Gallup: The Heart of Native American Culture and Natural Wonders

• HelloYa'at'eeh
  [yah-ah-tay]
• GoodbyeAdíos
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesYá'át'ééh
  [yah-ah-tay]
• NoBééhózin
  [bay-ho-zeen]
• Please/You're welcomeAhe'hee'
  [ah-hay-hay]
• Thank youAhe'hee'
  [ah-hay-hay]
• Excuse me/SorryBilasáana
  [bee-lah-sah-nah]
• How are you?Yá'át'ééh?
  [yah-ah-tay]
• Fine. And you?Nizhóní. Áádóók'éed?
  [knee-zho-nee. ah-ah-doh-kay-d]
• Do you speak English?Díí bizaad doo shił yit'á?
  [dee bee-zaad doh sheel yit-ah]
• I don't understandT'áá hwó'ají ádoo shił
  [tah-ah whoa-jee ah-doh sheel]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenu t'éego baa aadóóhí, ahe'hee'
  [meh-noo tay-go bah ah-doh-hee ah-hay-hay]
• I don't eat meatNíłch'i dine'é
  [neel-chee dee-nay]
• Cheers!Shí éí
  [shee ay-ee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseT'áá ánít'é, ahe'hee'
  [tah-ah ah-neet-ay ah-hay-hay]

• Help!Aaa!
  [ah-ah-ah]
• Go away!Bee haz'a'
  [bee haz-ah]
• Call the Police!Wót'éégo shí
  [woh-tay-go shee]
• Call a doctor!Wót'éégo bíighaní
  [woh-tay-go bee-ghah-nee]
• I'm lostT'áá hwó'ají ádoo shił
  [tah-ah whoa-jee ah-doh sheel]
• I'm illT'áá hwó'ají ádoo shił
  [tah-ah whoa-jee ah-doh sheel]

• I'd like to buy...Baa hózhǫ́
  [bah-ho-zhon]
• I'm just lookingBaa díígo t'éego
  [bah dee-ee-go tay-go]
• How much is it?Hádóósh?
  [hah-doh-sh]
• That's too expensiveNíłch'i nílí
  [neel-chee nee-lee]
• Can you lower the price?Ahe'hee', t'áá hwó'ají ádoo shił
  [ah-hay-hay tah-ah whoa-jee ah-doh sheel]

• What time is it?Háadii yázhí
  [hah-dee-ee yah-zhee]
• It's one o'clockT'áá shíniidlaa'
  [tah-ah shee-nee-dlah]
• Half past (10)Náhást'éí da'áłníí'
  [nah-has-tay-ee dah-ah-lnee]
• MorningAzee'
  [ah-zay]
• AfternoonBe'éhózin
  [bay-ay-ho-zeen]
• EveningT'ááłá'
  [tah-ah-lah]
• YesterdayÉí
  [ay-ee]
• TodayÉí
  [ay-ee]
• TomorrowÉí
  [ay-ee]
• 1T'áá
  [tah-ah]
• 2Naaki
  [nah-kee]
• 3T'eed
  [tay-ed]
• 4Dį́į́'
  [dee-dee]
• 5Ashdla'
  [ah-shlah]
• 6Hastą́ą́'
  [hah-stan]
• 7Tseebíí
  [tsee-bee]
• 8Tseebíí
  [tsee-bee]
• 9Tseebíí
  [tsee-bee]
• 10Tseebíí
  [tsee-bee]

• Where's a/the...?Hózhǫ́ nihí
  [ho-zhon nee-hee]
• What's the address?Áíísh baa hózhǫ́
  [ah-ee-sh bah-ho-zhon]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Map t'éego baa naaználí
  [mahp tay-go bah nahz-nah-lee]
• When's the next (bus)?Nihí éé' daazts'éédí
  [nee-hee ay-ay dah-zin-tsay-dee]
• A ticket (to ....)Baa yisdzíí
  [bah yis-zee]

Long before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Gallup was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi. These indigenous communities thrived in the region, utilizing the arid landscape for agriculture, hunting, and trading. Evidence of their presence can still be seen today in ancient petroglyphs and ruins throughout the area.

Gallup's modern history began with the construction of the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad in the 1880s. The railroad brought new settlers and economic opportunities, turning Gallup into a bustling hub for transportation and trade. It was named after David L. Gallup, a paymaster for the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Gallup became a focal point for coal mining. The rich coal deposits in the surrounding areas attracted numerous mining companies and workers, significantly boosting the local economy. However, the industry also brought challenges, including labor disputes and environmental impacts.

Gallup became an essential stop on the historic Route 66, often referred to as the 'Main Street of America.' The influx of travelers brought about a boom in tourism, leading to the establishment of hotels, restaurants, and trading posts. This period cemented Gallup's reputation as a cultural crossroads, attracting visitors from across the globe.

During World War II, Gallup played a significant role as many Navajo men from the region enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps to serve as Code Talkers. Their unique language was used to create an unbreakable code that was crucial to Allied victories in the Pacific Theater. The legacy of the Navajo Code Talkers remains a proud chapter in Gallup's history.

Since 1922, Gallup has hosted the annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial, one of the oldest and most significant cultural events in the United States. This event celebrates the rich traditions, dances, arts, and crafts of Native American tribes from across the country, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

Today, Gallup is known for its diverse community, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene. The city continues to honor its roots through museums, cultural centers, and annual events. Gallup remains a gateway to Native American culture and a testament to the enduring spirit of its people.

Gallup is accessible via several modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), approximately 140 miles east of Gallup. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Gallup. Amtrak's Southwest Chief line also stops in Gallup, connecting it to major cities like Chicago and Los Angeles. If you are driving, Gallup is conveniently located along Interstate 40.

Once in Gallup, getting around is straightforward. The city is small enough to explore by foot, especially in the downtown area. For longer distances, local taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available. Gallup Express offers public bus services within the city and to surrounding areas. Car rentals are also available if you plan to explore the scenic routes and attractions outside the city.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in local markets or rural areas. ATMs are readily available throughout the city.

Gallup is generally a safe destination for tourists, but like any city, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, particularly in the eastern parts of the city, where higher crime rates have been reported. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and be cautious when using ATMs at night.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Gallup has a local police department and several medical facilities, including Rehoboth McKinley Christian Health Care Services. It is recommended to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. There are numerous pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but modestly, especially when visiting cultural sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting Native American sites and ceremonies. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to drivers and other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transit. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile or a handshake. A simple 'hello' goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and be open to new flavors. Don't refuse food or drink offerings as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Gallup like a local, visit the Gallup Flea Market, where you can find authentic Native American crafts, jewelry, and food. Engage with locals, who are often eager to share stories and cultural insights. Don't miss the annual Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial, a celebration of Native American culture with traditional dances, music, and art. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Red Rock Park offers stunning hiking trails and beautiful scenery.