The Sun-Kissed Shores of Toliara

• HelloSalama
  [sah-lah-mah]
• GoodbyeVeloma
  [veh-loh-mah]
• YesEny
  [eh-ny]
• NoTsia
  [tsyah]
• 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-noo-nah nee vah-oh-vah-oh]
• Fine. And you?Tsara. Ianao?
  [tsah-rah. ee-ah-nah-oh]
• Do you speak English?Miteny teny anglisy ve ianao?
  [mee-teh-ny teh-ny ahng-lee-see veh ee-ah-nah-oh]
• I don't understandTsy miaraka amin'izay
  [tsy mee-ah-rah-kah ah-meen-ee-zay]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseTe hamarino ny laharana, azafady
  [teh hah-mah-ree-noh nee lah-hah-rah-nah, ah-zah-fah-dy]
• I don't eat meatTsy mihinana hena
  [tsy mee-hee-nah-nah heh-nah]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-teh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseTe handray vola, azafady
  [teh hahn-dry vo-lah, ah-zah-fah-dy]

• Help!Fanampiana!
  [fah-nahm-pee-ah-nah]
• Go away!Mandehana!
  [mahn-day-hah-nah]
• Call the Police!Mangataka ny polisy!
  [mahng-ah-tah-kah nee poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Mangataka dokotera!
  [mahng-ah-tah-kah doh-koh-teh-rah]
• I'm lostSarotra aho
  [sah-roo-trah ah-hoo]
• I'm illTsy mandeha ahy
  [tsy mahn-day-hah ah-y]

• I'd like to buy...Te hanoko...
  [teh hah-noo-koh...]
• I'm just lookingManontany fotsiny aho
  [mah-noo-nah-ny foh-tsee-ny ah-hoo]
• How much is it?Ohatra ny vidiny?
  [oh-hah-trah nee vee-dee-ny]
• That's too expensiveMahafinaritra be
  [mah-hah-fee-nah-ree-trah beh]
• Can you lower the price?Afaka mampiditra ny vidiny?
  [ah-fah-kah mahm-pee-dee-trah nee vee-dee-ny]

• What time is it?Inona no ora?
  [ee-noo-nah noh oh-rah]
• It's one o'clockIreo iray ora
  [ee-ray oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Efatra sy folo
  [eh-fah-trah see foh-loh]
• MorningMaraina
  [mah-rah-ee-nah]
• AfternoonAlina
  [ah-lee-nah]
• EveningHariva
  [hah-ree-vah]
• YesterdayOmaly
  [oh-mah-ly]
• TodayAnio
  [ah-nyoo]
• TomorrowRy zao
  [ree zah-oh]
• 1Iray
  [ee-ray]
• 2Roa
  [roo-ah]
• 3Telo
  [teh-loh]
• 4Efatra
  [eh-fah-trah]
• 5Dimy
  [dee-mee]
• 6Enina
  [eh-nee-nah]
• 7Fitohizana
  [fee-toh-hee-zah-nah]
• 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-noo-nah nee ah-dee-res]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Afaka mandika aho (amin'ny saritany)?
  [ah-fah-kah mahn-dee-kah ah-hoo ah-meen-nee sah-ree-tah-nee]
• When's the next (bus)?Aiza ny farany (fiaran-dalamby)?
  [ah-ee-zah nee fah-rah-nee fee-ah-rahn-dah-lahm-bee]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketa (hita...)
  [tee-keh-tah (hee-tah...)]

The region around Toliara, previously known as Tuléar, has been inhabited for centuries by indigenous tribes such as the Vezo, Mahafaly, and Antandroy. These tribes have traditionally relied on fishing, cattle herding, and agriculture, adapting their lifestyles to the arid climate of southwestern Madagascar.

The first recorded European contact with the Toliara region was in the early 16th century when Portuguese explorers arrived on the coast. These initial encounters paved the way for subsequent visits by French and British explorers throughout the 17th and 18th centuries. The region's strategic coastal position made it a point of interest for European powers.

In the late 19th century, Toliara became part of the French colonial empire. The French established a colonial administration, built infrastructure, and developed the port of Toliara, which became a key trading hub. The influence of French culture and language is still evident in the city today.

During World War II, Madagascar was a strategic location in the Indian Ocean. In 1942, the island was the site of the Battle of Madagascar, where Allied forces fought to prevent the Japanese from using Madagascar as a base. Toliara's port and its surrounding areas were involved in the military operations.

Madagascar gained independence from France in 1960, and Toliara, like other parts of the country, experienced significant changes. The city developed as a regional center of commerce, education, and culture. The University of Toliara, established in 1971, became an important institution for higher education in the region.

Toliara is known for its rich cultural heritage, with vibrant traditions rooted in the practices of the Vezo, Mahafaly, and Antandroy peoples. The city hosts various festivals throughout the year, such as the 'Santabary' festival, celebrating the rice harvest, and the 'Zegny' festival, showcasing traditional music and dances.

In recent decades, Toliara has become a focal point for environmental conservation and ecotourism. The nearby Tsinjorivo and Reniala Nature Reserves, as well as the Great Reef of Toliara, attract researchers and tourists alike. Efforts to protect the unique biodiversity of the region are ongoing, with local and international organizations working together to promote sustainable tourism.

Toliara is located in southwestern Madagascar. The nearest international airport is Toliara Airport (TLE), also known as Tulear Airport, which has flights connecting to Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar. From Antananarivo, you can take a domestic flight to Toliara, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus or a private car from Antananarivo to Toliara, but be prepared for a long journey of around 15-20 hours due to the condition of the roads.

In Toliara, transportation options include taxis, tuk-tuks (known locally as 'bajaj'), and rental cars. Taxis are relatively affordable and can be found throughout the city. Tuk-tuks are a popular and inexpensive way to get around for short distances. If you prefer more independence, renting a car is an option, but be aware that roads can be rough and driving conditions challenging. For longer trips, shared minibuses (taxi-brousse) are available and connect Toliara to other regions.

The official currency in Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Toliara, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash as availability can be inconsistent. Currency exchange services are available at banks and some hotels.

Toliara is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Be cautious in crowded places and keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpocketing. Areas like the central market can be busy, so stay vigilant. Some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates, so it's best to ask locals or your accommodation for advice on safe areas to explore.

In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance and 124 for medical emergencies. The main hospital in Toliara is Centre Hospitalier Régional de Toliara, which provides basic medical services. It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or religious sites. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended due to the hot climate. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress conservatively and remove your shoes if required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient when using public transport. Don't expect punctuality, as schedules can be flexible. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a nod. It's polite to greet everyone when entering a room. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Toliara like a local, visit the local markets, such as the Bazar Be, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Malagasy goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the Arboretum d'Antsokay, a botanical garden showcasing the unique flora of Madagascar. For a unique experience, take a trip to the fishing village of Ifaty, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life.