Columbia: The Heart of Maryland's Charm

• HelloHola
  [OH-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
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• YesSí
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• NoNo
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• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
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• Thank youGracias
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• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
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• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
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• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
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• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
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• I don't understandNo entiendo
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• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
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• I don't eat meatNo como carne
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• Cheers!¡Salud!
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• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
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• Help!¡Ayuda!
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• Go away!¡Vete!
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• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
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• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
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• I'm lostEstoy perdido
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• I'm illEstoy enfermo
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• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
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• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
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• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
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• That's too expensiveEso es muy caro
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• Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
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• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
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• It's one o'clockEs la una
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• Half past (10)Media (10)
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• MorningMañana
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• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está el/la...?
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• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
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• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
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• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (para ....)
  [oon boh-LEH-toh (PAH-rah)]

Columbia, Maryland was the brainchild of developer James Rouse, who envisioned a planned community that would foster racial, economic, and social diversity. Rouse's vision materialized in the 1960s, marking a departure from the typical suburb model. Columbia was designed to be a city in which families of diverse backgrounds could live, work, and play together, setting a new standard for inclusive urban planning.

On June 21, 1967, Columbia officially opened, welcoming its first residents. The celebration was marked by the opening of the Wilde Lake Village Center, the first of many village centers that would serve as the commercial and social hubs of Columbia's ten villages. This event set the stage for Columbia's growth and development, emphasizing community-oriented living.

The Columbia Association (CA) was established in 1967 to manage and maintain the community’s recreational, cultural, and community facilities. The CA plays a pivotal role in the lives of Columbia’s residents, overseeing a wide range of amenities, including parks, pools, and fitness centers, and enhancing the quality of life in Columbia.

James Rouse's village concept was central to Columbia's design. The city comprises ten self-contained villages, each with its own village center, schools, and community amenities. This structure promotes a strong sense of community and ensures that residents have access to essential services within walking distance. The village concept has been instrumental in maintaining Columbia's unique character and fostering close-knit neighborhoods.

One of Columbia's cultural landmarks is the Merriweather Post Pavilion, an outdoor concert venue located in Symphony Woods. Opened in 1967, it has hosted an array of legendary performers, including Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and The Grateful Dead. The pavilion continues to be a vibrant cultural hub, attracting music lovers from across the region and contributing to Columbia’s rich cultural tapestry.

Columbia was designed with a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship, featuring extensive green spaces, parks, and pathways. The city’s comprehensive network of trails and parks, including the scenic Lake Kittamaqundi and Wilde Lake, encourages outdoor activities and preserves the natural beauty of the area. This commitment to green spaces is a testament to Columbia’s founding principles of sustainable and harmonious living.

From its inception, Columbia was a progressive community aimed at promoting racial integration and equality. During the civil rights movement, Columbia stood as a model for inclusive development, offering housing opportunities to people of all races and backgrounds. This commitment to diversity has been a cornerstone of Columbia’s identity, influencing its growth and community dynamics over the years.

The Columbia Gateway Business Park, established in the 1980s, has played a significant role in the city’s economic development. Hosting a variety of businesses and tech companies, the business park has created numerous job opportunities and contributed to Columbia’s reputation as a thriving economic center. This development aligns with James Rouse’s original vision of a self-sustaining community where residents could both live and work.

Downtown Columbia has undergone significant transformation over the decades. Originally designed to be the commercial and social heart of the city, it has expanded to include the Mall in Columbia, office buildings, and residential spaces. Recent redevelopment efforts aim to further enhance Downtown Columbia, making it a vibrant urban center with a mix of retail, dining, entertainment, and residential options, while maintaining its original community-focused ethos.

Columbia, Maryland is conveniently located between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. The nearest major airports are Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), approximately 15 miles away, and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), about 35 miles away. From BWI, you can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or rental car to reach Columbia. Amtrak trains and MARC commuter trains also serve the area, with stops at BWI and nearby cities like Baltimore. Major highways including I-95, Route 29, and Route 32 provide easy access by car.

Columbia is a well-planned community with a variety of transportation options. The Regional Transportation Agency of Central Maryland (RTA) operates bus routes within Columbia and to surrounding areas. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. Renting a bicycle is also a popular way to get around, as Columbia has an extensive network of bike paths. For travel to nearby cities, renting a car is a convenient option, with several rental agencies in the area.

The currency used in Columbia, Maryland, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are plentiful, and many banks are located throughout Columbia. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or tips, especially in smaller establishments.

Columbia is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Areas like Oakland Mills and Long Reach have higher crime rates compared to other neighborhoods, so exercise extra caution when visiting these areas. Always stay aware of your surroundings and follow local advice.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Columbia has several medical facilities, including Howard County General Hospital, which offers emergency services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies and urgent care centers throughout the city.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Casual wear is common, but avoid overly revealing clothing in public spaces. Religion: Do respect all places of worship. When visiting churches or temples, dress modestly and follow any posted guidelines. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and give up your seat for elderly or disabled passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A handshake is a common greeting in formal situations. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine and tip your servers (15-20% is standard). Don't refuse hospitality, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Columbia like a local, take advantage of the extensive network of parks and trails. Visit the Columbia Lakefront for a relaxing stroll or attend one of the many community events held there. Explore the local art scene by visiting the Columbia Art Center or catching a show at Merriweather Post Pavilion. For a unique dining experience, try one of Columbia's diverse ethnic restaurants. Engaging with locals can provide valuable insights and enhance your visit.