Alameda Botanic Gardens: Gibraltar's Green Oasis

• HelloHola
  [oh-la]
• GoodbyeAdiós
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• YesSí
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• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
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• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pair-dohn/loh see-en-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
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• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
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• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
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• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh en-tee-en-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [may goo-stah-ree-ah ver el meh-noo, por fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [may goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gar, por fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llame a la policía!
  [yah-meh ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llame a un médico!
  [yah-meh ah oon meh-dee-koh]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
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• I'm illEstoy enfermo
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• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
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• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
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• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
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• That's too expensiveEsto es demasiado caro
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• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-har el pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah es]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
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• Half past (10)Y media (las diez)
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• MorningMañana
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• AfternoonTarde
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• EveningNoche
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• YesterdayAyer
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• TodayHoy
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• TomorrowMañana
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• 9Nueve
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• 10Diez
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• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
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• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puede mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-deh mohs-trar-meh (en el mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh es el proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un billete (a ...)
  [oon bee-yeh-teh (ah)]

The Alameda Botanic Gardens were established in 1816 on the orders of the British Governor of Gibraltar, General George Don. The primary aim was to create a recreational area for the residents of Gibraltar and to provide a green space for the British troops stationed there. The gardens were designed in the classic style of the period, featuring a variety of local and exotic plants.

During the Great Siege of Gibraltar (1779-1783), the area that would become the Alameda Botanic Gardens was used for military purposes. It was not until after the siege ended that the idea of transforming the area into a botanic garden was conceived. The gardens served as a symbol of peace and recovery following the intense conflict.

Throughout the 19th century, the Alameda Botanic Gardens underwent significant expansion and development. Exotic plants from around the British Empire were introduced, adding to the diversity and appeal of the gardens. The layout was carefully planned to include winding paths, shaded groves, and scenic viewpoints, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

In the early 20th century, the Alameda Botanic Gardens continued to thrive. They played a role in Gibraltar's social life, hosting various public events and gatherings. However, during World War II, parts of the gardens were repurposed for military use once again. Post-war, efforts were made to restore the gardens to their former glory, and new plant species were introduced.

In recent decades, the Alameda Botanic Gardens have seen extensive renovations and conservation efforts. The Gibraltar Botanic Gardens Society was established to oversee the preservation and enhancement of the gardens. Projects have included the restoration of historic features, the introduction of educational programs, and the promotion of local biodiversity. Today, the gardens serve as an important cultural and ecological asset for Gibraltar.

Alameda Botanic Gardens are located in Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory on the southern coast of Spain. The nearest airport is Gibraltar International Airport (GIB), which is just a short drive from the gardens. Alternatively, you can fly into Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) in Spain and take a bus or rent a car for the approximately 1.5-hour drive to Gibraltar. The gardens are also accessible by bus or taxi from within Gibraltar.

Once in Gibraltar, getting to the Alameda Botanic Gardens is straightforward. Local buses run frequently and will drop you off near the gardens. Taxis are also readily available and relatively inexpensive for short trips. If you prefer to drive, parking facilities are available nearby, though spaces may be limited during peak hours. Walking is a convenient option if you are staying in the central part of Gibraltar, as the gardens are within walking distance from many hotels.

The official currency in Gibraltar is the Gibraltar Pound (GIP), which is pegged at par with the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Both currencies are accepted interchangeably. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and hotels. ATMs are plentiful, and you can withdraw cash in either GIP or GBP. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in case card machines are not available.

Gibraltar is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. The area around Alameda Botanic Gardens is safe, but be cautious with your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, and be cautious of pickpockets in tourist-heavy zones. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Gibraltar.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the emergency number for police, fire, and medical services. There are medical facilities and pharmacies available within Gibraltar. It is also recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The nearest hospital is St. Bernard's Hospital, located in the center of Gibraltar.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local religious customs, especially when visiting churches and religious sites. Public Transport: Do use public transport respectfully and be prepared to give up your seat for elderly passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and enjoy the variety of international cuisines available. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Alameda Botanic Gardens like a local, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Bring a picnic and enjoy it in one of the designated areas within the gardens. Engage with the garden staff and volunteers, who are often eager to share their knowledge about the plants and history of the gardens. Don't miss the Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park located within the gardens, home to various rescued animals.