A Coastal Gem: Discover Mbour, Senegal

• HelloSalaam aleikum
  [sa-laam a-ley-kum]
• GoodbyeBa ci kanam
  [ba chi ka-nam]
• YesWaaw
  [waaw]
• NoDéet
  [deet]
• Please/You're welcomeJërëjëf
  [je-re-jef]
• Thank youJërëjëf
  [je-re-jef]
• Excuse me/SorryNopp
  [nopp]
• How are you?Nanga def?
  [nan-ga def]
• Fine. And you?Jamm. Nopp?
  [jam nop]
• Do you speak English?Bul ko def Englisi?
  [bul ko def en-gli-si]
• I don't understandDéedéet la
  [dee-deet la]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNjëkkal menu bi, def
  [nye-kal me-nu bi def]
• I don't eat meatDéedéet ma yàpp la
  [dee-deet ma yap la]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [san-te]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNjëkkal la, def
  [nye-kal la def]

• Help!Nopp!
  [nopp]
• Go away!Xaleyi!
  [xa-le-yi]
• Call the Police!Noppal xarit
  [noppal xa-rit]
• Call a doctor!Noppal tabax
  [noppal ta-bakh]
• I'm lostNoppal la
  [noppal la]
• I'm illNoppal la
  [noppal la]

• I'd like to buy...Njëkkal ci...
  [nye-kal chi]
• I'm just lookingNoppal la
  [noppal la]
• How much is it?Ñaari la?
  [nya-ri la]
• That's too expensiveYàpp lañuy xalis
  [yap la-nuy xa-lis]
• Can you lower the price?Bul ko taxaw xalis bi?
  [bul ko ta-khaw xa-lis bi]

• What time is it?Wàñu ko def?
  [wa-nu ko def]
• It's one o'clockWaxtu tééj
  [wakh-tu teej]
• Half past (10)Njëbët (10)
  [nye-bet (10)]
• MorningSuba
  [su-ba]
• AfternoonXët wàll
  [khet wahl]
• EveningKër gi
  [ker gi]
• YesterdayNopp
  [nopp]
• TodayXalis
  [xa-lis]
• TomorrowMeray
  [me-ray]
• 1Benn
  [ben]
• 2Juj
  [jooj]
• 3Sët
  [set]
• 4Nëgg
  [neg]
• 5Juroom
  [joo-room]
• 6Waxtu juroom
  [wakh-tu joo-room]
• 7Waxtu ñett
  [wakh-tu nyaet]
• 8Waxtu jëmm
  [wakh-tu jem]
• 9Waxtu ñeent
  [wakh-tu nyaent]
• 10Waxtu fukk
  [wakh-tu fook]

• Where's a/the...?Nanga def...?
  [nan-ga def]
• What's the address?Adrees bi ko def?
  [a-drees bi ko def]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Bul ko am naa (soppi ñett)
  [bul ko am na (sop-pi nyaet)]
• When's the next (bus)?Defu waxtu bu ñuy?
  [defu wakh-tu bu nya]
• A ticket (to ....)Biléet (ci ....)
  [bi-leet chi]

Mbour, located on the Petite Côte of Senegal, has a rich history dating back to the pre-colonial era. It was originally inhabited by the Serer people, who are known for their deep-rooted cultural traditions and governance systems. The area was primarily a fishing and agricultural community, benefiting from its coastal location and fertile land.

During the 19th century, Senegal became a part of French West Africa, and Mbour was no exception to the sweeping colonial changes. The French established trading posts and sought to capitalize on the region's resources. This period saw the introduction of new agricultural techniques and crops, as well as the construction of infrastructure that connected Mbour to other parts of Senegal.

Senegal gained independence from France in 1960, a monumental event that shaped Mbour's modern history. The town began to grow rapidly, transforming from a small fishing village into a bustling urban center. Significant investments were made in education, healthcare, and transportation, contributing to the area's development.

Mbour is renowned for its vibrant fishing industry. The local fish market is one of the largest in Senegal and serves as a critical economic hub. Fishing techniques have evolved over the years, blending traditional methods with modern technology, ensuring sustainability and economic growth. The market is a lively place, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the fishermen and their families.

Mbour is a cultural melting pot, hosting numerous festivals that celebrate its diverse heritage. One of the most notable is the Festival de Mbour, which features traditional music, dance, and art. These festivals are not only a showcase of the local culture but also a means of preserving and promoting it for future generations.

In recent decades, Mbour has become a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches and warm hospitality. The hospitality industry has flourished, with numerous hotels, resorts, and restaurants catering to international visitors. Tourism has provided a significant boost to the local economy, creating jobs and fostering cultural exchange.

Mbour is actively involved in environmental conservation efforts, particularly focusing on marine life and coastal ecosystems. Various non-governmental organizations and community groups work together to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect endangered species. These efforts are crucial for maintaining the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.

Mbour is located in the Thiès Region of Senegal, about 80 kilometers south of Dakar. The nearest international airport is Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) in Diass, approximately 30 kilometers from Mbour. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to Mbour. Public buses and minibuses (known as 'Ndiaga Ndiaye') also operate between the airport and Mbour, offering a more affordable option.

Within Mbour, you can get around using taxis, which are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. For a more local experience, you can use the 'Ndiaga Ndiaye' minibuses or 'car rapides,' which are colorful and iconic but can be crowded. Renting a car is also an option, but be aware that driving conditions can be challenging due to traffic and varying road conditions.

The official currency in Senegal is the West African CFA Franc (XOF). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Mbour, and it’s a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash upon arrival. Ensure you have some smaller denominations for easier transactions.

Mbour is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places like markets and public transport. Some areas, such as the fishing port and certain neighborhoods, have higher petty crime rates; exercise caution and stay vigilant.

In case of emergency, dial 17 for police assistance, 18 for the fire department, or 15 for medical emergencies. Mbour has a local police station and medical facilities, including pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For more serious issues, the hospitals in Dakar are better equipped.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering mosques and avoid interrupting prayer times. Public Transport: Do be respectful and polite. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly 'Salam Alaikum.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality as it is considered impolite.

To experience Mbour like a local, visit the bustling weekly market (lumo) where you can buy fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and traditional fabrics. Engage with locals, who are generally warm and welcoming, willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss the fish market at the port in the early morning for a vibrant local scene. For a unique experience, consider taking a pirogue (traditional boat) ride along the coast.