Mount Desert Island: Nature's Majestic Retreat in Maine

• HelloAyuh
  [ah-yuh]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
• YesYup
  [yup]
• NoNaw
  [naw]
• Please/You're welcomeSure thing
  [shore thing]
• Thank youMuch obliged
  [muhch uh-blahy-d]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [pahr-dn mee]
• How are you?How's it goin'?
  [hows it goin]
• Fine. And you?Not too shabby. You?
  [naht too shab-bee. yoo]
• Do you speak English?You talk English?
  [yoo tawk ing-glish]
• I don't understandI'm boggled
  [ahym bah-guhld]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I take a gander at the menu?
  [kan eye teyk uh gan-der at the menu]
• I don't eat meatNo meat for me
  [noh meet fohr mee]
• Cheers!Here's to ya!
  [heerz too yah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up?
  [kan eye set-l uhp]

• Help!SOS!
  [S-O-S]
• Go away!Scram!
  [skram]
• Call the Police!Get the law!
  [get thuh law]
• Call a doctor!Summon a healer!
  [suhm-uhn uh hee-ler]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [ahym turnd uh-round]
• I'm illI'm under the weather
  [ahym uhn-der thuh weh-thur]

• I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to nab...
  [ahym look-in to nab]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just brow-sin]
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats thuh dam-ij]
• That's too expensiveThat's a rip-off
  [thats uh rip-awf]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya knock a few bucks off?
  [kan yuh nok uh fyoo buhks awf]

• What time is it?What's the time o' day?
  [whats thuh taym oh day]
• It's one o'clockIt's time for tea
  [its taym fohr tee]
• Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-tee]
• MorningMornin'
  [morn-in]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [ee-ven-in]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
• TodayToday
  [toh-day]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [tom-or-uh]
• 1One
  [wuhn]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [fawr]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
• 8Eight
  [eyt]
• 9Nine
  [nahyn]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [wheres thuh]
• What's the address?Where's it to?
  [wheres it too]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [kan yuh point it owt (on thuh map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next one (bus)?
  [whens thuh nekst wuhn (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [uh pas (to)]

Mount Desert Island, known to the indigenous Wabanaki people as 'Pemetic,' meaning 'range of mountains,' has been inhabited for thousands of years. The Wabanaki used the island's rich natural resources for fishing, hunting, and gathering, establishing a deep connection with the land that continues to this day.

In 1604, French explorer Samuel de Champlain was the first European to document Mount Desert Island, naming it 'Isle des Monts Déserts,' or 'Island of Bare Mountains,' due to its treeless mountain summits. French Jesuits attempted to establish a mission in 1613, but it was destroyed by an English raid led by Captain Samuel Argall.

During the colonial period, Mount Desert Island was a contested territory between the French and English. In the aftermath of the French and Indian War, the island came under British control. It wasn't until after the American Revolution that settlers, primarily of English and Scottish descent, began to permanently inhabit the island, establishing small farming and fishing communities.

By the late 19th century, Mount Desert Island became a popular summer retreat for America's elite, including the Rockefellers, Morgans, and Vanderbilts. The 'Rusticators,' as they were called, built grand summer cottages and established the island as a premier vacation destination. This era saw the construction of many of the island's grand homes and the establishment of its tourism industry.

In 1916, the efforts of philanthropists like John D. Rockefeller Jr. led to the creation of Sieur de Monts National Monument, which later became Acadia National Park. Rockefeller's contributions included the construction of an extensive network of carriage roads, which are still enjoyed by visitors today. Acadia National Park protects the island's natural beauty and offers a wide range of recreational activities.

Bar Harbor, originally a quiet fishing and shipbuilding village, transformed into a bustling tourist hub due to its proximity to Acadia National Park. By the early 20th century, it was renowned for its luxury hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Despite a devastating fire in 1947 that destroyed much of the town, Bar Harbor rebounded and remains a key destination on Mount Desert Island.

Mount Desert Island is known for its commitment to cultural and natural preservation. The island is home to several museums, including the Abbe Museum, which focuses on the history and culture of the Wabanaki people. Efforts to preserve the island's natural landscapes and wildlife continue through organizations like Friends of Acadia, ensuring that the island's unique heritage is protected for future generations.

Mount Desert Island is located off the coast of Maine and is accessible by car, bus, and plane. The nearest major airport is Bangor International Airport, about 50 miles away. From Bangor, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to the island. There is also the Bar Harbor Airport on the island, which offers limited regional flights. If driving, you can reach the island via Route 3, which connects to the mainland through a bridge.

Once on Mount Desert Island, you can explore using various modes of transportation. The Island Explorer bus system provides free seasonal service to many of the island’s key destinations, including Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor. Renting a car is a convenient option for flexibility. Cycling is popular, especially on the carriage roads within Acadia National Park. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available but may be limited in some areas.

The United States Dollar (USD) is the official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available in Bar Harbor and other larger towns on the island. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and for tips.

Mount Desert Island is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious when walking alone at night in less populated areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is Mount Desert Island Hospital in Bar Harbor, which provides emergency services. It is also recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Bar Harbor and other major towns for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the island. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially if visiting any religious sites. Public Transport: Do take advantage of the Island Explorer bus system for convenient and eco-friendly travel. Don't rely solely on public transport outside of the summer season, as services are limited. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood delicacies such as lobster and clams. Don't forget to tip your server, typically 15-20%.

To experience Mount Desert Island like a local, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall when the island is less crowded but still beautiful. Explore the lesser-known trails and carriage roads in Acadia National Park. Visit local farmers' markets for fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with locals in Bar Harbor and other towns—they are often friendly and more than willing to share insider tips and recommendations.