Praia Banana: The Hidden Gem of São Tomé and Príncipe

• HelloOlá
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdeus
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• YesSim
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• NoNão
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• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youObrigado
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• Excuse me/SorryCom licença/Desculpe
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• How are you?Como está?
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• Fine. And you?Estou bem. E você?
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• Do you speak English?Fala inglês?
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• I don't understandNão entendo
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• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseQueria ver o menu, por favor
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• I don't eat meatNão como carne
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• Cheers!Saúde!
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• I would like to pay, pleaseQueria pagar, por favor
  [keh-ree-ah pah-gahr, poor fah-vor]

• Help!Socorro!
  [soh-koh-roh]
• Go away!Vai embora!
  [vah-ee ehm-boh-rah]
• Call the Police!Chama a Polícia!
  [shah-mah ah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Chama um médico!
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• I'm lostEstou perdido
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• I'm illEstou doente
  [eh-stoh doo-ehn-teh]

• I'd like to buy...Queria comprar...
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• I'm just lookingEstou só a ver
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• How much is it?Quanto custa?
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• That's too expensiveIsso é muito caro
  [ee-soh eh moo-ee-toh kah-roo]
• Can you lower the price?Pode baixar o preço?
  [poh-deh bai-shahr oo preh-soo]

• What time is it?Que horas são?
  [keh oh-rahs sah-oh]
• It's one o'clockÉ uma hora
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• Half past (10)Meia hora (10)
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• MorningManhã
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• EveningNoite
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• Where's a/the...?Onde fica o/a...?
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• What's the address?Qual é o endereço?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?Pode mostrar-me (no mapa)?
  [poh-deh moh-strahr-meh (noh mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando é o próximo (autocarro)?
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• A ticket (to ....)Um bilhete (para ...)
  [oom bee-lyeh-teh (pah-rah)]

Praia Banana, located on the island of Principe, is one of the most picturesque beaches in Sao Tome and Principe. The island was first discovered by Portuguese navigators in the late 15th century, specifically in 1471. The explorers were on a mission to find new trade routes and expand their empire. Praia Banana's pristine sands and lush surroundings quickly became noted for their beauty, though it remained relatively untouched for centuries.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Sao Tome and Principe became significant hubs in the transatlantic slave trade, and Praia Banana was no exception. The Portuguese established several plantations on the island, primarily focusing on sugarcane and later cocoa and coffee. The labor force was primarily composed of enslaved Africans who were brought to the island under brutal conditions. The remnants of these plantations can still be found near Praia Banana, offering a somber glimpse into the island's colonial past.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Sao Tome and Principe experienced a cocoa boom that turned the islands into one of the world's largest cocoa producers. Praia Banana benefited from this economic surge, with many of the plantations near the beach converting to cocoa production. The influx of wealth led to the development of modest infrastructure in the surrounding areas, including roads and small settlements.

The mid-20th century was a period of political awakening across Africa, and Sao Tome and Principe were no exception. The struggle for independence from Portuguese colonial rule gained momentum in the 1950s and 1960s. Praia Banana and its surroundings saw several protests and gatherings as local leaders rallied for self-governance. The islands finally gained independence on July 12, 1975, marking an end to centuries of foreign domination.

In recent years, Praia Banana has become a focal point for ecotourism. The beach is now part of the Bom Bom Island Resort, which emphasizes sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Praia Banana while also participating in activities like turtle watching, bird watching, and guided tours of the island's unique biodiversity. Efforts to preserve the natural environment have made Praia Banana a model for sustainable tourism in the region.

Praia Banana is located on the northern tip of Ilhéu das Rolas, an islet off the southern coast of São Tomé Island. The nearest international airport is São Tomé International Airport (TMS), located on the main island of São Tomé. From the airport, you can take a taxi or pre-arranged transport to the town of Ponta Baleia, where you can catch a boat to Ilhéu das Rolas. The boat ride typically takes about 20-30 minutes. Some resorts may offer private transfers directly to Praia Banana.

Once you are on Ilhéu das Rolas, the most common mode of transportation is walking, as the islet is relatively small and easy to navigate on foot. For exploring the main island of São Tomé, taxis and shared minibuses called 'hiaces' are available. Car rentals are also an option if you prefer more flexibility and comfort. However, be aware that road conditions can be challenging in some areas.

The official currency of São Tomé and Príncipe is the Dobra (STN). Credit cards are accepted at some hotels and larger restaurants, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in São Tomé city, but they may not be as readily accessible on Ilhéu das Rolas, so it is advisable to carry sufficient cash. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and in major towns.

Praia Banana and Ilhéu das Rolas are generally safe for tourists, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas and keep your belongings secure. São Tomé and Príncipe has a low crime rate, but petty theft can occur. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Medical facilities are limited on Ilhéu das Rolas, so it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. For minor health issues, there are basic medical services available. Pharmacies are available in the main towns on São Tomé Island. It is also recommended to carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local communities. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering churches and other religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers if needed. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly hello or a handshake. A smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Praia Banana like a local, take time to interact with the local residents, who are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Visit the local markets to buy fresh produce and traditional crafts. Enjoy the pristine beaches, but also explore the lush interior of the islet. Try traditional dishes such as 'calulu' and 'grilled fish.' Don’t miss the opportunity to go snorkeling or diving, as the waters around Ilhéu das Rolas are rich in marine life.