Lethem: Gateway to the Rupununi Savanna

• HelloWa gwaan
  [wah gwaan]
• GoodbyeStay bless
  [stay bless]
• YesYeah, man
  [yeah, man]
• NoNo sah
  [no sah]
• Please/You're welcomeAh beg yuh
  [ah beg yuh]
• Thank youTank yuh
  [tank yuh]
• Excuse me/SorrySarry
  [sarry]
• How are you?How yuh deh?
  [how yuh deh]
• Fine. And you?Mi cool. An yuh?
  [mee cool. an yuh]
• Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
  [yuh speak English]
• I don't understandMi nuh ondastan
  [mee nuh on-dah-stan]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wah see di menu, please
  [mee wah see dee menu, please]
• I don't eat meatMi nah eat meat
  [mee nah eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi wah pay, please
  [mee wah pay, please]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Gwaan weh!
  [gwaan way]
• Call the Police!Call di Police!
  [call dee Police]
• Call a doctor!Call a dokta!
  [call a dok-ta]
• I'm lostMi lost
  [mee lost]
• I'm illMi sick
  [mee sick]

• I'd like to buy...Mi wah buy...
  [mee wah buy...]
• I'm just lookingMi jus a look
  [mee jus uh look]
• How much is it?A suh much it deh?
  [ah soo much it deh]
• That's too expensiveDat too much
  [dat too much]
• Can you lower the price?Yuh can drop di price?
  [yuh can drop dee price]

• What time is it?A wah time it deh?
  [ah wah time it deh]
• It's one o'clockA one o'clock
  [ah one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Haaf pass (10)
  [haaf pass (10)]
• MorningMahnin
  [mahn-in]
• AfternoonAftanoon
  [af-ta-noon]
• EveningEvenin
  [even-in]
• YesterdayYestadeh
  [yes-tuh-deh]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Tree
  [tree]
• 4Four
  [foh]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [seh-vun]
• 8Eight
  [eyt]
• 9Nine
  [nahn]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Weh di...deh?
  [weh dee...deh]
• What's the address?Wa deh di address?
  [wah deh dee address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yuh can show mi (pan di map)?
  [yuh can show mee (pan dee map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When di nex (bus)?
  [when dee nex (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A tikit (to ....)
  [ah tik-it (to ....)]

Lethem is located in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo region, an area historically inhabited by the indigenous Macushi people. The Macushi, known for their deep connection to the land, have lived in the region for centuries, practicing subsistence agriculture, hunting, and fishing. Their rich cultural traditions, including storytelling, crafts, and rituals, continue to influence the area.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the region saw sporadic contact with European settlers, primarily the Dutch and later the British. These encounters often led to conflicts and displacement of indigenous communities. The region remained relatively isolated due to its remote location and challenging terrain, preserving much of its natural and cultural heritage.

One of the most significant events in the history of Lethem was the Rupununi Uprising of 1969. The rebellion was led by ranchers and indigenous groups dissatisfied with the central government. Although the rebellion was swiftly quelled, it brought international attention to the region and highlighted the socio-political tensions in Guyana's hinterlands.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Lethem began to develop as a key administrative and commercial hub for the Rupununi region. The construction of the Lethem-Linden road in the 1970s significantly improved access to the area, fostering economic growth and increased interaction with other parts of Guyana and neighboring Brazil.

Today, Lethem is a vibrant melting pot of cultures, where indigenous heritage coexists with influences from Afro-Guyanese, Indo-Guyanese, and Brazilian communities. The annual Rupununi Rodeo, held every Easter weekend, is a celebrated event that showcases the region's cowboy culture, attracting visitors from across Guyana and beyond.

Lethem is located in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo region of Guyana, near the border with Brazil. The most common way to reach Lethem is by air. Regular flights operate from Georgetown's Eugene F. Correia International Airport to Lethem's Airport, with a flight duration of approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can travel by road from Georgetown, which is about 430 kilometers away. The journey by road can take around 10-12 hours, depending on road conditions, and involves crossing the Essequibo River via a ferry.

Lethem is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local minibuses and taxis are available. Taxis are relatively inexpensive and can be hired for short trips around town or longer journeys to nearby attractions. Renting a 4x4 vehicle can be a convenient option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas and neighboring regions.

The official currency in Guyana is the Guyanese Dollar (GYD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger stores, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Lethem, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling, as ATM networks can sometimes be unreliable.

Lethem is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Petty theft can occur, so always secure your personal items. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Lethem, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Lethem has a local police station and a hospital that can handle medical emergencies. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or indigenous sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Some areas may be culturally sensitive, so always ask for permission before taking photographs. Public Transport: Do be respectful to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good Morning' or 'Good Afternoon.' A handshake is a common form of greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Lethem like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Guyanese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Takutu River Bridge, which connects Lethem to Bonfim in Brazil. For a unique experience, explore the surrounding savannahs and indigenous villages, where you can learn about traditional practices and enjoy stunning natural landscapes.