Diego Suarez: Gateway to Madagascar's Hidden Paradise

• 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-o-tra]
• Excuse me/SorryAzafady
  [a-za-fa-dy]
• How are you?Manahoana ianao?
  [ma-na-hwa-na ya-nao?]
• Fine. And you?Tsara. Ary ianao?
  [tsa-ra a-ri ya-nao?]
• Do you speak English?Miteny Anglisy ianao?
  [mi-te-ny ang-li-sy ya-nao?]
• I don't understandTsy miaraka aminao
  [tsi mi-a-ra-ka a-mi-nao]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseTe-hahita ny menio azafady
  [te-ha-hi-ta ny me-nio a-za-fa-dy]
• I don't eat meatTsy mihinana hena
  [tsi mi-hi-na-na he-na]
• Cheers!Miarahaba
  [mi-a-ra-ha-ba]
• I would like to pay, pleaseTe-hahita fandoavam-pahazo azafady
  [te-ha-hi-ta fan-do-a-vam-pa-ha-zo a-za-fa-dy]

• Help!Fanampiana!
  [fa-nam-pya-na]
• Go away!Mandehana!
  [man-de-ha-na]
• Call the Police!Mangaraha ny polisy!
  [man-ga-ra-ha ny po-li-sy]
• Call a doctor!Mangaraha dokotera!
  [man-ga-ra-ha do-kot-ra]
• I'm lostVoatery aho
  [vo-a-te-ry a-ho]
• I'm illMiaraka amin'ny aretina aho
  [mi-a-ra-ka a-mi-n'ny a-re-ti-na a-ho]

• I'd like to buy...Te-hahita mivarotra...
  [te-ha-hi-ta mi-va-rot-ra]
• I'm just lookingTsy mihaino
  [tsi mi-ha-i-no]
• How much is it?Oviana ny vidiny?
  [o-vi-a-na ny vi-di-ny]
• That's too expensiveMahafinaritra be izany
  [ma-ha-fi-na-ri-tra be i-za-ny]
• Can you lower the price?Azonao atao ny vidin'ny
  [a-zo-nao a-ta-o ny vi-di-ny]

• What time is it?Oviana ny ora?
  [o-vi-a-na ny o-ra]
• It's one o'clockEnina alina no ara-dalàna
  [e-ni-na a-li-na no a-ra-da-la-na]
• Half past (10)Efapolo sy folo
  [e-fa-po-lo sy fo-lo]
• MorningAlina
  [a-li-na]
• AfternoonAntoandro
  [an-to-an-dro]
• EveningMaraina
  [ma-ra-i-na]
• YesterdayOmaly
  [o-ma-ly]
• TodayAnio
  [a-ni-o]
• TomorrowRaharaha
  [ra-ha-ra-ha]
• 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 no adiresy?
  [i-no-na no a-di-re-sy]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Azonao ato izao aho (amin'ny saritany)?
  [a-zo-nao a-to i-zao a-ho (a-mi-n'ny sa-ri-ta-ny)]
• When's the next (bus)?Oviana ny farany?
  [o-vi-a-na ny fa-ra-ny]
• A ticket (to ....)Famatsiana (ho...)
  [fa-mat-sia-na (ho)]

Diego Suarez, also known as Antsiranana, has been a key location due to its strategic position at the northern tip of Madagascar. The natural harbor attracted early settlers and traders, including Arab merchants and later, Europeans. The bay's deep waters and sheltered position made it an ideal spot for ships seeking refuge from the often treacherous waters of the Indian Ocean.

In 1885, Diego Suarez became a French protectorate following the signing of the Treaty of Tamatave. The French recognized its strategic military value and began developing it into a naval base. Fortifications were built, and the town became a hub for French colonial administration and military operations in the Indian Ocean. It played a significant role during World War II as a key Allied base.

During World War II, Diego Suarez was the site of a critical conflict known as the Battle of Madagascar. In 1942, British forces launched an amphibious assault to prevent the Japanese from using the port as a base. The battle was intense but short-lived, and the successful capture of Diego Suarez by the Allies ensured the security of the sea routes around the Cape of Good Hope.

After Madagascar gained independence from France in 1960, Diego Suarez underwent significant changes. The French military presence gradually diminished, and the town started to develop its own identity. Economic activities shifted towards fishing, tourism, and trade. Despite challenges, including political instability and economic fluctuations, Diego Suarez has continued to grow and modernize into a vibrant urban center.

Diego Suarez is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting its diverse history. The local Antakarana people coexist with descendants of French settlers, Indian traders, and other ethnic groups. This blend of cultures is evident in the town's architecture, cuisine, and festivals. Notable cultural sites include the Windsor Castle, a historical fort, and the vibrant local markets where one can experience the rich tapestry of Malagasy culture.

The region around Diego Suarez is renowned for its natural beauty, including the Emerald Sea, a stunning turquoise lagoon, and the Ankarana Reserve, known for its unique limestone formations and rich biodiversity. These natural attractions have made Diego Suarez a popular destination for eco-tourism. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these fragile ecosystems while promoting sustainable tourism.

Diego Suarez, also known as Antsiranana, is located in the northern part of Madagascar. The nearest international airport is Arrachart Airport (DIE), which is about 11 kilometers from the city center. Regular flights are available from Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar. Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus or private car from Antananarivo, but be prepared for a lengthy journey that can take up to 18 hours.

Within Diego Suarez, taxis are the most convenient mode of transportation. They are relatively inexpensive and can be found throughout the city. Tuk-tuks and minibuses (known locally as 'taxi-be') are also available for shorter distances and are a fun way to explore the city. For more flexibility, consider renting a car, but be aware that road conditions can vary significantly.

The official currency in Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). While credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments. ATMs are available in Diego Suarez, but it is wise to withdraw enough cash before traveling to rural areas where banking facilities might be limited.

Diego Suarez is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas like the outskirts of the city. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places such as markets. Neighborhoods like Andranovondronina and the port area have higher crime rates and should be avoided after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 117 for police assistance or 124 for medical emergencies. The main hospital in Diego Suarez is the Centre Hospitalier de Référence Régional d’Antsiranana, which is well-equipped to handle medical emergencies. It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation if necessary.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering places of worship. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. Using the local greeting 'Salama' is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Diego Suarez like a local, visit the bustling Bazary Kely market where you can find fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful beaches of Ramena and the striking landscapes of the Emerald Sea. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to the Nosy Hara archipelago, known for its stunning limestone formations and rich marine life.