Antsiranana: The Gateway to Northern Madagascar's Wonders

• HelloSalama
  [sa-la-ma]
• GoodbyeVeloma
  [ve-lo-ma]
• YesEny
  [e-ny]
• NoTsy
  [tsi]
• Please/You're welcomeAzafady
  [a-za-fa-dy]
• Thank youMisaotra
  [mi-sa-u-tra]
• Excuse me/SorryMiala tsiny
  [mee-a-la tsee-ny]
• How are you?Manao ahoana ianao?
  [ma-nao a-wa-na ya-nao]
• Fine. And you?Tsara. Ary ianao?
  [tsa-ra a-ry ya-nao]
• Do you speak English?Manana fahasalamana ihany ve ianao?
  [ma-na-na fa-ha-sa-la-ma-na ee-ha-ny ve ya-nao]
• I don't understandTsy mahay
  [tsi ma-hai]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMila hahita ny menio, azafady
  [mi-la ha-hee-ta ny me-nyo, a-za-fa-dy]
• I don't eat meatTsy mihinam-bary aho
  [tsi mi-hee-na-ba-ri a-hu]
• Cheers!Mazotoa!
  [ma-zo-to-a]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMila mameno, azafady
  [mi-la ma-me-no, a-za-fa-dy]

• Help!Fanantenana!
  [fa-na-ten-ta-na]
• Go away!Mandehana!
  [man-de-ha-na]
• Call the Police!Mangataka ny polisy!
  [man-ga-ta-ka ny po-li-sy]
• Call a doctor!Mangataka dokotera!
  [man-ga-ta-ka do-ko-te-ra]
• I'm lostTsy hita izay lalana
  [tsi hi-ta i-zai la-la-na]
• I'm illMafy aho
  [ma-fi a-hu]

• I'd like to buy...Mila mamaky...
  [mi-la ma-ma-ky]
• I'm just lookingMitady fotsy
  [mi-ta-dy fot-si]
• How much is it?Ohatra ny vola amin'izany?
  [o-ha-tra ny vo-la a-mi-ni-za-ni]
• That's too expensiveMahafinaritra be izany
  [ma-ha-fi-na-ri-tra be za-ni]
• Can you lower the price?Afaka mandoa ny vidiny?
  [a-fa-ka man-do-a ny vi-di-ny]

• What time is it?Inona no ora?
  [i-no-na no o-ra]
• It's one o'clockEo iray ora
  [e-o i-ra-ee o-ra]
• Half past (10)Efapolo sy folo
  [e-fa-po-lo si fo-lo]
• MorningMaraina
  [ma-rai-na]
• AfternoonAntoandro
  [an-to-an-dro]
• EveningAlina
  [a-li-na]
• YesterdayOmaly
  [o-ma-ly]
• TodayAnio
  [a-nyo]
• TomorrowAndroany
  [an-dro-a-ny]
• 1Iray
  [ee-rai]
• 2Roa
  [ro-a]
• 3Telo
  [te-lo]
• 4Efatra
  [e-fa-tra]
• 5Dimy
  [dee-mi]
• 6Enina
  [e-nee-na]
• 7Fito
  [fee-to]
• 8Valo
  [va-lo]
• 9Sivy
  [see-vi]
• 10Folo
  [fo-lo]

• Where's a/the...?Aiza no...
  [ai-za no]
• What's the address?Inona no adiresy?
  [i-no-na no a-di-resy]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Afaka mankafy aho (amin'ny saritany)?
  [a-fa-ka man-ka-fy a-hu a-mi-ni sa-ri-ta-ny]
• When's the next (bus)?Aiza ny iray manaraka (fiara)?
  [ai-za ny ee-rai ma-na-ra-ka fee-a-ra]
• A ticket (to ....)Ny taratasy (ho ...)
  [ny ta-ra-ta-sy ho]

Antsiranana, formerly known as Diego-Suarez, holds a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The area was originally inhabited by indigenous Malagasy tribes who lived off the ocean and the fertile lands. These early inhabitants practiced a form of animism and worshipped the spirits of their ancestors, a tradition that still influences local culture today.

The city’s history took a significant turn in the early 1500s when Portuguese explorer Diogo Dias discovered the bay during one of his voyages. This marked the beginning of European interest in the region. The bay, with its strategic location, would later attract explorers and traders from various European nations, including the French and the British.

In the late 19th century, the French established a foothold in Antsiranana, recognizing its strategic value as a naval base. In 1885, the city was formally ceded to France under the Treaty of Berlin. The French developed the port and built infrastructure, including roads, schools, and hospitals, laying the foundation for the modern city.

During World War II, Antsiranana played a crucial role due to its strategic position. In 1942, British forces launched the Battle of Madagascar to prevent Japanese forces from using the island as a base. This battle was one of the only significant actions in the Indian Ocean during the war, highlighting the city’s military importance.

Madagascar gained independence from France in 1960, and Antsiranana was renamed from Diego-Suarez as part of a broader effort to reclaim Malagasy identity. The city underwent significant changes as it transitioned from a colonial outpost to a burgeoning urban center. Efforts were made to preserve the cultural heritage while modernizing the infrastructure.

Today, Antsiranana is a vibrant cultural melting pot where Malagasy, French, Indian, and Chinese influences coexist. The city is known for its lively markets, where one can find a mix of traditional Malagasy crafts, French pastries, and Indian spices. Festivals and celebrations, such as the Donia Music Festival, showcase the diverse cultural tapestry of the region.

Antsiranana is also renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The surrounding areas boast stunning landscapes, from the lush tropical forests of Montagne d'Ambre National Park to the unique rock formations of Ankarana Reserve. These natural wonders attract tourists from around the globe, making the city an important hub for eco-tourism.

Antsiranana, also known as Diego Suarez, is located on the northern tip of Madagascar. The nearest international airport is Arrachart Airport (DIE), which has flights connecting from Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. From the airport, you can take a taxi to the city center. Alternatively, you can take a bus or a private car from Antananarivo; although the journey is long, it offers scenic views of Madagascar's diverse landscapes.

In Antsiranana, you can get around by taxi, which is relatively affordable. For a more local experience, you can use tuk-tuks or bicycle rickshaws. Public buses are also available but they can be crowded and less reliable. Renting a car or a scooter is an option, but be aware that road conditions can be challenging and local driving habits may be different from what you're used to.

The official currency in Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or local markets. ATMs are available in Antsiranana, but it's wise to have some cash on hand for emergencies or in case of technical issues with the machines.

Antsiranana is generally safe, but like any travel destination, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places like markets. Areas around the port and some parts of the city outskirts have higher crime rates, so it's best to avoid these areas, particularly after dark. Always keep an eye on your belongings and use hotel safes for valuables.

In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance and 124 for medical emergencies. The local hospital in Antsiranana can handle most medical issues, but for serious conditions, it might be necessary to travel to a larger city or even abroad. It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the city for minor health needs.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or mosques, dress conservatively and remove shoes where required. Public Transport: Do be respectful to fellow passengers and avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a warm handshake. A polite greeting in Malagasy, such as 'Salama,' is always appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Avoid wasting food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Antsiranana like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional Malagasy goods. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share their culture and stories. Don't miss visiting the Emerald Sea, a stunning lagoon perfect for snorkeling and swimming. For a unique experience, take a hike up to the Montagne d'Ambre National Park, which offers breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.