The Vibrant Heart of Dakar: Plateau

• HelloSalam
  [sa-lam]
• GoodbyeNoo jamm
  [noo jam]
• YesWaaw
  [waaw]
• NoDéedéet
  [dee-deet]
• Please/You're welcomeJërejëf
  [je-re-jef]
• Thank youJërëjëf
  [je-re-jef]
• Excuse me/SorryBa beneen
  [ba be-neen]
• How are you?Nanga def?
  [nan-ga def]
• Fine. And you?Jamm. Nopp
  [jam nop]
• Do you speak English?Bul ko def Englisy?
  [bul ko def eng-li-sy]
• I don't understandNopp la
  [nop la]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNopp dëkk menu, jërejëf
  [nop dek menu, je-re-jef]
• I don't eat meatNopp laa jëb lekk
  [nop la jeb lek]
• Cheers!Nobal
  [no-bal]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNopp dëgg, jërejëf
  [nop deg, je-re-jef]

• Help!Ndank
  [ndank]
• Go away!Wax dégg
  [wax degg]
• Call the Police!Nopp noppal
  [nop nop-pal]
• Call a doctor!Nopp doktër bi
  [nop dok-ter bi]
• I'm lostNopp laa war
  [nop la war]
• I'm illNopp laa jëb
  [nop la jeb]

• I'd like to buy...Nopp dëgg...
  [nop deg]
• I'm just lookingNopp laa yàbb
  [nop la yab]
• How much is it?Ñaataa?
  [nya-ta]
• That's too expensiveWépp naa ñaataa
  [wep na nya-ta]
• Can you lower the price?Moom nga dëgg ñaataa?
  [mom nga degg nya-ta]

• What time is it?Tee nga def?
  [tee nga def]
• It's one o'clockSama xarit
  [sa-ma xa-rit]
• Half past (10)Nëbbu jëméef (10)
  [neb-bu je-meef]
• MorningSuba
  [su-ba]
• AfternoonRéew
  [ree-w]
• EveningKër
  [ker]
• YesterdayNoppal
  [nop-pal]
• TodayNopp
  [nop]
• TomorrowNoppal ak jëm
  [nop-pal ak jem]
• 1Bennëen
  [ben-neen]
• 2Jox
  [jox]
• 3Tàttu
  [tat-tu]
• 4Nëgg
  [negg]
• 5Juróom
  [ju-room]
• 6Jëkkër
  [jek-ker]
• 7Ndar
  [ndar]
• 8Nëkkar
  [nek-kar]
• 9Juroom jëkkër
  [ju-room jek-ker]
• 10Fukk
  [fukk]

• Where's a/the...?Mangi...
  [man-gi]
• What's the address?Wàllu ndey...
  [wal-lu ndey]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Moom nga yàgg naa (soppi réer bi)?
  [mom nga yag na (sop-pi reer bi)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ku metti rekk (dolli)?
  [ku met-ti rek (dol-li)]
• A ticket (to ....)Dëgg (ci ....)
  [deg (ci)]

Plateau emerged as the administrative and commercial heart of Dakar during the French colonial period in the 19th century. Established in 1860, the area was designed to reflect European urban planning principles, featuring wide boulevards and grand colonial architecture. The influence of French culture remains evident in the buildings and urban layout, reflecting the aspirations of colonial governance.

During World War II, Plateau became a significant military base for Allied forces, which led to infrastructural developments and an influx of military personnel and supplies. This period marked a shift in the demographic composition of the area, as the local population interacted with foreign troops, bringing diverse cultural influences that enriched the neighbourhood.

The late 1950s through the 1960s saw Plateau at the forefront of Senegal's independence movement. As the seat of government, it became a symbol of national pride and cultural renaissance. This period witnessed the establishment of cultural institutions and the promotion of Senegalese art, music, and literature, with the neighbourhood becoming a hub for intellectuals and artists.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Plateau underwent significant urban development to accommodate a growing population and modern economic activities. High-rise buildings, shopping centers, and office spaces began to replace some of the colonial architecture, leading to a blend of old and new that characterizes the area today. The neighbourhood continues to serve as a commercial center while preserving its historical essence.

Plateau hosts various cultural festivals and events that celebrate Senegalese heritage, such as the Dakar Biennale, which showcases contemporary African art. The neighbourhood's vibrant atmosphere is enriched by street performances, music, and dance, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Dakar and its role as a melting pot of traditions.

Plateau is the central business district of Dakar and is easily accessible from other neighborhoods. If you're coming from the airport, you can take a taxi or a private shuttle, which will take about 30 minutes depending on traffic. From neighborhoods like Les Almadies or Mermoz, you can also take a taxi or use ride-hailing apps. Public buses (car rapides) and minibuses (Ndiaga Ndiaye) are available from various parts of the city, but be prepared for a crowded experience.

Plateau is relatively small and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances within the city, you can use taxis, which are abundant and inexpensive. Bicycles can be rented from local shops, and some hotels offer bike rentals. Public transportation options include car rapides and minibuses, which connect you to other parts of Dakar, though they can be crowded and less reliable.

Plateau is generally safe during the day, but like any urban area, it has its risks. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. Be extra cautious around the Marche Sandaga and the outskirts of the neighborhood, which have higher crime rates targeting tourists. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

In an emergency, dial 17 for police assistance or 15 for medical emergencies. There are hospitals and clinics in Plateau, including the Hôpital Principal. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor issues, pharmacies are available throughout the neighborhood. Always carry a copy of your passport and emergency contact information.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and knees. Religion: Do respect local customs and be mindful of prayer times. Public Transport: Do be patient and respectful; don’t engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake and use 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' depending on the time of day. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes at street vendors and restaurants. Don’t drink tap water; always opt for bottled water.

To experience Plateau like a local, visit the local markets such as Marché Kermel for fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with local vendors and try to learn a few phrases in Wolof, as it can enhance your interactions. Don't miss the vibrant nightlife; places like the Place du Souvenir offer live music and cultural events. Finally, exploring the waterfront at the Monument de la Renaissance Africaine provides stunning views and great photo opportunities.