Fort Dauphin: The Gem of Southern Madagascar

• HelloSalama
  [Sa-la-ma]
• GoodbyeVeloma
  [Ve-lo-ma]
• YesEny
  [Eny]
• NoTsia
  [Tsia]
• Please/You're welcomeAzafady
  [A-za-fa-dy]
• Thank youMisaotra
  [Mi-sa-ou-tra]
• Excuse me/SorryMiala tsiny
  [Mia-la tsi-ny]
• How are you?Inona ny vaovao?
  [I-no-na ny va-ou-va-o?]
• Fine. And you?Tsara. Ianao?
  [Tsa-ra. Ia-nao?]
• Do you speak English?Miteny Anglisy ve ianao?
  [Mi-te-ny Ang-li-sy ve ia-nao?]
• I don't understandTsy nandeha
  [Tsi nan-de-ha]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMilaza ny sakafo, azafady
  [Mi-la-za ny sa-ka-fo, a-za-fa-dy]
• I don't eat meatTsy mihinam-bary aho
  [Tsi mi-hi-nam-ba-ri a-ho]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [San-té!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMilaza ny vola, azafady
  [Mi-la-za ny vo-la, a-za-fa-dy]

• Help!Fanantenana!
  [Fa-na-ten-ta-na!]
• Go away!Miverina!
  [Mi-ve-ri-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 lostNaharitra aho
  [Na-ha-ri-tra a-ho]
• I'm illMihinam-bary aho
  [Mi-hi-nam-ba-ri a-ho]

• I'd like to buy...Milaza hanoka...
  [Mi-la-za ha-no-ka...]
• I'm just lookingMitady fotsy aho
  [Mi-ta-dy fot-sy a-ho]
• How much is it?Ohatrinona izany?
  [O-ha-tsi-no-na i-za-ny?]
• That's too expensiveMahalala be izany
  [Ma-ha-la-la be i-za-ny]
• Can you lower the price?Azafady mankaiza ny vola?
  [A-za-fa-dy man-kai-za ny vo-la?]

• What time is it?Firy izao ora izao?
  [Fi-ry i-zao o-ra i-zao?]
• It's one o'clockIreo iray
  [I-re-o i-ray]
• Half past (10)Alina sy folo
  [A-li-na sy fo-lo]
• MorningMaraina
  [Ma-rai-na]
• AfternoonAntoandro
  [An-to-an-dro]
• EveningHariva
  [Ha-ri-va]
• YesterdayOmaly
  [O-ma-ly]
• TodayAnio
  [A-ni-o]
• TomorrowRahampitso
  [Ra-ham-pi-tso]
• 1Iray
  [I-ray]
• 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)?Azafady manome anareo (amin'ny saritany)?
  [A-za-fa-dy mano-me a-na-re-o (a-mi-n'ny sa-ri-ta-ny)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Aiza ny taksi manaraka?
  [Ai-za ny tak-si ma-na-ra-ka?]
• A ticket (to ....)Fitsipika (ho any ...)
  [Fit-si-pi-ka (ho a-ny ...)]

Fort Dauphin, known locally as Taolagnaro, was founded in 1643 by the French East India Company. The fort was named in honor of the Dauphin of France, the heir apparent to the French throne. It served as an important outpost for French colonial ambitions in the Indian Ocean and became a center for trade and exploration in the region.

During the 17th century, Fort Dauphin was a significant hub for French colonists. The fort's strategic location enabled it to become a key point for trading spices, ebony, and slaves. Despite its potential, the early years of the colony were fraught with difficulties, including conflicts with local Malagasy tribes and challenges in maintaining supplies from France.

In the late 17th and early 18th centuries, Fort Dauphin saw visits from Portuguese and Dutch explorers. These encounters often led to skirmishes and competition for control over the region. The fort's position made it a sought-after prize for European powers eager to dominate Indian Ocean trade routes.

By the late 18th century, the French faced numerous challenges in maintaining Fort Dauphin. Repeated conflicts with local Malagasy tribes, disease, and difficulties in supply lines led to the fort's decline. In 1674, the French abandoned Fort Dauphin, and it fell into disrepair until later efforts to re-establish control in the 19th century.

In the 19th century, the French renewed their interest in Madagascar, and Fort Dauphin saw a resurgence. The fort became part of the larger colonial efforts as France solidified its control over the island. This period marked the beginning of significant French infrastructure projects, including roads and administrative buildings, which aimed to integrate Fort Dauphin into the broader colonial framework.

Following Madagascar's independence from France in 1960, Fort Dauphin transitioned from a colonial outpost to a vibrant Malagasy town. The region has since developed its own unique blend of local culture and historical heritage. Today, Fort Dauphin is known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and as a gateway to the natural wonders of southeastern Madagascar.

Fort Dauphin is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting its complex history. The town is home to the Antanosy people, who have preserved their unique traditions and customs despite centuries of foreign influence. Visitors can experience local music, dance, and crafts, which offer a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

Fort Dauphin, also known as Tolagnaro, is located in the southeastern region of Madagascar. The nearest airport is Marillac Airport (FTU), which has domestic flights connecting to Antananarivo, the capital city. International travelers can fly into Ivato International Airport (TNR) in Antananarivo and then take a connecting flight to Fort Dauphin. Alternatively, you can opt for a combination of road travel and flights, though the journey by road can be long and challenging due to the condition of the roads.

Once in Fort Dauphin, you have several transportation options. Taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to get around the town. For short distances, tuk-tuks (auto-rickshaws) are also common. Public buses, known as 'taxi-brousse,' connect Fort Dauphin to nearby towns but may not adhere to a strict schedule. Renting a car is another option, but be prepared for driving on rough and sometimes unpaved roads.

The official currency in Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). While some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Fort Dauphin accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or rural areas. ATMs are available in Fort Dauphin, but they can occasionally run out of cash or be out of service, so plan accordingly.

Fort Dauphin is generally safe for tourists, but it's essential to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Be cautious in crowded places and keep an eye on your belongings. Areas such as Ambinanibe and Anosy might have higher instances of petty crimes targeting tourists. Always use reputable transportation options and avoid carrying large sums of money or valuable items.

In case of emergency, dial 117 for the police or 124 for medical emergencies. The local hospital in Fort Dauphin can handle minor medical issues, but for serious conditions, you may need to be evacuated to Antananarivo. It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Fort Dauphin like a local, visit the local markets such as the Anosy Market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Malagasy goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Nahampoana Reserve and the Libanona Beach. For a unique experience, take a hike to Pic Saint Louis for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.