Big Bend: The Serene Heart of Eswatini

• HelloSawubona
  [sah-woo-boh-nah]
• GoodbyeHamba kahle
  [hahm-bah kah-hleh]
• YesYebo
  [yeah-boh]
• NoCha
  [chah]
• Please/You're welcomeNgiyacela
  [in-ghee-yah-seh-lah]
• Thank youNgiyabonga
  [in-ghee-yah-bohn-gah]
• Excuse me/SorryUxolo
  [oo-shoh-loh]
• How are you?Kunjani?
  [koon-jah-nee]
• Fine. And you?Ngiyaphila. Wena?
  [in-ghee-yah-pee-lah. way-nah]
• Do you speak English?Ukhuluma isiNgisi?
  [oo-khoo-loo-mah ee-see-nghee-see]
• I don't understandAngazi
  [ahng-gah-zee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNgicela ukubona imenyu, ngiyacela
  [in-gee-seh-lah oo-koo-boh-nah ee-mehn-yoo, in-ghee-yah-seh-lah]
• I don't eat meatAngiyi kudla inyama
  [ahng-yee-ee koo-dlah ee-nya-mah]
• Cheers!Ongakhokhobi!
  [ohng-gah-koh-koh-bee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNgicela ukudlala, ngiyacela
  [in-gee-seh-lah oo-koo-dlah-lah, in-ghee-yah-seh-lah]

• Help!Usizo!
  [oo-see-zoh]
• Go away!Hamba!
  [hahm-bah]
• Call the Police!Vuma amaphoyisa!
  [voo-mah ah-mah-poh-yee-sah]
• Call a doctor!Vuma umdokotela!
  [voo-mah oom-doh-koh-teh-lah]
• I'm lostNgikhathalelwa
  [in-gee-khah-tah-lehl-wah]
• I'm illNgisengulile
  [in-gee-sehn-goo-lee-leh]

• I'd like to buy...Ngicela ukuthenga...
  [in-gee-seh-lah oo-koo-teh-ngah]
• I'm just lookingNgicela ukubuka kuphela
  [in-gee-seh-lah oo-koo-boo-kah koo-peh-lah]
• How much is it?Kuyabani?
  [koo-yah-bah-nee]
• That's too expensiveLokhu kungakabi kahle
  [loh-khoo koo-nga-kah-bee kah-hleh]
• Can you lower the price?Unikeza kanjani isilinganiso?
  [oo-nee-keh-zah kahn-jah-nee ee-see-ling-gah-nee-so]

• What time is it?Ngubani usuku?
  [in-goo-bah-nee oo-soo-koo]
• It's one o'clockKuyashintsha elinesihlanu
  [koo-yah-shint-shah eh-lee-neh-see-hlah-noo]
• Half past (10)Eliyashintsha elinesihlanu
  [eh-lee-yah-shint-shah eh-lee-neh-see-hlah-noo]
• MorningEkuseni
  [eh-koo-seh-nee]
• AfternoonEmini
  [eh-mee-nee]
• EveningKusasa
  [koo-sah-sah]
• YesterdayIzolo
  [ee-zoh-loh]
• TodayNamhlanje
  [nahm-hlahn-jeh]
• TomorrowKusasa
  [koo-sah-sah]
• 1Kunye
  [koo-nyeh]
• 2Kubili
  [koo-bee-lee]
• 3Kuthathu
  [koo-tah-too]
• 4Kune
  [koo-neh]
• 5Kuhlanu
  [koo-hlah-noo]
• 6Isithupha
  [ee-see-too-pah]
• 7Isikhombisa
  [ee-see-khom-bee-sah]
• 8Isishiyagalombili
  [ee-see-shee-yah-gah-lohm-bee-lee]
• 9Isishiyagalolunye
  [ee-see-shee-yah-gah-loh-loo-nyeh]
• 10Kumi
  [koo-mee]

• Where's a/the...?Kwaphi...
  [kwah-pee]
• What's the address?Lokhu lusemaneni?
  [loh-khoo loo-seh-mah-neh-nee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Unikeza kanjani?
  [oo-nee-keh-zah kahn-jah-nee]
• When's the next (bus)?Ngubani ophela?
  [in-goo-bah-nee oh-pheh-lah]
• A ticket (to ....)Itikithi (ku ....)
  [ee-tee-kee-tee (koo)]

Big Bend, a town located in the eastern region of Eswatini, has a rich history that dates back to its early settlement. Originally inhabited by the Swazi people, the area was known for its fertile lands along the Great Usutu River. The town was officially founded in the early 20th century as a farming and trading post, becoming a key community in the region.

During the colonial period, Big Bend experienced significant changes under British rule. The establishment of sugar cane plantations in the 1950s brought economic growth and development. The town became a center for agricultural innovation, attracting workers and fostering a diverse community.

In the mid-20th century, Big Bend saw the establishment of Ubombo Ranches, one of the largest sugar estates in Eswatini. This development transformed the town into a hub for sugar production, influencing its economic and social landscape. The presence of Ubombo Ranches also led to the construction of infrastructure such as schools, clinics, and housing for workers.

Big Bend holds cultural significance for the Swazi people, with traditional ceremonies and events taking place throughout the year. The Umhlanga Reed Dance and Incwala ceremonies are important cultural events that draw visitors from around the country. These traditions reflect the deep-rooted customs and heritage of the Swazi people in the region.

Today, Big Bend is a thriving town that serves as a gateway to the Lubombo region. It continues to be an important center for agriculture, particularly sugar cane production. Modern amenities such as shopping centers, schools, and healthcare facilities have made it a comfortable place for residents and visitors alike. The town's rich history and cultural heritage are preserved and celebrated, making it a unique destination in Eswatini.

Big Bend is located in the Lubombo Region of Eswatini. The nearest international airport is King Mswati III International Airport, approximately 90 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Big Bend, which typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Manzini or Mbabane to Big Bend, which provides a more cost-effective option.

Big Bend is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available. Public buses and minibuses (kombis) operate within the town and connect to nearby villages. Renting a car is also a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace. Bicycles can be rented for those who prefer cycling.

The official currency in Eswatini is the Swazi Lilangeni (SZL), which is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR). Both currencies are accepted interchangeably. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Big Bend, but ensure you have sufficient cash before venturing into more remote areas.

Big Bend is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Big Bend itself does not have high-crime areas targeting tourists, always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police assistance, 977 for medical emergencies, and 933 for the fire department. The local police station and medical clinic are available in Big Bend. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious or traditional sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Big Bend like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Swazi goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the nearby Mlawula Nature Reserve and exploring the sugar plantations that the town is known for. For a unique experience, attend a traditional Swazi dance or cultural event if your visit coincides with one.