Discover Downtown Houston: The Urban Heartbeat of Texas

• HelloHowdy
  [haʊ-di]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [siː jə]
• YesYup
  [yʌp]
• NoNah
  [nɑː]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pliːz/nəʊ ˈprɒbləm]
• Thank youThanks
  [θæŋks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/Sorry
  [ˈpɑːrdn mi/ˈsɔri]
• How are you?Howdy, y'all?
  [haʊ-di jɔːl]
• Fine. And you?Doing good. You?
  [ˈduɪŋ ɡʊd jʊ]
• Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [jɔːl spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
• I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [aɪ ənt ˈɡɛtɪn ɪt]

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

• Help!SOS!
  [ɛs oʊ ɛs]
• Go away!Git!
  [ɡɪt]
• Call the Police!Get the cops!
  [ɡɛt ðə kɒps]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [ɡɛt ə dɑk]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [aɪm tɜrnd əˈraʊnd]
• I'm illI'm under the weather
  [aɪm ˈʌndər ðə ˈwɛðər]

• I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to buy...
  [aɪm ˈfɪksɪn tə baɪ]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [ʤʌst ˈbraʊzɪn]
• How much is it?How much for this?
  [haʊ mʌʧ fɔr ðɪs]
• That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [ðæts ə bɪt stiːp]
• Can you lower the price?Can you come down on the price?
  [kæn jʊ kʌm daʊn ɒn ðə praɪs]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [wɑːts ðə taɪm]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [ɪts wʌn]
• Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [tɛn-ˈθɜrti]
• MorningMornin'
  [ˈmɔrnɪn]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftərˈnun]
• EveningEvenin'
  [ˈivnɪn]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [ˈjɛstˈdeɪ]
• TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [təˈmɒrə]
• 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 it out (on the map)?
  [kæn jʊ pɔɪnt ɪt aʊt ɒn ðə mæp]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [wɛnz ðə nɛkst bʌs]
• A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [ə pæs tu]

Downtown Houston's history began in 1836 when brothers Augustus and John Allen founded the city. They purchased land near Buffalo Bayou, and their vision quickly turned into a bustling settlement. The strategic location along the bayou facilitated trade and transportation, helping the area grow rapidly, especially during the Texas Revolution.

The arrival of the railroad in the 1860s transformed Downtown Houston into a commercial hub. The Houston and Texas Central Railway, established in 1871, connected the city to other parts of Texas, leading to increased trade and population growth. This period marked the beginning of Houston's prominence as a key player in the state's economy.

The discovery of oil at Spindletop in 1901 heralded a new era for Houston and specifically Downtown. The oil boom attracted workers and entrepreneurs, leading to rapid urban development. Skyscrapers began to dot the skyline, and services catering to the booming economy flourished, establishing Houston as the 'Energy Capital of the World'.

During the 1960s, Downtown Houston became a focal point for civil rights activism. Notable events, such as the desegregation of public facilities and protests against racial discrimination, took place in the area. This period marked a significant shift in the cultural and social landscape of the neighborhood, influencing future generations.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Downtown Houston underwent significant redevelopment efforts, revitalizing the area and attracting new businesses, residents, and cultural institutions. The establishment of the Theatre District and the expansion of the Houston Convention Center enhanced the community's cultural offerings, making Downtown a vibrant destination for arts and entertainment.

Downtown Houston is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in the city. If you are coming from the George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), you can take a taxi, rideshare service, or the SuperShuttle directly to Downtown, which takes approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. From Hobby Airport (HOU), a taxi or rideshare will take around 20-30 minutes. For those already within the city, the METRO light rail provides a convenient connection to Downtown from various areas, including the Museum District and the Texas Medical Center.

Downtown Houston is well-connected by public transportation. The METRO light rail has several stops in the area, making it easy to navigate to attractions. Additionally, buses run frequently, and the Downtown Transit Center is a hub for various routes. For a more local experience, consider renting a bicycle through the Houston B-Cycle program, which has multiple docking stations throughout Downtown. Walking is also a great option, as many attractions are within a short distance.

Downtown Houston is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially at night. Areas near the MetroRail stations can have higher foot traffic and occasional petty crime, so be cautious of your belongings. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas or vacant streets after dark. The neighborhoods around the East End and some parts of the outskirts may have higher crime rates, so it’s best to stay in well-populated areas.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is the Houston Methodist Hospital, located a short distance from Downtown. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest police station and emergency services. It’s also wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-urgent health issues, pharmacies are available throughout Downtown.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you may be walking a lot. Don't wear overly casual attire when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and be mindful of religious sites. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly or disabled passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly hello. Don't be overly familiar without an introduction. Eating & Drinking: Do try local favorites like Tex-Mex and barbeque. Don't waste food, as it's considered disrespectful.

To experience Downtown Houston like a local, visit the Historic District to admire its architecture and public art installations. Check out local food trucks for diverse culinary options. Attend a free event at Discovery Green park, which often hosts concerts and festivals. For a unique experience, explore the underground pedestrian tunnels that connect many buildings in Downtown, offering a respite from the heat and a glimpse of local life.