Exploring the Vibrant East Village of Des Moines

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
  [pleez/no wur-eez]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?Howdy
  [haw-dee]
• Fine. And you?I'm good. You?
  [ahym gud. yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yawl speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [ahynt get-tin it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [can ah chek owt thee menu?]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [ahy dohnt eet meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up, please
  [can ah set-tul up, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Git!
  [git]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call thee cops!]
• Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [call a doc!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [ahym lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [ahym sik]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ahy wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [ahym just look-in]
• How much is it?How much?
  [how much?]
• That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [thats too pry-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya budge on the price?
  [can yuh buhj on thee pryce?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [haff past ten]
• MorningMorning
  [mornin]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [even-in]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yester-day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [toh-mor-uh]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [fore]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
• 8Eight
  [ayt]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

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

East Village in Des Moines emerged as a key area in the city's development during the mid-19th century. Initially, it was a part of the larger settlement plan for Des Moines, which was officially established in 1851. The area began to attract a diverse population, including German and Irish immigrants, who contributed to the cultural tapestry of the neighborhood.

By the late 19th century, East Village developed into a vibrant commercial district. The construction of the Des Moines River levee and the establishment of various businesses, including grocery stores, saloons, and dry goods shops, marked this period. The neighborhood became a hub for local commerce and social interaction, reflecting the spirit of community among its residents.

The architectural landscape of East Village began to take shape in the early 20th century, characterized by a mix of Victorian, Italianate, and early 20th-century commercial styles. Notable buildings from this era include the iconic *Hochschild Building* and *the East Village Gateway*. Many of these structures have been preserved and continue to define the area’s unique character.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, East Village experienced a cultural renaissance. Efforts to revitalize the area began in the 1990s, leading to an influx of new businesses, restaurants, and art galleries. Events such as the *Des Moines Arts Festival* have further established East Village as a cultural hub, celebrating the arts, music, and local cuisine.

Today, East Village is recognized not only for its historical significance but also for its role as a center of creativity and innovation in Des Moines. The neighborhood hosts a variety of events, including *First Fridays*, which showcase local artists and businesses, solidifying its status as a vibrant and important part of the city's cultural landscape.

East Village is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Des Moines. If you're arriving from downtown Des Moines, you can simply walk or take a short bike ride, as it's just a few blocks away. If you're coming from further neighborhoods like Merle Hay or Ingersoll Park, you can take the DART bus service, which has multiple routes connecting to East Village. The nearest major roadway is I-235, which provides convenient access by car.

East Village is pedestrian-friendly and encourages walking or biking to explore its vibrant streets. DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) buses service the area, making it easy to hop on and off at various stops. For those wishing to travel further, bike rentals are available, and several bike lanes make navigating the area safe and enjoyable. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.

East Village is generally safe for tourists, but it's always wise to remain alert. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be cautious with your belongings in crowded spaces. While most areas are safe, parts of the nearby neighborhoods may experience higher crime rates. It's advisable to stay clear of any isolated spots or areas that appear deserted after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital is UnityPoint Health - Iowa Lutheran Hospital, located just a few miles from East Village. Familiarize yourself with the location of local police stations and pharmacies for minor health issues. It's also recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical services.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking; East Village features many shops and attractions. Don't wear overly revealing clothing in public spaces. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers; don't engage in loud conversations or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile or a friendly wave. Eating & Drinking: Do try local restaurants and cafés; don’t waste food or leave a table without thanking the staff.

To experience East Village like a local, visit the farmers' market held on Saturdays and explore local boutiques and art galleries. Engage with shop owners and ask for recommendations on hidden gems. Don’t miss out on trying local dishes at popular eateries and breweries, and consider attending community events for a more immersive experience.