and tourists, embodying the enduring allure of Alexandria.

Montaza is located approximately 15 kilometers east of Alexandria's city center. You can reach Montaza via taxi or ride-sharing services, which are widely available. Alternatively, local buses (routes 82 and 83) connect Montaza to central Alexandria. If you're coming from the Alexandria Railway Station, taxis or buses can take you directly to the Montaza area.

Montaza is best explored on foot, especially the beautiful parks and the coastline. However, local buses and taxis are also available for longer distances. Bicycles can be rented from various shops, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views along the Mediterranean coast. Be aware that traffic can be congested during peak hours.

Montaza is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places. Areas near the main tourist attractions are usually safe, but it's wise to avoid isolated beaches after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 120 for police assistance or 123 for medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital, such as the Montaza Hospital, and keep a list of emergency contacts handy. Ensure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies for peace of mind.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites such as mosques. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; when entering a mosque, remove your shoes and cover your head if necessary. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it can be seen as disrespectful.

To experience Montaza like a local, visit the stunning Montaza Palace Gardens, which are open to the public. Engage with local vendors at the beach, where you can find fresh seafood and snacks. Spend time at the local cafes, where you can enjoy a cup of Egyptian coffee while observing daily life. Don’t miss the sunset at Montaza Beach, a favorite spot for locals.

Understanding local customs will enhance your experience. Always greet people with a polite 'Salam' (peace) and a smile. When dining, it is common to share dishes, so be open to trying various foods. It’s polite to finish what’s on your plate, as leaving food can be considered wasteful. During Ramadan, be respectful of those fasting by avoiding eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.

While Arabic is the official language, many people in Montaza, especially those in the tourism industry, speak English. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can go a long way in enhancing interactions with locals. Simple greetings and expressions of gratitude will be appreciated.