Shela: The Serene Gem of Lamu Island

• HelloJambo
  [jahm-boh]
• GoodbyeKwaheri
  [kwah-heh-ree]
• YesNdio
  [n-dyoh]
• NoHapana
  [hah-pah-nah]
• Please/You're welcomeTafadhali
  [tah-fah-dah-lee]
• Thank youAsante
  [ah-sahn-teh]
• Excuse me/SorrySamahani
  [sah-mah-hah-nee]
• How are you?U hali gani?
  [oo hah-lee gah-nee]
• Fine. And you?Safi. Na wewe?
  [sah-fee. nah weh-weh]
• Do you speak English?Unazungumza kiingereza?
  [oo-nah-zoo-ngoom-zah kee-een-geh-reh-zah]
• I don't understandSielewi
  [see-eh-leh-wee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNataka kuona menyu, tafadhali
  [nah-tah-kah koo-oh-nah meh-nyoo, tah-fah-dah-lee]
• I don't eat meatSi kula nyama
  [see koo-lah nyah-mah]
• Cheers!Mambo!
  [mahm-boh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNingependa kulipa, tafadhali
  [nee-ngeh-pehn-dah koo-lee-pah, tah-fah-dah-lee]

• Help!Msaada!
  [msah-ah-dah]
• Go away!Enda zako!
  [ehn-dah zah-koh]
• Call the Police!Piga polisi!
  [pee-gah poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Piga daktari!
  [pee-gah dahk-tah-ree]
• I'm lostNimepotea
  [nee-meh-poh-teh-ah]
• I'm illMimi ni mgonjwa
  [mee-mee nee m-gohn-jwah]

• I'd like to buy...Nataka kununua...
  [nah-tah-kah koo-noo-noo-ah]
• I'm just lookingNinaangalia tu
  [nee-nah-ahn-gah-lee-ah too]
• How much is it?Bei ni ngapi?
  [beh-ee nee ngah-pee]
• That's too expensiveHii ni ghali sana
  [hee nee gah-lee sah-nah]
• Can you lower the price?Unaweza kushusha bei?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-shoo-shah beh-ee]

• What time is it?Saa ngapi?
  [sah-ah ngah-pee]
• It's one o'clockSaa moja
  [sah-ah moh-jah]
• Half past (10)Nusu (kumi)
  [noo-soo (koo-mee)]
• MorningAsubuhi
  [ah-soo-boo-hee]
• AfternoonMchana
  [m-chah-nah]
• EveningJioni
  [joh-ee-nee]
• YesterdayJana
  [jah-nah]
• TodayLeo
  [leh-oh]
• TomorrowKesho
  [keh-shoh]
• 1Moja
  [moh-jah]
• 2Mbili
  [m-bee-lee]
• 3Tatu
  [tah-too]
• 4Nne
  [n-neh]
• 5Tano
  [tah-noh]
• 6Sita
  [see-tah]
• 7Saba
  [sah-bah]
• 8Nane
  [nah-neh]
• 9Kenda
  [kehn-dah]
• 10Kumi
  [koo-mee]

• Where's a/the...?Iko wapi...?
  [ee-koh wah-pee]
• What's the address?Anwani ni gani?
  [ahn-wah-nee nee gah-nee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Unaweza kunionyesha (kwenye ramani)?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-nyoh-nyeh-shah (kweh-neh rah-mah-nee)]
• When's the next (bus)?Basi lililoendelea ni lini?
  [bah-see lee-lee-loh-ehn-deh-leh-ah nee lee-nee]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (kwenda ....)
  [tee-keh-tee (kwehn-dah ....)]

Shela, located just south of Lamu Town, is a historic Swahili settlement that traces its origins back to the 14th century. It was established as a trading hub, benefiting from its proximity to the Indian Ocean trade routes. The town became known for its strategic position, allowing merchants to engage in commerce with various cultures, including Arab, Persian, and Indian traders.

The architecture of Shela reflects its rich cultural amalgamation, featuring traditional Swahili houses adorned with coral stone and intricately carved wooden doors. The town is also home to the majestic Shela Mosque, built in the 19th century, which showcases the Islamic influence that permeated the region. This architectural style is representative of the broader Swahili Coast, known for its unique blend of African, Arab, and Persian influences.

During the late 19th century, Shela saw significant changes with the advent of European colonial powers in East Africa. The British, who took control of the region, focused on establishing trade and suppressing the slave trade. This period marked a decline in the traditional trading activities of Shela, as the colonial economy reoriented towards cash crops and export-oriented agriculture.

The mid-20th century witnessed a decline in Shela as a trading center, largely due to the rise of Lamu Town as the primary economic hub. However, in recent decades, Shela has experienced a resurgence as a tourist destination, attracting visitors with its pristine beaches and tranquil atmosphere. The local community has embraced this change, promoting cultural preservation and sustainable tourism.

Shela is a vibrant community that celebrates its rich cultural heritage through various festivals and traditions. The annual Lamu Cultural Festival, which takes place in November, features traditional dances, dhow races, and art exhibitions, showcasing the unique cultural identity of Shela and the wider Lamu region. The preservation of traditional crafts, such as weaving and pottery, continues to thrive, connecting younger generations with their historical roots.

Shela is easily accessible from Lamu Town, which is the main hub for travelers. You can reach Shela via a short boat ride, which takes approximately 20 minutes. Boats regularly depart from the Lamu jetty. Alternatively, you can hire a private dhow for a more scenic experience. If you are arriving from Manda Airport, a taxi can take you to Lamu Town, where you can then catch a boat to Shela.

Shela is a small village, and the best way to explore is on foot. The sandy paths make it ideal for walking. Bicycles can also be rented from local shops, allowing for a leisurely ride along the beach. However, there are no public buses or trains in Shela, so walking or biking are your primary modes of transportation. Taxis are available in Lamu Town for longer distances.

Shela is generally a safe area for tourists, but it's wise to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially on secluded paths. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, particularly in crowded areas. It is advisable to stay clear of poorly lit areas after dark. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious with valuables.

In case of an emergency, contact local authorities by dialing the local police at 999. The nearest hospital is in Lamu Town, which is approximately a 20-minute boat ride away. Travel insurance is recommended to cover any medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies in Lamu Town can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly in areas with religious significance. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; while visiting mosques, women should cover their heads and men should wear long trousers. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a friendly 'Jambo.' Avoid overly casual greetings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisines and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it can be seen as disrespectful.

To experience Shela like a local, visit the beach early in the morning to witness the fishermen bringing in their catch. Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with local artisans and learn about their craft. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a sunset at Shela Beach, a perfect spot for relaxation. Also, try to visit the small cafes and restaurants that serve traditional Swahili dishes.

Understanding local etiquette is crucial. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their property. It's customary to greet elders first in social settings. When dining, it is polite to eat with your right hand and to share food with those around you, as communal eating is a common practice.

Shela offers a range of accommodation options from budget guesthouses to upscale boutique hotels. Many lodgings provide a unique Swahili architectural experience, featuring vibrant designs and local craftsmanship. Booking in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, is advisable to secure your preferred stay.