Port Elizabeth: The Friendly City by the Sea

• HelloMolo
  [moh-loh]
• GoodbyeSala kakuhle
  [sah-lah kah-koo-leh]
• YesEwe
  [eh-weh]
• NoHayi
  [hah-yee]
• Please/You're welcomeNceda
  [n-chay-dah]
• Thank youEnkosi
  [en-koh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryUxolo
  [oo-koh-loh]
• How are you?Unjani?
  [oon-jah-nee]
• Fine. And you?Ndicela, wena?
  [n-dee-seh-lah, way-nah]
• Do you speak English?Ukhuluma isiNgisi?
  [oo-khoo-loo-mah ee-see-ngi-see]
• I don't understandAndiqondi
  [ahn-dee-kohn-dee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNdicela ukubona imenyu, nceda
  [n-dee-seh-lah oo-koo-boh-nah ee-men-yoo, n-chay-dah]
• I don't eat meatAndiyityi inyama
  [ahn-dee-yee-tee ee-nyah-mah]
• Cheers!Iqiniso!
  [ee-kee-nee-soh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNdicela ukuphumelela, nceda
  [n-dee-seh-lah oo-koo-poo-meh-leh-lah, n-chay-dah]

• Help!Nceda!
  [n-chay-dah]
• Go away!Hamba!
  [hahm-bah]
• Call the Police!Vula iPolisa!
  [voo-lah ee-poh-lee-sah]
• Call a doctor!Vula umthengisi!
  [voo-lah oom-tehn-gi-see]
• I'm lostNdikhohlwa
  [n-dee-khoh-lwah]
• I'm illNdibolekile
  [n-dee-boh-leh-kee-leh]

• I'd like to buy...Ndicela ukuthenga...
  [n-dee-seh-lah oo-koo-tehn-gah]
• I'm just lookingNdibonisa kuphela
  [n-dee-boh-nee-sah koo-peh-lah]
• How much is it?Yimalini?
  [yee-mah-lee-nee]
• That's too expensiveLeyo iyakwazi
  [leh-yoh ee-yah-kwah-zee]
• Can you lower the price?Uyakwenza ngesixhobo?
  [oo-yah-kwehn-zah n-heh-see-koh-boh]

• What time is it?Yintoni ixesha?
  [yee-n-toh-nee ee-keh-shah]
• It's one o'clockYi kweyi-nye yekusasa
  [yee kweh-yee-nyeh yeh-koo-sah-sah]
• Half past (10)Ikamva lesithathu
  [ee-kahm-vah leh-see-tah-thoo]
• MorningEmini
  [eh-mee-nee]
• AfternoonLinde
  [leen-deh]
• EveningUbusuku
  [oo-boo-soo-koo]
• YesterdayIzolo
  [ee-zoh-loh]
• TodayNamhlanje
  [nahm-lahn-jeh]
• TomorrowKusasa
  [koo-sah-sah]
• 1Kunye
  [koo-nyeh]
• 2Kwome
  [kwaw-meh]
• 3Kwethathu
  [kweh-tah-thoo]
• 4Kwane
  [kwah-neh]
• 5Kwahlanu
  [kwah-lah-noo]
• 6Isithandathu
  [ee-see-tahn-dah-thoo]
• 7Isikhombisa
  [ee-see-khohm-bee-sah]
• 8Isishiyagalolunye
  [ee-see-shee-yah-gah-loh-loo-nyeh]
• 9Isishiyagalombini
  [ee-see-shee-yah-gah-lohm-bee-nee]
• 10Kwamashumi
  [kwah-mah-shoo-mee]

• Where's a/the...?Lapho kukhona...
  [lah-poh koo-khoh-nah]
• What's the address?Yeyiphi iindawo?
  [yeh-yee-pee ee-in-dah-woh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Unokundibonisa (emephu)?
  [oo-noh-koo-n-dee-boh-nee-sah eh-meh-poo]
• When's the next (bus)?Kubani ethatha okulandelayo?
  [koo-bah-nee eh-tah-tah oh-koo-lahn-deh-lah-yoh]
• A ticket (to ....)Itikiti (kwi ....)
  [ee-tee-kee-tee kwee]

Port Elizabeth, often referred to as the 'Friendly City,' was founded in 1820 by British settlers. Named in honor of Sir Rufane Donkin's late wife, Elizabeth, the city quickly grew as a key port and settlement area in the Eastern Cape. The arrival of the settlers marked a significant moment in the city's history, laying the groundwork for its development.

In 1820, around 4,000 British settlers arrived in Port Elizabeth as part of a government-sponsored colonization scheme. These settlers played a crucial role in the growth of the city, bringing with them skills, culture, and traditions from their homeland. Their arrival is commemorated by the 1820 Settlers Monument, a prominent landmark in the city.

By the mid-19th century, Port Elizabeth had established itself as a major hub for the wool industry. The city's strategic location and excellent harbor facilities made it an ideal center for exporting wool, contributing significantly to the regional economy. This period of economic prosperity led to an influx of wealth and the construction of many fine buildings, some of which still stand today.

Port Elizabeth's Bo-Kaap area is a testament to the city's rich cultural tapestry. Originally home to freed slaves, this vibrant neighborhood showcases Cape Malay heritage, with its brightly colored houses, mosques, and unique cuisine. The diverse communities in Port Elizabeth have contributed to a rich cultural mosaic that is reflected in the city's festivals, art, and daily life.

During both World Wars, Port Elizabeth played a vital role as a strategic military port. The city's harbor was used extensively for the movement of troops, supplies, and equipment. The remnants of military installations and memorials, such as the Prince Alfred's Guard Memorial, provide insight into this period of the city's history.

Port Elizabeth was significantly affected by the policies of apartheid. The city witnessed numerous anti-apartheid protests and was home to influential activists. The Red Location Museum serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles and resilience of those who fought against racial segregation and oppression in South Africa.

In 2001, the municipality of Port Elizabeth was renamed Nelson Mandela Bay in honor of the iconic anti-apartheid leader and former President of South Africa. This change reflects the city's commitment to embracing its diverse heritage and honoring the legacy of Nelson Mandela. The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum and other cultural institutions celebrate this renewed identity.

Today, Port Elizabeth is a vibrant city known for its friendly residents, beautiful beaches, and rich history. The redevelopment of the waterfront area, along with numerous cultural and historical attractions, makes it a popular destination for tourists. The city's blend of colonial architecture, modern amenities, and scenic beauty continues to attract visitors from around the world.

Port Elizabeth, also known as Gqeberha, is served by the Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, located approximately 5 kilometers from the city center. The airport has domestic flights from major South African cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. International travelers typically connect through these cities. Alternatively, you can reach Port Elizabeth by road via the N2 or N10 highways, or by train with services provided by Shosholoza Meyl.

Port Elizabeth offers various transportation options. Metered taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are widely available. The city has a network of minibus taxis, but these can be crowded and less reliable. Car rental services are available at the airport and in the city, providing the flexibility to explore surrounding areas. Public buses operated by Algoa Bus Company serve key routes within the city.

The official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the city, and it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and tips. Currency exchange services can be found at the airport and in major shopping centers.

Port Elizabeth is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. Neighborhoods such as Central Hill and certain parts of North End have higher crime rates. It’s advisable to stick to well-known tourist areas and avoid displaying valuables. Use secure parking facilities and keep car doors locked while driving.

In case of emergency, dial 10111 for police assistance or 10177 for medical emergencies. The main public hospital is Livingstone Hospital, and there are several private hospitals like Netcare Greenacres Hospital. Pharmacies are widely available for minor medical needs. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, but avoid overly revealing clothing, particularly in conservative areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly. Public Transport: Do be courteous and patient. Don’t use loud or disruptive behavior on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and be open to new experiences. Don’t refuse food or drink offerings, as it can be seen as impolite.

To experience Port Elizabeth like a local, visit the vibrant markets such as the Valley Market for fresh produce and local crafts. Spend time at the beachfront, particularly Hobie Beach and King’s Beach. Engage with locals at coffee shops and restaurants to learn more about the city’s culture and history. Don’t miss the Donkin Heritage Trail, which offers a historical walking route through the city.