Antananarivo City Center: The Heartbeat of Madagascar

• HelloManao ahoana
  [mah-now ah-whoa-nuh]
• GoodbyeVeloma
  [vay-loh-muh]
• YesEny
  [ehn-y]
• NoTsia
  [tsi-ah]
• Please/You're welcomeAzafady
  [ah-zah-fuh-dee]
• Thank youMisaotra
  [mee-sah-oh-truh]
• Excuse me/SorryAzafady
  [ah-zah-fuh-dee]
• How are you?Inona ny vaovao?
  [ee-noo-nuh nee vah-oh-vah-oh]
• Fine. And you?Tsara. Ary ianao?
  [tsah-rah ah-ree ee-ah-now]
• Do you speak English?Miteny Anglisy ve ianao?
  [mee-teh-ny ahng-lee-see veh ee-ah-now]
• I don't understandTsy nandeha
  [tsi nahn-deh-ha]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseTe hahita ny lisitra azafady
  [teh hah-hee-tah nee lee-see-trah ah-zah-fuh-dee]
• I don't eat meatTsy mihinam-bary aho
  [tsi mee-hee-nahm-bah-ree ah-ho]
• Cheers!Manao ahoana
  [mah-now ah-whoa-nuh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseTe handray vola azafady
  [teh hahn-dry voo-lah ah-zah-fuh-dee]

• Help!Fanampiana!
  [fah-nahm-pee-ah-nuh]
• Go away!Mivoaka!
  [mee-vwah-kah]
• Call the Police!Miantso polisy!
  [mee-ahn-tso poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Miantso dokotera!
  [mee-ahn-tso doh-koh-teh-rah]
• I'm lostDiale
  [dee-ah-leh]
• I'm illMarary aho
  [mah-rah-ree ah-ho]

• I'd like to buy...Te hahatakatra...
  [teh hah-hah-tuh-kah-trah]
• I'm just lookingManiry mihinam-bary
  [mah-nee-ree mee-hee-nahm-bah-ree]
• How much is it?Ohatra no vola aho?
  [oh-hah-trah no voo-lah ah-ho]
• That's too expensiveMahafinaritra be izany
  [mah-hah-fee-nah-ree-trah beh ee-zahn]
• Can you lower the price?Avela miverina ny vola?
  [ah-vay-lah mee-vay-ree-nah nee voo-lah]

• What time is it?Inona no ora?
  [ee-noo-nah noh oh-rah]
• It's one o'clockRaha misy iray ora
  [rah-hah mees ee-rye oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Ampahafantarina
  [ahm-pah-hah-fahn-tah-ree-nah]
• MorningMaraina
  [mah-rah-ee-nah]
• AfternoonHariva
  [hah-ree-vah]
• EveningAlina
  [ah-lee-nah]
• YesterdayOmaly
  [oh-mah-lee]
• TodayAnio
  [ah-nyoo]
• TomorrowRahampitso
  [rah-hahm-peet-soo]
• 1Iray
  [ee-rye]
• 2Roa
  [roo]
• 3Telo
  [tay-loo]
• 4Efatra
  [eh-fah-trah]
• 5Dimy
  [dee-moo]
• 6Enina
  [eh-nee-nah]
• 7Valo
  [vah-loo]
• 8Folo
  [foo-loo]
• 9Sivy
  [see-voo]
• 10Folo
  [foo-loo]

• Where's a/the...?Aiza ny...
  [ah-e-zah nee]
• What's the address?Inona ny adiresy?
  [ee-noo-nah nee ah-dee-reh-see]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Avela misy manampy aho (amin'ny sarita)?
  [ah-vay-lah mee-see mah-nahm-pee ah-ho ah-mee-ny sah-ree-tah]
• When's the next (bus)?Aiza ny farany (biraon'ny mpivarotra)?
  [ah-e-zah nee fah-rah-ny bee-rah-ohn-nee mpee-vah-roo-trah]
• A ticket (to ....)Ny fahabangam-panala (ho a...)
  [nee fah-hah-bahng-gahm-pah-nah-lah oh ah]

Antananarivo, originally known as Tana, was founded in the early 17th century by King Andrianjaka, who established it as the capital of the Merina Kingdom. The city was strategically located on a hill, which provided natural defenses and a commanding view of the surrounding area. Its founding marked the beginning of a significant political and cultural center in Madagascar.

By the 19th century, Antananarivo had become the heart of the Merina Kingdom, which expanded its influence over much of Madagascar. The city grew in prominence as a center of commerce and governance, with the construction of important structures such as the Rova (Royal Palace) on the highest hill, which became a symbol of the kingdom's power and heritage.

In 1895, Madagascar fell under French colonial rule, leading to significant urban development in Antananarivo. The French implemented a modernization agenda that included the construction of wide boulevards, public buildings, and infrastructure. This period saw the introduction of European architectural styles, which blended with local traditions and reshaped the city's landscape.

Madagascar gained independence from France in 1960, but the ensuing decades were marked by political instability and economic challenges. Antananarivo became the focal point for various political movements, and the city witnessed protests and upheavals that would shape the nation's future. The central square, Place de l'Indépendance, became a gathering place for demonstrations and cultural events.

In recent years, Antananarivo has experienced a cultural renaissance, with a revival of traditional arts, crafts, and music. The city center hosts various cultural festivals that celebrate Malagasy heritage, including the celebration of the famadihana (the turning of the bones) and the vibrant markets that showcase local artisans. This cultural resurgence has positioned Antananarivo as a key player in promoting Madagascar’s rich history and diverse identity.

Antananarivo City Center is accessible from various neighborhoods in Antananarivo via taxi-brousse (shared taxis), private taxis, and buses. The main taxi-brousse stations are located in the outskirts, such as the station near Analakely. From there, taxis and buses frequently operate to the City Center, making it easy to reach. If arriving from Ivato International Airport, a taxi is the most straightforward option, taking approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.

The City Center is best explored on foot due to its compact size and vibrant street life. However, local taxi-brousse and taxis are available for longer distances. Buses also operate along main routes, but schedules can be irregular. For those looking to cycle, renting a bicycle is an option, although traffic can be congested and challenging. Be cautious when navigating the roads.

Antananarivo City Center is generally safe, but tourists should exercise caution. Areas such as the outskirts of Analakely and Isoraka can have higher crime rates, including petty theft and pickpocketing. Always be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded places, and avoid displaying valuables. It is advisable to refrain from walking alone at night in less populated areas.

In case of an emergency, dial 117 for police assistance or 121 for ambulance services. It is advisable to carry the contact information of your country's embassy or consulate. For medical emergencies, there are hospitals and clinics in the City Center, including the Hôpital Joseph Ravoahangy Andrianavalona. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and know where the nearest pharmacy is located for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting churches or local neighborhoods. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; when entering sacred sites, dress appropriately and remove hats. Public Transport: Do be courteous, offer your seat to the elderly, and keep noise levels down. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake and a smile. Avoid overly familiar gestures unless you know the person well. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages. Accept food offers graciously. Don't waste food or refuse hospitality as it can be seen as disrespectful.

To experience Antananarivo City Center like a local, explore the markets such as Analakely Market for fresh produce and handmade crafts. Sample street food from local vendors, like koba (a traditional snack made of rice and peanuts). Engage with locals, as many are friendly and eager to share stories. For a unique experience, visit the Rova of Antananarivo, which offers a glimpse into the city's royal history and stunning views of the surrounding area.