Asheville: The Heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomePlease and thank ya
  [pleez and thank yuh]
• Thank youMuch obliged
  [muhch uh-blahy-jd]
• Excuse me/SorryBeg your pardon
  [beg yur pahr-dn]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how y'all doh-in]
• Fine. And you?Jus' fine. And y'all?
  [juhs fine. And y'all?]
• Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [y'all speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [I aint katch-in on]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI reckon I'll take a gander at the menu, if y'please
  [I rek-uhn eye-ul take uh gan-duhr at the menu, if y'please]
• I don't eat meatI don't do no meat
  [I dont do no meet]
• Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bot-uhms up]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI reckon I'll settle up, if y'please
  [I rek-uhn eye-ul set-ul up, if y'please]

• Help!I need a hand!
  [I neyd uh hand]
• Go away!Git!
  [git]
• Call the Police!Ring up the Sheriff!
  [ring up thuh shur-iff]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc on the horn!
  [get uh doc on thuh horn]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turnd uh-round]
• I'm illI ain't feelin' right
  [I aint feel-in rahyt]

• I'd like to buy...I reckon I'll buy...
  [I rek-uhn eye-ul bahy...]
• I'm just lookingJus' browsin'
  [juhs brow-zin]
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats thuh dam-ij]
• That's too expensiveThat's a mite steep
  [thats uh myt steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can y'all do a better deal?
  [can y'all do uh bet-er deel]

• What time is it?What's the time o' day?
  [whats thuh tahym uh day]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its wuhn]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [haf past ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [morn-in]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [even-in]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
• TodayToday
  [tuh-day]
• TomorrowTomorrah
  [tomor-uh]
• 1One
  [wuhn]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [for]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
• 8Eight
  [eyt]
• 9Nine
  [nahyn]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [wheres thuh]
• What's the address?What's the whereabouts?
  [whats thuh whur-about-s]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can y'all point me out (on the map)?
  [can y'all point me out (on thuh map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus) rollin' through?
  [whens thuh next (bus) roll-in through]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh ticket (to)]

Long before European settlers arrived, the land that is now Asheville was inhabited by the Cherokee people. Their rich culture and way of life dominated the region, with the Great Indian Warpath running through the area. European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century, and by 1797, the town of Asheville was founded, named after North Carolina Governor Samuel Ashe.

Completed in 1828, the Buncombe Turnpike was a major route through Asheville that facilitated the movement of livestock and goods. This route played a significant role in the economic development of the region, making Asheville a key trading hub in Western North Carolina.

Asheville, like much of the South, was deeply affected by the Civil War. Though it saw limited combat, the town contributed significantly to the Confederate war effort. The Battle of Asheville in 1865 was one of the last skirmishes of the Civil War, with Union forces briefly occupying the town before being repelled.

The arrival of the Western North Carolina Railroad in the 1880s was a turning point for Asheville. It spurred an economic boom, attracting wealthy visitors and new residents. This era saw the construction of many of Asheville's iconic buildings and the establishment of its reputation as a health and relaxation destination.

Completed in 1895, the Biltmore Estate is the largest privately-owned house in the United States. Built by George Washington Vanderbilt II, this architectural marvel and its surrounding gardens have become one of Asheville's most famous landmarks, reflecting the opulence of America's Gilded Age.

The Great Depression hit Asheville hard, leading to a significant economic downturn. The city was left with a massive debt from ambitious infrastructure projects. However, Asheville's commitment to repaying its debt without declaring bankruptcy set it apart, and the city slowly recovered, preserving much of its historic architecture.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Asheville emerged as a vibrant arts and culture hub. The River Arts District, home to numerous artist studios and galleries, became a focal point for creative expression. The city's eclectic music scene and numerous festivals, such as the LEAF Festival, have further cemented its cultural renaissance.

Today, Asheville is known for its vibrant community, historic charm, and stunning natural beauty. It boasts a thriving food and craft beer scene, with numerous breweries and farm-to-table restaurants. The city's unique blend of history, culture, and natural scenery continue to attract visitors from around the world.

Asheville is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina. The nearest major airport is Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), which offers flights from several major U.S. cities. Alternatively, Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) and Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) are within driving distance. From these airports, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Asheville. Additionally, Asheville is accessible by car via Interstates 26 and 40.

Asheville has a variety of transportation options. The city is walkable and bike-friendly, with many attractions within walking distance. Public transportation is provided by Asheville Rides Transit (ART), which offers bus routes throughout the city. Taxis and ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. For those looking to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car is a convenient option.

The official currency in Asheville, like the rest of the United States, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors, especially at local markets and smaller eateries.

Asheville is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it's wise to take standard precautions: avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While downtown Asheville is mostly safe, areas with higher crime rates include parts of the Southside and the Hillcrest neighborhood. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Asheville has several medical facilities, including Mission Hospital, which is well-equipped for emergencies. Pharmacies are also available throughout the city for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and consider layers due to varying mountain weather. Casual wear is generally accepted. Avoid overly formal attire unless attending a specific event. Religion: Do respect local customs and places of worship. Asheville is known for its diverse spiritual communities. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. Handshakes are common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local craft beers and farm-to-table cuisine. Don’t leave a small tip; 15-20% is customary.

To experience Asheville like a local, visit the River Arts District, where you can watch artists at work and purchase unique pieces. Take a stroll through the historic Biltmore Village for shopping and dining. Enjoy an evening at one of the many local breweries; Asheville is known as 'Beer City USA' for a reason. Don't miss the Drum Circle in Pritchard Park on Friday nights, a local tradition that embodies the city's vibrant community spirit. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning scenic views and hiking trails.