Assateague Island National Seashore: A Coastal Wonderland

• HelloHowdy
  [HOU-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [SEE yuh]
• YesYup
  [YUHP]
• NoNah
  [NAH]
• Please/You're welcomePlease and thank ya
  [PLEEZ and THANGK yuh]
• Thank youMuch obliged
  [MUHCH uh-BLAHYJD]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [PAHR-dn me]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [HOU y'all DOO-in]
• Fine. And you?Jus' fine. How 'bout y'all?
  [JUHS fine. HOU 'bout y'all]
• Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [Y'all speak ING-glish]
• I don't understandI reckon I don't git it
  [I REK-uhn I don't GIT it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan ya show me the grub list?
  [KAN yuh SHOW mee thuh GRUB list]
• I don't eat meatI don't fancy meat
  [I don't FAN-see meat]
• Cheers!Sip sip!
  [SIP SIP]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up now, thank ya
  [I'll SET-ul up now, THANGK yuh]

• Help!SOS!
  [ESS-OH-ESS]
• Go away!Git!
  [GIT]
• Call the Police!Ring up the Law!
  [Ring up thuh LAW]
• Call a doctor!Holler for the Doc!
  [HOL-er for thuh DOK]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm TURNED uh-RAO-nd]
• I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [I'm FEEL-in POOR-lee]

• I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to buy...
  [I'm FIX-in to buy]
• I'm just lookingI'm jest browsin'
  [I'm JEST BROW-zin]
• How much is it?How much does it run ya?
  [HOU much DUZ it RUN yuh]
• That's too expensiveThat's a mite pricey
  [That's uh MYT PRY-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya knock it down a bit?
  [KAN yuh NOK it down uh bit]

• What time is it?What's the hour?
  [WUTS thuh AWR]
• It's one o'clockIt's one of the clock
  [It's one of thuh CLOCK]
• Half past (10)Halfway to (10)
  [Halfway to (10)]
• MorningMornin'
  [MORN-in]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [EVE-nin]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [YEST-day]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowMorrow
  [Morrow]
• 1One
  [Wun]
• 2Two
  [Too]
• 3Three
  [Three]
• 4Four
  [Four]
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  [Five]
• 6Six
  [Six]
• 7Seven
  [Seven]
• 8Eight
  [Eight]
• 9Nine
  [Nine]
• 10Ten
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [Where's thuh]
• What's the address?What's the house number?
  [What's thuh house NUM-bur]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [Can yuh POINT it out (on thuh map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus) comin'?
  [When's thuh next (bus) COM-in]
• A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [A pass (to ....)]

Long before European settlers arrived, Assateague Island was frequented by Native American tribes, including the Assateague and Pocomoke peoples. They utilized the island for fishing, hunting, and gathering. Artifacts such as pottery shards and arrowheads have been found, indicating a rich cultural history dating back thousands of years.

European explorers first documented Assateague Island in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. English settlers, including Captain John Smith, made note of the island in their explorations of the Chesapeake Bay region. Early maps from this period mark Assateague as a notable landmark along the Atlantic coast.

During the colonial era, Assateague Island became known for its treacherous waters and numerous shipwrecks. The island's shifting sands and hidden shoals claimed many vessels, leading to the construction of multiple life-saving stations in the 19th century. These stations played a crucial role in rescuing shipwrecked sailors and passengers.

One of the most famous aspects of Assateague Island is its population of wild horses, also known as the Chincoteague ponies. Legend has it that these horses are descendants of survivors from a Spanish galleon shipwrecked off the coast in the 17th century. Genetic studies suggest they may have also been brought by colonial settlers. These horses have become iconic symbols of the island.

Built in 1833, the Assateague Lighthouse stands as a testament to the island's maritime history. The lighthouse was constructed to help guide ships safely past the dangerous shoals that line the coast. It has been restored multiple times and remains an important historical landmark, offering panoramic views of the island and surrounding waters.

In 1965, Assateague Island was designated as a National Seashore to protect its unique environment and cultural heritage. This federal designation helped preserve the island's natural beauty and wildlife, including its famous wild horses, while providing recreational opportunities for visitors. The creation of the National Seashore marked a significant turning point in the conservation of the island.

Assateague Island is home to a variety of cultural festivals and traditions that celebrate its rich history and natural beauty. The annual Chincoteague Pony Swim and Auction, held each July, draws thousands of visitors who come to witness the wild horses swim across the channel from Assateague to Chincoteague Island. This event is steeped in tradition and has been celebrated for nearly a century.

Assateague Island National Seashore is located on the Atlantic coast of Maryland and Virginia. The nearest major airport is Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), approximately 2.5 hours away by car. From the airport, you can rent a car and drive to Assateague Island via US-50 E and MD-611 S. Alternatively, you can take a bus or train to Ocean City, Maryland, and then a short taxi ride to the island.

Assateague Island is best explored by car, as public transportation options are limited. On the island, you can use bicycles, which are available for rent, to navigate the trails and beach areas. There is also a shuttle service that runs during the peak season, connecting key points of interest. Keep in mind that parking can be limited, especially during the summer months, so plan accordingly.

The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted at visitor centers, campgrounds, and nearby restaurants. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in case of technical issues with card payments. ATMs are available in nearby towns such as Berlin and Ocean City.

Assateague Island is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, due to its natural environment, visitors should be cautious of wildlife, particularly the wild horses that roam the island. Do not approach or feed the horses, as they can be unpredictable. Also, be mindful of tides and weather conditions when swimming or engaging in water activities. There are no high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant and secure your belongings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital is Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin, Maryland, approximately 20 minutes away by car. Visitor centers on the island have first aid services and park rangers are available to assist with minor injuries or issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, and bring layers as the weather can change quickly. Avoid wearing high heels or dress shoes as the terrain can be sandy and uneven. Religion: Assateague Island does not have specific religious customs to observe, but always be respectful of others' beliefs. Public Transport: Do use the shuttle service during peak season for convenience. Don't rely solely on public transport, as it is limited. Greetings: Do greet fellow visitors and locals with a friendly 'hello' or wave. Eating & Drinking: Do pack a picnic and enjoy meals at designated areas. Don't leave trash behind; always use the provided bins.

To experience Assateague Island like a local, visit the island early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serene beauty. Engage with park rangers and attend interpretive programs to learn about the island's ecosystem and history. Don't miss the opportunity to kayak, paddleboard, or take a guided nature tour for a more immersive experience. Always be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring plenty of water and sunscreen.