Detroit: The Renaissance City

• HelloWhat up doe
  [wut up doh]
• GoodbyePeace out
  [peese owt]
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  [yeh]
• NoNah
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no problm]
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  [thangs]
• Excuse me/SorryMy bad
  [my bad]
• How are you?How you doin'?
  [how yoo dooin]
• Fine. And you?Chillin'. You?
  [chil-lin. yoo]
• Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [yoo speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [i dont get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLemme see the menu, please
  [lem-mee see the menu pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [i dont eat meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI wanna pay, please
  [i wanna pay pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
• Call the Police!Call the Po-Po!
  [call the po-po]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [im lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [im sik]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [i wanna buy]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just bro-zing]
• How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
• That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [thats steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can you do a deal?
  [can you do a deal]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Ten-thirty
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• MorningMorning
  [morning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
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  [evening]
• YesterdayYesterday
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• TodayToday
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• TomorrowTomorrow
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• 1One
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• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
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• What's the address?What's the addy?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can you show me on the map]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

Detroit, originally founded by French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac on July 24, 1701, was initially a French fur trading post. The city’s name comes from the French word 'détroit,' meaning 'strait,' referring to its location on the Detroit River connecting Lake Erie and Lake Huron.

In the mid-19th century, Detroit played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad, serving as a key hub for enslaved African Americans seeking freedom in Canada. The city's proximity to the Canadian border made it an ideal location for fugitives to cross into freedom, often via the Detroit River.

In the early 20th century, Detroit emerged as the epicenter of the American automotive industry. Pioneers like Henry Ford revolutionized manufacturing with the introduction of the assembly line, making Detroit synonymous with car production. The rise of companies like Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler earned the city the nickname 'The Motor City.'

During the Great Migration in the early to mid-20th century, thousands of African Americans moved from the rural South to Detroit in search of better economic opportunities and to escape Jim Crow laws. This migration significantly influenced the city's demographics, culture, and music, particularly the development of Motown.

In 1959, Berry Gordy founded Motown Records in Detroit, creating a unique sound that blended soul, pop, and R&B. Motown became a cultural phenomenon, producing iconic artists like The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and Marvin Gaye. The label's success helped break down racial barriers in the music industry.

The Detroit Riots of 1967, also known as the 12th Street Riot, were one of the most violent urban revolts in U.S. history. Triggered by longstanding racial tensions and economic disparities, the five-day conflict resulted in 43 deaths, over a thousand injuries, and extensive property damage, marking a turning point in the city's history.

The late 20th century saw Detroit facing economic challenges, including the decline of the automotive industry, leading to significant population loss and urban decay. However, recent years have seen a resurgence, with new investments in downtown development, the arts, and technology sectors, symbolizing Detroit's ongoing revitalization.

Detroit's diverse population has created a rich cultural tapestry. Neighborhoods like Greektown, Mexicantown, and Corktown reflect the city’s multicultural heritage. Annual events like the Detroit Jazz Festival and the North American International Auto Show highlight the city's vibrant cultural scene.

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is the main airport serving Detroit and is located about 20 miles southwest of downtown. The airport is well-connected with major cities across the U.S. and international destinations. You can also reach Detroit by train via Amtrak, with the Detroit station located in the New Center area. Major highways such as I-75, I-94, and I-96 provide easy access by car.

Detroit has a variety of transportation options including rental cars, taxis, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, and public transportation. The Detroit People Mover is an elevated rail system that loops around downtown, while the QLINE streetcar runs along Woodward Avenue. Buses operated by the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) and SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation) serve the city and surrounding areas. For a more local experience, consider biking; MoGo bike share stations are available throughout the city.

The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or when visiting markets and local vendors.

While Detroit is generally safe for tourists, certain areas have higher crime rates. Exercise caution in neighborhoods such as Detroit East Side, West Side, and some parts of Midtown. Stick to well-populated areas, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure in crowded places.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Detroit has several hospitals including the Detroit Medical Center and Henry Ford Hospital. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to the weather. Detroit experiences cold winters and warm summers. Don't wear overly flashy or expensive jewelry in public. Religion: Do respect religious sites and practices. Many churches and places of worship are open to visitors. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer seats to elderly passengers. Don't play loud music or talk loudly on your phone. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Hi'. A handshake is common in professional settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Coney Island hot dogs and Detroit-style pizza. Don’t leave large tips at fast-food places; 15-20% is standard in full-service restaurants.

To experience Detroit like a local, visit Eastern Market on a Saturday morning for fresh produce, local goods, and community events. Explore the Detroit Riverwalk for scenic views and recreational activities. Attend a live music performance at the historic Fox Theatre or catch a sports game at Comerica Park or Ford Field. Don't miss the chance to visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, which houses one of the largest and most significant art collections in the U.S.