Orlando: The Magic City of Adventure and Wonder

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see yuh lay-tur]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no problum]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?How's it going?
  [hows it go-in?]
• Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [good. yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI'm lost
  [im lost]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [can eye chek out the men-yoo?]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [eye dont do meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up?
  [can eye set-tul up?]

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

• I'd like to buy...I wanna get...
  [i wanna get...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brows-ing]
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats the dam-ij?]
• That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [thats steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya do any better?
  [can yuh do any bet-ter?]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-ty]
• MorningMorning
  [morning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [even-ing]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
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• 6Six
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• 7Seven
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• 8Eight
  [aight]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 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 yuh show me (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to)]

Before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Orlando was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Seminoles. These indigenous people lived in harmony with the land, utilizing the abundant natural resources for their sustenance and culture.

Orlando was officially incorporated as a city on July 31, 1875. The city was named after Orlando Reeves, a soldier who, according to legend, died during the Seminole Wars. This period marked the beginning of Orlando's transformation from a sparsely populated region to a burgeoning settlement.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Orlando became a major hub for citrus farming. The warm climate and fertile soil made it an ideal location for growing oranges and other citrus fruits. This industry brought significant economic growth to the region and helped shape its early identity.

During World War II, Orlando played a crucial role as a military training center. The establishment of the Orlando Army Air Base and the Pinecastle Army Airfield brought thousands of soldiers to the area, leading to a population surge and the development of new infrastructure.

In 1965, Walt Disney announced plans to build a new theme park in Orlando. Walt Disney World opened its doors on October 1, 1971, forever changing the city's landscape and economy. The resort quickly became a global tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year and spurring the growth of numerous other attractions and accommodations.

Orlando's proximity to Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center has also played a significant role in its history. The space race of the 1960s and subsequent space shuttle launches brought attention and tourism to the region, highlighting Orlando's connection to space exploration and technological advancement.

In recent years, Orlando has experienced a cultural renaissance, with the development of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, the Orlando Science Center, and the revitalization of downtown areas. These cultural institutions have enriched the city's cultural landscape, offering residents and visitors a diverse array of artistic and educational experiences.

Orlando is served by Orlando International Airport (MCO), which is located about 6 miles southeast of downtown. The airport is well-connected with numerous domestic and international flights. Alternatively, you can fly into Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), located about 18 miles north of downtown Orlando. Amtrak provides train services to Orlando, and the city's Greyhound station offers bus services. For those driving, Orlando is accessible via Interstate 4 and the Florida Turnpike.

Orlando offers a variety of transportation options. Lynx is the primary public bus service, covering most of the city and surrounding areas. SunRail provides commuter rail service across Central Florida. Taxis, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, and car rentals are also widely available. For tourists, the I-Ride Trolley is a convenient option for getting around the International Drive Resort Area. Many hotels offer shuttle services to major attractions.

The official currency in Orlando is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, and foreign currency exchange services are available at the airport and various locations throughout the city. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and activities such as tipping.

Orlando is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Areas like Pine Hills and Parramore have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially at night. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, and avoid displaying valuables. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and use reputable transportation options.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Orlando has several hospitals, including Orlando Health and AdventHealth. For minor health issues, numerous pharmacies and urgent care centers are available. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of your country's consulate or embassy in case you need assistance.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and footwear, especially if you plan to visit theme parks. Don't wear overly revealing clothing outside of beach areas. Religion: Do respect religious sites and practices if you visit places of worship. Public Transport: Do have exact change for bus fares if not using a pass. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and tip around 15-20% at restaurants. Don't forget to stay hydrated, especially in the hot summer months.

To experience Orlando like a local, visit the farmers' markets such as the Winter Park Farmers' Market and Orlando Farmers Market. Explore neighborhoods like Thornton Park and Winter Park for boutique shopping and dining. Take a stroll around Lake Eola Park, and consider attending a local event or festival. For a unique experience, visit Leu Gardens or the Orlando Science Center.