Exploring Dutch Country: A Journey Through Pennsylvania's Heartland

• HelloGude
  [goo-deh]
• GoodbyeGuder-bye
  [goo-der-bye]
• YesYa
  [yah]
• NoNee
  [nee]
• Please/You're welcomeBittschien
  [bits-chin]
• Thank youDanki
  [dahn-kee]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [sore-ee]
• How are you?Wie gaischt?
  [vee gosh-t]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Un du?
  [goot. oon doo]
• Do you speak English?Schwadde Englisch?
  [schwad-deh eng-lish]
• I don't understandIch ferschtai nix
  [ikh fair-shtai niks]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch' d gern mol die Speisekarte seh, bittschien
  [ikh deh gehrn mohl dee shpi-suh-kart-eh zay, bits-chin]
• I don't eat meatIch esse kaa Fleesch
  [ikh es-seh kah fleysh]
• Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIch mächt gern bezahle, bittschien
  [ikh meh-kht gehrn beh-zah-luh, bits-chin]

• Help!Helft!
  [helft]
• Go away!Geh fort!
  [geh fort]
• Call the Police!Ruf die Bullerei!
  [roof dee bool-luh-rye]
• Call a doctor!Ruf en Dokter!
  [roof en dok-ter]
• I'm lostIch bin ferlaafe
  [ikh been fair-lah-fuh]
• I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh been krunk]

• I'd like to buy...Ich wott kaaf...
  [ikh voht kah-f]
• I'm just lookingIch kucke nor
  [ikh kook-eh nohr]
• How much is it?Wie feil isses?
  [vee fyle iss-ess]
• That's too expensiveDes iss zu teier
  [dess iss tsoo ty-er]
• Can you lower the price?Kannscht du de Preis nierer mache?
  [kann-sht doo deh preys nee-er-er mah-khuh]

• What time is it?Wieviel Uhr isses?
  [vee-feel oor iss-ess]
• It's one o'clockEs iss en Uhr
  [ess iss en oor]
• Half past (10)Halwer elf
  [hal-wer elf]
• MorningMorje
  [mor-yeh]
• AfternoonNoon
  [nohn]
• EveningOwend
  [oh-wend]
• YesterdayGestere
  [geh-steh-ruh]
• TodayHitt
  [hit]
• TomorrowMorrow
  [moh-roh]
• 1Eins
  [ines]
• 2Zwei
  [tsvai]
• 3Drei
  [dry]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Fünf
  [foontf]
• 6Sechs
  [zeks]
• 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
• 8Acht
  [akht]
• 9Neun
  [noyn]
• 10Zehn
  [tsayn]

• Where's a/the...?Wee iss en...?
  [wee iss en]
• What's the address?Was iss die Adress?
  [wahs iss dee ah-dress]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kannscht mich (uffm Plotz) weise?
  [kann-sht mikh (oofm plawtz) v-eye-seh]
• When's the next (bus)?Wann kummt der nächschde Bus?
  [vann koomt dare nekhsht-eh boos]
• A ticket (to ....)En Tickutt (noo ...)
  [en tick-oot (noo)]

The Pennsylvania Dutch, primarily composed of German-speaking immigrants, began settling in Pennsylvania in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The term 'Dutch' is derived from 'Deutsch,' which means German. These settlers were seeking religious freedom and economic opportunities, and they predominantly established themselves in what is now known as Dutch Country. The region includes Lancaster, York, Berks, and Lebanon counties.

William Penn, an English Quaker, founded the Province of Pennsylvania in 1681 after receiving a land grant from King Charles II. Penn's Charter of Privileges guaranteed freedom of worship to all inhabitants, attracting many religious groups, including the Amish, Mennonites, and Moravians. This policy of religious tolerance played a significant role in shaping the diverse cultural landscape of Dutch Country.

The Amish and Mennonites, two Anabaptist groups, settled in Pennsylvania Dutch Country to escape religious persecution in Europe. The Amish are known for their simple, agrarian lifestyle, shunning modern conveniences like electricity and automobiles. Mennonites, while sharing similar religious beliefs, are generally more integrated into modern society. Both communities have preserved their unique customs, dialects, and craftsmanship, contributing to the region's rich cultural fabric.

Founded in 1732 by Johann Conrad Beissel, the Ephrata Cloister was a religious community located in what is now Lancaster County. The Cloister members, known as the Ephrata Community, practiced a celibate, communal lifestyle with an emphasis on prayer, music, and self-denial. The community's unique architecture and printing press remain significant historical attractions, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life of early settlers.

The Moravians, another early religious group, established settlements in Pennsylvania Dutch Country in the 1740s. Notable Moravian towns include Lititz and Bethlehem. The Moravians were known for their missionary work, educational efforts, and musical contributions. Their communal living arrangements and emphasis on social welfare left a lasting impact on the region's development.

Agriculture has always been at the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for farming. Early settlers grew crops like wheat, barley, and corn, and raised livestock. The area's agricultural heritage is still evident today, with numerous farms, markets, and agricultural fairs showcasing traditional practices and local produce.

Pennsylvania Dutch, a language derived from German dialects, was widely spoken among the early settlers and remains in use today, particularly within Amish and Mennonite communities. The language reflects the region's cultural heritage and is a point of pride for many residents. Efforts to preserve and teach Pennsylvania Dutch continue, highlighting its importance in the area's identity.

Hex signs are colorful, geometric symbols traditionally painted on barns and buildings in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. These signs, believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits, are an iconic element of the region's folk art. The designs often incorporate stars, rosettes, hearts, and other motifs, reflecting the artistic traditions and beliefs of the early settlers.

Dutch Country, Pennsylvania is conveniently located within driving distance from several major cities. The region is approximately 1.5 hours west of Philadelphia, 2.5 hours north of Washington, D.C., and 3 hours east of Pittsburgh. The nearest major airport is Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), situated about 30 minutes away from Lancaster, the heart of Dutch Country. Alternatively, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) offers more flight options and is a 90-minute drive away. Amtrak offers train services to Lancaster and Harrisburg, which are central hubs in the area.

While a rental car is the most convenient way to explore Dutch Country, various options are available for those who prefer not to drive. Local bus services connect key towns such as Lancaster, Ephrata, and Lititz. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. For a unique experience, consider taking a horse-drawn buggy tour to explore the Amish countryside. Biking is another popular option, with several scenic routes available for cyclists.

The official currency in Dutch Country is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas and at roadside stands. ATMs are readily available in towns and shopping areas. Some Amish businesses may only accept cash, so plan accordingly.

Dutch Country is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions. Lancaster City has some neighborhoods with higher crime rates, particularly in the southeast area. It's best to avoid these areas after dark. Always lock your car and keep valuables out of sight. Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid deserted areas at night.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Lancaster General Hospital is a well-equipped medical facility located in Lancaster City. For non-life-threatening issues, there are urgent care centers and pharmacies available throughout Dutch Country. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is recommended. Make sure to have a list of emergency contacts and local addresses handy.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting Amish communities. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect the Amish way of life. Avoid taking photographs of Amish people without permission. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't play loud music or talk loudly. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning.' Amish people often prefer not to shake hands with the opposite gender. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like shoofly pie and scrapple. Don't refuse food when offered, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Dutch Country like a local, visit the Lancaster Central Market, the oldest continuously operating public farmers' market in the country. Take a scenic drive along Route 340, also known as the Old Philadelphia Pike, to see beautiful farms and Amish buggies. Attend a local auction or a mud sale, where you can buy handcrafted items and produce. Don't miss the opportunity to dine at an Amish or Mennonite family-style restaurant for an authentic meal.