Tokeh Beach: Sierra Leone's Hidden Paradise

• HelloSannu
  [sah-noo]
• GoodbyeBaa
  [bah]
• YesEh
  [ay]
• NoNaa
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomeNyi
  [nee]
• Thank youTenki
  [ten-kee]
• Excuse me/SorrySabi di wok
  [sah-bee dee wok]
• How are you?How de body?
  [hao deh bod-ee]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fine. And you?]
• Do you speak English?Yu sabi tok Engrisi?
  [you sah-bee tohk en-gree-see]
• I don't understandAy no sabi
  [ay no sah-bee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAh go lek fo si di menu, abeg
  [ah go lek foh see dee menu, ah-beg]
• I don't eat meatAy no lek fo eat meat
  [ay no lek foh eet meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAh go lek fo pay, abeg
  [ah go lek foh pay, ah-beg]

• Help!Efib
  [ay-fib]
• Go away!Go lef
  [go lef]
• Call the Police!Kol di Police!
  [kol dee police]
• Call a doctor!Kol dokita!
  [kol doh-kee-tah]
• I'm lostAy loss
  [ay loss]
• I'm illAy sick
  [ay sick]

• I'd like to buy...Ah go lek fo bay...
  [ah go lek foh by...]
• I'm just lookingAy jus de luk
  [ay jus deh look]
• How much is it?How moch e cost?
  [hao moch eh cost]
• That's too expensiveDat wan too moch
  [dat wahn too moch]
• Can you lower the price?Yu fit low di price?
  [you fit low dee price]

• What time is it?How di time?
  [hao dee time]
• It's one o'clockNa wun o'clock
  [nah wuhn o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
• MorningMornin
  [morn-in]
• AfternoonAftanun
  [aftah-noon]
• EveningIvinin
  [ee-vee-neen]
• YesterdayYestide
  [yes-tide]
• TodayTide
  [tide]
• TomorrowTomoro
  [toh-moh-roh]
• 1Wun
  [wuhn]
• 2To
  [toh]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [foh]
• 5Fayf
  [fayf]
• 6Seks
  [seks]
• 7Sevun
  [sev-uhn]
• 8Eyt
  [ayt]
• 9Nain
  [nayn]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Wey di...?
  [way dee]
• What's the address?Wetin di address?
  [weh-teen dee address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu fit shaw mi (pan di map)?
  [you fit shaw mee (pan dee map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wen go bi di nex wan (bus)?
  [wen go bee dee nehks wahn (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan ticket (go ...)
  [wahn ticket (goh)]

Tokeh Beach is anchored by the charming village of Tokeh, which was founded in the late 19th century by the Sherbro people. The Sherbro, known for their seafaring skills, established the village primarily as a fishing community. The abundant marine life in the Atlantic Ocean provided a sustainable livelihood for the early settlers and laid the foundations for the village’s growth.

During the British colonial period, Tokeh Beach saw an influx of European visitors. The British appreciated the scenic beauty and strategic location of Tokeh Beach, contributing to its development as a recreational spot. Several colonial-era buildings and structures, albeit in ruins today, still stand as a testament to this period.

Fishing has always been an integral part of life at Tokeh Beach. Traditional fishing methods, like the use of dugout canoes and casting nets, continue to be practiced. These techniques have been passed down through generations, preserving the cultural heritage of the Sherbro people. Visitors can often see these fishermen at work, providing an authentic glimpse into the daily life of the community.

Tokeh Beach is vibrant with cultural festivals and traditions. One of the most notable is the annual 'Tokeh Festival,' which showcases local music, dance, and cuisine. The festival is a celebration of the village’s rich cultural heritage and attracts visitors from all over Sierra Leone. Traditional dances, such as the Bondo and Poro, are performed, offering a lively and colorful experience.

The Sierra Leone Civil War (1991-2002) had a profound impact on Tokeh Beach and its residents. The village, like many others in the country, experienced significant hardship during this period. Many villagers were displaced, and the local economy, heavily reliant on tourism and fishing, suffered greatly. The scars of the conflict are still visible, but the resilience of the community has led to a slow but steady recovery.

In the years following the civil war, Tokeh Beach has seen a revival. Efforts to rebuild and develop the area have been spearheaded by both local and international organizations. The beach has once again become a popular destination for tourists, appreciated for its pristine sands, clear waters, and the warm hospitality of the Tokeh people. New resorts and hotels have sprung up, blending modern amenities with the natural beauty of the landscape.

Environmental conservation has become an important focus for Tokeh Beach in recent years. Initiatives to protect the marine ecosystem and promote sustainable tourism are in place to ensure that the natural beauty of the beach is preserved for future generations. Local NGOs and community groups have been active in raising awareness about the importance of conservation, making Tokeh Beach not only a beautiful but also a responsible travel destination.

Tokeh Beach is located in the Western Area of Sierra Leone, approximately 20 miles south of Freetown. The nearest international airport is Lungi International Airport (FNA). From the airport, you can take a water taxi or ferry to Freetown, which takes about 30-45 minutes. From Freetown, you can either hire a private taxi or take a shared minibus (poda-poda) to Tokeh Beach, which usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road.

Once at Tokeh Beach, local transportation options include taxis and motorbikes (okadas). Taxis are preferred for longer distances and are relatively affordable. Motorbikes are a convenient option for short trips but always negotiate the fare beforehand. Walking is also an option for exploring the immediate beach area and nearby attractions.

The official currency in Sierra Leone is the Sierra Leonean Leone (SLL). While some upscale hotels and restaurants may accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Freetown, but they can be scarce in Tokeh Beach, so ensure you withdraw sufficient cash before heading to the beach.

Tokeh Beach is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Petty theft can occur, so secure your valuables. While Tokeh Beach itself is relatively safe, some areas in Freetown have higher crime rates, so it's best to stay vigilant and avoid those neighborhoods.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are located in Freetown, so it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are local pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Always keep a list of emergency contacts and the location of the nearest embassy or consulate.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when away from the beach. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photographs in religious sites. Public Transport: Do be polite and patient. Shared minibuses can be crowded and may not adhere to strict schedules. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon.' A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like cassava leaves and jollof rice. Don’t refuse food or drink offerings, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Tokeh Beach like a local, visit the local markets and interact with vendors. Engage in conversations with locals who are often willing to share stories about the area. Try to participate in local festivals if your visit coincides with one. For a unique experience, consider a boat tour to nearby Banana Island for snorkeling and historical exploration.