Houston: The Heartbeat of Texas

• HelloHowdy
  [haʊ-di]
• GoodbyeSee ya later
  [siː jə ˈleɪ.tər]
• YesYep
  [jɛp]
• NoNah
  [nɑ]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pliːz / noʊ ˈprɑ.bləm]
• Thank youThanks
  [θæŋks]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/My bad
  [ɪkˈskjuz miː / maɪ bæd]
• How are you?Howdy, how y'all doin'?
  [haʊ-di, haʊ y'ɔːl ˈduɪn]
• Fine. And you?Great. And you?
  [ɡreɪt. ænd ju]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [jə spiːk ˈɪŋ.ɡlɪʃ]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [aɪ doʊnt ˈʌn.də.stænd]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
  [kæn aɪ siː ðə ˈmɛnjuː pliːz]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [aɪ doʊnt it mit]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [ʧɪrz]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll take the check, please
  [aɪl teɪk ðə ʧɛk pliːz]

• Help!Help!
  [hɛlp]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [ɡɛt lɔst]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [kɔl ðə kɑps]
• Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [kɔl ə dɑk]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [aɪm lɔst]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [aɪm sɪk]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [aɪ ˈwɑnə baɪ]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [ʤʌst ˈbraʊzɪŋ]
• How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [haʊ mʌʧ dəz ɪt kɔst]
• That's too expensiveThat's way too much
  [ðæts weɪ tu mʌʧ]
• Can you lower the price?Can you give me a discount?
  [kæn ju ɡɪv miː ə ˈdɪskaʊnt]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [wɑts ðə taɪm]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [ɪts wʌn]
• Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [tɛn-ˈθɜr.di]
• MorningMorning
  [ˈmɔrnɪŋ]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftərˈnun]
• EveningEvening
  [ˈiv.nɪŋ]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [ˈjɛs.tɪrˌdeɪ]
• TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [təˈmɔr.oʊ]
• 1One
  [wʌn]
• 2Two
  [tu]
• 3Three
  [θri]
• 4Four
  [fɔr]
• 5Five
  [faɪv]
• 6Six
  [sɪks]
• 7Seven
  [ˈsɛv.ən]
• 8Eight
  [eɪt]
• 9Nine
  [naɪn]
• 10Ten
  [tɛn]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wɛərz ðə]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [wɑts ðə əˈdrɛs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kæn ju ʃoʊ miː (ɒn ðə mæp)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [wɛnz ðə nɛkst (bʌs)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [ə ˈtɪkɪt (tu ....)]

Houston was founded on August 30, 1836, by brothers Augustus Chapman Allen and John Kirby Allen on land near the banks of Buffalo Bayou. They named the city in honor of General Sam Houston, who was serving as the president of the Republic of Texas and had led the Texan Army to victory at the Battle of San Jacinto.

The Battle of San Jacinto took place on April 21, 1836, near present-day Houston. It was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution where Texian forces, led by General Sam Houston, defeated the Mexican army under General Santa Anna in just 18 minutes, leading to Texas gaining its independence from Mexico.

In 1901, the discovery of oil at Spindletop near Beaumont, Texas, marked the start of the Texas Oil Boom, transforming Houston into a major oil industry hub. The subsequent growth of the petroleum industry significantly contributed to the city's economic expansion and development.

The Port of Houston, officially established in 1914, became one of the busiest ports in the United States. Its creation was a pivotal moment for the city, enhancing Houston’s status as a key player in international trade and commerce, thanks to its strategic location and ample infrastructure.

In 1961, Houston was chosen as the location for NASA's Manned Spacecraft Center, later renamed the Johnson Space Center. This decision cemented Houston's place in the space race and contributed to its nickname, 'Space City.' The center played a critical role in the Apollo moon missions and continues to be a hub for space exploration.

During the 1960s, Houston was an important battleground in the Civil Rights Movement. Activists like Barbara Jordan and local organizations worked tirelessly to desegregate public spaces and secure voting rights for African Americans. Jordan later became the first African American woman from a Southern state to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In August 2017, Hurricane Harvey made landfall on the Texas Gulf Coast, causing catastrophic flooding in Houston. The storm brought unprecedented rainfall, leading to significant damage and loss. The city's response showcased the resilience and solidarity of Houstonians, and it sparked widespread discussions on urban planning and flood management.

Houston is renowned for its cultural diversity, with over 145 languages spoken within the city. This multiculturalism is reflected in its vibrant arts scene, culinary landscape, and numerous cultural festivals. Institutions like the Houston Museum District, the Theater District, and various international markets highlight the city's rich cultural tapestry.

Houston is served by two major airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). IAH is located about 23 miles north of downtown Houston and is a hub for international and domestic flights. HOU is situated approximately 11 miles southeast of downtown and primarily handles domestic flights. Both airports offer various transportation options including taxis, rideshare services, shuttle buses, and rental cars. Additionally, Houston is accessible by Amtrak train services and major interstates such as I-10, I-45, and I-69.

Houston has a variety of transportation options to help you navigate the city. The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) operates buses and light rail services throughout the city. METRORail has three lines (Red, Green, and Purple) that connect downtown Houston with key areas. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. Renting a car is also a convenient option given the city's sprawling layout. For eco-friendly options, Houston offers a bike-sharing program called BCycle, with numerous stations scattered throughout the city.

The official currency of Houston, as in the rest of the United States, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in commercial areas and shopping centers. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or for use in places that might not accept cards. Most places also accept mobile payment options such as Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay.

Houston is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is important to stay vigilant. Areas such as Third Ward and some parts of Sunnyside have higher crime rates and should be approached with caution, especially after dark. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, particularly in the downtown, Midtown, and Museum Districts. Always keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places. It's advisable to use hotel safes for valuables and avoid displaying expensive items openly.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Houston has numerous hospitals including the renowned Texas Medical Center. Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS are available for over-the-counter medication. It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues or injuries, urgent care clinics are widely available throughout the city.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather, which is often hot and humid. Casual attire is widely accepted, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect religious sites and practices. Some places of worship may have dress codes. Public Transport: Do have exact change or a METRO Q Card for bus fares. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a handshake. Texans are known for their friendliness. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine like Tex-Mex and barbecue. Don't forget to tip your servers; 15-20% is standard.

To experience Houston like a local, visit the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo if you're in town during the event. Explore the diverse culinary scene in neighborhoods like Montrose and The Heights. For a unique shopping experience, check out the Vintage Stores in the Westheimer area. Take a stroll or bike ride around Buffalo Bayou Park for scenic views of the city skyline. Attend a performance at the Houston Theater District, home to the city's major performing arts companies.