Reno: The Biggest Little City in the World

• HelloHowdy
  [hah-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYup
  [yuhp]
• NoNope
  [nohp]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez / noh proh-bluhm]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dn me / mah bad]
• How are you?Howdy?
  [hah-dee]
• Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [good. yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
  [kan eye see the men-yoo, pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'm ready to pay, please
  [I'm ready to pay, please]

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

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brow-zing]
• How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much duhz it cost?]
• That's too expensiveThat's pricey
  [That's pricey]
• Can you lower the price?Can you drop the price?
  [can yuh drop the price?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
• Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [Ten thirty]
• MorningMorning
  [Morning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
• EveningEvening
  [Evening]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
• 1One
  [One]
• 2Two
  [Two]
• 3Three
  [Three]
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  [Four]
• 5Five
  [Five]
• 6Six
  [Six]
• 7Seven
  [Seven]
• 8Eight
  [Eight]
• 9Nine
  [Nine]
• 10Ten
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
• 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)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

Reno was officially founded on May 9, 1868, when the Central Pacific Railroad established a station along the Truckee River. Named after Union Major General Jesse Lee Reno, the city quickly grew from a small settlement to a bustling hub due to its strategic location and the booming mining industry in nearby Virginia City.

In 1886, the University of Nevada, originally founded in Elko, was relocated to Reno. This move was significant as it brought educational prestige and opportunities to the city. The university became a central part of Reno’s identity, fostering a vibrant academic and cultural environment.

In the early 20th century, Reno became known as the 'Divorce Capital of the World.' This was due to Nevada’s liberal divorce laws, which required only a six-week residency. Celebrities and socialites flocked to Reno to take advantage of the lenient laws, significantly impacting the city's economy and social scene.

In 1926, the iconic Reno Arch was erected to promote the Transcontinental Highways Exposition of 1927. After the exposition, the arch remained and was adorned with the slogan, 'The Biggest Little City in the World,' a moniker that has since become synonymous with Reno’s unique charm and appeal.

Reno experienced a significant transformation in 1931 when Nevada legalized gambling. This legislative change spurred the construction of lavish casinos and entertainment venues, making Reno a premier destination for gaming and nightlife. The gambling industry played a crucial role in shaping the city's economy and cultural landscape.

Since 1964, the Reno Air Races have been held annually at the Reno-Stead Airport. This event, officially called the National Championship Air Races, attracts aviation enthusiasts from around the world. It features a variety of aircraft competitions and has become a hallmark of Reno’s cultural and recreational offerings.

Reno has a longstanding relationship with nearby Lake Tahoe, especially regarding winter sports. The two areas have frequently partnered to host ski and snowboarding events, including bids for the Winter Olympics. This collaboration highlights Reno’s commitment to promoting outdoor recreation and tourism.

While not located in Reno, the Burning Man Festival in the nearby Black Rock Desert has had a significant impact on the city. Each year, thousands of 'Burners' pass through Reno, contributing to the local economy and infusing the city with a unique artistic and countercultural energy during the festival season.

Reno is accessible by air, road, and rail. The Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is the primary airport serving the region, with direct flights from many major U.S. cities. For those traveling by car, Reno is conveniently located along Interstate 80, which runs east-west, and U.S. Route 395, which runs north-south. Amtrak's California Zephyr also provides rail services to Reno, connecting it with cities from Chicago to San Francisco.

Reno offers a variety of transportation options for getting around the city. The Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) operates an extensive bus network, including the RTC RAPID bus service. Taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, and rental cars are widely available. For those who prefer to explore on foot or by bike, many of Reno's attractions are easily accessible via pedestrian-friendly paths and bike lanes.

The official currency in Reno, as in the rest of the United States, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and tips.

Reno is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to stay vigilant, particularly in areas like the downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods at night. Areas such as the Fourth Street corridor and certain parts of downtown have higher crime rates and should be approached with caution. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Reno has several hospitals, including Renown Regional Medical Center and St. Mary's Regional Medical Center. For non-urgent medical needs, urgent care facilities and pharmacies are available throughout the city. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can change quickly, especially in the winter months. Casual dress is generally acceptable, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect at religious sites, although Reno is not particularly known for religious tourism. Public Transport: Do have exact change or a transit card for buses. Don’t be loud or disruptive on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a firm handshake. Casual greetings like 'Hi' or 'Hello' are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and tip your servers (15-20% is customary). Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals.

To experience Reno like a local, visit the Riverwalk District and enjoy a stroll along the Truckee River. Check out local events like the Reno River Festival and Artown. For a unique experience, visit the Nevada Museum of Art or catch a performance at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts. Engage with locals at the Midtown District, known for its boutique shops, eateries, and vibrant street art.