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Malatya

Malatya is one of the biggest cities in the Eastern Anatolia region of Turkey.

Understand
Malatya is a relatively new city by Turkish standards, although its ancient name, Malidiya, dates back to the Hittites, a Bronze Age people of Anatolia.

In 1838, during a war between the Ottoman Empire and the forces of Ibrahim Pasha of Egypt, the Ottoman army seized what was then the town of Malatya, forcing the local population to Aspuzu, then a collection of cottages amidst the orchards in the outskirts of the town. After the war, the people decided not to return to their battered town, settling permanently in Aspuzu and renaming it to Malatya (the abandoned old town, 10 km north of the present-day city, was later re-populated, and is now called Battalgazi, covered in its separate article).

Today, with a population of over 600,000 (2021), Malatya is the largest city of central-eastern Anatolia, where the gently rolling steppes of Central Anatolia give way to the heavily-rugged terrain of Eastern Anatolia. The plateau on which Malatya sits is surrounded by higher mountains, some of which are covered with orchards that produce the apricots the city is famous for.

Unlike the rest of Eastern Anatolia, much of the urban population speak a non-dialectical standard Turkish, sometimes with a slight accent.

Local people are generally friendly and helpful.

Climate
A semi-arid continental climate reigns in the area, with hot (and sometimes sweltering), dry summers and cold, snowy winters. The rainiest time is spring, when a storm season brings showers and thunderstorms, while fall (especially October) is mild and generally pleasant.

By train
Malatya is well connected by rail, the 4 Eylul Mavi train runs every night from Ankara with a journey time of 16 hours with main stops in Kayseri and Sivas. Additionally, the Vangölü Express and Guney Kurtalan Express trains, which operate a few times per week between Ankara and Tatvan and Kurtalan (just east of Siirt) via Diyarbakir respectively, calls at Malatya. Notice that the international train Transasia Express between Ankara and Tehran is cancelled as of 2023, but connections can be made in Tatvan.

Additionally, from late June 2023 a new daytime route will start between Malatya and Sivas, with connections to the high-speed line from Istanbul and Anakara. Journey time from Ankara will be just under 6½ hours with a quick change of trains in Sivas. There is also a daily train, the Firat Express from Malatya, south to Adana (8 hours), via Gölbaşı and Osmaniye, and north to Elazig (3 h) northwards.

Tickets can be bought online with national operator TCDD or at stations.

By car
Malatya can easily be reached by car, via Kayseri-Malatya motorway, which is numbered D300.

By bus
There are many domestic coach firms from Istanbul bus station. The coaches, reach Malatya via Ankara and the journey takes nearly 15 hours. Beydağı Turizm, Aksoğanoğlu Zafer Turizm, Kernek Turizm have at least 5 daily coaches to Malatya within the specific times of the day.

Buses from Ankara, which also shortly call at Kayseri bus station on the way, take between 9 and 11 hours depending on the service, costing 35 TL on the average. In addition to some of the local companies based in Malatya listed above, nation-wide Metro Turizm operates on this line, too.

Long-haul buses from other major centres in the country, both regional and elsewhere alike, such as Bursa, and Van also call at and accept passengers for Malatya bus station.

Malatya's bus station (otogar) lies at the western outskirts of the city, on the highway from Kayseri and way out of city centre. Luckily, quite frequent public buses, which call at the stops on the highway in front of the station (cross the street for eastbound buses, i.e., those heading for the city), connect it with the city centre (although not all of the buses calling at that stop make it to the city centre—some proceed to the suburbs on the other side of the city via the intercity highway). The earliest public bus services start around 06:00.

The name of the bus stop in front of the otogar (as well as the administration of the station itself) is Maşti, so look for that in bus signs when getting from elsewhere in the city.

The bus station has an official tourism information office, an internet cafe open 24-hr, toilets (which cost 0.75 TL), as well as benches which might offer a quite uncomfortable sleep if you arrive in the middle of the night. The place is calm and safe through the night with a visible presence of security officers.

Get around

The city has a wide number of public buses, some fairly modern and some quite old, easily recognizable by their flashy yellow colour and big Malatya Belediyesi ("Malatya City Council") banners on the sides. However, not every of them heads into downtown, some ply up and down the intercity highway (which is named Çevreyolu on the maps and such, literally "ring road", however it's a wide avenue through the residential neighbourhoods of the city rather than a motorway surrounding the city nowadays), which lie a few blocks north of the main street of city centre. The bus stops at the central square are called Valilik or Vilayet (both mean "Governor's Office", and it seems there is no fixed standard for it—it's possible to see both words on bus signs), so make sure you catch one heading for there when you want to make it right to the downtown. A ride, regardless of the distance or the direction, costs 1.25 TL.

Once in the center, everywhere is easily accessible by foot as the city lies on a fairly flat ground, except for southern neighbourhoods leaning against a steep hillside, which an average traveller takes little, if any, interest anyway.

See

 * Just across the street from the New Mosque at the front yard of Governor's Office is the last standing statue of İsmet İnönü, a native of the city and the second president of Turkey (in office 1938-1950), who was later blamed for instituting a cult of personality for himself after the death of Turkish Republic's founder, Kemal Atatürk.
 * Just across the street from the New Mosque at the front yard of Governor's Office is the last standing statue of İsmet İnönü, a native of the city and the second president of Turkey (in office 1938-1950), who was later blamed for instituting a cult of personality for himself after the death of Turkish Republic's founder, Kemal Atatürk.

From the central square, a stroll of 800 metres along the Fuzuli Caddesi (Street) will bring you to Kernek Square (Kernek Meydanı).

The waters of the waterfalls park keep running along a canal spanned by pleasant foot bridges in the leafy median strip of Hamit Feritoğlu Caddesi, unofficially known as Kanalboyu (literally "along the canal"). A stroll of about 500 metres along the Kanalboyu will bring you to another square.

 * On the side of the square is Hürriyet Park, the largest in the city.
 * At the side of the entrance of the park is a statue of Kemal Atatürk, complete with his cloak, next to a guy, presumably symbolizing Turkish youth, who is wearing nothing but a fig leaf.

Heading back to northwest from here along Kışla Caddesi—which has a beautifully landscaped wide median strip, which includes benches and palm trees (yes, palm trees. Like those that are found in tropical paradises. All thanks to legendary cold hardiness of Trachycarpus fortunei species)—you will arrive back at the central square; drawing a triangle in the city. However, there are a few more sights on the way, which might slow down your pace a bit.

 * There are also a number of other historic stone buildings along the Kışla Caddesi from the late Ottoman or early Republic eras, which look quite stately and impressive.
 * At yet another square on your way, there is an old-looking clock tower, which was built in modern times but is nice anyway.
 * At yet another square on your way, there is an old-looking clock tower, which was built in modern times but is nice anyway.

Outer neighbourhoods

 * There is a large park east of the city, on the highway to Elazığ with a large pond and distant views of the Karakaya Dam lake. Minibuses and public buses heading for Üniversite pass by the entrance of it.
 * Northwest of the city centre (on Boztepe Caddesi a block north of the intercity highway-çevreyolu) is Taşhoron Church, an Armenian church restored in 2021 to a brand-new look, complete with an iron-cast dome weighing 19 tonnes, after staying derelict for decades. The neighbourhood in which it stands seems to be a somewhat rough one, so a distant look from the highway might suffice unless you have a special interest in the Armenian heritage of the region. Exclamationdiamond_blue.svg Post-2023 earthquake status: moderate damage, closed to visits.

Do

 * Visit during the Malatya International Arts and Apricot Festival in July.
 * Go to Malatya Park AVM (shopping mall), the largest mall in eastern Turkey. An ice skating rink and a movie theater with subtitled films are also available there.

Eat
The city is known for huge apricot orchards of the surrounding countryside, and it's possible to sample a number of local products based on apricot, from the usual dried apricots to highly unique shish kebabs with grilled apricots.

Drink
There are a number of cafes along the Kanalboyu, some of which serve hookah (nargile).

Connect
The area code of Malatya is (+90) 422.

There is an internet cafe on the corner of Kernek Square and Fuzuli Caddesi, opposite the Waterfalls Park.

Connect
As of Dec 2020 Malatya has 4G from all Turkish carriers - coverage of the surrounding highways is variable. 5G has not yet reached this area.

Go next

 * Battalgazi — the original location of Malatya, Battalgazi has some remnants from its past, including the beautiful Seljuk-built Great Mosque
 * Orduzu — this nearby village to the northeast is the site of the world heritage listed (Tu-Su 08:00-17:00, free), once the eastern outpost of the Hittites. Exclamationdiamond_blue.svg Post-2023 earthquake status: closed to visits.
 * Elazığ — a regional city to the northeast, surrounded by mountains and lakes, it is the hub for visiting the old town of Harput
 * Kemaliye — an old town in the rugged Upper Euphrates Valley to the north; the nearby Dark Canyon is an adventure sports destination
 * Mount Nemrut — Malatya can serve as a convenient jump off point to the well-known sacred mountain, topped by statues devoted to ancient Gods. During spring and summer, you can join the daily trips starting from the tourism information centre in the city hall (Vilayet).
 * Darende — a historic town to the west with traces of past civilizations as well as an attractive canyon complete with waterfalls
 * Kayseri — several hours to the west, Kayseri is a good hub for visits to Cappadocia, or onward trips to Ankara, the national capital

title: Malatya


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Malawi

Malawi (Chichewa: Malaŵi) is a small, landlocked country in Africa whose eastern border mostly follows Lake Malawi, the third largest lake on the continent. It's described as the "Warm Heart of Africa", referring to the friendliness of the people.

Cities

 * - political capital of Malawi and the seat of government
 * - economic capital and largest city with an interesting downtown, decent nightlife and music, a range of hotels from the elegant to resthouses, and a vibrant street and market culture
 * - the largest town in the North of Malawi. For most it's just a stop for cash and internet en route to or from Nkhata Bay or further south, and the Tanzanian border.
 * - charming town not far from the intriguing Misuku Hills and a short distance from Lake Malawi and growing quickly since the 2009 opening of a uranium mine
 * - medium-sized town, formerly known as Fort Johnston, and a jumping-off point for the resorts and hostels up the coast of Lake Malawi, on the way to peninsular Cape Maclear
 * on the shores of Lake Malawi in the Central Region, is where the explorer David Livingston sat down with the Swahili Arab slave traders to attempt to negotiate an end to the slave trade. Nkhotakota was a slave entrepôt, from which slaves were ferried across Lake Malawi to the eastern shore to resume their travel over land to what is now the Tanzanian coast. Nkhotakota is a compact and fascinating town, old in its way and true to the ethnic diversity of this region of Malawi.
 * - old colonial capital of Malawi noted for its British colonial architecture, the University of Malawi, and the remarkable Zomba Plateau which rises immediately west of the city

Other destinations

 * - laid back fishing village on the tip of a peninsula jutting out into the southern portion of Lake Malawi. The Cape has excellent, sandy beaches and crystal-clear water perfect for swimming, and is a favourite among backpackers, boaters, and sunseekers. This area, however, is known for having a high level of schistosomiasis and visitors should be well informed.
 * Kuti community Wildlife Park - 90 km from Lilongwe on Salima Road where you will get closer to zebra than anywhere else in Africa.
 * and Chisumulu Islands - great aquatic life and a back door to Mozambique. These islands are only reachable to tourists by private boat or the public ferry which only runs 1-2 times each week and is the sole means by which locals can ship supplies to and from the islands; Thus, if you take the ferry to or from Nkhata Bay, purchase a deck or cabin ticket unless you want to be fully immersed in the typical way of life of Malawian transporters.
 * - a popular large village as you head up the Lake Road from Mangochi toward Cape Maclear
 * - a rocky bay towards the north of the lake - check into one of the lodges and you could be here for a while
 * - a popular large village as you head up the Lake Road from Mangochi toward Cape Maclear
 * - a rocky bay towards the north of the lake - check into one of the lodges and you could be here for a while

National parks and forest reserves

 * — 550 km² of unspoiled forest along the shores of the Shire River. The national park is best approached from the town of Liwonde. A half-hour boat ride up the Shire will show some of the remarkable wildlife of the region, especially hippo's, elephant, and fish eagles.
 * (Mulanje Massif) — is the highest peak south of Kilimanjaro and a favourite among climbers attempting to reach Sapitwa Peak, the tallest of Mulanje's peaks. Its within the Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve
 * - Malawi's biggest national park is on the 1800m high Nyika Plateau
 * — stunning rainforest in rural, untouched area
 * - Malawi's biggest national park is on the 1800m high Nyika Plateau
 * — stunning rainforest in rural, untouched area

See also: African National Parks

History
At the end of the 15th century, the Maravi Empire existed on the southwestern shores of Lake Malawi as a kingdom by the Chewa people. The slave trade was introduced in the 19th century when the Swahili-Arabs moved into the area to obtain slavery and ivory. One of the first Europeans to visit Malawi was Dr. David Livingstone, a Scottish missionary and explorer who was credited with a leading role in ending slavery in Africa.

Established in 1891, the British protectorate of Nyasaland became the independent nation of Malawi on 6 July 1964. After three decades of one-party rule by Hastings Banda, the country held multi-party elections in 1994 under a provisional constitution, which took full effect the following year. National multi-party elections in 1999 and 2004 elected president Bingu wa Mutharika. When he died in 2012, Joyce Banda (no relation to Hastings Banda) was elected as the first female leader.

Climate
Much of Malawi is plateau, often reaching to 1,000 m (3,000 ft), and the temperature in these highlands is moderate, with the hottest period occurring during the autumn rainy season and the coolest and chilliest in winter. The hottest region in the country is the lower Shire River Valley well south of Blantyre. Temperatures along scenic Lake Malawi are generally warm, but with a cooling breeze, especially in the evenings. Winters (May till July) are dry. The rainy season begins in mid-October to early November and generally runs until March.

Culture
Malawi's people are its greatest asset - friendly, welcoming, colourful and vibrant. It is impossible to visit and not to become engaged with the people, but there are now opportunities to spend time in real villages (including staying overnight) for a first-hand experience of the cultures, traditions and daily life. This is an option pretty much everywhere in Malawi, and one well worth taking.

There's also much to see of Malawi's history, beginning with the pre-history remains of the Karonga district and the Stone Age rock paintings near Dedza. The Cultural & Museum Centre at Karonga is well worth a visit. Elsewhere, the colonial period is preserved in buildings dating from the David Livingstone era and the defeat of the Arab slave trade is well documented in the museums of Blantyre. Among other museums around the country are a Lake Museum at Mangochi, a mission museum at Livingstonia and a postal services museum near Zomba.

Entry requirements
Nationals of the following countries do not require a visa to enter Malawi for up to 90 days: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Dominica, Eswatini, Fiji, Gambia, Grenada, Israel, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Nationals of Hong Kong do not require a visa for visits of up to 30 days.

Citizens of most other countries may obtain a $50 visa on arrival, but this is not applicable to citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Russia, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, Uzbekistan and Yemen who are required to obtain a visa in advance, which can be applied for at Malawi's embassy in your country. A six-month, multiple entry visa on arrival can also be obtained, which costs $150, and a twelve-month version of the same visa costs $250.

An E-Visa system exists and some Europeans and Australians are required to use it.

By plane
Malawi has relatively few international flight connections, with most travelers connecting through either Johannesburg, Nairobi, or Addis Ababa to fly into Lilongwe or Blantyre.

By train

There are no international trains to Malawi.

By boat
A ferry runs twice a week from Likoma Island to Cobuè and Metangula in Mozambique.

By car
The main road (M1) runs from the northern border (Kaporo) through Karonga, Mzuzu, Lilongwe and finally to Mchinji and is in excellent shape. There is an excellent road from Lilongwe to Mchinji on the Zambian border (120 km).

By bus
From Mozambique, in the south, you can take the bus from Tete (north-west Mozambique) to Zobwe. After crossing, take another bus from the border to Blantyre. This crossing is quite hectic, and it is closed at night, so you should plan to get there early, and try to keep it cool with all the border-hawkers.

Direct buses run from Lusaka, Zambia to Lilongwe, but is best done in stretches) if 14-20 hours on a bus doesn't sound like your idea of a good time. There is also minibus from Mbeya in Tanzania to the border. From the border in Malawi Side, take a taxi to Karonga. From Karonga bus station, take a bus or minibus to other destinations in Malawi. Bus is cheaper than minibus. The easiest way take direct bus from Dar es Salaam in Tanzania to Mzuzu or Lilongwe.

There are no direct buses from Mbeya to Malawi although scammers in Mbeya bus station will tell you so, and sell you tickets. You must take a bus to the border and walk across.

There has been buses from Blantyre to Harare via Tete in Mozambique. but you will need to get a mozambique visa.

Get around

Compared to its neighbours, the main roads in Malawi are in surprisingly good shape and travel times between major destinations should be reasonable. The volume of traffic is low and most people drive reasonably slowly. Road travel after dark is not advisable as road markings are poor to non-existent and not all cars have headlights. While there are few vehicles travelling at night a very significant number of their drivers will be heavily intoxicated, particularly outside of Lilongwe and Blantyre.

The Malawian police force have roadblocks, checkpoints and speeding checks along many of the major roadways and at the airports. By and large, they are looking for illegal activities and bribes. Expect to be stopped on occasion, particularly if you are clearly not local, and asked where you are going. Fines for traffic offences range from 2,000 MK for poor tyres or faulty lighting, to 8000 MK for speeding, to seizure of the vehicle for licensing/registration/insurance offences. Payment is expected to be made to a bursar at the roadside, and a numbered receipt from a duplicate book should be given. If a passenger in a vehicle being driven by a local the police may question the driver or other passengers in a local dialect in order to establish what can be got from you. You should not have any problems if you are polite and have the correct documentation (passport, driver's licence, permission to use the vehicle, etc.) available if they ask. Before using any vehicle be satisfied that all tyres are in good condition, lights are working (including brake lights) and that you have a road warning triangle and fire extinguisher. Do not leave quantities of food or beverages, toys, etc visible in the vehicle as they will be sought in exchange for passage. Allow extra time for journeys to the airport as the police are aware that people in a rush will pay. Speed checks are often carried out on the roads away from major towns (i.e. at the points where the speed limit is due to increase), and urban speed limits can extend well into rural areas, often for 10-12km outside of major towns.

The wearing of seatbelts is mandatory. Local laws dictate that passengers may not have any limb hanging from a vehicle. Despite many local pick-ups having extra passengers in the cargo area visitors should not do so unless the vehicle has the appropriate additional government documentation allowing same.

Malawi experiences fuel shortages, so stock up in neighbouring countries unless you want to queue for a long time (without actually getting anything) or use the black market - with fuel prices being almost double, even triple, usual prices. If staying in the one area for some time attempt to build a relationship with the forecourt staff in one establishment, but be seen to occasionally purchase small amounts from other outlets. Often staff will give preferential treatment to regular customers in times of shortage.

In rural areas be vigilant of children playing and  animals, particularly chickens on the road. While small animals may not damage the vehicle they may cause a family to lose a source of income or nutrition and create a very hostile situation when a demand for payment is made.

By bus

 * AXA Bus Malawi

By car
Traffic is a major safety risk. Malawi's road network has improved, but many roads are still in poor condition. The country's car fleet is in poor condition and the traffic culture is uncontrolled. Travelling after dark is not recommended. "Thumbing a van on the back of a van is not a safe option. There is no train service.

Fuel shortages can occur from time to time. Motorists should be prepared by buying an extra can of fuel.

Like many other former British colonies, traffic moves on the left in Malawi with most cars being right-hand drive.

Local car rental companies:

Many car rentals in Southern Africa do not allow you to enter Malawi with their cars. You might have the best chances if you rent a car in Zambia.

Car rentals that allow you to enter Malawi:

By boat
Travelling by boat is surely the most enjoyable mode of getting around in Malawi. The Ilala ferry runs north from Monkey Bay to Chilumba on Fridays at 10:00, arriving on Sunday at 18:30 and returns southbound on the same route, departing Chilumba on Mondays at 02:00, arriving back at Monkey Bay on Wednesdays at 14:00. Prices are rising with every year, but so is the ferry's reliability.

By train
Malawi has a very limited passenger service, with departures about 1-2 times per week between Blantyre and smaller cities in Southern Malawi. No passenger trains serve the capital Lilongwe. All trains are operated by CEAR.

Talk
The official languages of Malawi are English and Chichewa. English is widely spoken in urban areas and by the well-educated upper class, though outside of that, a few words in Chichewa will go a long way. Chichewa is the first language of the majority of the population, and knowing Chichewa will get you by in most of Malawi though in some very remote areas, learning the local tongue might be essential. Locals always appreciate any attempts by foreigners to speak Chichewa and learning at least a few basic greetings would do well to ingratiate yourself to the locals. Tumbuka is the first language for many people in the north of the country. Chiyao is spoken by the Yao people who live mostly in the Southern District of the country. A multi-cultural country, Malawi has over a dozen indigenous ethnic groups, each with its own distinct language. However, even in those areas, many younger people will be bilingual in the local language and Chichewa.

See
Malawi has a massive diversity of beautiful landscapes. The highest peaks in Malawi touch 10,000 ft (3,000 m) while the lowest point is barely above sea level. This range of altitudes in a small area help to make the landscape of Malawi one of the most varied in all Africa. It is generally a green, lush country, with plateaux, highlands, forests, mountains, plains, escarpments and dramatic river valleys.

The Rift Valley is the dominant feature, providing the vast chasm that Lake Malawi fills, and extending to the south of the country following the Shire River that drains the Lake. The flatter areas of the Rift Valley in South Malawi are home to some important wetlands, including Elephant Marsh, down in the Lower Shire Valley.

To the west of the Lake and either side of the Shire Valley in the south is the Central African Plateau. The transition from Rift Valley floor up to the Central African Plateau is characterised by a series of dramatic escarpments, such as at Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, a protected area of rugged, unspoilt wilderness. The Central African Plateau itself is gently undulating land between 1,600ft (490m) and 5,000ft (1,500m), with the occasional lake (such as Lake Chilwa) and punctuated by more dramatic hills and forests.

It is the widespread highlands and forests that provide the most impressive of the Malawi's varied scenery. Up where the air is fresh and cool are clear mountain streams, heaths, rolling montane grassland and evergreen forests.

The southern part of Malawi has the best known highlands - Mulanje Massif and Zomba Plateau. The former is a massive wilderness plateau of syenite granite rising from the Phalombe Plains. It has a number of peaks, including the highest in both the country and the whole of central Africa: Sapitwa, at 3,000 m (10,000 ft). The tea estates that stretch west of Mulanje as far as Thyolo, are also wonderfully scenic. Zomba Plateau is not as high as Mulanje, but nonetheless impressive. It is slab-like with a gently undulating plateau top which is accessible by road.

The Dedza-Kirk Highlands extend the rise from the Rift Valley on its western edge between Blantyre and Lilongwe. The northern part of these highlands is marked by the Dedza-Salima Forest Reserve and then the Thuma Forest Reserve. South-west of Lilongwe, the Dzalanyama Forest Reserve covers a range of hills at the border with Mozambique. The Dowa Highlands, north of Lilongwe, have their most notable peaks at Dowa and the Ntchisi Forest Reserve.

The Viphya Highlands - undulating hills swathed in evergreen forests - stretch north-south in north Malawi and reach the edge of the Rift Valley. Finally, in north Malawi is the Nyika Plateau, a rolling whaleback grassland plateau unique in Africa. Much of this highest and most extensive high plateau surface in central Africa is gazetted as the Nyika National Park.

Do
For a small country, Malawi has a quite remarkable array of activities to offer visitors. The magnificent Lake Malawi is a haven for boat activities and watersports, as well as having some of the best freshwater diving sites in the world, right in Nkhata Bay. Eight land-based national parks and wildlife reserves offer all type of safaris in a wide variety of natural wilderness environments. Liwonde National Park, along the Shire River, has hippos (including an albino one!), crocodiles, lions, elephants and even leopards (apparently). The mixed terrain and varied landscapes also provide for excellent outdoor activities, including trekking and mountain biking, particularly in the highland areas. Those seeking cultural experiences are also well served by sites of historical interest and simple village visits to meet the ever-smiling Malawians in their daily life. You can visit the Carlsberg factory in Blantyre, climb Mount Mulanje (a series of high hills, mountains - making a good trek), drive up or climb Zomba Plateau, go horseback riding in Kande or Nyika, or just relax on the beaches of Cape Maclear.

Specialist tours/activities include yoga holidays, tea factory tours and art safaris. Pottery classes are available at two centres in Dedza and Nkhotakota. In the summer months of Malawi (September/October) there is the Lake of Stars international music festival on the beaches of Sunbird Nkopola Lodge in Mangochi. This is a good festival, where you can relax in the sun on the beach having a few drinks and listening to some good music. Camping is the prominent form of accommodation, however many people do chose to stay in Sunbird Nkopola rooms themselves, or in rooms or cottages of nearby lodges.

Money
The local currency is the Malawi kwacha, sometimes abbreviated "MK" (ISO international currency code: MWK). The currency is freely convertible (but impossible to get rid of outside of the country). Coins of Malawi are issued in denominations of 1, 5 and 10 kwacha. Banknotes of Malawi are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 5,000 kwacha.

"Hard" foreign currencies (forex) will also be accepted by almost everybody, particularly for larger purchases. In order to reduce cost of living, expats living in Malawi could consider specialized FX transfer by companies focusing on global reach such as the ones found at MTC.com.

The central bank devalued the kwacha by 44% in Nov 2023. Many of the prices in our Malawi articles may be out of date.

'''All foreign currency [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Malawi.html#:~:text=You%20must%20declare%20all%20foreign,up%20to%20%245%2C000%20per%20trip. must be declared upon arrival]'''

There is a black market for foreign currency in Lilongwe operated by the people standing outside Metro store (opposite Spar/Shoprite). In Nov 2023, they were giving 1,950 kwacha to the US dollar. Get the taxi to stop on the drive from the airport.

You can swap Malawian kwacha to Zambian kwacha at the border, either at the banks or on the black market too.

Larger foreign notes are favoured and can get much higher rates. At times, it can be easier to not even go to the black market and simply make purchases with the foreign currency.

Credit cards: Mastercard and Visa and are accepted by larger hotels and large supermarkets.

You can withdraw cash using a Mastercard or Visa card at many ATMs of the Standard Bank, Ecobank, National Bank of Malawi. Ecobank ATMs have no withdrawal fee for overseas cards.

Travellers' cheques can no longer be used.

Eat

Traditional Malawian food revolves around one staple, maize, served in one form, nsima (n'SEE-ma). Nsima is basically a type of thick porridge, rolled into balls with your right hand and dipped into a variety of stews known as relishes. Those who can afford them eat relishes of beef, chicken or fish, but the many who can't make do with beans, tiny dried fish (usipa), pumpkin leaves (chibwabwa) and other vegetables. At breakfast, nsima can be served watered down into a soup, maybe with a little sugar. Local restaurants will serve nsima and relish for less than MK500.

Food options in the major cities of Lilongwe and Blantyre are good. Fast food — to include burgers, pizza, and fried chicken — is very popular in Malawi. For sit-down meals, ethnic eateries (thanks to a significant ex-pat population) are popular. In many restaurants, pork products are not served to accommodate the Muslim population.

Outside the larger cities, however, you might be a little underwhelmed with food options. Along the major roadways, you will find "tuck shops" featuring packaged cookies or Take Away Meals — meat pies or sausage rolls, for instance — which may or may not satisfy you.

Finally, in terms of hygiene outside the major cities, you are unlikely to find a proper washroom with running water. You will probably be given a bowl of water, a piece of soap, and a (damp) towel. Therefore, some travellers bring small bottles of anti-bacterial hand soap with them.

Soft drinks
A traditional local drink worth trying is maheu, a somewhat gritty and vaguely yogurty but refreshing beverage made from maize meal. Factory-produced maheu is sweet, comes in plastic bottles and is available in a variety of flavours including banana, chocolate and orange, while home made versions are usually unflavored and less sweet.

The variety of soft drinks in Malawi is very popular - there's Coke, Sprite, Tonic, Ginger Ale, Soda Water, Cherry Plum, Cocopina and the very tasty, sugary Fantas (coming in Orange, Grape, Exotic, Passion and Pineapple flavours). These are manufactured by SOBO, the glass bottles are on a deposit system. Expect to pay MK50 extra per bottle unless you bring some 'empties' with you.

Alcohol
The only beers you will generally find are brewed in Blantyre by Carlsberg, and its products are available in restaurants and stores throughout the country. A normal Carlsberg is known as a 'green', but the company also produces Special Brew, Stout, Classic, Elephant, Light and Kuche Kuche. You can also buy imported drinks such as Heineken, Kronenbourg, Smirnoff Ice, Bacardi Breezer and some ciders in certain bars. Malawi also produces its own spirits - notably Malawi Vodka, Malawi Gin, Malawi Rum, Gold Label Brandy and the cane spirit Powers. Malawi Gin & Tonic is a very nice, popular expat drink in the country.

Sleep
Western-standard hotels can be found in Blantyre, Lilongwe, Zomba and Mzuzu, as well as along the shores of Lake Malawi. The Lake Malawi resort hotels cater primarily to international tourists.

There are Backpacker Hostels in many places in Malawi with dorm beds from US$10 per person.

There are high-level five-star resort hotels in some rural areas charging western prices.

Learn
Malawi's largest tertiary education structure is the University of Malawi which is made up of Chancellor College in Zomba, Blantyre Polytechnic in Chichiri, and College of Medicine. Bunda College of Agriculture and Kamuzu College of Nursing in Lilongwe. There is also Mzuzu University in the northern part of Malawi.

Stay safe
Malawi has been known for years as "The Warm Heart of Africa", and Malawians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Malawi is not known as a particularly dangerous travel destination for western tourists and expatriates. Muggings and robberies have occurred in the larger cities, most especially Lilongwe, as well as in some notorious places along the main tourist routes. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night. If you go out for the evening, make sure you know how you're going back home. Car-jackings happen occasionally so be sure to keep windows shut and doors locked during evening and night journeys (though night driving is not advised - most cars have broken headlights and Malawians tend to walk in the middle of the road at night) and exercise reasonable caution you would anywhere. Roads are less safe because many drivers are unlicensed and inexperienced and many vehicles are not inspection-ready; there is also the factor of drunk driving, especially in the evenings, so be cautious. However even half the taxi drivers you will get at night will be drunk.

There are a lot of pickpockets operating in nightclubs and bars. Just exercise caution, don't bring too much money and cameras, etc.so don't bring hordes of cash with you.

Homosexuality is prohibited by the law, and LGBT couples should exercise discretion when travelling to Malawi. It took a presidential pardon to release a gay couple who were arrested for homosexuality and sentenced to 14 years of hard labour.

Swimming in water bodies can be dangerous for crocodiles and hippos.

Stay healthy
As with its neighbouring countries malaria can be a problem. The lake is freshwater and is prone to bilharzia, especially in the Cape Maclear area. Symptoms of bilharzia can take months to surface. If you think you've been exposed to it you can get a very cheap pill from the local pharmacists that will kill it before it even shows its face. It's a good idea to take care of this before leaving Malawi, as it will be much more expensive back home.

The adult HIV prevalence in the country is at 14% or 1 in 7 adults. '''Do not have unprotected sex. Do not use injecting drugs.'''

Tap water in major cities like Lilongwe, Blantyre, Zomba and Mzuzu is generally safe. Ask at the lodge/house you're at. Travellers with weaker stomachs should avoid this drinking water. Bottled water is plentiful in all the major shops.

Dogs, cats and other animals can spread rabies.

Respect
Malawi has both patriarchal and matriarchal ethnicities and cultures. In the cities, men tend to be more respected than women, but the reverse might be true in the rural villages depending on ethnicity. Whites tend to be well-respected, a holdover from colonial times, but this is largely a Malawian's way of being courteous. Accept their hospitality. They are an exceptionally friendly people.

Malawians, especially those from very rural areas where they don't see many whites, can be quite curious when they do come upon a white traveller. To a Western mindset, this might be interpreted as unnecessarily staring at you or talking about you in front of you. Be prepared to be greeted by kids yelling mzungu, mzungu! and to answer lots of questions about yourself. Even relatively mundane items like mechanical pencils can draw a crowd of onlookers.

Malawians are in general extremely courteous, and a part of that courtesy is shaking hands, speaking softly, and referring to travellers and others with respect. Malawians avoid rudeness. It is common for Malawi men to hold hands when they've gathered together to chat, and this shouldn't be given a sexual interpretation when it is encountered.

Culturally, women should not wear shorts or mini-skirts, especially when travelling outside the lodge or camp. A woman in shorts or a short skirt is considered to be provocative, as well as rude. Many female visitors wear wraps that are available in the stores and markets of major cities. These are generally made of bright, colored patterns and can be extremely attractive. Low-cut tops on women, while discouraged, are not nearly as provocative. Men in the cities tend to wear slacks and not shorts, as shorts are generally worn only by school-age children, so when a man wears shorts it can be viewed by Malawians as rather silly.

Finally, when meeting a Malawian — even to ask a question — you should always say hello and ask how they are. Properly greeting a Malawian is very important. They are uncomfortable with the Western notion of simply "getting to the point." Courtesy is a must, at all times, because not to be courteous is to show disrespect.

GSM
The two main mobile network providers are Airtel and TNM. For 3G TNM has better coverage with Airtel only really covering the largest cities. SIM cards are available for 200 MK.

Other

 * Embassy of the Republic of Malawi to Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland and France

Go next

 * Tanzania
 * South Luangwa National Park — Kiboko Camp and some other travel agencies run roundtrip safaris from Lilongwe to this fantastic national park in Zambia.
 * Mozambique

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Malawi


text:
Malayalam phrasebook

Malayalam (മലയാളം) belongs to the Dravidian language family, and is mostly spoken in Southern India in the states of Kerala and Lakshadweep. Around 36 million people use this language, which is one of the 22 official languages of India. A Malayalam speaker is called a "Malayali". Most Malayalam speakers know basic English words. English nouns are often used and occupy a large proportion of the daily vocabulary. Common English nouns can be used as a replacement for the Malayalam words.

Pronunciation guide
The phonetics of Malayalam are similar to those of Telugu and Kannada.

Don't worry too much about the Malayalam alphabet. Most official signs in Kerala are also written in English, and most text you will need to parse will be in "Manglish", or Malayalam written using English letters. This "Manglish" is common while texting, writing on social media, graffiti and on some signs. However, it is colloquial and not standardised.

Vowels
The key distinction is the difference between short and long vowels. In this phrase book, the short vowels are noted with small letters [a, e, i, o, u] and long vowels are noted with capital letters [A, E, I, O, U]. You will often come across non-standard romanizations, noted in table below when applicable.

 * അഃ is extremely rare, and you shouldn't be bothered with it.

Notes on ്

 * The symbol ് is not an official letter in the alphabet, but is a diacritic put on the consonants. Loan words often have this sound attached to the end when they end in a consonant. Many vowels in between consonants tend to reduce to this sound in every day speech (unlike in english, where vowels tend to reduce to ə).
 * it is common to write nothing at the end of a word to indicate this sound in Manglish. Ex: "enikku" can also be written "enikk".

 * At the end of words, /u/ does not occur. In almost all the cases, it has reduced to /ɨ̆/. /ɨ̆/ is found only at the end of words (in the formal language, at least). So, we can safely use the letter "u" to simulataneously mean both.

Consonants
The Malayalam script is an abugida: all consonants provided here have an unwritten "a" vowel following them.

 * It is important to be wary of gemination (doubled consonants). Not pronouncing these could lead to misunderstandings.

 * In every day speech, consonants tend to simplify in the intervocalic position (between vowels). (1) സുഖം "good" (written/formal: sukham, common: sugam) (2)

Basics
The basic difference in structure of sentences is that in English the pattern is Subject-Verb-Object, but it, in Malayalam, is Subject-Object-Verb. Also, note that the pronunciation given is not for the word's spelling, but how it is pronounced.

Wherever English alternative is given, that alternative is more common and natural, but all given phrases will be understood.
 * Hello.: നമസ്കാരം (nuh-muh-skah-rum) (Very formal; the below informal form is more common.)
 * Hello. (informal): Haay or "ha'ye", You can use English "Hello" or "Hi".
 * How are you?: സുഖമാണോ? (su-gum-ah-No?) (lit: Are you fine/comfortable?) Or, എന്തൊക്കെയുണ്ട്? (end-okkeh-yuNDu) (lit: What all is there?)
 * I am fine.: എനിക്ക് സുഖമാണ്. (enikku su-gum-ANu)
 * I am not fine: എനിക്ക് സുഖമില്ല. (enikku sugamilla)
 * Yes, thank you.: ശരി / അതെ, നന്ദി. (sheri/ade, nanni)
 * What is your name?: നിങ്ങളുടെ പേരെന്താണ്? (ningaLuDe pErendANu?) പേരെന്താണ്? (pErendANu?) താങ്ങളുടെ പേരെന്താണ്? (Thāngalude pēru enthānu?) (with respect)
 * My name is ______ .: എന്റെ പേര് ___ . (Ente pēru ______.)
 * Nice to meet you.: കണ്ടതിൽ സന്തോഷം. (Kandathil santhosham.) പരിചയപെട്ടതിൽ വളരെ സന്തോഷം. (Parichayappettathil valare santhōsham.) (lit: Extremely delighted to get acquainted with you.)
 * Please.: ദയവായി, ... (Dayavāyi, ...) ദയവ് ചെയ്തു, ... (Dayavu cheythu, ...) Or, use English word "Please"
 * Thank you.: നന്ദി. (Nanni) Or, use English word "Thank you" or "Thanks".
 * Thank you very much.: ഒരുപാട് നന്ദി. (orupādu nanni) വളരെ ഉപകാരം. (Valare upakaram) (lit: Huge help) Or, you can say in English, or repeat "Thank you" two times.
 * You're welcome.: സ്വാഗതം (Swaagatham) (formal)
 * Yes.: അതെ (Athey) (lit: It is.) ശരി (Sheri) (lit: Correct)  'Athey' is used when agreeing, 'Sheri' is more like "okay" or for expressing understanding.
 * No/Not.: ഇല്ല (Illa) അല്ല (Alla) To say no, say "alla", if the question ends in "ānō?" Otherwise, use "illa". To disagree or express differing sentiments, use "alla". Only exception is if the sentence ends in "vēnō?", in which case you use "vēnda".
 * Excuse me. (getting attention): ശദ്ധിക്കൂ. (Sradhikyū) ക്ഷമിക്കണം, ഒന്നിങ്ങോട്ട് നോക്കൂ. (kshamikkanam onningōttu nōkkū) (lit: Sorry, Please look here) Or in English "Excuse me".
 * Excuse me. (begging pardon): ക്ഷമിക്കൂ. (Kshamikkū) (lit: Forgive me) Or in English "Sorry" / "I am sorry".
 * I'm sorry.: എന്നോട് ക്ഷമിക്കണേ. (Ennōdu Kshamikkanē) (say this if it was your fault)
 * I'm sorry.: കഷ്ടം. (Kashtam) (When it isn't your fault) കഷ്ടമായി പോയി. (Kashtamāyi Pōyi) (lit: "it's regrettable")
 * Don't mind/It's OK: സാരമില്ല. (Sāramilla) (say this if you are comforting sombody)
 * Goodbye: പിന്നെ കാണാം. (Pinne kānām) (lit: I will see you later) വീണ്ടും കാണാം. (Vīndum kānām) (lit: I will see you again) or say in English "Goodbye" / "Bye" / "Bye Bye"/ "Tata" / "Tata Bye Bye".
 * Goodbye (informal): see above.
 * I can't speak Malayalam.: എനിക്ക് മലയാളം (സംസാരിക്കാൻ) അറിയില്ല. (Enikku Malayālam (samsārikkān) ariyilla)
 * Do you speak English?: നിങ്ങൾ ഇംഗ്ലീഷ് സംസാരിക്കുമോ? (Ningal English Samsārikkumō?) നിങ്ങൾക്ക് ഇംഗ്ലീഷ് അറിയുമോ? (Ningalkku English ariyumo?)
 * Is there someone here who speaks English?: ഇവിടെ ഇംഗ്ലീഷ് സംസാരിക്കുന്നവർ ആരെങ്കിലും ഉണ്ടോ? (Ivide English samsārikkunnavar ārengilum undō?)
 * Help!: സഹായിക്കൂ! (Sahāyikkū!)
 * Help (Save): രക്ഷിക്കൂ! (Rekshikū!)
 * Look out!: ശദ്ധിക്കൂ! (Sradhikyū!) (literally means "be careful"). നോക്കൂ! (Nōkkū) can also be used to say "see this".
 * Good morning.: സുപ്രഭാതം. (Suprabhātham) (way formal), say in English "Good morning".
 * Good evening.: ശുഭ സായാഹ്നം. (Shubha Sāyāhnam) (archaic), say in English "Good evening".
 * Good night (to sleep): ശുഭ രാത്രീ. (Shubha Rāthri) (way formal), say in English "Good night".
 * I did not understand.: എനിക്ക്) മനസ്സിലായില്ല. (Enikku manassilaayilla)
 * I like sweets: എനിക്ക് മിഠായി ഇഷ്ടമാണ്. (Enikku mittāyi ishtamānu) എനിക്ക് മധുരം ഇഷ്ടമാണ്. (Enikku madhuram ishtamānu) (lit: I like sweet things)
 * Flower: പൂവ് (Pūvu)
 * Elephant: ആന (Āna)
 * Dog: പട്ടി (Patti) നായ (Nāya)
 * Cat: പൂച്ച (Pūccha)
 * Spicy (hot): എരിവ് (Erivu)
 * Spicy food: എരിവുളള ഭക്ഷണം (Erivulla bhakshanam)
 * Where are you going?: നിങ്ങൾ എവിടെയാ പോകുന്നത്. (Ningal evideyā pōkunnathu?)
 * Where is the toilet?: ടോയ്ലറ്റ് എവിടയാണ് (Toilet evideyānu?) Careful about using the word "kakkūs", often given as a word for toilet. It is considered impolite.
 * Where is the bathroom?: ബാത്രൂം എവിടെയാണ്? (Bathroom evideyānu?) കുളിമുറി എവിടെയാണ്? (Kulimuri evideyānu?) (Kuli means bath, muri means room)
 * Please move: ദയവായി ഒന്ന് മാറി തരുക (Dayavāyi onnu māri tharuga) (polite) മാറി പോ (Māri pō) (less polite)
 * Do you like me?: നിനക്ക് എന്നെ ഇഷ്ടമാണോ (Ninakku enne ishtamāno?)
 * I like you: എനിക്ക് നിന്നെ ഇഷ്ടമാണ്. (enniku ninne ishtamānu) എനിക്ക് നിന്നെ ഇഷ്ടമായി. (enniku ninne ishtamāyi)
 * I love you: ഞാൻ നിന്നെ പ്രേമിക്കുന്നു. (Njān ninne prēmikkunnu)
 * I don't like you: എനിക്ക് നിന്നെ ഇഷ്ടമല്ല. (Enikku ninne ishtamalla)
 * I hate you : ഞാൻ നിന്നെ വെറുക്കുന്നു. (Njān ninne verukkunnu) എനിക്ക് നിന്റടുത്തു വെറുപ്പാണ്. (Enikku ninteduthu veruppānu.)
 * Can you show me the way?: എനിക്ക് വഴി കാണിച്ച് തരുമോ? (Enikku vazhi kānichu tharumō)?
 * How old are you?: നിങ്ങൾക്കെത്ര വയസുണ്ട്? (Ningalkethra vayasundu?)
 * I am hungry: എനിക്ക് വിശക്കുന്നു. (Enikku vishakunnu)
 * Where can I get some water?: വെള്ളം എവിടെ കിട്ടും? (Vellam evide kittum?) വെള്ളം അല്പം എവിടെ കിട്ടും (Enikku alpam vellam evide kittum)? കുറച്ച് വെള്ളം തരുമോ? (kurachu vellam tharumō?) (lit: Can you give me a little water?)
 * Hospital: ആശുപത്രി (Aashuvathri)
 * Can we go for a movie?: നമ്മൾക്ക് ഒരു സിനിമയ്ക്ക് പോകാമോ? (Nammukku oru cinemekku pogaamo?) നമ്മൾ ഒരു സിനിമയ്ക്ക് പോയാലോ? (Nammal oru cinemekku poyaalo?)
 * What is the matter?: എന്താ കാര്യം? (Entha karyam?) എന്താ പ്രെശ്നം (Entha preshnam?)
 * I forgot: ഞാൻ മറന്നു. (Njan Marannu)
 * I don't know: എനിക്ക് അറിയില്ല. (Enikku ariyilla)
 * Later: പിന്നീട് (Pinnīdu)
 * After: കഴിഞ്ഞിട്ട് (Kazhinjittu) ശേഷം (shesham)
 * Before: മുമ്പ് (Mumbu)
 * Please Wait: ഒന്ന് നിൽക്കു. (Onnu Nilku)
 * One question: ഒരു ചോദ്യം. (Oru chōdyam)

Problems

 * Leave me alone. : Enne veruthe vidoo.
 * Don't touch me! : Enne thodaruthu.
 * I'll call the police. : Njaan policeine vilikkum.
 * Police! : Police! (Police)
 * Stop! Thief!: Nilku! Kallan!
 * I need your help. : Enikku ningalude sahaayam venam.
 * It's an emergency. : Ithu athhyaavashyamaanu
 * I'm lost. : Enikku vazhithetti.
 * I lost my bag. : Ente sanchi nashtappettu.
 * I lost my wallet. : Ente purse nashtappettu.
 * I'm sick. : Enikku sukhamilla.
 * I've been injured. : Enikku murivu patti.
 * I need a doctor. : Enikku doctorude sahaayam venam.
 * Can I use your phone? : Njaan ningalude phone upayogichotte.
 * Can you give me your phone number? : Enikku ningalude phone number tharamo?
 * I'll kill you : Njan ninne kollum
 * Why are you fighting with me? : Ningal enthina ennodu vazhakkidunnathu?
 * Don't you understand what I am saying? : Ningalkku njan paranjathu manasilakunnille?
 * Tie him up : Avane kettiyidu. (Avane means 'Him')

Numbers

 * 1 : one (onnu)
 * 2 : two (randu)
 * 3 : three (moonnu) (MOO in moon)
 * 4 : four (naalu)
 * 5 : five (anchu)
 * 6 : six (aaru)
 * 7 : seven (eezhu)
 * 8 : eight (ettu E of eight)
 * 9 : nine (onpathu)
 * 10 : ten (pathu)
 * 11 : eleven (pathinonnuh' )
 * 12 : twelve (panthranduh')
 * 13 : thirteen (pathimoonnuh)
 * 14 : fourteen (pathinaaluh)
 * 15 : fifteen (pathinanchuh)
 * 16 : sixteen (pathinaaruh)
 * 17 : seventeen (pathinezhuh)
 * 18 : eighteen (pathinettuh)
 * 19 : nineteen (pathombathuh)
 * 20 : twenty (irupathuh)
 * 21 : twenty one (irupathonnuh)
 * 22 : twenty two (irupathiranduh)
 * 23 : twenty three (irupathimoonuh)
 * 30 : thirty (muppathuh)
 * 40 : forty (nalpathuh)
 * 50 : fifty (anpathuh)
 * 60 : sixty (arupathuh)
 * 70 : seventy (ezhupathuh)
 * 80 : eighty (enpathuh)
 * 90 : ninety (thonnooru)
 * 100 : one hundred (nooru)
 * 200 : two hundred (Irunnooru)
 * 300 : three hundred (Munnooru)
 * 1000 : one thousand (aayiram)
 * 2000 : two thousand (randayiram)
 * 1,000,000 : one million (pathu-laksham)
 * 1,000,000,000 : one thousand million in UK, one billion in USA (nooru kodi)
 * 1,000,000,000,000 : one trillion in USA, formerly one billion in UK (laksham kodi)
 * number _____ (train, bus, etc.) : number _____ (...am Number) eg:-#10 ( Pathh-am Number)
 * half : half (arai or  paadhi or pakuthi)
 * less : less (kurachu or kuranja)
 * more : more (kooduthal or koodiya)

Time

 * now : ഇപ്പോള് Ippol
 * later : പിന്നെ Pinne
 * before : മു൯പെ Munpey.
 * morning : പ്രഭാതം, രാവിലെ Prabhatham, Raavile.
 * afternoon : ഉച്ച Uchha.
 * evening : Vyikunneram. Just before sunset, twilight is called sandya (സന്ധ്യ).
 * night : രാത്രി, രാവ് Raathri.

Clock time
Use Ravile for AM, Ucha for noon, vaikunneram for 3 PM to 6 PM and rathri for night
 * one o'clock : oru mani
 * two o'clock : randu mani
 * midnight : paathi rathri

Duration

 * _____ minute(s) : ______ nimisham
 * _____ hour(s) : _____ mani (manikoor)
 * _____ day(s) : _____ naal, divasam
 * _____ week(s) : _____ vaaram, azhcha
 * _____ month(s) : _____ maasam
 * _____ year(s) : _____ varsham

Days

 * today : ഇന്ന് (innu)
 * yesterday : ഇന്നലെ (innale)
 * tomorrow : naale
 * this week : eyazhcha
 * last week : kazhinhayazhcha
 * next week : adutha azhcha
 * Sunday : ഞായറാഴ്ച (njhayarazcha)
 * Monday : തിങ്കളാഴ്ച (thingalazhcha)
 * Tuesday : ചൊവ്വാഴ്ച (chovvazhcha)
 * Wednesday : ബുധനാഴ്ച (budhanazhcha)
 * Thursday : വ്യാഴാഴ്ച (vyazhazhcha)
 * Friday : വെള്ളിയാഴ്ച (velliyazhcha)
 * Saturday : ശനിയാഴ്ച (shaniyazhcha)

Colors

 * black : Karuppu
 * white : Vella
 * gray : chara niram
 * red : chumappu
 * blue : neela
 * yellow : Manja
 * green : pacha
 * orange : orange
 * purple : purple
 * brown : kapi poddi niram
 * dark : kadum
 * light : ilam

Bus and train

 * How much is a ticket to Bhopal? : Ethra rupayanu Bhopalathekkulla ticketinu / Bhopal ticketinu ethra rupayaakum
 * One ticket to Bhopal, please. : Bhopalathekku oru ticket venam
 * Where does this train/bus go? : Engottanu ee bus/train pokunnathu?
 * Where is the train/bus to Kottayam ? : Evide anne Kottayathekkula bus?
 * Does this train/bus stop in Kottayam? : Ee bus/train kottayathu nirutthumo?
 * When does the train/bus for Kottayam leave? : Eppolaanu Kottayathekkulla ee bus/train povuka?
 * When will this train/bus arrive in Kottayam ? : Eppolaanu ee bus/train Kottayathu etthuka?
 * which is the train now? : ethu train anu ippool

Directions

 * How do I get to _____ ? : _________il engane pokum / Engane enikku _________ ethaam?
 * ...the train station? : Engene enikku rail way stationanil ettham?
 * ...the bus station? : Engene enikku bus-standil ettham?
 * ...the airport? : Engene enikku vimanathaavalathil ettham?
 * ...downtown? : Engene enikku nagarathil ettham?
 * ...the youth hostel? : Engene enikku youth hostelil ettham?
 * ...the _____ hotel? : Engene enikku _______ hotlil ettham?
 * ...the American/Canadian/Australian/British consulate? : Engene enikku American/Canadian/Australian/British nyathantrakaryalathil enttham?
 * Where are there a lot of... : Evideyaanu dhaaralam .............
 * ...hotels? : Evideyaanu dhaaralam hotelukal ullathu?
 * ...restaurants? : Evideyaanu dhaaralam bhojanashalakal ullathu?
 * ...bars? : Evideyanu dhaaralam BARukal ullathu?
 * ...sites to see? : Evideyaanu dhaaralam sthalangal kaanuvan ullathu?
 * Can you show me on the map? : Enikku mappil onnu kaanichu tharaamo?
 * lane : Veedhi, mudukku
 * street : Theruvu
 * road : Vazhi
 * crossroad/junction : Mukku
 * National/State highway : Desheeya/Samsthaana Padha
 * Turn left. : Idatthekku thiriyuka
 * Turn right. : Valatthekku thiriyuka
 * left : Idathu
 * right : Valathu
 * straight ahead : Nere povuka
 * towards the bridge : Palathinu aduthekku
 * past the _____ : Aa _____ kazhinhu
 * before the _____ : Aa ______ munpu
 * Watch for the _____. : Aa _________ nokkuka / sradhikkanam
 * intersection : junction / Koodicherunna sthalam
 * north : Vadakku
 * south : Thekku
 * east : Kizhakku
 * west : Padinjaru
 * uphill : Kayattathil
 * downhill : Erakkathil

Taxi

 * Taxi! : Taxi!
 * Take me to _____, please. : Enne _____ vare kondu pokoo. / ______ vare pokaam.
 * How much does it cost to get to _____? : _________ vare pokaan ethra roopa (money) aavum ?
 * how much is the rate?: ethra roopa?
 * Take me there, (please): (Dayavaayi) enne ______ vare kondu pokoo

Lodging

 * Do you have any rooms available? : Ivide muri ozhivundo?
 * How much is a room for one person/two people? : Onno/rendo perkkulla muri vaadeka ethra aanu?
 * Does the room come with... : Ee muriyil ... undakumo? / Ee muriyil ... kittumo?
 * ...bedsheets? : bedsheet
 * ...a bathroom? : kuli muri
 * ...a telephone? : telephone
 * ...a TV? : TV
 * May I see the room first? : Aadyam muri kandote?
 * Do you have anything quieter? : Kuruchum Koode shanthamaya muri undo?
 * ...bigger? : valiyathu
 * ...cleaner? : vrithiyullathu
 * ...cheaper? : vila koranjathu
 * OK, I'll take it. : Sheri, Njan Edukam
 * That's enough. : Ithu madthi
 * I will stay for _____ night(s). : Njan_____raatri thamassikkam
 * Can you suggest another hotel? : Vere oru hotel parayamo?
 * Do you have a safe? : Ningalkku safe undo?
 * ...lockers? : Puuttukal
 * Is breakfast/supper included? : Prabhatha/rathri bhakshanam ulpedumo?
 * What time is breakfast/supper? : Prabhatha/rathri bhakshanam eppozhanu?
 * Please clean my room. : Ente muri onu vrithiyakkanam
 * Can you wake me at _____? Enne _______ manikku ezhunnelpikkamo?
 * I want to check out. : Enikku check-out cheyyanam

Money

 * Do you accept American/Australian/Canadian dollars? : Ningal american dollars edukumo?
 * do u accept the British Pound? : Ningal british pound edukumo
 * Do you accept credit cards? : Credit card edukumo
 * Can you change money for me? : Eniku panam matti tharumo?
 * Where can I get money changed? : Evide ninnu eniku panam matti kittum?
 * Can you change a traveler's check for me? : Enikku oru traveller's check matti tharamo?
 * Where can I get a traveler's check changed? : Evideyanu enikku traveller's check matti kittuka?
 * What is the exchange rate? : Ennathe vinimaya nerrekku enthannu?
 * Where is an automatic teller machine (ATM)? : ATM evideyanu?
 * Any money exchange around? Money exchange evideyundaakum?

Eating

 * A table for one person/two people, please. : Enniku/Njakkal oru table vennam
 * Can I look at the menu, please? : Enikku menu kanamo?
 * Can I look in the kitchen? : Enikku adukala kanamo? OR Adukkala Onnu kandotte..?
 * Is there a house specialty? : Innathe special entha?
 * Is there a local specialty? : Nadan Bhakshanam vallathum undo
 * I'm a vegetarian. : Njan Sasyabhojiyaa
 * I don't eat pork. : Njan panni kazhikilla
 * I don't eat beef. : Njan pothirachi thinnilla/kazhikkilla
 * I only eat kosher food. : Njan juda bhakshanam matramme kazhikkullu
 * Can you make it "lite", please? (less oil/butter/lard) : Eenna/Neyyi/Kuzhuppu kurucha pakka peduttamo?
 * Are there (fixed-price) meals?: Meals undo?
 * Is there a menu?: Menu undo?
 * breakfast : Prathal / Prabhatha Bhakshanam
 * lunch : lunch/oonu (meals)/Ucha bhakshanam
 * tea : chaaya
 * coffee : kaapi
 * snacks : Leggu Bhakshanam or Kurrukkaku
 * supper : Athazham
 * I want _____. : Enikk _____ venam
 * I want a dish containing _____. : ____________Kondundakkiya enthengilum mathi
 * chicken : kozhi (the English word is also commonly used)
 * beef : Pothirachi
 * fish : Meen
 * ham : Panni
 * sausage : hot dogs / Eerachi
 * cheese : cheese (Palkkatty / Panner are dishes that make use of cheese, not a translation for "cheese" itself)
 * eggs : Motta
 * salad : Raitha
 * (fresh) vegetables : Pachakkary
 * (fresh) fruit : Pazha vargamkel
 * bread : roti, appam, bread
 * toast : morrikkuka
 * noodles : noodles
 * rice : Ari
 * beans : Payar
 * May I have a glass of _____? :Oru glass ___________ tharamo
 * May I have a cup of _____? : Oru kappu______________tharamo
 * May I have a bottle of _____? : Oru ________ kuppi(read as koo-pee) tharamo
 * juice : pazhachar/ neer
 * (bubbly) water : Soda
 * cool drinks : Sheethalapaniyam
 * water : Vellam
 * beer : Beer
 * red/white wine : Chuvanna/Velutha Veenjhu
 * May I have some _____?: Kurachu_____Tharamo?
 * salt : Uppu
 * black pepper : Kurumulaku
 * butter : Venna
 * Excuse me, waiter? (getting attention of server): (Athhe) Chaeta ("Chaeta" means brother)
 * I'm finished. : Njan Mathiyakkuvaa
 * It was delicious. : Gambeeram/Adi poli ("Superb")
 * Please take the plates.: Paathrangal Edutholoo
 * The cheque, please. : Cheque thannalum

Bars

 * Do you serve alcohol? : Ningal madhyam vilambumo?
 * Is there table service? : Evide table service undo?
 * A beer/two beers, please. : Onne/Randu beer tharoo (Onne = one)
 * A glass of red/white wine, please : Oru glass chuvanna/Velutha veenjhu tharaamo
 * A pint, please. : Oru paynnt tharamo
 * A bottle, please. : Oru Kuppy tharamo
 * water : Vellam
 * Do you have any bar snacks? : Thottu-koottan enthengilum undo
 * One more, please. : Onnum koodi please
 * Another round, please. : Orennam koodi
 * When is closing time? : Eppozha adakkunnathu

Shopping

 * Do you have this in my size? : ethu ente sizil undo/ ethu ente pakathil undo
 * How much is this? : vila ethra? (ithinu entha vila)
 * That's too expensive. : athu orupadu kooduthalaanu
 * Would you take _____? : ningal edukkumo?
 * expensive : expensive / vila kooduthal aanu
 * cheap : cheap / vila kuranjathu
 * I can't afford it. : ennikku ithu(read as e-thu) thangillya)
 * I don't have that much money: Ente kayil athryayum roopa illa
 * I don't want it. : enikku athu venda / venda
 * You're cheating me. : ningal enne pattikkukayaanu / ningal enne chadikkukayaanu
 * I'm not interested. : enikyu thalpariyam illa
 * OK, I'll take it. : sheri. njan ithu edukkaam / sheri. njan ithu vangaam
 * Can I have a bag? : oru bag tharaamo? / (Oru sanchi/cover/bag kittumo)
 * Do you ship (overseas)? : Ningal videsathekku ayakkumo?
 * I need... : Enikku oru.......venam
 * ...toothpaste. : ...toothpaste. (paste)
 * ...a toothbrush. : ...toothbrush. (brush)
 * ...tampons. : ...tampons. (tampon)
 * ...soap. : ...soap. (soap)
 * ...shampoo. : ...shampoo (shampoo)
 * ...modern medicine. : English medicine / Allopathy medicine
 * ...pain reliever. (e.g., aspirin or ibuprofen) : pain killer / veedana samhari
 * ...cold medicine. : panikkulla medicine / jala doshathinulla marunnu
 * ...stomach medicine. : vayaru veedanakkulla marunnu
 * ...a razor. : blade
 * ...an umbrella. : Kuda / umbrella
 * ...sunblock lotion. : ...sunblock lotion. (sunscreen lotion)
 * ...a postcard. : ... postcard
 * ...postage stamps. : ...stamp
 * ...batteries. : ...battery
 * ...writing paper. : ...writing paper / ezhuthanulla kadalaasu
 * ...a pen. : paena
 * ...English-language books. : english pusthakangal
 * ...English-language magazines. : english varikakal/mazikakal
 * ...an English-language newspaper. : english pathram
 * ...a Malayalam-English dictionary. : Malayalam English dictionary / Nighandu

Driving
English is the primary language for road signs in Kerala
 * I want to rent a car. : Eniku oru CAR vadakakku edukkanam
 * Can I get insurance? : Enikku oru insurance policy edukkanam
 * stop (on a street sign) : Stop / nirthuka
 * one way : one way
 * yield : yield
 * no parking : no parking / evide niruthan paadilla
 * speed limit : speed limit / vega paridhi
 * gas (petrol) station : petrol pump / pump
 * petrol : petrol
 * diesel : diesel

Authority

 * I haven't done anything wrong. : Njan thettonnum cheythittilla
 * It was a misunderstanding. : Athoru thetti-dharana ayirunnu
 * Where are you taking me? : Ningal enne engottanu kondu-pokunnathu
 * Am I under arrest? :Njan arrestil ano
 * I am an American/Australian/British/Canadian citizen. : Njan oru American/Australian/British/Canadian powran aanu
 * I want to talk to the American/Australian/British/Canadian embassy/consulate. : Enikku .....Embassyyil bandhappedanam
 * I want to talk to a lawyer. : Enikku Oru vakkeeline kananam
 * Can I just pay a fine now? : Oru pizha/Fine adachal mathiyo ?

Other

 * Light switch. : Light switch / switch / bulb switch
 * Church : Palli
 * Mosque : Palli (or Muslim palli)
 * Temple: Ambalam, Kshethram

title: Malayalam phrasebook


text:
Malaybalay

Malaybalay City is the provincial capital of Bukidnon Province, on Mindanao Island in the Philippines.

Situated in a charming rural environment at about 2034ft with mountains on sides, the climate is very relaxing, as houses don't need any cooling facilities, so restful sleep is guaranteed. Malaybalay shows parallels to Baguio city, but it is more attractive due to its smaller size, unspoiled and friendly people and spacious location on a wide plateau. The climate is milder but still quite fresh at night. It is protected from storm as it is far south from the Typhoon belt and also from landslides, as the mountains in Bukidnon are not as steep as they are in the Cordilleras.

The tourism information is in a small cabin within Pines View Park behind the capitol building.

By plane
There is no commercial airport in the province of Bukidnon. The nearest airport is in Cagayan de Oro about 100 km away. Cagayan de Oro has several airlines providing flights to Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Bacolod, Zamboanga.

By car
Sayre Highway crosses Mindanao from Cagayan de Oro City in the north to Davao City in the south. To Cagayan de Oro, it is about 90 minutes drive. Taxi can be hired starting at.

By bus
Rural Transit, Super 5 and some smaller companies are plying the route frequently, usually every 20 minutes, even at night frequent buses can be found. Rates vary between and  (air con). To Davao, it is a 5-hour bus trip.

By boat
Next harbor is in Cagayan de Oro. Boats are available to Manila, Cebu City, Iloilo City, Bohol (Jagna), Dumaguete and Nasipit (Butuan). A small harbor in Balingoan provides Boat service to Camiguin island.

Get around
Along the highway small minibuses "Multi cab" ply the route between Casisang in the south and Kalasungay in the north. For the smaller roads within the town, passenger motorcycles can be utilized, they adjust their route to their passengers needs. All transportation costs between and 7.

See
A monastery in San Jose, the Pines View Park, the Matin-ao and Nasuli springs.

Do
Malaybalay does offer lot of hiking opportunities, which still have to be developed. It serves also as a base for climbing the 2nd highest mountain of the Philippines Mt. Dulang Dulang (2935m) in the Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park. To get started with the tour visitors should visit the PENRO office near the capitol to get permits and arrange for guide. There are horseback riding facilities, for example at D'Stables resort in Sumpong. Day hikes is also a pleasant activity for visitors, you can get off the beaten path and experience scenery most other visitors don't get to see. The hike up the slopes is rewarded with views across neighboring valley and towards the panoramic view of the Kitanglad range. These range from 2 hours to half-day hike. There are a lot of routes to choose from.

Learn
Malaybalay is the location of the Bukidnon State University and has several other colleges and high schools.

Work
This area is an agricultural hub and attracts investors from all over the world. Main crops include pineapple, sugar cane, corn, rubber and hardwoods.

Buy
The biggest commercial establishment is Gaisano Mall, but there are numerous alternatives for groceries and other purchases.

Eat
There are lots of restaurants in Malaybalay. Just give the name of the restaurant to the tricycle drivers.

Budget
There are countless food and bbq stalls around the university and near the market.

Mid-range
In the center of the town you can find Le Cafe and Yoly's.

Splurge
Not really splurging but a bit more expensive can be: Haus Malibu (Wi-Fi) and of course Amadeo

Drink
Cafes include Bukidnon Brew Cafe (BBC), Casanova (Wi-Fi), Sunflower (Wi-Fi), or Le Cafe.

Mid-range
Hotel Alemania, 1st Avenue Apartel (Wi-Fi)

Splurge
Malaybalay is not expensive, but you find very cozy yet relatively affordable rooms, Haus Malibu (Wi-Fi) or the Pitcher Plant Farm (free Wi-Fi) where you can get a guest house in the forest.

Stay safe
Malaybalay is a very safe place to stay. The security is weakening if you venture out to very remote mountain locations. need for assistance in emergencies, Dial 117.

Connect

 * Bukidnon Community Blog

Go next
Malaybalay has a bus terminal, which has aside from the major busses to Cagayan de Oro, Davao, Valencia, Wao, Kibawe, Kadingilan also connections that ply the smaller roads to Sungco, Lantapan, Zamboanguita, St. Peter, Canayan and more.

title: Malaybalay