Atakpamé: The Hidden Gem of Togo

• HelloAkwaaba
  [ah-kwah-bah]
• GoodbyeAane
  [ah-neh]
• YesEe
  [ay]
• NoDa
  [dah]
• Please/You're welcomeMae
  [may]
• Thank youAkpe
  [ah-kpeh]
• Excuse me/SorryKoh
  [koh]
• How are you?Ko ɖe ɖe?
  [koh deh deh]
• Fine. And you?Afe aɖe. Ne va?
  [ah-fay ah-deh. neh vah]
• Do you speak English?O wò blòo Anglìgì?
  [oh woh bloo ahn-glee-glee]
• I don't understandMi ɖɔwò nù
  [mee doh-woh noo]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMì meɖe wo kple menu, kɔ e
  [mee meh-deh woh kpleh menu, koh ay]
• I don't eat meatMi ɖɔwò asiglinu
  [mee doh-woh ah-see-glee-noo]
• Cheers!Dzodzɔ!
  [joh-joh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMì meɖe wo kple sika, kɔ e
  [mee meh-deh woh kpleh see-kah, koh ay]

• Help!Gba!
  [gbah]
• Go away!Wòe!
  [woh-eh]
• Call the Police!Vɔlɔ Polisi!
  [voh-loh poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Vɔlɔ dokita!
  [voh-loh doh-kee-tah]
• I'm lostMi ɖe dzi
  [mee deh dzee]
• I'm illMi ɖe kple zin
  [mee deh kpleh zeen]

• I'd like to buy...Mì meɖe wo kple...
  [mee meh-deh woh kpleh]
• I'm just lookingMì siwoe ɖe
  [mee see-woh-eh deh]
• How much is it?Eyi ɖe eyi?
  [eh-yee deh eh-yee]
• That's too expensiveEyi ɖe ɖeŋu
  [eh-yee deh deh-ngoo]
• Can you lower the price?O ɖo nù nɔvi ŋu?
  [oh doh noo noh-vee ngoo]

• What time is it?Eyi ɖe eyi?
  [eh-yee deh eh-yee]
• It's one o'clockEyi ɖe eɖe blibo
  [eh-yee deh eh-deh blee-boh]
• Half past (10)Eyi ɖe ɖeŋu (10)
  [eh-yee deh deh-ngoo]
• MorningAtã
  [ah-tah]
• Afternoonɖeɖe
  [deh-deh]
• Eveningdɔdɔ
  [doh-doh]
• YesterdayBlibo
  [blee-boh]
• TodayAnã
  [ah-nah]
• TomorrowAdã
  [ah-dah]
• 1Yi
  [yee]
• 2Eɖe
  [eh-deh]
• 3Eha
  [eh-hah]
• 4Enɔ
  [eh-noh]
• 5Eɖa
  [eh-dah]
• 6Evi
  [eh-vee]
• 7Ewo
  [eh-woh]
• 8Eya
  [eh-yah]
• 9Eɖo
  [eh-doh]
• 10Plibo
  [plee-boh]

• Where's a/the...?Ʋ va...
  [oo vah]
• What's the address?Ʋ va ɖe adrɛsi?
  [oo vah deh ah-dreh-see]
• Can you show me (on the map)?O ɖo me wo (ɖe tɔgblɔ)?
  [oh doh meh woh deh toh-gbloh]
• When's the next (bus)?Ʋ va ɖe tso ɖe miɖe (bɔs)?
  [oo vah deh tsoh deh mee-deh bohss]
• A ticket (to ....)Woɖe (wo ....)?
  [woh-deh woh]

Atakpamé, located in the Plateaux Region of Togo, traces its origins to early indigenous settlements. The Ewe people, one of the predominant ethnic groups in the area, are thought to have migrated from Nigeria and settled in the region. These early communities established themselves by farming and trading, laying down the cultural and economic foundations of what would become Atakpamé.

In the late 19th century, Atakpamé came under German colonial rule as part of Togoland. The Germans invested in infrastructure projects, including roads and railways, to facilitate the export of agricultural products. Atakpamé became a crucial administrative and commercial hub during this period. The colonial architecture from this era can still be seen in some parts of the town, reflecting the German influence on its urban development.

Following Germany's defeat in World War I, Togoland was divided between Britain and France. Atakpamé fell under French control, becoming part of French Togoland. The French continued to develop the town's infrastructure and also introduced their educational and administrative systems. This period saw a blend of French and local cultures, which significantly influenced the town’s social and cultural landscape.

Togo gained independence from French colonial rule in 1960. Atakpamé, like much of the country, experienced significant changes during this time. The town saw the establishment of various public institutions, schools, and healthcare facilities. The post-independence era was marked by efforts to modernize the town while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Atakpamé is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, particularly its festivals. The Yam Festival, one of the town’s most significant events, celebrates the yam harvest and is marked by traditional dances, music, and rituals. The town is also known for its skilled artisans who produce intricate textiles and handicrafts, reflecting the rich cultural traditions passed down through generations.

Atakpamé is located in the Plateaux Region of Togo. The nearest international airport is Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport in Lomé, approximately 160 kilometers away. From Lomé, you can take a bus or hire a private taxi to Atakpamé. The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours by road. Alternatively, you can take a minibus (bush taxi) from Lomé, which is a more economical option and can be found at the main bus stations.

Atakpamé is a moderately-sized town, and many of its attractions are accessible on foot. For longer trips within the town or to nearby villages, local taxis and motorcycle taxis (zemidjans) are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Public minibuses also operate within the town. Renting a car can be an option for more flexibility, but road conditions can be challenging, so it’s advisable to rent a 4x4 vehicle.

The official currency in Togo is the West African CFA franc (XOF). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash. There are a few ATMs in Atakpamé, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Lomé before traveling to ensure you have enough funds. Currency exchange services are available in major towns, but rates may vary.

Atakpamé is generally a safe destination for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Atakpamé does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Petty theft can occur, so keep your valuables secure.

In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance or 118 for medical emergencies. There is a local hospital in Atakpamé and several pharmacies where you can get over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For serious medical issues, you may need to be transferred to a larger hospital in Lomé.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and cover your head when entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a slight nod of the head. A friendly smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Atakpamé like a local, visit the bustling markets where you can buy fresh produce, crafts, and traditional Togolese goods. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the nearby Mount Agou, the highest point in Togo, which offers stunning views and hiking opportunities. For a unique experience, try the traditional palm wine, a popular local beverage.