Avignon: The Heart of Provence

• HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
• GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwahr]
• YesOui
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [nohn]
• Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
  [seel voo pleh / duh ryen]
• Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
• Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé
  [ehk-skew-zay mwah / day-zoh-lay]
• How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah?]
• Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byen. ay voo?]
• Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay?]
• I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwar luh muh-noo, seel voo pleh]
• I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]

• Help!Au secours!
  [oh se-koor]
• Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay voo zahn]
• Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-play lah poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-play uh may-duh-sahn]
• I'm lostJe me suis perdu
  [zhuh muh swee pair-doo]
• I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray zah-shay...]
• I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhuhst]
• How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot?]
• That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
• Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-veh voo bay-say luh pree?]

• What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kel uhr ay-teel?]
• It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel ay oon uhr]
• Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [dees uhr ay duh-mee]
• MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
• AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
• EveningSoir
  [swahr]
• YesterdayHier
  [yehr]
• TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
• TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
• 1Un
  [uhn]
• 2Deux
  [duh]
• 3Trois
  [twah]
• 4Quatre
  [kah-truh]
• 5Cinq
  [sank]
• 6Six
  [sees]
• 7Sept
  [set]
• 8Huit
  [wheet]
• 9Neuf
  [nuff]
• 10Dix
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Où est...?
  [oo ay...?]
• What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kel ay la-dress?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-veh voo muh mohn-tray (sir lah kart)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn ay luh pro-shahn (buss)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor ....)]

Avignon, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southeastern France, traces its origins back to the Neolithic period. It gained prominence during the Roman era, when it was known as Avenio. The town's strategic location on the Rhône River made it a significant hub for trade and military operations.

One of the most defining periods in Avignon's history was the Avignon Papacy from 1309 to 1377, during which seven successive popes resided in the city instead of Rome. This era began with Pope Clement V, who chose Avignon due to political instability in Italy. The Papal Palace, or Palais des Papes, constructed during this time, remains a monumental testament to the city's ecclesiastical significance.

The Palais des Papes is one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. Built during the 14th century, it served as the residence and fortress of the popes. The complex includes chapels, audience halls, and private apartments, all designed to reflect the power and opulence of the papacy. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major tourist attraction.

The Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as the Avignon Bridge, is a historic bridge that once spanned the Rhône River. Built between 1177 and 1185, it originally had 22 arches, though only four remain today. The bridge is famously associated with the French song 'Sur le Pont d'Avignon,' and it played a crucial role in connecting trade routes between France and the Holy Roman Empire.

During the French Revolution, Avignon was absorbed into France in 1791, ending its status as a papal territory. The city played a role in the revolutionary fervor that swept through the country, leading to significant political and social changes. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Avignon developed into a cultural and economic center, known for its wine production and vibrant arts scene.

Founded in 1947 by actor and director Jean Vilar, the Festival d'Avignon is one of the most important contemporary performing arts events in the world. Held annually in July, the festival transforms the city into a bustling stage for theater, dance, and music. Performances are held in various historic locations, including the Cour d'Honneur of the Palais des Papes.

Avignon is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), approximately 85 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi to reach Avignon. Alternatively, Avignon has its own TGV station (Gare d'Avignon TGV) with high-speed train services connecting to Paris, Lyon, and other major cities across Europe. There are also regular regional trains and buses serving the area.

Once in Avignon, getting around is relatively easy. The city offers a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and a free shuttle service within the city center. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. For a more leisurely exploration, consider renting a bicycle or simply walking, as many of Avignon's attractions are within walking distance. Car rentals are available but be mindful of the narrow streets and limited parking in the city center.

The official currency in France is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Avignon. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit places that do not accept cards. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals.

Avignon is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets and tourist attractions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. While Avignon does not have specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists, remaining vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always wise.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number works for police, fire, and medical emergencies. Avignon has several medical facilities, including the Centre Hospitalier Henri Duffaut. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues, and many staff speak English. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress smartly and comfortably. Avoid overly casual attire when dining out or visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting churches and other religious sites. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding buses or trains. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with 'Bonjour' (Good day) and a handshake. Acknowledge shopkeepers when entering and leaving their establishments. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don't rush through meals; dining is a leisurely experience in France.

To experience Avignon like a local, visit the Les Halles market for fresh produce and regional specialties. Join the locals for a leisurely stroll along the Rhône River or relax in one of the city's many parks. Attend a performance at the Opéra Grand Avignon or visit during the Festival d'Avignon in July for a vibrant cultural experience. Explore the lesser-known streets and alleys of the old town to discover hidden gems and authentic dining spots.