Baton Rouge: The Heartbeat of Louisiana

• HelloHowdy
  [haʊ-di]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [siː jə]
• YesYeah
  [jæ]
• NoNah
  [nɑː]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [pliːz/jʊər ˈwɛl·kəm]
• Thank youThank ya
  [θæŋk jə]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [ˈpɑː·dən mi]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [haʊ jɔːl ˈdu·ɪn]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And y'all?
  [faɪn. ænd jɔːl]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [jə spiːk ˈɪŋ·ɡlɪʃ]
• I don't understandI don't get ya
  [aɪ doʊnt ɡɛt jə]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI wanna check the menu, please
  [aɪ ˈwɑn·ə ʧɛk ðə ˈmɛn·juː pliːz]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat no meat
  [aɪ doʊnt it noʊ mit]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [ʧɪrz]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI wanna settle up, please
  [aɪ ˈwɑn·ə ˈsɛt·əl ʌp pliːz]

• Help!Help!
  [hɛlp]
• Go away!Get outta here!
  [ɡɛt aʊtə hɪr]
• Call the Police!Ring the Po Po!
  [rɪŋ ðə poʊ poʊ]
• Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [kɔl ə dɑk]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [aɪm tɜrnd əˈraʊnd]
• I'm illI'm feelin' sick
  [aɪm ˈfilɪn sɪk]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [aɪ ˈwɑn·ə baɪ]
• I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [aɪm ʤəst ˈbraʊz·ɪn]
• How much is it?How much?
  [haʊ mʌʧ]
• That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [ðæts tuː ˈpraɪ·si]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya come down on the price?
  [kæn jə kʌm daʊn ɑn ðə praɪs]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [wɑts ðə taɪm]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [ɪts wʌn]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [hæf pæst (tɛn)]
• MorningMornin'
  [ˈmɔrnɪn]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftɜrˈnun]
• EveningEvenin'
  [ˈivənɪn]
• YesterdayYestuhday
  [ˈjɛstədeɪ]
• TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [təˈmɑrə]
• 1One
  [wʌn]
• 2Two
  [tuː]
• 3Three
  [θriː]
• 4Four
  [fɔr]
• 5Five
  [faɪv]
• 6Six
  [sɪks]
• 7Seven
  [ˈsɛvən]
• 8Eight
  [eɪt]
• 9Nine
  [naɪn]
• 10Ten
  [tɛn]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wɛrz ðə]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [wɑts ðə ˈædi]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [kæn jə ʃoʊ mi (ɔn ðə mæp)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [wɛnz ðə nɛkst (bʌs)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [eɪ ˈtɪk·ɪt (tu ...)]

Before European colonization, the Baton Rouge area was inhabited by native tribes, including the Houma, Bayagoula, and Chitimacha. These early settlers established thriving communities along the Mississippi River, living off the land and engaging in trade and cultural exchange.

Baton Rouge was officially founded in 1699 by French explorer Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville. The name 'Baton Rouge' translates to 'Red Stick' in French, inspired by a red cypress pole that marked the boundary between two tribal hunting grounds. This area quickly became a strategic point for the French, Spanish, and later the British.

In 1763, following the Treaty of Paris, Baton Rouge came under Spanish control. The Spanish period saw the establishment of a military post and the construction of Fort San Carlos. These developments laid the groundwork for the city's future growth and architectural heritage.

In 1803, the Louisiana Purchase transferred control of Baton Rouge from France to the United States. This monumental event marked the beginning of significant American influence in the region, fostering economic growth and attracting settlers from various backgrounds.

During the Civil War, Baton Rouge was a strategic location due to its position on the Mississippi River. The city changed hands multiple times between Union and Confederate forces. Post-war, Baton Rouge underwent Reconstruction, which brought about significant social and economic changes.

In 1846, Baton Rouge was designated as the capital of Louisiana, replacing New Orleans. The Old State Capitol, completed in 1852, is a Gothic Revival architectural masterpiece that symbolizes this pivotal moment in the city’s history.

The 20th century saw Baton Rouge transform into an industrial hub, particularly with the growth of the petrochemical industry. Companies like ExxonMobil established major refineries, contributing to economic prosperity and population growth.

Baton Rouge played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement. In 1953, the city was the site of the first successful bus boycott, which served as a model for the later Montgomery Bus Boycott. This period highlighted Baton Rouge’s contribution to the fight for racial equality.

Today, Baton Rouge is celebrated for its rich cultural tapestry, blending French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences. The city hosts numerous festivals, such as the Baton Rouge Blues Festival and the Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival, showcasing its diverse heritage.

Baton Rouge is serviced by Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR), which has direct flights from major U.S. cities like Dallas, Atlanta, and Houston. Alternatively, you can fly into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) and drive about 90 minutes west to reach Baton Rouge. For those preferring rail travel, Amtrak offers services to Baton Rouge via the City of New Orleans route. Interstate highways I-10 and I-12 also make it easily accessible by car.

Public transportation in Baton Rouge is managed by the Capital Area Transit System (CATS), providing bus services across the city. However, the most convenient way to explore Baton Rouge is by renting a car, as many attractions are spread out. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. Biking is another option, with bike rentals and dedicated bike lanes in some areas.

The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are plentiful, particularly in downtown and shopping areas. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and tips.

Baton Rouge is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it has areas that are best avoided, especially after dark. Neighborhoods such as North Baton Rouge and parts of Gardere have higher crime rates. Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep your valuables secure and avoid flashing expensive items.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Baton Rouge has several hospitals, including Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center and Baton Rouge General Medical Center. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. Make sure to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, especially in the hot and humid summer months. Don't wear overly revealing clothing if visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Don't interrupt or be disruptive during religious ceremonies. Public Transport: Do be polite and patient when using public transport. Don't eat or drink on buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'Hello.' Handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine, including dishes like gumbo and jambalaya. Don't refuse food if offered by locals, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Baton Rouge like a local, visit the Red Stick Farmers Market for fresh produce and local goods. Explore the city's live music scene, particularly blues and jazz. Take a stroll along the Mississippi River at the levee or visit the LSU Rural Life Museum to understand the region's history. Don't miss out on a game day at LSU's Tiger Stadium if you're visiting during football season.