Notse: A Hidden Gem in Togo

• HelloAkpe
  [ah-kpeh]
• GoodbyeAde
  [ah-deh]
• YesEe
  [ee]
• NoAwo
  [ah-woh]
• Please/You're welcomeAkpe
  [ah-kpeh]
• Thank youAkpe
  [ah-kpeh]
• Excuse me/SorryKpala
  [kpah-lah]
• How are you?Afe? (informal)/ Afeke? (formal)
  [ah-feh?/ah-feh-keh?]
• Fine. And you?Mi ade. Ne ke?
  [mee ah-deh. neh keh?]
• Do you speak English?Ewe gake gbogbo?
  [eh-weh gah-keh gbo-gbo?]
• I don't understandMia me nuto
  [myah meh noo-toh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe le menu, akpe
  [meh leh menu, ah-kpeh]
• I don't eat meatNya mia nye adokui
  [nyah myah nyeh ah-doh-kwee]
• Cheers!Afiem
  [ah-fee-em]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe le xexe, akpe
  [meh leh heh-heh, ah-kpeh]

• Help!Eh!
  [eh!]
• Go away!Ji mia!
  [jee myah!]
• Call the Police!Kekeli le Polis!
  [keh-keh-lee leh poh-lees!]
• Call a doctor!Kekeli le dokotor!
  [keh-keh-lee leh doh-koh-tohr!]
• I'm lostMia me dzima
  [myah meh jee-mah]
• I'm illMia me dzo
  [myah meh dzoh]

• I'd like to buy...Me le xexe...
  [meh leh heh-heh...]
• I'm just lookingMia me dzima
  [myah meh jee-mah]
• How much is it?Xexe ne ke?
  [heh-heh neh keh?]
• That's too expensiveHegbe nyu
  [heh-gbeh nyoo]
• Can you lower the price?Woa nu nukpoe?
  [woh-ah noo noo-kpo-eh?]

• What time is it?Xexewo ne ke?
  [heh-heh-woh neh keh?]
• It's one o'clockLe xexewo le...
  [leh heh-heh-woh leh...]
• Half past (10)Zi abe (10)
  [zee ah-beh (10)]
• MorningAlo
  [ah-loh]
• AfternoonAgbe
  [ah-gbeh]
• EveningDzo
  [dzoh]
• YesterdayKle
  [kleh]
• TodayAfe
  [ah-feh]
• TomorrowXexewo
  [heh-heh-woh]
• 1Yi
  [yee]
• 2Eva
  [eh-vah]
• 3Eto
  [eh-toh]
• 4Ene
  [eh-neh]
• 5Eka
  [eh-kah]
• 6Evio
  [eh-vee-oh]
• 7Ega
  [eh-gah]
• 8Eyo
  [eh-yoh]
• 9Ekesia
  [eh-keh-syah]
• 10Blia
  [blee-ah]

• Where's a/the...?Xexewo nu...
  [heh-heh-woh noo...]
• What's the address?Adidiwo nye ke?
  [ah-dee-dee-woh nyeh keh?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Woa nu mia (le map)?
  [woh-ah noo myah (leh map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Xexewo nye ke (tro-tro)?
  [heh-heh-woh nyeh keh (troh-troh)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Akpaki (wo ....)
  [ah-kpah-kee (woh ....)]

Notse, located in the Plateaux Region of Togo, was historically established as a significant center by the Ewe people. According to oral traditions, the city was founded in the 17th century by King Agorkoli, who led his people from Notsie in present-day Ghana to escape the oppressive rule of the Ashanti Empire.

One of the most remarkable features of Notse is the ancient wall constructed by King Agorkoli. Known as 'Agbodrafo', this wall was built to protect the Ewe people from external threats. Made of clay and fortified with palm trees and other natural materials, remnants of the wall still stand today, serving as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Ewe ancestors.

In the late 19th century, Notse, like the rest of Togo, came under German colonial rule. The Germans were interested in exploiting the region's agricultural potential and established various plantations. The influence of German architecture and urban planning can still be seen in some of Notse's older buildings and infrastructure.

During the mid-20th century, Notse played a crucial role in the struggle for Togolese independence. It was a hub for political activism and gatherings that galvanized the local population against colonial rule. Notse's leaders and intellectuals contributed significantly to the discourse on self-governance and national identity.

Notse is rich in cultural heritage, with traditional Ewe music, dance, and festivals playing an integral role in the community. The annual Hogbetsotso Festival is particularly significant, celebrating the migration of the Ewe people and their settlement in Notse. This vibrant festival features traditional drumming, dancing, and storytelling, offering a deep dive into the cultural fabric of the city.

Today, Notse is a blend of historical legacy and modern development. The city is known for its agricultural produce, particularly yams and maize, which are celebrated during local harvest festivals. Efforts to preserve the historical sites and promote cultural tourism are ongoing, with initiatives aimed at highlighting Notse's unique historical and cultural significance.

Notse is located in the Plateaux Region of Togo. The nearest major city is Lomé, which is approximately 100 kilometers away. The best way to reach Notse is by road. From Lomé, you can take a bus or hire a private taxi. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic conditions. Public buses depart regularly from Lomé's central bus station and are a budget-friendly option.

Once in Notse, getting around is relatively straightforward. Taxis are a common mode of transport and are readily available. You can also hire moto-taxis for shorter distances. If you prefer, you can rent a car, but be aware that road conditions can vary. Walking is another viable option for exploring the town, as many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

The official currency in Togo is the West African CFA franc (XOF). Credit cards are not widely accepted in Notse, so it is advisable to carry cash. There are a few ATMs in town, but it is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash in Lomé before traveling. Make sure to have smaller denominations as larger notes can be difficult to break.

Notse is generally a safe destination, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious in crowded places. Petty theft can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 117 for police assistance or 118 for medical emergencies. The local hospital in Notse can handle most medical issues, but for severe cases, it might be necessary to travel to Lomé. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in town for minor health concerns and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering a place of worship. Public Transport: Do be polite and patient. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. It is polite to ask about someone's well-being. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Notse like a local, visit the bustling town market where you can find fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with the locals; they are friendly and often willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby Notse Wall, an ancient fortification with historical significance. For a unique experience, attend a traditional Ewe dance performance, which provides a deep insight into the local culture.