Manakara: Madagascar's Coastal Gem

• HelloSalama
  [sa-la-ma]
• GoodbyeVeloma
  [ve-lo-ma]
• YesEny
  [en-y]
• NoTsia
  [tsi-a]
• Please/You're welcomeAzafady
  [a-za-fa-dy]
• Thank youMisaotra
  [mi-sa-ot-ra]
• Excuse me/SorryAzafady
  [a-za-fa-dy]
• How are you?Manao ahoana ianao?
  [ma-nao a-ho-a-na ia-nao]
• Fine. And you?Tsara. Ary ianao?
  [tsa-ra a-ry ia-nao]
• Do you speak English?Miteny anglisy ve ianao?
  [mi-te-ny ang-li-sy ve ia-nao]
• I don't understandTsy mahay
  [tsi ma-hai]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMisaotra aho iza ny lisitry ny hao
  [mi-sa-ot-ra a-ho i-za ny li-si-tri ny hao]
• I don't eat meatTsy mihinam-bary aho
  [tsi mi-hi-nam-ba-ry a-ho]
• Cheers!Mazotoa!
  [ma-zo-to-a]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMisaotra aho hanidy, azafady
  [mi-sa-ot-ra a-ho ha-ni-dy a-za-fa-dy]

• Help!Fanampiana!
  [fa-nam-pia-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 hitako
  [tsi hi-ta-ko]
• I'm illMijanona aho
  [mi-ja-no-na a-ho]

• I'd like to buy...Misaotra aho hanoka...
  [mi-sa-ot-ra a-ho ha-no-ka]
• I'm just lookingMananao fahita tsara ihany
  [ma-na-nao fa-hi-ta tsa-ra i-ha-ny]
• How much is it?Ohitra ny vola?
  [o-hi-tra ny vo-la]
• That's too expensiveMahafinaritra be izany
  [ma-ha-fi-na-ri-tra be i-za-ny]
• Can you lower the price?Afaka mandidy ny vidin'ny zavatra?
  [a-fa-ka ma-ni-dy ny vi-din-ny za-va-tra]

• What time is it?Inona no ora?
  [i-no-na no o-ra]
• It's one o'clockAlina iray
  [a-li-na i-ray]
• Half past (10)Efapolo sy sasany
  [e-fa-po-lo sy sa-sa-ny]
• MorningMaraina
  [ma-rai-na]
• AfternoonAntoandro
  [an-to-an-dro]
• EveningHariva
  [ha-ri-va]
• YesterdayOmaly
  [o-ma-ly]
• TodayAnio
  [a-ni-o]
• TomorrowReny
  [re-ny]
• 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)?Afaka manaraka ahy (amin'ny sarita)?
  [a-fa-ka ma-na-ra-ka a-hy a-mi-n-ny sa-ri-ta]
• When's the next (bus)?Aiza no farany (bus)?
  [ai-za no fa-ra-ny bus]
• A ticket (to ....)Fahazoan-dalana (ho ...)
  [fa-ha-zoan-da-la-na ho]

Manakara was established as a small coastal town on the southeast coast of Madagascar. It is known for its strategic location where the Pangalanes Canal meets the Indian Ocean, making it an important point for trade and transportation.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Madagascar was a French colony. Manakara, like many other towns, saw significant French influence in its architecture, infrastructure, and culture. The presence of the French is still evident in some of the colonial buildings and the layout of the town.

The Fianarantsoa-Côte Est (FCE) railway, completed in the 1930s, links Manakara to Fianarantsoa in the central highlands. This railway is a vital lifeline for the town, facilitating the transport of goods and passengers through the dense rainforest. The railway remains a major attraction and a testament to the engineering prowess of the era.

Following Madagascar's independence from France in 1960, Manakara experienced various phases of development. The town has grown, integrating modern amenities while retaining its unique cultural heritage. The local economy has diversified, with agriculture, fishing, and tourism becoming key sectors.

In February 2013, Cyclone Haruna struck the southeastern coast of Madagascar, causing significant damage to Manakara. The cyclone affected infrastructure, homes, and the local economy. Recovery efforts have since been underway, with local and international support helping the town rebuild and improve its resilience against future natural disasters.

Manakara is rich in cultural heritage, with traditions deeply rooted in the practices of the Antemoro and other local ethnic groups. The town is known for its vibrant markets, traditional festivals, and artisanal crafts. The local cuisine, influenced by the bounty of the sea and land, offers a taste of the region's diverse culinary traditions.

The Pangalanes Canal is a series of man-made and natural waterways that stretch along the east coast of Madagascar. In Manakara, this canal plays a crucial role in transportation and commerce. It also offers scenic boat tours, allowing visitors to explore the lush landscapes and observe the local way of life along its banks.

Today, Manakara is a dynamic town that balances its historical significance with modern aspirations. It serves as a hub for trade, culture, and tourism in the region. The town's unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty continues to attract visitors and contribute to its ongoing development.

Manakara is located on the southeastern coast of Madagascar. The nearest international airport is Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. From Antananarivo, you can take a domestic flight to Manakara Airport, which is served by Air Madagascar. Alternatively, you can travel by train; the Fianarantsoa-Côte Est (FCE) railway offers a scenic route from Fianarantsoa to Manakara, although the journey can be lengthy and subject to delays. Buses and taxis-brousse (shared minibuses) also operate between Antananarivo and Manakara, with travel times ranging from 10 to 15 hours depending on road conditions.

Manakara is a small city, and many of its attractions can be explored on foot. For longer trips, local taxis and rickshaws (pousse-pousse) are readily available and inexpensive. Bicycles can be rented for a more eco-friendly mode of transportation. Public buses and taxis-brousse operate within the city and to nearby towns and villages. For exploring the surrounding areas, consider hiring a car with a driver, as this offers more flexibility and comfort.

The official currency in Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Manakara, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in larger cities like Antananarivo before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

Manakara is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Some areas and neighborhoods may have higher crime rates, including petty theft and street crime targeting tourists. It is advisable to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in less frequented areas.

In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance and 124 for medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Manakara. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering religious sites and avoid loud behavior. 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 or a polite nod. A friendly smile is always appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Manakara like a local, visit the local markets 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 taking a ride on the picturesque Fianarantsoa-Côte Est (FCE) railway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. For a unique experience, explore the Pangalanes Canal by boat, which provides a glimpse into the daily lives of the local communities.