Magical Arusha: Gateway to Tanzanian Wonders

• HelloShikamoo
  [shee-kah-moh]
• GoodbyeKwaheri
  [kwah-heh-ree]
• YesNdio
  [nn-dee-oh]
• NoHapana
  [hah-pah-nah]
• Please/You're welcomeTafadhali
  [ta-fah-dah-lee]
• Thank youAsante
  [ah-sahn-teh]
• Excuse me/SorrySamahani
  [sah-mah-hah-nee]
• How are you?U hali gani?
  [oo hah-lee gah-nee]
• Fine. And you?Nzuri. Na wewe?
  [n-zoo-ree. nah weh-weh]
• Do you speak English?Unasema Kiingereza?
  [oo-nah-seh-mah keen-geh-reh-zah]
• I don't understandSiwelewi
  [see-weh-leh-wee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNingependa kuona menyu, tafadhali
  [ning-eh-pen-dah koo-oh-nah men-yoo, tah-fah-dah-lee]
• I don't eat meatSili nyama
  [see-lee nyah-mah]
• Cheers!Mambo!
  [mahm-boh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNingependa kulipa, tafadhali
  [ning-eh-pen-dah koo-lee-pah, tah-fah-dah-lee]

• Help!Usaidizi!
  [oo-sah-ee-dee-zee]
• Go away!Nenda zako!
  [nen-dah zah-koh]
• Call the Police!Piga simu polisi!
  [pee-gah see-moo poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Piga simu daktari!
  [pee-gah see-moo dahk-tah-ree]
• I'm lostNimepotea
  [nee-meh-poh-teh-ah]
• I'm illMimi ni mgonjwa
  [mee-mee nee m-gohn-jwah]

• I'd like to buy...Ningependa kununua...
  [ning-eh-pen-dah koo-noo-noo-ah]
• I'm just lookingNinaangalia tu
  [nee-nah-ahn-gah-lee-ah too]
• How much is it?Bei ni kiasi gani?
  [bay nee kee-ah-see gah-nee]
• That's too expensiveHiyo ni ghali sana
  [hee-yoh nee gah-lee sah-nah]
• Can you lower the price?Unaweza kupunguza bei?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-poon-goo-zah bay]

• What time is it?Saa ngapi?
  [sah-ah ngah-pee]
• It's one o'clockSaa moja
  [sah-ah moh-jah]
• Half past (10)Saa tano na nusu
  [sah-ah tah-noh nah noo-soo]
• MorningAsubuhi
  [ah-soo-boo-hee]
• AfternoonMchana
  [m-chah-nah]
• EveningJioni
  [joh-ee-oh-nee]
• YesterdayJana
  [jah-nah]
• TodayLeo
  [lay-oh]
• TomorrowKesho
  [keh-shoh]
• 1Moja
  [moh-jah]
• 2Mbili
  [m-bee-lee]
• 3Tatu
  [tah-too]
• 4Nne
  [n-nay]
• 5Tano
  [tah-noh]
• 6Sita
  [see-tah]
• 7Saba
  [sah-bah]
• 8Nane
  [nah-neh]
• 9Tisa
  [tee-sah]
• 10Kumi
  [koo-mee]

• Where's a/the...?Iko wapi...?
  [ee-koh wah-pee]
• What's the address?Anwani ni gani?
  [ahn-wah-nee nee gah-nee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Unaweza kunionyesha (kwenye ramani)?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-nee-oh-nyeh-shah (kweh-neh rah-mah-nee)]
• When's the next (bus)?Basi liko lini?
  [bah-see lee-koh lee-nee]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (kwenda ....)
  [tee-keh-tee (kwehn-dah)]

Arusha was founded by German colonialists in the early 20th century. Originally established as a minor military garrison, it quickly grew into a trading hub due to its strategic location between the coast and the interior of East Africa. The town was named after the Wa-Arusha people who inhabited the region.

During German and later British colonial rule, Arusha saw significant infrastructural development. Railroads and roads were constructed to facilitate the movement of goods and people. The colonial architecture from this era, including administrative buildings and residences, still stands today as a testament to this period.

On January 26, 1967, Arusha became the focal point of Tanzanian history when President Julius Nyerere announced the Arusha Declaration. This declaration laid down the principles of Ujamaa (African socialism), focusing on collective farming and nationalization of key industries. It marked a significant shift in Tanzania's socio-economic policies.

In the late 20th century, Arusha gained international prominence when it became the seat of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) in 1994. This tribunal was established to prosecute those responsible for the Rwandan Genocide. The presence of the ICTR brought global attention and a multicultural influx to the city.

Arusha is a melting pot of cultures, featuring a blend of indigenous groups such as the Wa-Arusha, Meru, and Maasai, alongside immigrant communities from India, the Middle East, and Europe. This cultural diversity is reflected in the city's vibrant markets, cuisine, and festivals, making it a unique destination for cultural exploration.

Situated near major attractions like Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, and the Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha has evolved into a gateway for tourists. Safari companies, luxury lodges, and tour operators have flourished, making tourism one of the city's primary economic drivers. The annual Kilimanjaro Marathon and cultural festivals further highlight its role as a tourist hub.

Today, Arusha is a bustling urban center that balances its historical legacy with modern growth. It hosts numerous international conferences and serves as a regional center for NGOs and diplomatic missions. Its educational institutions and healthcare facilities attract people from all over the region, contributing to its ongoing development.

Arusha is located in the northern part of Tanzania, near the Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro. The nearest international airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), approximately 60 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer to Arusha, which takes about an hour. Alternatively, Arusha Airport (ARK) serves domestic flights and is located just 8 kilometers from the city center. There are also bus services from major cities like Dar es Salaam and Nairobi.

Arusha is a relatively compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer journeys, local taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available. Public minibuses, known as 'daladalas,' are a common and inexpensive way to get around, although they can be crowded. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. Boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) are another quick and affordable option but come with higher safety risks.

The official currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are widely available in Arusha, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to remote areas. Currency exchange services are available at banks and authorized exchange bureaus.

Arusha is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it is important to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious in crowded areas where pickpocketing can occur. Some neighborhoods, such as Unga Limited and Kijenge, have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially after dark. Always use reputable taxi services and avoid displaying valuable items openly.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities, including Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre and Mount Meru Regional Hospital, are available in the city. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering a mosque. Public Transport: Do be patient and respectful when using daladalas. Don’t argue with the driver or conductor. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. Using the Swahili greeting 'Jambo' is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like Ugali and Nyama Choma. Don't drink tap water; always opt for bottled or filtered water.

To experience Arusha like a local, visit the Maasai Market for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share insights about their culture. Don't miss the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre, which offers a glimpse into the diverse cultures of Tanzania. For a unique experience, take a day trip to the nearby coffee plantations or hike the trails of Mount Meru.