Antigone: Montpellier's Modern Marvel

• 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 mwa/day-zoh-lay]
• How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sa 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-prahn pah]

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

• Help!Au secours!
  [oh suh-koor]
• Go away!Allez-vous-en!
  [ah-lay vooz ahn]
• Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah poh-leece]
• Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-peh-lay uh may-day-sahn]
• I'm lostJe suis perdu(e)
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
• I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray zah-shey]
• I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gahrd zhuhst]
• How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
• That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shay]
• 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?
  [kehl uhr ay-teel]
• It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel ayz oon uhr]
• Half past (10)Dix heures et demi
  [dees uhr ay dem-ee]
• MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
• AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray-mee-dee]
• EveningSoir
  [swahr]
• YesterdayHier
  [ee-ehr]
• TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
• TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
• 1Un
  [uhn]
• 2Deux
  [duh]
• 3Trois
  [trwah]
• 4Quatre
  [kat]
• 5Cinq
  [sank]
• 6Six
  [sees]
• 7Sept
  [set]
• 8Huit
  [weet]
• 9Neuf
  [nurf]
• 10Dix
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Où est le/la...?
  [oo ay luh/lah]
• What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kehl ay 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 ay luh proh-shang (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

The Antigone neighborhood in Montpellier was designed by the famous architect Ricardo Bofill in the 1980s. Its construction was part of a larger urban project aimed at revitalizing the city, which had seen significant growth and modernization following World War II. Bofill's vision was to create a harmonious blend of classical architecture with modern urban living, inspired by ancient Greek and Roman designs, hence the name 'Antigone'.

Antigone is characterized by its neoclassical architecture, featuring grand boulevards and monumental buildings. This architectural style reflects Montpellier's historical ties to the Mediterranean and its ambition to position itself as a cultural center in the region. The area has become a vibrant hub for arts and culture, with numerous galleries, theaters, and public spaces that host events, contributing to the city's cultural identity.

The development of Antigone was also marked by an emphasis on green spaces and public parks. The Esplanade de l'Europe, a major public square in the neighborhood, serves as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. This focus on urban greenery is a reflection of Montpellier's commitment to sustainability and enhancing the quality of urban life, aligning with broader trends in modern city planning.

Antigone is well-connected to the rest of Montpellier through a network of public transportation, including trams and buses. The introduction of the tram system in the early 2000s significantly improved access to the area, making it more attractive for both residents and tourists. The efficient transportation links have supported the neighborhood's growth as a desirable place to live and work.

The Antigone neighborhood has become a symbol of multiculturalism in Montpellier, hosting a diverse population that contributes to its dynamic atmosphere. Various cultural festivals and events are held throughout the year, celebrating the rich tapestry of traditions and backgrounds present in the area. This diversity is a vital aspect of Montpellier's identity, enhancing the social fabric of the city.

Antigone is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Montpellier. If you are arriving by train, take the tram line 1 from the Montpellier Saint-Roch station and disembark at the 'Antigone' stop. For those coming from the airport, the Montpellier Méditerranée Airport offers shuttle bus services that connect to the city center, where you can switch to tram line 1. Additionally, local buses also connect various neighborhoods to Antigone, making it convenient for travelers.

Antigone is well-connected by public transportation. The tram system is the most efficient way to navigate the area, with the Antigone stop serving as a central hub. Biking is also a popular option, with bike rental services available throughout the city. Montpellier has a bike-sharing program called 'Vélomagg,' which allows you to rent bicycles for short trips. Walking is also a pleasant way to explore the picturesque architecture and parks of Antigone.

Antigone is generally a safe area for tourists, but like any urban environment, it's wise to remain vigilant. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded areas. It is advisable to avoid the outskirts of the city at night, especially around the neighborhoods of La Paillade and Figuerolles, which have been reported to have higher crime rates. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious when using ATMs.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance in France. This number can connect you to police, fire, or medical services. The nearest hospital to Antigone is the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, located a short tram ride away. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in the area where you can find over-the-counter medications. Always ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites or formal places. Avoid overly casual or revealing attire. Religion: Do be respectful of local customs and practices, particularly during religious events. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly and those in need. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' during the day or 'Bonsoir' in the evening. Eating & Drinking: Do try local wines and cuisines at restaurants. Don't engage in loud conversations in public spaces, as this is often frowned upon.

To experience Antigone like a local, consider visiting the nearby Esplanade de l'Europe, a popular gathering place for locals. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the River Lez or relax in the Parc Rimbaud. Explore the local cafes and patisseries for authentic French pastries and coffee. Engaging with locals in conversations about the area can provide insights into hidden gems not found in guidebooks. Also, check out the local markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods.