Turgeau: The Cultural Heartbeat of Port-au-Prince

• HelloBonjou
  [bon-zho]
• GoodbyeOrevwa
  [oh-rev-wah]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [nohn]
• Please/You're welcomeTanpri
  [tahn-pree]
• Thank youMèsi
  [meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [es-kee-zay mwenn]
• How are you?Kijan ou ye?
  [kee-jahn oo yay]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou menm?
  [byen. ay oo menm]
• Do you speak English?Èske ou pale angle?
  [es-keh oo pal-ay ang-glay]
• I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [mwenn pah kohn-prahn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni an, tanpri
  [mwenn tah rahn-men way meh-nee ahn, tahn-pree]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
  [mwenn pah mahn-jay vee-ahn]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, tanpri
  [mwenn tah rahn-men pay-yay, tahn-pree]

• Help!Ed!
  [ayd]
• Go away!Ale!
  [ah-lay]
• Call the Police!Rele Polis la!
  [ray-lay poh-lees lah]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [ray-lay yohn dohk-teh]
• I'm lostMwen pèdi mwen
  [mwenn pay-dee mwenn]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [mwenn mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [mwenn tah rahn-men ahkht-ay]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis gade
  [mwenn zjee gah-day]
• How much is it?Konbyen li ye?
  [kohn-byen lee yay]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [sah twah sheh]
• Can you lower the price?Èske ou kapab ba pri a?
  [es-keh oo kah-pah bah pree ah]

• What time is it?Ki lè li ye?
  [kee lay lee yay]
• It's one o'clockLi senk
  [lee sank]
• Half past (10)Demi (disè)
  [deh-mee dee-zay]
• MorningMaten
  [mah-tehn]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ah-pray-mee-dee]
• EveningAswè
  [ah-sway]
• YesterdayYe
  [yay]
• TodayJodi a
  [zho-dee ah]
• TomorrowDemen
  [deh-men]
• 1Yon
  [yohn]
• 2De
  [day]
• 3Twaz
  [twahz]
• 4Kat
  [kaht]
• 5Senk
  [sank]
• 6Sis
  [sees]
• 7Sèt
  [set]
• 8Uit
  [weet]
• 9Nèf
  [neff]
• 10Disè
  [dee-zay]

• Where's a/the...?Kote yon/la...?
  [koh-teh yohn/lah]
• What's the address?Kisa adres la?
  [kee-sah ah-dray lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Èske ou ka montre mwen (sou kat)?
  [es-keh oo kah mohn-tray mwenn (soh kaht)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki lè pwochen la?
  [kee lay pwoh-shen lah]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [yohn tee-kay (poo)]

Turgeau, established during the colonial period, reflects the architectural and urban planning influences of 18th-century French colonialism in Port-au-Prince. Originally a residential area for the affluent French plantation owners, Turgeau's layout and design were influenced by European styles, evident in its grand homes and boulevards. This neighbourhood played a significant role in shaping the urban landscape of Port-au-Prince, contributing to the city’s status as a cultural and economic hub.

The Haitian Revolution (1791-1804) dramatically transformed Turgeau and the surrounding areas. As enslaved people fought for their freedom, the dynamics of property ownership and social structure in neighborhoods like Turgeau changed. The aftermath of the revolution saw a new social order emerge, wherein many formerly enslaved individuals settled in the area, leading to a diverse community that helped shape the cultural identity of Port-au-Prince.

In the early to mid-20th century, Turgeau experienced significant growth, becoming a vibrant neighborhood that attracted professionals and artists. The establishment of educational institutions, such as the Lycée Alexandre Dumas, and cultural venues contributed to a flourishing intellectual environment. This period saw Turgeau evolve into a center of cultural expression, reflecting the broader artistic movements in Haiti, including the Haitian Renaissance.

Turgeau, like many neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince, faced challenges during periods of political instability, particularly during the Duvalier regime (1957-1986). The neighborhood was affected by government repression and social unrest, which influenced its demographic and socioeconomic landscape. Despite these challenges, community resilience led to the preservation of cultural identities and traditions, fostering a sense of unity among residents.

Today, Turgeau is recognized as a cultural hub within Port-au-Prince. It is home to various art galleries, cultural organizations, and community centers that promote Haitian art and heritage. The neighbourhood hosts numerous festivals and events that celebrate Haitian culture, contributing to its reputation as a dynamic area that bridges the rich history of Port-au-Prince with contemporary artistic expressions.

Turgeau is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince. Taxis and motorbike taxis (moto-taxis) are common and can be hailed from almost anywhere. For a more budget-friendly option, you can use 'tap-tap' shared minibuses, which are a popular mode of transport in the city. The main roads leading to Turgeau are well-connected, and it is approximately a 30-minute drive from the airport, depending on traffic.

Turgeau is a walkable neighborhood, and many attractions can be explored on foot. For longer distances, local taxis are readily available. While there are no formal public train services or bike rental schemes, you can use moto-taxis for quicker travel. It is advisable to negotiate fares in advance if using a taxi or moto-taxi.

Turgeau is generally considered safe for tourists, but caution is always advised. Avoid displaying valuables and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Areas to avoid include the outskirts of Turgeau, particularly after dark, where petty crime can occur. Always ask locals or hotel staff for advice on safe routes.

In case of an emergency, dial 114 for police assistance or 118 for fire services. Medical facilities can be found in and around Turgeau, but it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Local pharmacies can provide basic over-the-counter medications in case of minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious or rural areas. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect for local customs; when visiting churches, cover your shoulders and wear long pants or skirts. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly handshake and a warm smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offered to you; don't refuse hospitality, as it can be seen as rude.

To experience Turgeau like a local, visit the bustling markets where you can sample fresh fruits and local dishes. Engage with residents; they are often eager to share their culture and history. Look for local art galleries and street vendors to appreciate the vibrant creativity of the neighborhood. Don’t miss the chance to attend local festivals or music events for an authentic experience.