Naples: The Gem of Long Beach

• HelloCiao
  [chow]
• GoodbyeAddio
  [ah-dee-oh]
• YesSi
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePer favore
  [pehr fah-voh-reh]
• Thank youGrazie
  [grah-tsyeh]
• Excuse me/SorryScusa
  [skoo-sah]
• How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stai]
• Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
• Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [pahr-lee een-gleh-zeh]
• I don't understandNon capisco
  [non kah-pee-skoh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vohr-ray veh-deh-reh eel meh-noo, pehr fah-voh-reh]
• I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non mahn-joh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-ray pah-gah-reh, pehr fah-voh-reh]

• Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
• Go away!Vai via!
  [vy vee-ah]
• Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kyah-mah lah poh-lee-tsyah]
• Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [kyah-mah oon doh-toh-reh]
• I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-noh pehr-soh]
• I'm illSto male
  [stoh mah-leh]

• I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-ray kohm-prah-reh]
• I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwahr-dahn-doh]
• How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah]
• That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh troh-poh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoh-ee ahb-bahs-sah-reh eel preh-tsoh]

• What time is it?Che ora è?
  [keh oh-rah eh]
• It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
• Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [soh-noh leh dee-eh-chee eh meh-tzah]
• MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
• AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
• EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
• TodayOggi
  [ohd-jee]
• TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Due
  [doo-eh]
• 3Tre
  [treh]
• 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
• 6Sei
  [say]
• 7Sette
  [seht-teh]
• 8Otto
  [oht-toh]
• 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
• 10Dieci
  [dee-eh-chee]

• Where's a/the...?Dov'è...?
  [doh-veh]
• What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-ree-tsoh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (nella mappa)?
  [pwoh-ee mohs-trahr-mee]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando è il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh eh eel prohs-see-moh]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-lyeh-toh]

Naples, a charming neighborhood in Long Beach, California, was conceived in the early 1900s by the developer A. R. Houghton. Inspired by the picturesque canals of Italy, Houghton envisioned a waterfront community with a series of man-made canals that would mimic the Italian city of Naples. The development began in 1906, and the canals were officially opened in 1909, attracting residents who were drawn to the unique lifestyle and scenic views.

The canals of Naples became a significant feature of the community, offering residents a leisurely lifestyle centered around water activities. By the 1920s, homes were built along these canals, featuring boat docks and waterfront access. The area became known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture, which added to its charm and appeal.

As Naples developed, it attracted a diverse population, contributing to a rich cultural tapestry. Events such as the annual Naples Island Holiday Boat Parade emerged, celebrating the community's maritime heritage. The neighborhood also saw the establishment of various local businesses that catered to both residents and visitors, further enhancing its community spirit.

During World War II, Naples, like much of the country, experienced changes due to the war effort. Many residents were involved in military service, and the local economy adjusted to support wartime needs. Post-war, Naples saw a housing boom as returning veterans sought homes in the desirable waterfront community.

In recent decades, Naples has undergone various modernization efforts while striving to preserve its historical character. The canals have been maintained and improved, with ongoing community initiatives aimed at protecting the integrity of both the natural environment and the unique architectural styles. Naples continues to be a vibrant neighborhood within Long Beach, characterized by its picturesque canals and strong sense of community.

Naples is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Long Beach. The most common way to reach Naples is by car, with parking available along the streets. If you are using public transport, you can take the Metro Blue Line to the Downtown Long Beach station and transfer to the Long Beach Transit bus lines (e.g., Line 1 or 3) that head towards Naples. Biking is another popular option, with bike lanes connecting Naples to the rest of Long Beach.

Naples is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. Biking is also a popular way to get around, especially along the scenic canals. Long Beach Transit buses serve the area, providing access to other neighborhoods. For those who prefer more flexibility, consider renting a bike or using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft.

Naples is generally considered a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, it's advisable to remain vigilant, especially in less populated areas or after dark. While Naples has low crime rates, nearby neighborhoods such as North Long Beach have experienced higher crime rates. It's best to avoid walking alone in these areas at night and to be cautious of your belongings in crowded places.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Long Beach has several hospitals, with the closest being Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. It’s wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the area for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and shoes for walking; don't wear overly revealing outfits. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when near churches; don't take photos where prohibited. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers; don't eat or drink on the bus. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a friendly hello; don’t assume familiarity. Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy local seafood and dining experiences; don’t leave food on your plate as it may be considered wasteful.

To experience Naples like a local, spend time by the canals and take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Enjoy a picnic at Naples Island Park and visit local eateries for fresh seafood. Renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the canals can provide a unique perspective of the area. Engage with local residents, as they are often happy to share their favorite spots and hidden gems within Naples.