The Heart of European Diplomacy: European Quarter in Strasbourg

• HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
• GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwahr]
• YesOui
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît / De rien
  [seel voo pleh / duh ryen]
• Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
• Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi / Désolé
  [ex-kew-zay mwah / day-zoh-lay]
• How are you?Comment ça va?
  [ko-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-prahn pah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr 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 suh-koor]
• Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [al-lay 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 ash-tay...]
• I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhust]
• 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-vay voo bay-say luh pree]

• What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kehl er ay eel]
• It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel ay oon er]
• Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [dee zair ay duh-mee]
• 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
  [twah]
• 4Quatre
  [kat]
• 5Cinq
  [sank]
• 6Six
  [sees]
• 7Sept
  [set]
• 8Huit
  [wheat]
• 9Neuf
  [nuff]
• 10Dix
  [dee]

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

The European Quarter in Strasbourg, known as the Quartier Européen, emerged in the mid-20th century as a symbol of European unity. Following World War II, the area was developed to house various European institutions, reflecting Strasbourg's growing role as a hub for European politics and diplomacy. The establishment of the Council of Europe in 1949 marked the beginning of Strasbourg's transformation into a center for international cooperation.

The Council of Europe, headquartered in the European Quarter, has played a crucial role in fostering democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law across Europe. The impressive building, completed in 1977, serves as a testament to the city's commitment to European integration. The presence of this institution has significantly influenced the local economy and international relations, making Strasbourg a pivotal city in the European context.

The European Parliament's decision to hold sessions in Strasbourg further solidified the city's importance in European governance. The modern parliamentary complex, inaugurated in 1999, symbolizes the democratic processes of the European Union. This development has not only transformed the architectural landscape of the European Quarter but also brought a vibrant atmosphere to the area, with numerous events and activities centered around EU politics.

The European Quarter hosts various cultural events aimed at promoting European integration and understanding. The 'Strasbourg European Fair' and the 'European Cinema Festival' are examples of initiatives that celebrate cultural diversity and foster dialogue among nations. These events highlight the region's commitment to cultural diplomacy and its role as a melting pot of ideas and traditions.

The architectural landscape of the European Quarter is marked by modern buildings that reflect the aspirations of a united Europe. Notable structures include the European Parliament building designed by architect Richard Rogers and the Palace of Europe, which houses the Council of Europe. This blend of contemporary design and functional space underscores Strasbourg's identity as a forward-looking city while remaining rooted in its historical significance.

The European Quarter is well connected to other neighborhoods in Strasbourg. You can reach it easily via trams; lines A and D stop at the 'European Parliament' station. For those arriving by train, Strasbourg's main train station (Gare de Strasbourg) is about 10 minutes away by tram. Buses also provide service to the area, with multiple lines operating from various parts of the city.

The European Quarter is best explored on foot or by bicycle, as many attractions are within walking distance. Strasbourg has an extensive tram and bus network, with frequent services that make getting around easy and efficient. Bicycles can be rented from local shops or through the city's bike-sharing program, Vélhop. Be sure to follow local cycling rules and use designated bike lanes.

The European Quarter is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, like in any urban area, it is wise to stay vigilant, particularly in crowded spaces. Areas near the European Parliament are well lit and frequented by tourists, making them safer. Avoid poorly lit streets at night and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The local hospital is located within a few kilometers in the city center. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available, and staff generally speak English.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably, but avoid overly casual attire in formal settings. Religion: Do respect local customs; if visiting religious sites, dress modestly. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding and keep it until the end of your journey. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a polite 'Bonjour'. A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Alsatian specialties. Don't leave food uneaten, as it can be seen as wasteful.

To experience the European Quarter like a local, visit the Parc de l'Observatoire for a peaceful retreat. Engage with locals at cafés, particularly those near the European Parliament, where you can enjoy the bustling atmosphere. Attend one of the many cultural events held in the area, such as exhibitions or concerts, to immerse yourself in local culture. Don't hesitate to ask locals for recommendations on hidden gems or lesser-known attractions.