La Jolla: The Jewel of San Diego

• HelloHey there
  [hey th-air]
• GoodbyeCatch you later
  [catch yoo lay-tur]
• YesYeah
  [yeh]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
  [pleez/no w-ur-eez]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/My bad
  [ex-kyooz mee/my bad]
• How are you?What's up?
  [wuts up]
• Fine. And you?Good. How about you?
  [good/how uh-bowt yoo]
• Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [yoo speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [can I chek out the menu]
• I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [I'm ve-jee-tair-ee-un]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll pay now, thanks
  [I'll pay now, thanks]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
• Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [get a doctor]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brows-ing]
• How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much duz it cost]
• That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [that's too pr-eye-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can you cut the price?
  [can yoo cut the price]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [wuts the time]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
• Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thur-tee]
• MorningMorning
  [morning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvening
  [evening]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yesterday]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [fore]
• 5Five
  [f-eye-v]
• 6Six
  [s-iks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-un]
• 8Eight
  [ate]
• 9Nine
  [n-eye-n]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can yoo show mee on the map]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next one?
  [whens the next one]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

The area now known as La Jolla was originally inhabited by the Kumeyaay people, who thrived along the coast, relying on the abundant marine resources. Their rich cultural practices and deep connection to the land set the foundation for the community's history, with evidence of their presence dating back thousands of years.

In 1769, Spanish explorers led by Gaspar de Portolá were the first Europeans to document the region. La Jolla, named from the Spanish word 'la joya' meaning 'the jewel', was first settled in the early 19th century. The establishment of Mission San Diego de Alcalá in 1769 marked the beginning of European influence in the area, shaping the social and cultural landscape.

By the late 19th century, La Jolla began to emerge as a prominent seaside resort destination. The arrival of the railroad in 1887 made the area more accessible to tourists, spurring the development of hotels and attractions. This period saw the establishment of La Jolla’s reputation as an artistic and cultural hub, attracting prominent figures like Ellen Browning Scripps, who played a critical role in the area's development.

The early 20th century witnessed the founding of significant cultural institutions in La Jolla, including the La Jolla Playhouse in 1947 and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in 1903. These establishments contributed to the area’s identity as a center for education, research, and the arts, further enhancing La Jolla's cultural significance within San Diego.

Today, La Jolla is known for its stunning coastline, upscale living, and commitment to environmental conservation. The La Jolla Underwater Park, established in 1970, showcases the region's dedication to preserving marine life, making it a popular spot for divers and ocean enthusiasts. The neighborhood continues to celebrate its rich history while embracing a sustainable future.

La Jolla is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in San Diego. If you're coming from downtown San Diego, you can take the bus (Route 30 or 150) which provides direct service to La Jolla. Alternatively, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. For those driving, La Jolla is approximately a 20-minute drive from downtown, with convenient access via the I-5 freeway.

La Jolla is best explored by foot, as many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, the local bus service (MTS) has routes connecting La Jolla with the rest of San Diego. Rent a bicycle or use a bike-sharing service to cruise along the scenic coastal paths. Taxis and rideshare services are also available for more convenient travel.

La Jolla is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Areas to avoid after dark include some less populated parts of La Jolla Shores. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables in public.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. La Jolla has several hospitals and urgent care centers, including Scripps Memorial Hospital. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, and locate the nearest pharmacy for any over-the-counter needs.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable and casual attire, suitable for beach activities. Don't wear overly revealing swimwear away from the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs by being quiet in places of worship. Don't take photographs in religious sites without permission. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly. Don't consume food or drinks on buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a friendly 'hello.' Don't interrupt conversations when locals are speaking. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and enjoy dining at outdoor cafes. Don't leave large tips, as a 15-20% gratuity is standard.

To experience La Jolla like a local, visit the La Jolla Farmer's Market on Sundays for fresh produce and local goods. Explore the hidden gems along the coastline, such as the tide pools at Shell Beach. Join a kayak tour to see the sea caves and marine life. Attend free community events like outdoor movies in the park during summer. Lastly, don't miss the opportunity to watch the seals at La Jolla Cove.