Figuerolles: The Bohemian Heart of Montpellier

• HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
• GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh re-vwar]
• YesOui
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [nohn]
• Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
  [seel voo pleh / deu ryen]
• Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
• Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé
  [ex-koo-zay mwa / day-zo-lay]
• How are you?Comment ça va?
  [kom-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 vwahr luh meh-nu, seel voo pleh]
• I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [san-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-coor]
• Go away!Allez-vous-en!
  [al-ay voo-zahn]
• Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-peh-lay uh mayd-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-shet-ay]
• I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhoost]
• How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
• That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh share]
• Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vez voo bay-say luh pree]

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

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

The Figuerolles neighborhood in Montpellier has its roots in the agricultural landscape that characterized the region from the Middle Ages. Originally, this area was primarily composed of vineyards and farms, which served as the backbone of the local economy. The name 'Figuerolles' is derived from the French word for fig trees, reflecting the agricultural heritage of the neighborhood.

During the 19th century, as Montpellier began to industrialize, Figuerolles transformed into a working-class neighborhood. The expansion of the railways and factories in the region attracted a wave of laborers, leading to the construction of modest housing. This period saw the rise of a diverse community, with many families of different backgrounds settling in Figuerolles.

The 20th century brought further demographic changes to Figuerolles, as waves of immigration from North Africa and other regions contributed to the neighborhood's multicultural fabric. This blend of cultures is evident in the local cuisine, festivals, and daily life, making Figuerolles a vibrant representation of Montpellier's diverse society.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Figuerolles underwent significant urban renewal efforts aimed at revitalizing the neighborhood. These initiatives included the restoration of historic buildings, the creation of public spaces, and enhancements to infrastructure. Despite these changes, Figuerolles has retained its unique character and sense of community, continuing to be a hub for local culture and social interaction.

Today, Figuerolles is recognized for its artistic and cultural contributions to Montpellier. The presence of local artists, artisans, and cultural events has fostered a creative atmosphere. The neighborhood's community-oriented projects and initiatives highlight its commitment to preserving its rich heritage while embracing modernity, making it a dynamic part of Montpellier's urban landscape.

Figuerolles is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Montpellier. The tram network is efficient, with Line 1 (the blue line) running from the city center to the Figuerolles area. You can board at major stops like Place de la Comédie. Additionally, several bus lines connect Figuerolles to other parts of the city. If arriving from Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport, take the shuttle bus to the city center and then transfer to the tram or bus.

Figuerolles is well-served by public transport, including trams and buses. The tram stops at several key locations within the neighborhood, making it easy to navigate. Bicycles can be rented through the local bike-sharing system, Vélomagg, which offers a convenient way to explore the area. Walking is also a great option, as Figuerolles features many pedestrian-friendly streets.

Figuerolles is generally a safe neighborhood, but like any urban area, standard precautions are advised. It is best to avoid poorly lit streets at night and be cautious of your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, areas closer to the outskirts may have higher incidents of petty crime. Remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance in France. For non-urgent medical care, visit the local hospital or a nearby pharmacy for over-the-counter medications. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies and to keep a list of local hospital addresses in case of need.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothes suitable for walking and the warm Mediterranean climate. Don't wear overly casual attire when dining out. Religion: Do be respectful when visiting religious sites; modest clothing is recommended. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding the tram or bus. Don't occupy priority seating if you're not in need. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Bonjour' during the day. Don't skip pleasantries, as they are important in French culture. Eating & Drinking: Do try local wines and cuisine at neighborhood bistros. Don't eat while walking, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Figuerolles like a local, visit the neighborhood markets, especially the weekly farmer's market for fresh produce and local specialties. Engage with local shopkeepers and try to speak a few words in French, as it is appreciated. Explore the nearby parks and enjoy a picnic like the locals do. Don't miss out on local cafés where you can enjoy a leisurely coffee and people-watch.