Majunga: The Pearl of Madagascar's Northwest Coast

• HelloSalama
  [sah-lah-mah]
• GoodbyeVeloma
  [veh-loh-mah]
• YesEny
  [eh-ny]
• NoTsia
  [tsi-ah]
• Please/You're welcomeAzafady
  [ah-zah-fah-dy]
• Thank youMisaotra
  [mee-sah-oh-trah]
• Excuse me/SorryAzafady
  [ah-zah-fah-dy]
• How are you?Inona ny vaovao?
  [ee-noh-nah 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 vay ee-ah-now]
• I don't understandTsy nifankahalala
  [tsee nee-fahn-kah-hah-lah-lah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseTe-hah-tsorana ny menio, azafady
  [teh-hah-tsoh-rah-nah nee meh-nee-oh, ah-zah-fah-dy]
• I don't eat meatTsy mihinam-bary aho
  [tsee mee-hee-nahm-bah-ree ah-hoo]
• Cheers!Mazotoa!
  [mah-zoh-toh-ah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseTe-hah-hanao fahana, azafady
  [teh-hah-ah-nah-oh fah-hah-nah, ah-zah-fah-dy]

• Help!Fanantenana!
  [fah-nahn-teh-nah-nah]
• Go away!Mandehana!
  [mah-n-deh-hah-nah]
• Call the Police!Miverina ny polisy!
  [mee-veh-ree-nah nee poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Miverina mpivarotra!
  [mee-veh-ree-nahm pee-vah-roh-trah]
• I'm lostVoatery aho
  [voh-ah-teh-ree ah-hoo]
• I'm illManahy aho
  [mah-nah-hee ah-hoo]

• I'd like to buy...Te-hah-hahafantatra...
  [teh-hah-hah-fahn-tah-trah]
• I'm just lookingMitady ihany aho
  [mee-tah-dy ee-hahn-y ah-hoo]
• How much is it?Ohatra no vidiny?
  [oh-hah-trah noh vee-dee-ny]
• That's too expensiveMahatsiaro be ny vidiny
  [mah-ha-tsyah-roh beh nee vee-dee-ny]
• Can you lower the price?Afaka mangala ny vidiny ve ianao?
  [ah-fah-kah mahn-gah-lah nee vee-dee-ny vay ee-ah-now]

• What time is it?Inona no ora?
  [ee-noh-nah noh oh-rah]
• It's one o'clockEnina no ora
  [eh-nee-nah noh oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Efapolo sy folo
  [eh-fah-poh-loh see foh-loh]
• MorningMaraina
  [mah-rah-ee-nah]
• AfternoonAlina
  [ah-lee-nah]
• EveningHariva
  [hah-ree-vah]
• YesterdayOmaly
  [oh-mah-ly]
• TodayAnio
  [ah-nee-oh]
• TomorrowRahampitso
  [rah-hahm-pee-tsoh]
• 1Iray
  [ee-ray]
• 2Roa
  [roh-ah]
• 3Telo
  [teh-loh]
• 4Efatra
  [eh-fah-trah]
• 5Dimy
  [dee-mee]
• 6Enina
  [eh-nee-nah]
• 7Fitu
  [fee-too]
• 8Valo
  [vah-loh]
• 9Sivy
  [see-vee]
• 10Folo
  [foh-loh]

• Where's a/the...?Aiza ny...
  [ah-ee-zah nee]
• What's the address?Inona ny adiresy?
  [ee-noh-nah nee ah-dee-reh-see]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Afaka manampy aho (amin'ny saritany)?
  [ah-fah-kah mahn-ahm-pee ah-hoo ah-meen-ny sah-ree-tah-ny]
• When's the next (bus)?Aiza ny farany (bus)?
  [ah-ee-zah nee fah-rah-ny (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketa (ho ...)
  [tee-keh-tah (hoo)]

Majunga, also known as Mahajanga, is one of Madagascar's oldest cities, founded in the 18th century. It was established by Arab traders who recognized the strategic value of its natural harbor. The city's name, derived from the Arabic word 'Majunga' meaning 'beautiful', reflects the admiration these traders had for the area.

During the 19th century, Majunga flourished as a bustling trade hub. The city's port became a crucial point of exchange for goods such as spices, textiles, and precious stones. Merchants from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia converged here, making it a melting pot of cultures and languages.

In 1895, Majunga fell under French colonial rule, transforming the city's infrastructure and economy. The French built roads, schools, and administrative buildings, many of which still stand today. This period also saw the introduction of new agricultural techniques and crops, significantly impacting the local way of life.

The Battle of Majunga took place in 1942 during World War II, when Allied forces launched Operation Ironclad to take control of the Vichy French-held Madagascar. The successful capture of Majunga's port allowed the Allies to secure crucial supply routes in the Indian Ocean, marking a significant moment in the city's military history.

Following Madagascar's independence in 1960, Majunga experienced significant growth and modernization. The city expanded its infrastructure, developing new residential areas and modern amenities. This period also saw a resurgence of Malagasy culture, with traditional festivals and practices being celebrated more openly.

Majunga is renowned for its cultural diversity, a legacy of its rich history as a trade hub. The city is home to various ethnic groups, including the Sakalava, Antakarana, and Comorian communities. This diversity is reflected in the city's vibrant cultural festivals, traditional music, and culinary traditions, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Majunga, also known as Mahajanga, is accessible via several modes of transportation. The primary gateway is the Amborovy Airport (MJN), which is located around 10 kilometers from the city center. There are regular domestic flights from Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus from Antananarivo, though the journey can be lengthy, typically taking around 10 to 12 hours. For those who prefer traveling by sea, there are occasional ferry services from other coastal cities, but schedules can be irregular.

Within Majunga, transportation options include taxis, tuk-tuks (known locally as 'bajajs'), and public buses. Taxis are the most convenient but can be more expensive. Tuk-tuks offer a more economical option for short distances. Public buses, though very affordable, can be crowded and less reliable. For exploring the surrounding areas, renting a car is a viable option, though it's advisable to have a local driver due to the road conditions and local driving habits.

The official currency in Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting local markets or smaller establishments. ATMs are available in Majunga, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Antananarivo if you're traveling from there, as ATM availability can be sporadic.

Majunga is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, particularly in the neighborhoods of Tsararano and Mahabibo, which have higher crime rates targeting tourists. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, and be cautious when using ATMs. It's also advisable to use reputable taxi services, especially after dark.

In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance and 124 for medical emergencies. The main hospital in Majunga is the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Mahajanga, which provides emergency medical services. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and to carry a basic first-aid kit. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering places of worship. Public Transport: Do be patient, as public transport can be crowded and schedules may not always be reliable. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake, and use 'Salama' for hello. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as 'Ravitoto' and 'Koba'. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Majunga like a local, visit the Bazary Be 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 city's history and culture. Don't miss a stroll along the Corniche, especially at sunset, to enjoy a picturesque view of the Mozambique Channel. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to the nearby Anjohibe Caves, known for their impressive stalactites and underground lakes.