The Enchanting Old Port of Portland, Maine

• HelloAhoy
  [ah-oy]
• GoodbyeSo long
  [so long]
• YesYup
  [yup]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Please/You're welcome]
• Thank youMuch obliged
  [much uh-blahy-d]
• Excuse me/SorryBeg your pardon
  [beg yoor pahr-dn]
• How are you?How's it hangin'?
  [hows it hanguhn]
• Fine. And you?Doin' alright. You?
  [doin alright. yoo]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI ain't got a clue
  [I aint got uh kloo]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'll take a gander at the card, if ya please
  [ill take uh gan-duhr at the kahrd, if ya please]
• I don't eat meatI don't go for the meat
  [I dont go for the meet]
• Cheers!Skoal!
  [skohl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up, if ya please
  [ill set-l up, if ya please]

• Help!SOS!
  [S-O-S]
• Go away!Scram!
  [skram]
• Call the Police!Ring up the 5-0!
  [ring up the fahyv-oh]
• Call a doctor!Fetch a sawbones!
  [fetch uh saw-bohns]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [im turnd uh-round]
• I'm illI'm under the weather
  [im under the we-thur]

• I'd like to buy...I'm in the market for...
  [im in the mahr-kit for]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [jusst brau-zing]
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats the dam-ij]
• That's too expensiveThat's a steep price
  [thats uh steep prahys]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya knock a bit off?
  [can yuh nok uh bit off]

• What time is it?What's the hour?
  [whats the our]
• It's one o'clockIt's one bell
  [its one bel]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowMorrow
  [morrow]
• 1One
  [wuhn]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [for]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
• 8Eight
  [ayt]
• 9Nine
  [nahyn]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [wheres the]
• What's the address?Where's it located?
  [wheres it loh-key-ted]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the chart)?
  [can ya point it out (on the chart)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

Old Port's history begins in the early 17th century when it was established as a bustling maritime hub. Originally called Falmouth, the area transformed into a vital port for trade and fishing, aiding in the economic growth of Portland. The waterfront location provided easy access for ships and merchants, facilitating commerce with Europe and the Caribbean.

A pivotal event in Old Port's history was the Great Fire of 1866, which devastated much of the area. The fire destroyed over 1,500 buildings, significantly altering the landscape. However, this disaster led to a period of reconstruction and revitalization, with new brick buildings replacing the wooden structures and enhancing the architectural integrity of the neighborhood.

By the late 19th century, Old Port became a center for shipbuilding and a hub for various industries, including fishing and textile manufacturing. The wharves were filled with ships, and the streets buzzed with the activity of merchants and workers. This industrial boom solidified Portland's status as a key player in the New England economy.

Following World War II, the shipping industry declined, leading to a downturn in Old Port's economy. Many buildings fell into disrepair, and the area became less vibrant. However, in the 1970s, a concerted effort to revitalize the neighborhood began, focusing on preserving its historical character while encouraging tourism, dining, and retail.

Today, Old Port is a thriving cultural district, known for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant arts scene. The neighborhood hosts numerous galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, showcasing Portland's culinary scene. Events such as the Old Port Festival celebrate local culture and draw visitors, contributing to the ongoing legacy of this historic area.

Old Port is conveniently located in the heart of Portland, Maine, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. From the East End, you can walk or take a short taxi ride. If you're coming from the West End, consider the local bus service, which connects several neighborhoods. The Portland International Jetport is about a 15-minute drive away, and taxis or rideshare services are readily available to take you directly to Old Port.

Old Port is a pedestrian-friendly area, and many attractions are within walking distance. While walking is the best way to explore, you can also rent bicycles at various local shops. The METRO bus system offers public transportation throughout Portland, and there is a ferry service to nearby islands. Taxis and ridesharing services are also available for quicker transport.

Old Port is generally safe, but like any urban area, it’s wise to stay cautious, especially at night. Avoid wandering alone in dimly lit areas, particularly near waterfronts after dark. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist spots. Stay vigilant and keep your belongings secure.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police and emergency medical services are responsive. For non-emergency medical issues, the Maine Medical Center is nearby. Always carry a local map or have a mobile device handy to navigate to emergency services quickly.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably for walking, and don't wear overly casual beach attire while dining in restaurants. Religion: Do visit local churches respectfully, and don't disturb services or ceremonies. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for those in need, and don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do smile and make eye contact when greeting locals, and don't be overly formal. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local seafood and craft beers, and don't bring outside food or drinks into restaurants.

To experience Old Port like a local, visit the waterfront for fresh lobster rolls at food trucks or dine at small eateries tucked away from the main streets. Explore the cobblestone streets for unique shops and galleries. Engage with local artisans and ask about their crafts. Don’t miss the chance to take a sunset cruise for stunning views of the harbor.