The Charms of Point E: Dakar's Cultural and Relaxed Oasis

• HelloSalaam aleekum
  [sa-laam a-le-kum]
• GoodbyeBa ci kanam
  [ba ci ka-nam]
• YesWaaw
  [waaw]
• NoDéedéet
  [dee-deet]
• Please/You're welcomeNopp
  [nopp]
• Thank youJërëjëf
  [je-re-jef]
• Excuse me/SorryBaal ma
  [baal ma]
• How are you?Nanga def?
  [nan-ga def?]
• Fine. And you?Jamm. Maa ngi tudd?
  [jam. ma ngee tud?]
• Do you speak English?Benn laa ko Angaleex?
  [ben laa ko an-ga-leex?]
• I don't understandDinaa ko?
  [dee-naa ko?]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNopp, def naa Karte bi
  [nopp, def naa kar-te bi]
• I don't eat meatMaa lajj bu jëm
  [maa lajj bu jem]
• Cheers!Waaw
  [waaw]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNopp, def naa degg
  [nopp, def naa deeg]

• Help!Nangu
  [nan-gu]
• Go away!Dafa wara
  [da-fa wa-ra]
• Call the Police!Nopp, def naa polis
  [nopp, def naa po-lis]
• Call a doctor!Nopp, def naa dokteer
  [nopp, def naa dok-teer]
• I'm lostMaa jëm ci kanam
  [maa jem ci ka-nam]
• I'm illMaa lajj
  [maa lajj]

• I'd like to buy...Nopp, def naa jot
  [nopp, def naa jot]
• I'm just lookingMaa jàng ci
  [maa jang ci]
• How much is it?Ñu ñu fii?
  [nyu nyu fee?]
• That's too expensiveGoor naa laa
  [goor naa laa]
• Can you lower the price?Benn laa ñu deff
  [ben laa nyu deff]

• What time is it?Wàññi ñàkk?
  [wa-nyi nyak?]
• It's one o'clockNopp, waññi bëgg
  [nopp, wa-nyi begg]
• Half past (10)Nopp ci xët 10
  [nopp ci xet 10]
• MorningKër gi
  [ker gee]
• AfternoonÑent gi
  [nyent gee]
• EveningKër gi
  [ker gee]
• YesterdayNeexna
  [neex-na]
• TodayNopp
  [nopp]
• TomorrowBëgg na
  [begg na]
• 1Benn
  [ben]
• 2Jëf
  [jef]
• 3Juroom
  [ju-room]
• 4Njërt
  [njer-t]
• 5Jàmm
  [jamm]
• 6Joon
  [joon]
• 7Jëkkati
  [je-kka-ti]
• 8Jëkk
  [jekk]
• 9Jëkku mbind
  [jekkoo mbind]
• 10Fukk
  [fookk]

• Where's a/the...?Wàññi...?
  [wa-nyi...?]
• What's the address?Wàññi ñàkk xët?
  [wa-nyi nyak xet?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Benn laa du ma (ci mbër)?
  [ben laa du ma (ci mber)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Wàññi ñàkk (bus) bii?
  [wa-nyi nyak (bus) bee?]
• A ticket (to ....)Benn bi (to ....)
  [ben bi (to ....)]

Point E, established in the early 20th century, reflects the colonial aspirations of the French in Senegal. The area was developed primarily as a residential neighborhood for French nationals, showcasing architectural styles that blend European influences with local design elements. The colonial era saw the establishment of various administrative and cultural institutions that still resonate in Point E today.

The 1960s marked a significant turning point for Point E as Senegal gained independence from French colonial rule. This period saw a cultural renaissance in Dakar, with Point E emerging as a hub for intellectuals, artists, and political activists. The neighborhood played a crucial role in the burgeoning national identity, reflected in the vibrant arts scene that continues to thrive.

Point E has long been recognized for its diverse population, which includes a mix of Senegalese ethnic groups and expatriates. This cultural melting pot has contributed to a rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and cuisines. The neighborhood is home to various cultural institutions, including galleries and performance spaces that celebrate both local and international art.

In recent decades, Point E has undergone significant urban development, with modern infrastructure and residential complexes reshaping the landscape. While this modernization has brought economic growth and improved living conditions, it has also sparked discussions about gentrification and the preservation of cultural heritage in the face of rapid change.

Point E houses several important educational institutions, including the Cheikh Anta Diop University, one of the leading universities in West Africa. This academic presence has fostered a vibrant intellectual community, contributing to the neighborhood's reputation as a center of learning and cultural exchange, which enhances Dakar’s overall educational landscape.

Point E is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Dakar. The neighborhood is located approximately 10 kilometers from the Dakar International Airport, which can be reached by taxi or private transfer. If you are traveling from downtown Dakar, you can take a taxi or use public transport, such as the Dakar Dem Dikk bus service, which offers routes that connect to Point E. The journey may take around 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.

Point E is a relatively small neighborhood, making it convenient to explore on foot. Local taxis and motorcycle taxis (called 'jakarta') are commonly available for quicker transportation. The Dakar Dem Dikk buses also run through the area, providing access to other parts of the city. Bicycles can be rented from local shops if you prefer a more active way to explore. For longer distances, consider using ride-hailing apps like Yango or Uber, which are operational in Dakar.

Point E is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it is essential to remain vigilant. Avoid wandering alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Certain parts of Dakar, such as the Medina and parts of the city center, may have higher crime rates, particularly petty theft targeting tourists. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious when using your phone in public.

In case of an emergency, dial 15 for police assistance, 18 for fire services, and 800 for medical emergencies in Dakar. There are local clinics and hospitals in Point E, but it is advisable to have health insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the neighborhood.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public spaces and when visiting religious sites. Avoid shorts and revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; always greet people politely. Public Transport: Do be courteous and allow seniors to sit first. Don’t engage in loud conversations or make a mess. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake and a smile; a friendly 'Bonjour' is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'Thieboudienne' and drink bottled water. Don’t eat in public transport or display food excessively.

To experience Point E like a local, visit the local markets such as Marché Point E for fresh produce and handicrafts. Engage with shopkeepers and locals; they are often welcoming and eager to share insights about their culture. Try to attend a local event or festival if possible, as this is a great way to immerse yourself in Senegalese culture. Additionally, consider visiting nearby cultural sites, like the Cheikh Anta Diop University and the African Renaissance Monument, for a deeper understanding of Senegal’s history.