The Jewel of the Elbe

• HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [owf vee-der-zay-en]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNein
  [nine]
• Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bi-teh]
• Thank youDanke
  [dahn-keh]
• Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-dee-goong]
• How are you?Wie geht es dir?
  [vee gayt es deer]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [goot oont deer]
• Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shpre-khen zee eng-leesh]
• I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fer-shtay-eh nikht]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch würde gerne die Speisekarte sehen, bitte
  [ikh vur-deh ge-ren-eh dee shpy-ze-kar-teh zay-en, bi-teh]
• I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh ess-eh kine flysh]
• Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte zahlen
  [ikh merkht-eh bi-teh tsah-len]

• Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-feh]
• Go away!Geh weg!
  [geh vekh]
• Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee po-lee-tsay]
• Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee i-nen artsht]
• I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [ikh hah-beh meesh feh-rirt]
• I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh bin krunk]

• I'd like to buy...Ich möchte... kaufen
  [ikh merkht-eh kow-fen]
• I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh shou-eh noor]
• How much is it?Wie viel kostet das?
  [vee feel kost-et das]
• That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [das ist tso toy-er]
• Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [koon-en zee den preys zen-ken]

• What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpayt ist es]
• It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist iyn oor]
• Half past (10)Halb elf
  [halb elf]
• MorningMorgen
  [mor-gen]
• AfternoonNachmittag
  [nah-mit-tahk]
• EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
• YesterdayGestern
  [geh-stern]
• TodayHeute
  [hoi-teh]
• TomorrowMorgen
  [mor-gen]
• 1Eins
  [iyns]
• 2Zwei
  [tsvai]
• 3Drei
  [dry]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Fünf
  [fuhnf]
• 6Sechs
  [zeks]
• 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
• 8Acht
  [ahkt]
• 9Neun
  [noyn]
• 10Zehn
  [tsen]

• Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [vo ist iyn/dehr]
• What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vas ist dee ah-dres-seh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [koon-en zee meer tsay-gen (ouf dehr kar-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wann ist der nächste (Bus)?
  [van ist dehr nekh-ste (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ...)
  [iyn-eh far-kar-teh (nahkh ...)]

Dresden was first mentioned in 1206 as a small settlement known as 'Dresdene,' derived from the Old Sorbian word for 'forest.' The city grew rapidly due to its strategic location on the River Elbe, serving as a key trading post in the region.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Dresden began to flourish under the rule of the Electors of Saxony. The city's most significant growth occurred during the Baroque period, under the reign of Augustus the Strong. Notable architectural masterpieces like the Zwinger Palace and the Frauenkirche were constructed, showcasing the city's newfound wealth and artistic prowess.

In the 18th century, Dresden became a cultural hub during the Age of Enlightenment. The city attracted artists, musicians, and intellectuals from across Europe. Johann Sebastian Bach and Richard Wagner both spent significant time in Dresden, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry.

In the 19th century, Dresden evolved into an industrial center. The city's population surged, and it became known for its innovation in engineering and manufacturing. The Dresden University of Technology, founded in 1828, played a key role in advancing scientific research and industrial development.

One of the most tragic chapters in Dresden's history occurred during World War II. In February 1945, Allied forces conducted a series of aerial bombings that devastated the city. The historic center was almost completely destroyed, and thousands of civilians lost their lives. The event remains a poignant reminder of the war's destructive power.

After World War II, Dresden became part of East Germany (the German Democratic Republic). The city underwent extensive reconstruction to restore its historic landmarks, including the rebuilding of the Frauenkirche. During the GDR era, Dresden also became a center for socialist art and architecture.

Following the reunification of Germany in 1990, Dresden experienced a period of rapid modernization and growth. The city has successfully blended its historical heritage with contemporary culture, becoming a vibrant metropolis. Landmark buildings have been meticulously restored, and Dresden is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Dresden hosts numerous cultural festivals that celebrate its rich history and vibrant arts scene. The Dresden Music Festival, established in 1978, attracts world-renowned musicians each year. The Striezelmarkt, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany, dates back to 1434 and continues to be a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike.

Dresden is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Dresden International Airport (DRS), located about 9 km north of the city center. The airport is served by several international and domestic airlines. From the airport, you can take a taxi, the S-Bahn (S2 line), or a bus to reach the city center. Additionally, Dresden is accessible by train with direct connections from major German cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich. Long-distance buses and the extensive German autobahn network also make driving a viable option.

Dresden has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and S-Bahn trains, operated by DVB (Dresdner Verkehrsbetriebe). Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines, kiosks, or via mobile apps. A day pass offers unlimited travel on all DVB services for a day. Taxis are widely available, and ride-sharing services operate in the city. Biking is also a popular way to explore Dresden, with numerous bike rental stations and dedicated cycling paths.

The official currency in Dresden is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in case you visit establishments that do not accept cards. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, and currency exchange services are available at banks and dedicated exchange offices.

Dresden is generally a safe city for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure personal safety. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Some areas, such as the Neustadt district, have higher instances of petty crimes like pickpocketing, particularly during festivals and large public gatherings. Always be vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for medical emergencies and fire services, and 110 for police assistance. Dresden has several hospitals and clinics offering comprehensive medical care. Pharmacies (Apotheken) are easily found throughout the city, and many have 24-hour service. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The Tourist Information Office can also provide assistance in emergency situations.

Fashion: Do dress smart-casual, especially in more upscale restaurants and cultural venues. Avoid overly casual or revealing attire. Religion: Do respect religious customs when visiting churches; dress modestly and remain quiet. Photography may be restricted. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and direct eye contact. Use formal titles like 'Herr' (Mr.) or 'Frau' (Mrs.) until invited to use first names. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Saxon potato soup and Eierschecke. Don't leave a tip on the table; hand it directly to the waiter.

To experience Dresden like a local, visit the local weekly markets, such as the one at Alaunplatz in Neustadt, where you can find fresh produce and artisanal goods. Take a stroll along the Elbe River for scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere. Try to catch a performance at the Semperoper, one of the most renowned opera houses in Europe. For a unique dining experience, explore the small but vibrant street food scene in the Neustadt district. Lastly, take advantage of the many walking and cycling paths to discover the city's beautiful parks and historical sites.