Camden: The Jewel of Mid-Coast Maine

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see yah lay-tah]
• YesYup
  [yuhp]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease and thank you
  [pleez and thank yew]
• Thank youMuch obliged
  [muhch uh-blahy-jed]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [pahr-dn mee]
• How are you?How's it goin'?
  [hows it go-in]
• Fine. And you?Just dandy. You?
  [just dan-dee. yew?]
• Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yawl speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [ai-nt catch-in on]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMind if I take a gander at the menu?
  [mahynd if ai teyk uh gan-der at the men-yoo?]
• I don't eat meatI steer clear of meat
  [ai steer kleer uhv meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI reckon it's time to settle up
  [ai rek-uhn its tyme tuh set-l up]

• Help!I need a hand!
  [ai need uh hand]
• Go away!Scram!
  [skram]
• Call the Police!Ring up the fuzz!
  [ring up the fuhz]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc on the line!
  [get uh dok on the lin]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [aim turnd uh-round]
• I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [aim feel-in poor-lee]

• I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to purchase...
  [aim look-in tuh pur-chus]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just brow-zin]
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats the dam-ij]
• That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [thats uh bit steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can you do any better on the price?
  [can yew doh any bet-er on the prahys]

• What time is it?What's the hour?
  [whats the our]
• It's one o'clockIt's one on the dot
  [its wun on the daht]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [haff past ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [morn-in]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [even-in]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yes-t-day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowMorrow
  [mor-row]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [for]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
• 8Eight
  [ayt]
• 9Nine
  [nin]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [wheres the]
• What's the address?What's the street?
  [whats the street]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out (on the map)?
  [can yew point it out on the map]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus) comin'?
  [whens the next bus com-in]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a tik-it (to)]

Long before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Camden was inhabited by the Penobscot tribe, part of the Wabanaki Confederacy. The Penobscot people thrived in this region, taking advantage of its rich natural resources, from the abundant forests to the bountiful waters of Penobscot Bay.

The first European settlers arrived in Camden in the mid-18th century. Originally part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, the area was a strategic location due to its deep harbor and lush forests. The town was officially incorporated in 1791 and named Camden after Charles Pratt, 1st Earl Camden, a British supporter of the American colonists' cause.

Throughout the 19th century, Camden developed a robust maritime industry. Shipbuilding became a prominent trade, with the bustling harbor filled with schooners and other vessels. The town's shipyards produced many of the ships that sailed the Atlantic, contributing significantly to the town's wealth and growth.

One of the most pivotal events in Camden's history was the Great Fire of 1892. On November 10th, a devastating fire broke out, destroying many of the town's wooden buildings. Despite the loss, the community quickly rallied to rebuild, and many of the structures erected in the aftermath still stand today, showcasing the resilience and determination of the residents.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Camden saw a shift from its maritime roots to a more diverse industrial base. Textile mills, quarries, and other manufacturing industries began to thrive. This industrial transformation brought increased employment opportunities and contributed to the town's economic diversification.

By the early 20th century, Camden had become a haven for artists, writers, and other creatives. The town's natural beauty and serene environment attracted notable figures such as Edna St. Vincent Millay, who spent her formative years in Camden. This influx of creative talent enriched the cultural fabric of the community.

Today, Camden is a picturesque town that seamlessly blends its rich history with a vibrant tourism industry. The town is a popular destination for visitors seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and historical insights. Landmarks like the Camden Opera House and the High Street Historic District offer glimpses into the town's storied past while showcasing its ongoing cultural vitality.

Camden, Maine is located on the Mid-Coast region of the United States. The nearest major airport is Portland International Jetport (PWM), approximately 84 miles away. From Portland, you can rent a car or take a bus to Camden. Another option is Bangor International Airport (BGR), which is about 60 miles from Camden. If you're coming from Boston, you can drive (about a 3.5-hour trip) or take a bus service like Concord Coach Lines.

Camden is a small town, so many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, renting a car is advisable. Local taxi services are also available, but they may need to be booked in advance. During the summer, you can also take advantage of the Camden Trolley, which provides convenient transportation around town and to nearby attractions. Biking is another popular mode of transportation, and bike rentals are available.

The official currency in Camden, like the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Camden.

Camden is generally a very safe destination for tourists. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Walking around at night is generally safe, but it's always best to stay in well-lit and populated areas.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The town has a local police station and a nearby hospital, Pen Bay Medical Center, which is about a 10-minute drive away in Rockport. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in Camden where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual and comfortable clothing is generally appropriate. Avoid overly formal attire unless attending a specific event. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Camden is home to several churches, and modest attire is appreciated when visiting these sites. Public Transport: Public transport options are limited. Do use the Camden Trolley when available. Don't expect extensive public transportation networks like in larger cities. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' Handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood delicacies like lobster and clam chowder. Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals.

To experience Camden like a local, visit the Camden Farmers' Market for fresh produce and handmade goods. Take a stroll along the Camden Harbor and enjoy the scenic views. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share tips about the best places to visit and eat. Don't miss a hike up Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park for a panoramic view of Camden and Penobscot Bay. For a unique experience, take a sail on one of the historic schooners based in Camden Harbor.