The Timeless Charm of Charleston's French Quarter

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYup
  [yuhp]
• NoNah
  [nuh]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [plee-z/yur wel-kum]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [par-dun]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [haw yahl doo-in]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And y'all?
  [fahyn. and yahl]
• Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yahl speek ing-glish]
• I don't understandI ain't got a clue
  [I ent got uh cloo]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [I'd like tuh see the menu, pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [I would like tuh pay, pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [Help]
• Go away!Git outta here!
  [Git out-ta here]
• Call the Police!Call the Sheriff!
  [Call the Sheriff]
• Call a doctor!Call the doc!
  [Call the doc]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turned around]
• I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [I'm feelin' poorly]

• I'd like to buy...I reckon I'll buy...
  [I reckon I'll buy]
• I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [I'm just look-in]
• How much is it?How much is it?
  [How much is it]
• That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [That's too pricey]
• Can you lower the price?Can y'all cut the price?
  [Can yahl cut the price]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
• MorningMornin'
  [Mornin]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [Yest'day]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrah
  [Tomorrah]
• 1One
  [One]
• 2Two
  [Two]
• 3Three
  [Three]
• 4Four
  [Four]
• 5Five
  [Five]
• 6Six
  [Six]
• 7Seven
  [Seven]
• 8Eight
  [Eight]
• 9Nine
  [Nine]
• 10Ten
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Where's a/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 ....)]

The French Quarter, one of Charleston's oldest neighborhoods, was established in the late 17th century. Initially settled by French Huguenots escaping religious persecution, this area became a hub of commerce and culture. The architectural styles of the buildings, many of which still stand today, reflect the French influence that persisted through the centuries.

In the 18th century, the French Market became a central point of trade in Charleston, providing a space for local farmers and artisans to sell their goods. This market was pivotal in fostering the local economy and served as a gathering point for the community, helping to shape the cultural identity of the French Quarter.

The French Quarter is renowned for its historical architecture, characterized by narrow streets and antebellum buildings. Notable structures include St. Philip's Church, built in 1680, which showcases the colonial craftsmanship and the significance of religion in the community. The preservation of these structures has earned the neighborhood recognition as a National Historic Landmark District.

Throughout the 19th century, the French Quarter hosted a diverse population, including free blacks, artisans, and European immigrants. This mix of cultures contributed to Charleston’s rich tapestry of traditions, music, and cuisine, leading to the development of unique local customs that still thrive today, such as Gullah culture.

The French Quarter played a strategic role during the Civil War, with many buildings serving as headquarters for Confederate troops. Following the war, the area underwent significant changes during the Reconstruction era, as the community adapted to new social dynamics and economic challenges, reshaping its cultural landscape.

In recent decades, the French Quarter has experienced a renaissance, with a focus on tourism, arts, and preservation. The neighborhood is now home to numerous galleries, theaters, and restaurants, attracting visitors eager to explore its vibrant history while engaging with the contemporary cultural scene of Charleston.

The French Quarter is centrally located in Charleston, making it accessible from other neighborhoods. If you're coming from the airport, take a taxi or rideshare service for a convenient 20-minute journey. If you're already in the downtown area, walking is a great option, as the French Quarter is pedestrian-friendly. Alternatively, consider using the DASH (Downtown Area Shuttle) which is free and connects various neighborhoods, including the French Quarter.

The French Quarter is best explored on foot due to its compact size and charming cobblestone streets. Bicycle rentals are available through local shops, and several guided bike tours operate in the area. Although public transportation options like buses are available, they may not be as convenient for tourists. For longer distances, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available.

The French Quarter is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night in less crowded areas, particularly near the outskirts of the Quarter. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded spaces, especially during events. Areas such as the outskirts of East Bay Street may have higher crime rates, so remain vigilant.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is MUSC Health, located a short distance away. Make sure to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For non-urgent health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking; don’t wear overly casual attire when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs when visiting churches; don’t take photos inside unless permitted. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers; don’t engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile; don’t assume familiarity. Eating & Drinking: Do try Lowcountry specialties; don’t waste food or leave a table without asking if the meal was satisfactory.

To experience the French Quarter like a local, visit the City Market for artisanal goods and local crafts. Check out smaller, lesser-known restaurants for authentic Lowcountry cuisine away from tourist traps. Engage with local artists and musicians who often perform in the area. For a unique experience, consider taking a historic ghost tour to learn about the city's haunted past while enjoying its nighttime ambiance.