Saint-Louis, Senegal: The Jewel of West Africa

• HelloSalaam aleekum
  [sah-lahm ah-lee-koom]
• GoodbyeBa bëg na
  [bah behg nah]
• YesWaaw
  [wah-ow]
• NoDéedéet
  [day-dayt]
• Please/You're welcomeNopp
  [nawp]
• Thank youJërëjëf
  [je-reh-jef]
• Excuse me/SorrySaanu borom
  [sah-noo boh-rom]
• How are you?Nopp laa ngi fii?
  [nawp lah nghee fee]
• Fine. And you?Jamm. Nopp yàlla?
  [jahm. nawp yah-lah]
• Do you speak English?Amul Angalee?
  [ah-mool ahn-gah-lee]
• I don't understandDéedéet
  [day-dayt]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNopp laa bëgg jëfandikuka, dafa
  [nawp lah behg jeh-fahn-dee-koo-kah, dah-fah]
• I don't eat meatMàggal laa xar mi
  [mahg-gahl lah char mee]
• Cheers!Bësse
  [beh-say]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNopp laa def ay jàppale, dafa
  [nawp lah dehf eye jah-pahl, dah-fah]

• Help!Nopp!
  [nawp!]
• Go away!Dëggal!
  [dayg-gahl!]
• Call the Police!Dafa nopp polic
  [dah-fah nawp poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Dafa nopp gëstoo
  [dah-fah nawp gehs-toh]
• I'm lostNopp laa fët
  [nawp lah fet]
• I'm illNopp laa tontu
  [nawp lah tohn-too]

• I'd like to buy...Nopp laa xar...
  [nawp lah char...]
• I'm just lookingDanga jàppale
  [dahn-gah jah-pahl]
• How much is it?Xewna
  [kheh-nah]
• That's too expensiveDafa xewla
  [dah-fah kheh-lah]
• Can you lower the price?Dafa xewlul wone?
  [dah-fah kheh-lool woh-neh]

• What time is it?Nopp laa yoon
  [nawp lah yohn]
• It's one o'clockNopp laa wàccu ndam
  [nawp lah wah-choo ndahm]
• Half past (10)Ñaari (10)
  [nyah-ree (10)]
• MorningFajr
  [fah-jer]
• AfternoonTànk
  [tah-nk]
• EveningGor
  [gohr]
• YesterdayNatt
  [naht]
• TodayNopp
  [nawp]
• TomorrowFàtt
  [faht]
• 1Bëgg
  [behg]
• 2Jëf
  [jehf]
• 3Ndey
  [nday]
• 4Nerte
  [nair-teh]
• 5Juroom
  [joo-room]
• 6Jëkkër
  [jehk-ker]
• 7Njëbët
  [njeh-bet]
• 8Ñett
  [nyet]
• 9Sont
  [sohnt]
• 10Fukk
  [fook]

• Where's a/the...?Ñu...
  [nyoo...]
• What's the address?Ñu ko def?
  [nyoo koh dehf?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Dafa koy laa jëmm ci palanteer?
  [dah-fah koy lah jehm cee pah-lahn-tehr?]
• When's the next (bus)?Ñaari ñakk ba teey?
  [nyah-ree nyahk bah tey?]
• A ticket (to ....)Billet (ci ...)
  [bee-yet (chee ...)]

Saint-Louis, founded in 1659 by French traders, is one of the oldest colonial cities on the western coast of Africa. Initially named after King Louis XIV of France, it quickly became a significant trading post due to its strategic location on the Senegal River.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Saint-Louis became an important center for the transatlantic slave trade. The city was a major hub where enslaved Africans were held before being shipped to the Americas. This period also saw the construction of many of the city's colonial buildings, which still stand today.

In the 19th century, Saint-Louis grew economically through the trade of gum arabic, ivory, and gold. It became a melting pot of cultures, attracting traders from France, Portugal, and other European nations, as well as from various African ethnic groups. This diversity enriched the city's cultural and architectural heritage.

From 1895 to 1902, Saint-Louis served as the capital of French West Africa. The city was the administrative center for French colonial rule in the region, and many colonial buildings, including the Governor's Palace and administrative offices, were established during this period.

Following the relocation of the capital to Dakar in 1902, Saint-Louis experienced a decline in its political and economic significance. However, it remained an important cultural and educational center. Senegal gained independence from France in 1960, and Saint-Louis continued to play a key role in the nation's cultural identity.

In 2000, the historic island of Saint-Louis was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its well-preserved colonial architecture and its historical significance. This designation has helped to preserve the city's unique heritage and attract tourists from around the world.

Saint-Louis is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, including the annual Saint-Louis Jazz Festival, which attracts international musicians and fans. The city's rich traditions, including music, dance, and culinary arts, reflect its diverse cultural influences and historical legacy.

Today, Saint-Louis is a dynamic city that balances its rich historical heritage with modern development. The city's blend of old and new, along with its scenic riverfront and lively markets, continues to captivate visitors and locals alike.

Saint-Louis is located on the northwest coast of Senegal, about 320 kilometers north of Dakar. The nearest international airport is Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) near Dakar. From Dakar, you can travel to Saint-Louis by road. Buses and minibuses (known as 'Ndiaga Ndiaye') operate frequently between Dakar and Saint-Louis, and the journey typically takes about 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively, hiring a private car or taking a taxi are also viable options.

Saint-Louis is relatively small, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, local taxis and horse-drawn carriages called 'caleches' are readily available and provide a unique way to explore the city. Public buses and minibuses operate within the town and connect to nearby areas. Renting a bicycle is another popular way to get around, especially for exploring the island and the Langue de Barbarie.

The official currency in Senegal is the West African CFA franc (XOF). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Saint-Louis, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to ensure you have enough funds for your trip.

Saint-Louis is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Saint-Louis does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 17 for police assistance or 18 for the fire department. The local hospital in Saint-Louis can provide medical assistance, and there are several pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, and be sensitive to the predominately Muslim culture. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Saint-Louis like a local, visit the local markets, such as the Marché Sor, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Senegalese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss the vibrant music scene, especially during the Saint-Louis Jazz Festival, which attracts musicians from around the world. For a unique experience, take a boat tour along the Senegal River or explore the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site.