The Jewel of the West African Coast: Libreville

• HelloMbolo
  [mboh-loh]
• GoodbyeOngonga
  [ohn-gohn-gah]
• YesEwe
  [eh-weh]
• NoTe
  [teh]
• Please/You're welcomeMe ta
  [meh tah]
• Thank youMesi
  [meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryTolobi
  [toh-loh-bee]
• How are you?Aghe?
  [ah-ghay]
• Fine. And you?Nde agha. Nde?
  [n-day ah-ghah. n-day]
• Do you speak English?Ongue uhume Englesa?
  [ohn-gway oo-hoo-meh ehn-gleh-sah]
• I don't understandTeyi mba
  [teh-yee m-bah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe teka ndo la carte, me ta
  [meh teh-kah n-doh lah kahr-teh, meh tah]
• I don't eat meatTe mendi nyama
  [teh mehn-dee nyah-mah]
• Cheers!Awa!
  [ah-wah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe teka linga, me ta
  [meh teh-kah leen-gah, meh tah]

• Help!Mve
  [m-veh]
• Go away!Yi kele!
  [yee k-eh-l-eh]
• Call the Police!Ongue ndongami!
  [ohn-gway n-dohn-gah-mee!]
• Call a doctor!Ongue mbongome!
  [ohn-gway m-bohn-goh-meh!]
• I'm lostMekene ngou
  [meh-keh-neh n-goh]
• I'm illMekene ngou
  [meh-keh-neh n-goh]

• I'd like to buy...Me teka kene...
  [meh teh-kah keh-neh...]
• I'm just lookingMekene me teka
  [meh-keh-neh meh teh-kah]
• How much is it?Ayi nga...
  [ah-yee ngah...]
• That's too expensiveIe ndongi
  [ee-eh n-dohn-gee]
• Can you lower the price?Ongue mende ndongi?
  [ohn-gway mehn-deh n-dohn-gee?]

• What time is it?Ndola ke?
  [n-doh-lah keh]
• It's one o'clockNdo mbo
  [n-doh m-boh]
• Half past (10)Mbo na mpongwe
  [m-boh nah m-poh-ng-weh]
• MorningMba
  [m-bah]
• AfternoonMba me
  [m-bah meh]
• EveningMba ndo
  [m-bah n-doh]
• YesterdayNtangane
  [n-tahn-gah-neh]
• TodayMba si
  [m-bah see]
• TomorrowNdonga
  [n-dohn-gah]
• 1Mbuh
  [m-boo]
• 2Mbire
  [m-bee-reh]
• 3Mbis
  [m-bees]
• 4Mbit
  [m-beet]
• 5Mbina
  [m-bee-nah]
• 6Mbisa
  [m-bee-sah]
• 7Mbono
  [m-boh-noh]
• 8Mbos
  [m-bohs]
• 9Mbovi
  [m-boh-vee]
• 10Mvungu
  [m-voong-oo]

• Where's a/the...?Iko...
  [ee-koh...]
• What's the address?Nde diresa?
  [n-day dee-reh-sah?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ongue ndombe (na le plan)?
  [ohn-gway n-dohm-beh (nah leh plahn)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Nkowe ndo?
  [n-koh-weh n-doh?]
• A ticket (to ....)Mbongwe (dz...)
  [m-boh-ng-weh (deh-z...)]

In 1849, Libreville was founded by freed slaves. The city’s name, which translates to 'Freetown' in French, commemorates this event. The freed slaves were settled in the area by French naval forces, who had intercepted a slave ship and released its captives.

During the late 19th century, Libreville became an important outpost for French colonial forces. The city served as a key administrative center for French Equatorial Africa. Its strategic location on the estuary of the Komo River facilitated trade and control over the region.

Libreville played a significant role during World War II. In 1940, it became a stronghold for the Free French Forces after a brief conflict with Vichy French troops. The victory at Libreville helped solidify General Charles de Gaulle’s influence in the region.

Gabon gained independence from France on August 17, 1960. Libreville, as the capital city, experienced rapid growth and modernization in the subsequent decades. The city expanded in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, becoming a vibrant urban center.

Libreville is home to several cultural landmarks, including the National Museum of Arts and Traditions, which preserves Gabonese cultural heritage. The St. Michael’s Cathedral, known for its intricate wooden carvings, and the Presidential Palace, a symbol of political power, are also significant sites.

As the economic hub of Gabon, Libreville has witnessed significant economic development driven by the oil industry. However, the city faces challenges such as urbanization, housing shortages, and maintaining sustainable growth. Efforts are ongoing to diversify the economy and improve living conditions.

Libreville is accessible via the Léon-Mba International Airport (LBV), which is the main international gateway to Gabon. Several major airlines operate flights to Libreville from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Once at the airport, taxis and car rental services are available for transport into the city. There are also occasional bus services connecting Libreville with other major cities in Gabon.

Transportation within Libreville includes taxis, minibuses (known locally as 'clandos'), and car rentals. Taxis are the most reliable and widely used mode of transport. It is advisable to negotiate the fare before the journey. The minibuses are cheaper but can be crowded and less punctual. For a more flexible option, consider renting a car, but be prepared for traffic and varying road conditions.

The official currency of Gabon is the Central African CFA Franc (XAF). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are widely available in Libreville, and it is recommended to use those affiliated with major international banks for reliability.

Libreville is generally safe for tourists, but caution is advised. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in areas like the Nkembo and Akebe neighborhoods, which have higher crime rates. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and be cautious with your belongings.

In case of emergency, dial 177 for police assistance and 1300 for medical emergencies. The main hospital in Libreville is the Hôpital d'Instruction des Armées Omar Bongo Ondimba, which offers comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious or formal settings. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices. Always ask for permission before taking photos in religious sites. Public Transport: Do be patient and polite. Minibuses can be crowded and schedules erratic. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Using 'Bonjour' (Good morning) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and be gracious when offered food. Avoid eating or drinking in public transport.

To experience Libreville like a local, visit the Marché du Mont-Bouet, one of the largest markets in the city, where you can buy fresh produce, clothing, and local crafts. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights into their culture. Don't miss the seafront promenade, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk and local street food. For a unique experience, visit Pointe Denis for its beautiful beaches and water activities.