Ville Nouvelle: The Modern Heartbeat of Fes

• Helloسلام
  [salam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadira]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [laa afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad 'an ara alqaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakol allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad 'an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajda!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [itassil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dulla altrayq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد شراء...
  [uriid shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atalaa]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [bikam hadha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsaeer?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'a alwaahida]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (10)
  [alnusf ba'd (10)]
• Morningالصباح
  [assaabah]
• Afternoonالعصر
  [ala'sr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [waahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [saba'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tasia]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayna...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'uanan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'an tureeni (ala alkhariata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى القادم (الحافلة)؟
  [mata alqadim (alhafilah)?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [tazkirah (ila...)]

Ville Nouvelle, or the New Town, was established in the early 20th century during the French Protectorate (1912-1956). The French aimed to create a modern urban environment that showcased European architectural styles and urban planning principles. This neighborhood stands in contrast to the historic medina of Fes, emphasizing modernity and Western influences.

The architecture of Ville Nouvelle reflects the eclectic mix of styles introduced by the French, combining Art Deco, modernist, and neo-Moorish elements. Iconic buildings like the Royal Palace and the modern city hall illustrate the blend of traditional Moroccan aesthetics with European design. This architectural style represents Morocco's transition into the modern era while still retaining its cultural roots.

Following its establishment, Ville Nouvelle became a center of economic activity, with numerous shops, cafes, and offices springing up. The urban planning of this neighborhood was designed to accommodate an influx of people from various backgrounds, leading to a multicultural environment. This blend of cultures has contributed to the dynamic atmosphere that characterizes Ville Nouvelle today.

Ville Nouvelle has played a vital role in the cultural exchanges between traditional Moroccan society and European influences. The region is home to several cultural institutions, including theaters and galleries, which host events that celebrate both Moroccan and international arts. This cultural melting pot showcases the ongoing dialogue between past and present in Fes.

After Morocco gained independence in 1956, Ville Nouvelle continued to grow and evolve. It became a symbol of modernity in Fes, attracting new residents and businesses. The neighborhood's development reflected broader trends in Moroccan society, as it transitioned from colonial influences to a focus on national identity and cultural heritage.

Ville Nouvelle is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Fes. If you're coming from the medina, you can take a taxi or a local bus (like the city bus number 16) that connects various parts of Fes. For those arriving by train, the main train station, Gare de Fès, is located in Ville Nouvelle, making it convenient for travelers coming from major cities such as Casablanca or Marrakech.

In Ville Nouvelle, public transport options include buses and taxis. The city buses are an affordable way to navigate the area, with routes connecting to other neighborhoods. Taxis are available and can be hailed on the street or booked through local apps. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bicycle to explore the streets and parks at your own pace.

Ville Nouvelle is generally considered safe for tourists; however, it's advisable to stay alert, especially in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone late at night in quieter streets. Areas around the train station and some less-trafficked back streets may have higher incidents of petty crime, such as pickpocketing. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious when approached by strangers.

In case of an emergency, dial 19 for police assistance or 15 for medical emergencies. The local hospitals and clinics are equipped to handle urgent situations. It’s advisable to keep the contact information of your country’s embassy or consulate handy. Pharmacies are also readily available for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting public areas. Avoid shorts and revealing tops. Religion: Do respect local customs; when visiting mosques, remove your shoes and dress appropriately. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake and a smile. Avoid overly personal questions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes in restaurants and cafes. Don't refuse food offered to you, as it may offend your hosts.

To experience Ville Nouvelle like a local, visit the Avenue Hassan II for its cafes and shops, and don't miss the vibrant Marché Central, where you can sample fresh produce and traditional foods. Engage with local shopkeepers, who often enjoy sharing stories about their products. For a relaxing afternoon, spend time in one of the parks, such as Parc Jnane Sbile, which is popular with families and offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle.