Užupis: The Bohemian Heart of Vilnius

• HelloLabas
  [lah-bas]
• GoodbyeViso gero
  [vee-soh geh-roh]
• YesTaip
  [taip]
• NoNe
  [neh]
• Please/You're welcomePrašau
  [prah-sau]
• Thank youAčiū
  [ah-choo]
• Excuse me/SorryAtsiprašau
  [aht-see-prah-sau]
• How are you?Kaip tau sekasi?
  [kaip tau se-kah-see]
• Fine. And you?Gerai. O tu?
  [geh-ry. oh too]
• Do you speak English?Ar kalbate anglų kalba?
  [ar kal-bah-teh ahng-loo kahl-bah]
• I don't understandAš nesuprantu
  [ahsh neh-soo-prahn-too]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNorėčiau pamatyti meniu, prašau
  [noh-reh-chiau pah-mah-ti-ti meh-nyoo, prah-sau]
• I don't eat meatAš nevalgau mėsos
  [ahsh neh-vahl-gau meh-sohs]
• Cheers!Į sveikatą!
  [ee svee-kah-tah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNorėčiau sumokėti, prašau
  [noh-reh-chiau soo-moh-keh-ti, prah-sau]

• Help!Pagalba!
  [pah-gahl-bah]
• Go away!Išeik!
  [ee-sheh-eek]
• Call the Police!Paskambinkite policijai!
  [pah-skahm-been-kee-teh poh-lee-tsee-yah-ee]
• Call a doctor!Paskambinkite gydytojui!
  [pah-skahm-been-kee-teh gih-dih-toh-yoo-ee]
• I'm lostAš pasiklydau
  [ahsh pah-seek-luh-dow]
• I'm illAš sergu
  [ahsh sehr-goo]

• I'd like to buy...Norėčiau nusipirkti...
  [noh-reh-chiau noo-see-peerk-tee]
• I'm just lookingAš tik žiūriu
  [ahsh teek zhoo-rioo]
• How much is it?Kiek tai kainuoja?
  [kyek tai kai-noo-yah]
• That's too expensiveTai per brangu
  [tai pehr brahn-goo]
• Can you lower the price?Ar galite sumažinti kainą?
  [ar gah-lee-teh soo-mah-zin-tee kai-nah]

• What time is it?Kiek laiko?
  [kyek lai-koh]
• It's one o'clockYra viena valanda
  [ee-rah vee-nah vah-lahn-dah]
• Half past (10)Dešimt pusė
  [deh-shimt pu-seh]
• MorningRytas
  [rih-tahs]
• AfternoonPopietė
  [poh-pie-teh]
• EveningVakaras
  [vah-kah-rahs]
• YesterdayVakar
  [vah-kahr]
• TodayŠiandien
  [shian-diehn]
• TomorrowRytoj
  [rih-toy]
• 1Vienas
  [vyeh-nahs]
• 2Du
  [doo]
• 3Trys
  [treese]
• 4Keturi
  [keh-too-ree]
• 5Penki
  [pehn-kee]
• 6Šeši
  [sheh-shi]
• 7Septyni
  [sehp-tee-nee]
• 8Aštuoni
  [ahs-too-oh-nee]
• 9Devyni
  [deh-vee-nee]
• 10Dešimt
  [deh-shimt]

• Where's a/the...?Kur yra...?
  [koor ira]
• What's the address?Koks adresas?
  [kohks ah-dreh-sahs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ar galite man parodyti (žemėlapyje)?
  [ar gah-lee-teh mahn pah-roh-dee-tee zhe-meh-lah-pi-yeh]
• When's the next (bus)?Kada kitas (autobusas)?
  [kah-dah kee-tahs ow-toh-boo-sahs]
• A ticket (to ....)Bilietas (į ....)
  [bee-lyeh-tahs (ee)]

Užupis, which translates to 'beyond the river,' is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Vilnius, with its origins dating back to the 16th century. Initially, it served as an industrial area inhabited by craftsmen and workers who were attracted by the nearby Vilnia River. As the city expanded, Užupis developed its unique character, becoming a melting pot of different cultures and communities.

In the late 20th century, particularly after Lithuania regained independence in 1990, Užupis transformed into a vibrant artistic hub. Artists and intellectuals began to settle in the area, drawn by its bohemian atmosphere. This led to the foundation of the Užupis Arts Incubator in 2000, which fostered creativity and collaboration among local artists, further establishing the neighborhood's reputation as a center for art and culture.

On April 1, 1997, Užupis declared itself an independent republic, complete with its own constitution and president. This playful yet serious declaration was a reflection of the area's spirit and community-driven identity. The Užupis Constitution, which humorously outlines the rights and responsibilities of its citizens, has become a tourist attraction and symbolizes the neighborhood's dedication to artistic freedom and individuality.

Užupis hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its artistic heritage. One of the most notable is the Užupis Day, celebrated on April 1st, which includes parades, art exhibitions, and performances. This annual event draws locals and tourists alike, showcasing the neighborhood's lively community spirit and commitment to the arts.

The architecture of Užupis reflects its eclectic history, featuring a mix of styles from different periods, including medieval, Baroque, and modernist influences. The neighborhood is characterized by its narrow streets, charming wooden houses, and vibrant street art, which contribute to its unique ambiance. Significant landmarks include the Užupis Angel statue and the Church of St. Bartholomew, both of which are integral to the area's cultural landscape.

Užupis is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Vilnius. From the Old Town, you can walk across the Vilnia River via the Užupio Bridge, which takes about 15 minutes. Public transportation options include buses 1, 2, and 88, which connect Užupis with other parts of the city. Taxis and rideshares like Bolt are also readily available throughout Vilnius.

Užupis is a walkable neighborhood, with many attractions located within close proximity. Public transport includes buses and trolleybuses that connect to other areas of Vilnius. Bicycles can be rented from various providers, and the paths along the river are ideal for cycling. For a more localized experience, consider exploring on foot to fully appreciate the art and atmosphere.

Užupis is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, like any urban area, it’s important to remain vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be cautious of your belongings in crowded spots. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, particularly around busy tourist sites. It's advisable to stay away from areas that may seem deserted after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance in Lithuania. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital, which is Vilnius University Hospital. Pharmacies are widely available, and many are open late. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing for walking, but avoid overly casual attire in restaurants. Don't wear beachwear outside of designated areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and the art displayed throughout Užupis. Public Transport: Do use your ticket when traveling. Don't engage in loud conversations on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Labas' (Hello). Eating & Drinking: Do try local cafes and street food. Don't eat while walking, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Užupis like a local, take time to explore the street art and murals that define its character. Visit the Užupis Art Incubator for exhibitions and events. Interact with local artists in the many galleries and studios, and don't miss the local Sunday market for fresh produce and crafts. Attend the Užupis Constitution Day celebrations on April 1st for a unique cultural experience.