Anosy: The Heartbeat of Antananarivo

• HelloSalama
  [sa-la-ma]
• GoodbyeVeloma
  [ve-lo-ma]
• YesEny
  [e-ny]
• NoTsia
  [tsi-a]
• Please/You're welcomeAzafady
  [a-za-fa-dy]
• Thank youMisaotra
  [mi-sa-ot-ra]
• Excuse me/SorryAzafady
  [a-za-fa-dy]
• How are you?Manao ahoana ianao?
  [ma-nao a-wa-na ya-nao]
• Fine. And you?Tsara. Ianao?
  [tsa-ra ya-nao]
• Do you speak English?Mitondra Anglisy ianao?
  [mi-ton-dra an-gli-sy ya-nao]
• I don't understandTsy mba manaraka
  [tsi mba ma-na-ra-ka]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseTe hahita ny menio, azafady
  [te ha-hi-ta ny me-ni-o, a-za-fa-dy]
• I don't eat meatTsy mihinam-bary aho
  [tsi mi-hi-na-mba-ry a-ho]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [san-te]
• I would like to pay, pleaseTe hanadio ny vola, azafady
  [te ha-na-dio ny vo-la, a-za-fa-dy]

• Help!Fanantenana!
  [fa-nan-te-na-na]
• Go away!Mihinana!
  [mi-hi-na-na]
• Call the Police!Antsoy ny Polisy!
  [an-tsoi ny po-li-sy]
• Call a doctor!Antsoy dokotera!
  [an-tsoi do-ko-te-ra]
• I'm lostDifotry aho
  [di-fo-try a-ho]
• I'm illMalaika aho
  [ma-lai-ka a-ho]

• I'd like to buy...Te hanaro an...
  [te ha-na-ro an]
• I'm just lookingTsy mihinana aho
  [tsi mi-hi-na-na a-ho]
• How much is it?Ohatran'i hoe manaka ny
  [o-ha-tran-i hoe ma-na-ka ny]
• That's too expensiveMahafinaritra be izany
  [ma-ha-fi-na-ri-tra be i-za-ny]
• Can you lower the price?Afaka mamorona ny vidin'ny zavatra?
  [a-fa-ka ma-mo-ro-na ny vi-din-ny za-va-tra]

• What time is it?Inona no antony?
  [i-no-na no an-to-ny]
• It's one o'clockEnina ora
  [e-ni-na o-ra]
• Half past (10)Efatra maro
  [e-fa-tra ma-ro]
• MorningMaraina
  [ma-rai-na]
• AfternoonAloha
  [a-lo-ha]
• EveningHariva
  [ha-ri-va]
• YesterdayOmaly
  [o-ma-ly]
• TodayAnio
  [a-ni-o]
• TomorrowAndroany
  [an-droa-ny]
• 1Isa
  [i-sa]
• 2Roa
  [ro-a]
• 3Telo
  [te-lo]
• 4Efatra
  [e-fa-tra]
• 5Dimy
  [di-my]
• 6Enina
  [e-ni-na]
• 7Fito
  [fi-to]
• 8Valo
  [va-lo]
• 9Sivy
  [si-vy]
• 10Folo
  [fo-lo]

• Where's a/the...?Aiza ny...
  [ai-za ny]
• What's the address?Inona ny adiresy?
  [i-no-na ny a-di-re-sy]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Afaka ampiasaina ahy (amin'ny saritany)?
  [a-fa-ka am-pia-sai-na a-hy (a-mi-ni sa-ri-ta-ny)]
• When's the next (bus)?Inona no hahatongavako indray?
  [i-no-na no ha-ha-ton-ga-va-ko in-dra-y]
• A ticket (to ....)Fiara (ho ...)
  [fia-ra (ho)]

Anosy is characterized by its historical significance dating back to the 19th century when it became a key area in the capital, Antananarivo. Established during the Merina Kingdom, it served as a critical location for administrative and military functions. The French colonial period further transformed Anosy, with the construction of roads and infrastructures that integrated it into the broader urban landscape of Antananarivo.

Lake Anosy, located at the heart of the neighbourhood, was artificially created in the late 19th century and became a symbol of the city. It served as a site for leisure and recreation for the colonial elite and was later developed into a public space post-independence. The lake is surrounded by a unique blend of flora and fauna, reflecting the diverse ecosystems of Madagascar.

Anosy is home to the Monument aux Morts, a war memorial dedicated to Malagasy soldiers who fought in World War I. This site not only commemorates the sacrifices made by these individuals but also serves as a reflection of the complex historical relationship between Madagascar and France. The monument is an important cultural landmark that attracts many visitors and serves as a site of remembrance.

Following Madagascar's independence in 1960, Anosy underwent significant urban development, becoming a hub for political and economic activities. The area saw the establishment of various government buildings, educational institutions, and cultural centers, contributing to its status as a vital neighborhood in Antananarivo.

Today, Anosy is a vibrant neighborhood that reflects a rich tapestry of Malagasy culture. It hosts several cultural events, markets, and festivals, showcasing the traditional arts, crafts, and culinary delights of Madagascar. The blend of historical and contemporary elements in Anosy makes it a unique place to explore the evolving identity of Antananarivo.

Anosy is centrally located in Antananarivo, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. From the international airport (Ivato), take a taxi or arrange for a hotel shuttle, which takes approximately 30-45 minutes. If you're coming from other neighborhoods like Isoraka or Analakely, local taxi-brousse (shared taxis) or regular taxis can be a convenient option. Be prepared for traffic, especially during peak hours.

Anosy is compact and walkable, but if you're looking to cover more ground, consider using local taxis or taxi-brousse for short distances. Buses also run through the area, connecting Anosy to other parts of Antananarivo. Bicycles can be rented from local shops, which is a great way to explore the area, but be cautious of traffic and road conditions.

Anosy is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, especially near the outskirts of the neighborhood. Areas like the outskirts near the lakes may have higher crime rates, particularly for petty theft. Always be mindful of your belongings and avoid displaying valuables in public.

In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance or 14 for medical emergencies. The nearest hospital is Hôpital Joseph Ravoahangy Andrianavalona. Always carry a copy of your identification and travel insurance details. For non-emergency medical issues, local pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medicines.

Fashion: Do wear modest clothing, particularly when visiting places of worship. Don't wear revealing or overly casual attire in public areas. Religion: Do respect local customs; it's polite to ask before taking photographs at religious sites. Public Transport: Do give your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Salama' (hello). Don’t ignore local customs surrounding greetings, as they can vary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes, especially at street food stalls. Don’t waste food or refuse hospitality, as this may be considered rude.

To experience Anosy like a local, visit the nearby lakes and parks for a leisurely afternoon. Engage with local vendors in markets to learn about traditional Malagasy cuisine. Attend local events or festivals if your visit coincides with them for a taste of the culture. The area around Lake Anosy is perfect for a scenic walk and a picnic. Familiarize yourself with basic Malagasy phrases, as locals appreciate when visitors make an effort to communicate in their language.