Westport: Kansas City's Historic and Hip Heartbeat

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no problem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?Howdy
  [haw-dee]
• Fine. And you?Doing good. You?
  [doin good. yoo?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [i ent get-tin it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [let me see the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [i don't do meat]
• Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bot-tums up!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up, please
  [i'll settle up, please]

• Help!SOS!
  [SOS!]
• Go away!Git!
  [git!]
• Call the Police!Get the Law!
  [get the law!]
• Call a doctor!Get the doc!
  [get the doc!]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [i'm turned around]
• I'm illI'm under the weather
  [i'm under the weather]

• I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to buy...
  [i'm fixin to buy...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [i'm just browsin']
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats the dam-age?]
• That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [that's a bit steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya cut me a deal?
  [can ya cut me a deal?]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
• Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-tee]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yess-t-day]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [tomor-ra]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [eight]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

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

Westport, established in the early 1830s, was initially a trading post and a gateway for settlers heading west along the Santa Fe Trail. Its strategic location along the Missouri River made it a vital hub for commerce, connecting various trade routes that contributed to the economic growth of the region, including nearby Kansas City.

During the American Civil War, Westport played a crucial role as a staging ground for Union troops. The town was the site of the Battle of Westport in 1864, which was one of the largest battles fought in the region. This conflict was significant in determining control over Missouri and Kansas, impacting the broader war efforts.

Westport developed into a vibrant cultural enclave by the late 19th century, attracting a diverse population of immigrants. This eclectic mix contributed to the area's rich cultural fabric, encompassing various artistic expressions, music, and cuisine, which continue to resonate in the local community today.

The 1920s brought about the Prohibition era, which transformed Westport into a hotspot for speakeasies and underground bars. The neighborhood was known for its lively nightlife, drawing in patrons from Kansas City and beyond. This period also saw an influx of organized crime, as gangsters sought to capitalize on the lucrative illegal alcohol trade.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Westport underwent significant revitalization efforts, transforming its historic buildings into modern businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The neighborhood now serves as a cultural hub, hosting festivals, art shows, and live music events, while maintaining its historical charm and community spirit.

Westport in Kansas City, Kansas, is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in the city. If you're coming from downtown Kansas City, the best route is via the I-70 or I-35 highways, which provide direct access. Public transport options include the Metro bus service that runs routes connecting downtown to Westport. The nearest airport is Kansas City International Airport (MCI), approximately 25 minutes away by car or shuttle.

Westport is a compact neighborhood that is best explored on foot. The local bus service, operated by the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), offers routes that connect Westport to other areas. Bicycles are a popular mode of transport, and bike rentals are available at various locations. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily accessible throughout the area.

Westport is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it has neighborhoods with higher crime rates. Areas to be cautious in include certain parts of the nearby Kansas City, Missouri side. It is advisable to avoid walking alone late at night and to stay in well-lit areas. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

In case of emergencies, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is the University of Kansas Hospital, which is equipped for various medical emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical issues. For non-emergency situations, local pharmacies provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but respectfully, especially for dining in upscale restaurants. Don't wear excessively casual attire like pajamas. Religion: Do respect local customs when visiting places of worship. Don’t engage in loud conversations in sacred spaces. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to those in need. Don’t eat or drink on buses. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly smile and a handshake. Don’t ignore local customs of politeness. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and drink options. Don’t waste food or refuse hospitality.

To experience Westport like a local, visit the farmers' markets and local shops to discover fresh produce and artisanal goods. Explore the vibrant nightlife and local music scene by visiting bars and music venues. Engage with local residents, as they often have insights into the best eateries and hidden gems. Don't miss the historic Westport area, famous for its rich history and unique architecture, and take advantage of local festivals and events when available.