The Heartbeat of Texas: Downtown Austin

• HelloHowdy
  [haʊ-di]
• GoodbyeSee ya later
  [siː jə ˈleɪtər]
• YesYup
  [jʌp]
• NoNah
  [nɑː]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pliːz/nəʊ ˈprɑbləm]
• Thank youThanks a bunch
  [θæŋks ə bʌntʃ]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pɑːrdn miː/maɪ bæd]
• How are you?Howdy, how y'all doin'?
  [haʊ-di, haʊ jɔːl ˈduɪn]
• Fine. And you?Do right. How 'bout y'all?
  [duː raɪt. haʊ baʊt jɔːl]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [jə spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
• I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [aɪnt ˈkætʃɪn ɒn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [kæn aɪ tʃɛk aʊt ðə ˈmɛnjuː]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [aɪ doʊnt duː mit]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [ʧɪrz]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up, please
  [kæn aɪ ˈsɛtl ʌp pliːz]

• Help!SOS!
  [ɛs ˌoʊ ˈɛs]
• Go away!Scram!
  [skræm]
• Call the Police!Call the 5-0!
  [kɔl ðə faɪv ˈoʊ]
• Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [kɔl ə dɑk]
• I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [aɪm ɔːl tɜrnd əˈraʊnd]
• I'm illI'm feelin' under the weather
  [aɪm ˈfiliŋ ˈʌndər ðə ˈwɛðər]

• I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to buy...
  [aɪm ˈfɪksɪn tuː baɪ]
• I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [aɪm ˈdʒʌst ˈbraʊzɪn]
• How much is it?How much does it run?
  [haʊ ˈmʌtʃ dʌz ɪt rʌn]
• That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [ðæts ə bɪt stip]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya cut a deal?
  [kæn jə kʌt ə dil]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [wɑːts ðə taɪm]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [ɪts wʌn]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [hæf pæst (ˈtɛn)]
• MorningMornin'
  [ˈmɔrnɪn]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftərˈnun]
• EveningEvenin'
  [ˈivnɪn]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [ˈjɛstˌdeɪ]
• TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [təˈmɔrə]
• 1One
  [wʌn]
• 2Two
  [tuː]
• 3Three
  [θriː]
• 4Four
  [fɔːr]
• 5Five
  [faɪv]
• 6Six
  [sɪks]
• 7Seven
  [ˈsɛvən]
• 8Eight
  [eɪt]
• 9Nine
  [naɪn]
• 10Ten
  [tɛn]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wɛərz ðə]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [wɑːts ðə ˈædi]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point me out?
  [kæn jə pɔɪnt miː aʊt]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [wɛnz ðə nɛkst bʌs]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [eɪ ˈtɪkɪt (tuː)]

Downtown Austin's history began in 1839 when it was chosen as the capital of the Republic of Texas. Founded by Stephen F. Austin, the city was initially named 'Waterloo' but was quickly renamed in honor of its founder. The area was strategically located along the Colorado River, providing essential resources and a favorable climate for settlement.

Completed in 1888, the Texas State Capitol is one of the most significant landmarks in Downtown Austin. The building, made from local sandstone, is notable for its architectural grandeur and is larger than the U.S. Capitol. The Capitol grounds have hosted numerous historical events and continue to serve as a focal point for political and cultural activities in the region.

Sixth Street, known for its vibrant nightlife and music scene, began to develop in the late 19th century. Originally a commercial hub, it transformed over the years into a cultural epicenter. By the 1970s, it became renowned for its live music venues, contributing to Austin's reputation as the 'Live Music Capital of the World.'

During the 1960s and 1970s, Downtown Austin was a focal point for civil rights activism. Demonstrations aimed at desegregating public spaces and advocating for equal rights played a significant role in shaping the city’s social landscape. The efforts of local activists contributed to broader changes across Texas and the nation.

In the late 20th century, Austin experienced a tech boom that revitalized Downtown. The rise of technology companies and startups transformed the area into a hub of innovation, attracting young professionals and fostering a dynamic cultural scene. This growth has led to significant urban development, with new residential areas, parks, and public spaces enhancing the neighborhood's appeal.

Downtown Austin is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Austin. If you are coming from the airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or the 100 Airport Flyer bus, which connects directly to downtown. The MetroRail also provides access to downtown from the northern suburbs, while buses run frequently from different parts of the city. For those driving, major highways such as I-35 and US 183 converge in the area.

Downtown Austin is very walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. The Capital Metro public transit system operates buses and light rail that connect various parts of the city. Biking is also popular, with bike-sharing programs like B-cycle available throughout the area. For a scenic route, consider using the hike-and-bike trail along Lady Bird Lake. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available for longer distances.

While Downtown Austin is generally safe for tourists, it's essential to remain vigilant. Areas such as East 6th Street can have higher instances of petty crimes, especially at night. Avoid displaying valuables in crowded areas and be cautious when exploring less populated streets after dark. Always trust your instincts and stay in well-lit, populated places.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospitals are Seton Medical Center and St. David's Medical Center, both located a short drive from downtown. It is advisable to have travel insurance covering emergency medical situations. For non-emergencies, you can contact the Austin Police Department's non-emergency line.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing suited for the weather, particularly in the hot summer months. Don't wear clothing that may be considered too revealing in public spaces. Religion: Do respect local customs and be mindful of etiquette when visiting religious sites like the Texas State Capitol. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and allow those exiting the vehicle to leave first. Don't obstruct doors or aisles. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Howdy!' and a smile. Don't be overly formal; Austinites appreciate a casual approach. Eating & Drinking: Do try local favorites like tacos and barbecue. Don't bring outside food or drinks into restaurants, as it may be considered disrespectful.

To experience Downtown Austin like a local, try visiting the local food trucks scattered throughout the area, especially on South Congress Avenue. Attend a live music event, as Austin is known as the 'Live Music Capital of the World.' Check out the murals and street art for great photo opportunities. For a unique experience, don't miss the chance to see the bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at dusk during the summer months.