10 French Words You Need To Know Before You Travel To Cotonou

So, you’ve finally convinced your crew to ditch the mainland-to-island weekend and try something more je ne sais quoi. You’re going to Cotonou, baby!

It’s giving:

• Budget travel
• Adventure
• Passport stamp you can flex
• International vibes

But wait! The locals speak French. And no, “croissant/kwason” won’t carry you far.

To help you avoid looking like a confused tourist, here are 10 French words and phrases that will save your trip (and your dignity).

RELATED: How to Act Like You’re Well-Traveled (Even If Your Passport Is Empty)

1. Bonjour (bohn-zhoor) – Hello

Start with vibes. “Bonjour” is the password to entry-level politeness in Benin. Whether you’re greeting the customs officer or that sweet roadside auntie selling grilled fish, bonjour is your friend.

Say it with confidence. Say it with your chest. Just say it.

2. Merci (mehr-see) – Thank You

You’ll use this a lot—when someone helps you, when someone doesn’t help you but you’re still being polite, or when a fine Beninoise tells you your Yoruba accent is cute.

Pro tip: Smile when you say it. “Merci” + smile = international softness.

3. Combien? (kohm-byen) – How much?

Very important for budget travellers. Use this before you buy anything, from bike rides to street food.

Also works when a vendor sees you’re Nigerian and tries to triple the price.

4. Oui (wee) – Yes

The easiest French word ever. If you don’t learn this, maybe you shouldn’t be crossing borders.

Also, please don’t say “wee wee”. It’s oui. One time. Not two.

READ ALSO: How to Plan Your First International Trip as a Nigerian

5. Non (noh) – No

You’ll need this one too. To taxi drivers saying “special price for you” or someone offering you something suspicious that looks like it can knock you out.

Master the firm-but-cute “non.” Practice in the mirror.

6. Toilette (twa-let) – Toilet

Yes, it sounds fancy, but it’s still the same place you run to after eating one too many roadside kebabs.

Learn it. Use it. Don’t be the person miming squats in public.

7. Eau (oh) – Water

You’re going to sweat, a lot. Hydrate or evaporate. Ask for eau when you’re thirsty or just tired of Coke and coconut water.

Do not pronounce it as “eh-oh.” The locals will just blink at you.

8. Où est…? (oo eh…) – Where is…?

This is how you ask for directions. Fill in the blank:

• Où est la plage? (Where is the beach?)
• Où est la fête? (Where is the party?)
• Où est mon passport?! (God forbid, but just in case.)

READ ALSO: 11 Types Of People You Will Find During A Group Trip

9. Je ne parle pas français (zhuh nuh parl pah frahn-say) – I don’t speak French

Say this when things get too fast and too French. The locals will get the message, and maybe switch to gestures… or laugh. Either way, you tried.

10. L’argent (lar-zhon) – Money

Let’s not lie, this is the real reason you need French words. “L’argent” is money. Naira no dey reign here, so carry your CFA and some manners.

And remember, don’t flash your l’argent unnecessarily. Benin pickpockets also understand the economy.

Google Translate is your best friend.

Use it offline. Whisper into it. Pretend it’s a phone call if you must. But don’t let French finish you.

You don’t need to be fluent in French to have a good time in Cotonou, but these 10 French words will keep you from getting stranded, scammed, or served snail stew when you just wanted plantain.

Grab your passport. Grab your friends. Learn your bonjour and your combien. And if all else fails, smile, point, and hope for the best.

Want more travel tips, guides, and budget hacks for young Nigerians? Join the Travel & Hospitality community on Fusion today.