Benghazi: The Coastal Gem of Libya

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaban]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaean]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlik/ala arrahb wasaaha]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathiraa]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'ingliziyya?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid ru'ya alqa'ima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!صحتين!
  [sahatayn]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfa, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajda!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [iatisal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [iatisal batebib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [laqad dalalt]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد شراء...
  [urid shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat attala]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [bikam hadha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuki takhfid alsaaar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alssaea?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alssaea alwahida]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [alssaea alashira wannahf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alssabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [aldhuhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa]
• Yesterdayالأمس
  [al'ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arbaa]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sabaa]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tasia]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين الـ...؟
  [ayn al...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'ainaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tureenii (ala alkhareeta)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata alhafilat alqadima?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tazkirat (ila ....)]

Benghazi, originally known as Euesperides, was established as a Greek colony around 525 BC. Situated along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, it served as an important trading hub for the Greeks. The city was named after the Hesperides, the mythical nymphs of evening and golden light of sunset.

After the decline of Greek dominance, Euesperides came under Roman rule in the 1st century BC and was renamed Berenice after the wife of Ptolemy III. The city flourished under Roman and later Byzantine control, becoming a vital center for trade and culture in the region. Architectural remnants from this period, including columns and mosaics, still bear witness to this prosperous era.

In the 7th century AD, Benghazi was conquered by Arab forces during the Islamic expansion. Renamed Barneeq, the city became an integral part of the Islamic world. During the medieval period, Benghazi witnessed a series of political changes, including the rule of the Aghlabids, Fatimids, and later the Ottomans. The city’s mosques and madrasas from this period reflect the rich Islamic heritage.

Benghazi was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in 1578. Under Ottoman rule, the city underwent significant administrative and infrastructural developments. The Ottomans built fortifications, administrative buildings, and enhanced the port facilities, which helped boost trade and commerce. The city's cultural landscape was deeply influenced by Ottoman architecture and customs.

In 1911, Italy conquered Benghazi as part of its colonial ambitions in North Africa. The city became a focal point of Italian Libya. Italians invested in the development of Benghazi, constructing modern roads, buildings, and public services. The Italian influence can still be seen in some of the architectural styles and urban planning of the city.

Benghazi was a strategic location during World War II and witnessed significant military action. The city changed hands multiple times between the Axis powers and Allied forces. After the war, Benghazi was occupied by British forces until Libya's independence in 1951. The wartime and post-war periods left an indelible mark on the city's infrastructure and demographics.

Following Libya's independence in 1951, Benghazi emerged as a key city in the newly formed Libyan state. It became the co-capital alongside Tripoli and played a significant role in the political and economic landscape of the country. The discovery of oil in the region in the 1950s brought wealth and rapid modernization to Benghazi. However, the city also faced challenges, including political turmoil and conflict, most notably during the Libyan Civil War in 2011 and subsequent years.

Today, Benghazi is a melting pot of cultures and histories. The city boasts several landmarks that reflect its diverse past, including the Benghazi Cathedral, one of the largest churches in North Africa, and the Red Castle Museum, which houses artifacts from various periods of the city's history. Traditional markets, or souks, offer a glimpse into the daily life and commerce of Benghazi's residents.

Benghazi is accessible via Benina International Airport, located about 19 kilometers east of the city. Several airlines operate flights to and from major cities in the Middle East and North Africa. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a hotel shuttle to reach the city center. Overland travel is possible but not commonly recommended due to safety concerns. If you are traveling from within Libya, domestic flights and intercity buses are available.

In Benghazi, taxis are the most common mode of transportation for tourists. They are relatively inexpensive, but make sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey as meters are not always used. Public buses are available but can be crowded and less reliable. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to drive themselves, but be aware of local driving customs and road conditions. Walking is an option for short distances and to explore local neighborhoods.

The official currency in Libya is the Libyan Dinar (LYD). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so carrying cash is essential. ATMs are available, but they may not always be reliable due to technical issues. It is advisable to exchange money at official exchange bureaus or banks. Keep smaller denominations on hand for daily transactions and tipping.

Benghazi has seen improvements in security but still has areas with higher crime rates, particularly for crimes targeting tourists. Avoid the Al-Sabri and Leithi neighborhoods, which have been known for their instability. Stay cautious, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your belongings secure. It is also advisable to stay updated on local news and travel advisories.

In case of emergency, dial 193 for police assistance, 191 for medical emergencies, and 190 for the fire department. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Benghazi has several hospitals and clinics, but the quality of care can vary. Pharmacies are available for minor health concerns. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your country's embassy or consulate.

Fashion: Do dress modestly; women should cover their shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs; dress conservatively and avoid public displays of affection. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; men should wait for women to extend their hands first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Benghazi like a local, visit the Old City (Medina) to explore traditional markets and shops. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share their culture. Don’t miss a visit to the Benghazi Cathedral and the Italian lighthouse for historical insights. For a unique experience, try traditional Libyan dishes such as bazin, couscous, and asida at local eateries.