Ithaca: A Nature Lover's Paradise in Upstate New York

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeTake care
  [tayk kair]
• YesYeah
  [yeh]
• NoNah
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no problum]
• Thank youThanks a lot
  [thangs uh lot]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pahr-dn mee/my bad]
• How are you?What's up?
  [wuts up]
• Fine. And you?Good. How about you?
  [gud/how uh-bowt yu]
• Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [yu speek ing-glish]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [i dont get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI wanna check the menu, please
  [ai wah-nuh chek the men-yoo, pleez]
• I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [aim ve-juh-te-ree-un]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI wanna settle the bill, please
  [ai wah-nuh set-ul thu bil, pleez]

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

• I'd like to buy...I wanna purchase...
  [ai wah-nuh pur-chiss]
• I'm just lookingI'm just browsing
  [aim just bro-zing]
• How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much duz it kost]
• That's too expensiveThat's pricey
  [thats prye-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can you give a discount?
  [can yu giv a dis-count]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whuts the tah-m]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its wun]
• Half past (10)Half ten
  [haff ten]
• MorningMorning
  [morn-ing]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-tur-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-tur-day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [for]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-un]
• 8Eight
  [eyt]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
• What's the address?What's the street?
  [whuts the street]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you guide me (on the map)?
  [can yu gide me on the map]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the nekst bus]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh ticket to]

Ithaca, New York, was founded in the late 18th century, largely due to the efforts of Simeon DeWitt, who was a notable surveyor and military officer. DeWitt named the town after the Greek island of Ithaca, drawing inspiration from Homer’s epic tales. The area was initially settled by Revolutionary War veterans who were granted land as a reward for their service.

One of the significant milestones in Ithaca's history is the establishment of Cornell University in 1865. Founded by Ezra Cornell and Andrew Dickson White, Cornell University is an Ivy League institution that has played a pivotal role in shaping the educational and cultural landscape of the region. The university's commitment to both classical and practical education has made it a cornerstone of the community.

Ithaca was an active participant in the women’s suffrage movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The city was home to numerous suffragists who campaigned for women's right to vote. Notably, Jennie McGraw, a philanthropist and suffragist, contributed significantly to the movement and also endowed several projects in the city, including McGraw Tower at Cornell University.

Founded in 1880, the Ithaca Gun Company became one of the most renowned firearms manufacturers in the United States. Known for its high-quality shotguns, the company played a significant role in the local economy and contributed to Ithaca’s industrial growth. The iconic 'Ithaca Shotgun' was favored by sportsmen across the country and remains a symbol of American craftsmanship.

In the early 20th century, Ithaca was a hub for the burgeoning film industry. The Wharton brothers established the Wharton Studio in 1914, producing several silent films and serials that gained national attention. The studio attracted famous actors and filmmakers of the time, making Ithaca an early epicenter of American cinema before Hollywood rose to prominence.

The Great Flood of 1935 was a devastating natural disaster that struck Ithaca and the surrounding areas. Torrential rains caused the Cayuga Lake and nearby creeks to overflow, leading to widespread flooding. The disaster resulted in significant property damage and loss of life, prompting the city to implement more robust flood control measures in subsequent years.

Ithaca boasts a rich architectural heritage, featuring a blend of Gothic, Victorian, and modernist styles. Notable structures include the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, designed by I. M. Pei, and the historic Clinton House, which dates back to 1828. These buildings not only serve as landmarks but also reflect the evolving architectural tastes and cultural aspirations of the community over the centuries.

Ithaca is famous for its stunning gorges and waterfalls, which have been integral to the city's identity. The phrase 'Ithaca is Gorges' highlights the natural beauty that draws visitors from around the world. Cascadilla and Fall Creek gorges offer breathtaking views and have been preserved as natural treasures, contributing to the city's reputation as a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Today, Ithaca is known for its vibrant cultural scene, characterized by a strong sense of community and a commitment to the arts. The Ithaca Festival, the Apple Harvest Festival, and the Ithaca Farmers Market are annual events that celebrate local artisans, musicians, and farmers. These events reflect the city's ongoing dedication to fostering a dynamic and inclusive cultural environment.

Ithaca, located in the Finger Lakes region of New York, is accessible by various means of transportation. The nearest major airport is Ithaca Tompkins International Airport (ITH), which has regular flights from major cities such as New York City, Philadelphia, and Detroit. Alternatively, Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) is about an hour away by car and offers more flight options. If you prefer traveling by train, the nearest Amtrak station is in Syracuse. Bus services, such as Greyhound and Trailways, also connect Ithaca with other cities in the region.

Ithaca is a walkable city, especially downtown and around Cornell University. For longer distances, the Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) bus system is reliable and covers most areas of interest. Renting a car is another convenient option, especially if you plan to explore the Finger Lakes region. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available. Biking is popular, and there are several bike rental shops in town.

The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in the downtown area and around the university. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors, farmers' markets, and tipping.

Ithaca is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it's always wise to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded spaces. Although there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant is always a good practice.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Ithaca has several medical facilities, including Cayuga Medical Center, which provides comprehensive healthcare services. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, especially if you're exploring natural attractions. Don't wear overly formal attire unless attending a special event. Religion: Do respect places of worship by dressing modestly and keeping noise levels down. Public Transport: Do be courteous to bus drivers and fellow passengers. Don't occupy seats reserved for elderly or disabled passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A handshake is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Ithaca's famous ice cream and wines from the Finger Lakes region. Don't leave without tipping; 15-20% is standard in restaurants.

To experience Ithaca like a local, visit the Ithaca Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious food. Engage with the community by attending events at the State Theatre or catching a play at the Hangar Theatre. Hiking trails around Buttermilk Falls and Taughannock Falls provide beautiful scenic views. Don't miss out on a campus tour of Cornell University, which offers stunning architecture and a rich history.