Wazemmes: Lille's Bohemian Heartbeat

• HelloBonjour
  [bohn-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-skuh-zay mwah/dey-zoh-lay]
• How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah]
• Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byen. eh voo]
• Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
• I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr luh muh-nyuh, seel voo pleh]
• I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vee-ahnd]
• 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!À l'aide!
  [ah layd]
• Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay vooz ahn]
• Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-peh-lay uh meh-deh-sahn]
• I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
• I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]

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

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

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

Wazemmes, originally a rural village, has roots that trace back to the medieval period. Its agricultural background was marked by the fertile lands surrounding the Deûle River, which allowed for successful farming and trade. The village's name is believed to be derived from the Old Dutch term 'Wazem,' referring to a marshy area, indicating the geographical characteristics of the region.

In the late 19th century, Wazemmes was integrated into the city of Lille, which was undergoing significant expansion due to the industrial revolution. This incorporation transformed Wazemmes from a quiet village into a bustling urban neighborhood, contributing to the growth of Lille's population and infrastructure.

Wazemmes is renowned for its vibrant market, established in the 19th century. The Wazemmes market became a hub for trade and social interaction, reflecting the multicultural character of Lille. It remains one of the largest markets in the region, showcasing a variety of goods from local produce to textiles, embodying the neighborhood's spirit of community and commerce.

The architectural landscape of Wazemmes experienced significant changes in the early 20th century, influenced by the Art Nouveau movement. Buildings in the area began to feature ornate designs and intricate details, contributing to the overall aesthetic of Lille. Notable structures include the Eglise Saint-Pierre, which showcases the neighborhood's evolving identity.

Wazemmes has historically been a melting pot of cultures, drawing in immigrants from various regions, particularly during the industrial boom. This diversity is reflected in the neighborhood's food, festivals, and community events, creating a rich tapestry of cultural heritage that continues to thrive in contemporary Lille.

Following the destruction of World War II, Wazemmes underwent revitalization efforts that included urban renewal projects aiming to restore the neighborhood's character while enhancing its functionality. This period saw the preservation of key historical sites and the introduction of modern amenities, balancing tradition with progress.

Today, Wazemmes stands as a vibrant neighborhood that encapsulates the history and culture of Lille. The market remains a focal point, attracting both locals and tourists, while the streets are filled with cafes, boutiques, and artistic venues. The neighborhood is a testament to Lille's resilience and its ability to embrace cultural diversity while honoring its historical roots.

Wazemmes is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Lille. If you are coming from the city center, take the Metro Line 1 towards 'Château Rouge' and disembark at 'Wazemmes' station. Alternatively, several bus lines, including Lines 12 and 13, connect Wazemmes with central Lille. For those arriving by train, Lille Flandres and Lille Europe stations are both within a short Metro ride to Wazemmes.

Wazemmes is well-served by public transportation, including Metro and bus services. The Metro Line 1 runs through the area, making it convenient for travelers to visit nearby neighborhoods. Buses also operate frequently, connecting Wazemmes to other parts of Lille. For a more local experience, consider renting a bicycle; there are numerous bike-sharing options available. Walking is also a pleasant way to explore the vibrant streets and markets.

Wazemmes is generally safe for tourists, but as in any urban area, visitors should exercise caution. Some parts of the neighborhood, particularly near the markets at night, may have higher incidences of petty crime. It’s advisable to avoid poorly lit streets after dark and to keep your belongings secure. Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance in France. For non-urgent situations, you can contact the local police at 17. Medical facilities are available in the area, and it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also present, where you can find over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking. Don’t wear overly revealing outfits, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Don’t discuss sensitive topics related to religion unless invited. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to those in need. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Bonjour' and a smile. Don’t forget to say 'Merci' when someone helps you. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties at street markets. Don’t waste food or be rude to vendors.

To experience Wazemmes like a local, visit the vibrant Wazemmes Market on Sundays, where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods. Engage with the locals as they are often eager to share their culture and tips. Explore the eclectic mix of shops and cafés in the area, and don’t hesitate to try traditional dishes at local bistros. For a more relaxed experience, take time to enjoy a coffee at one of the many terrace cafés while people-watching.