Montrose: The Artistic Heartbeat of Houston

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see ya lay-ter]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?Howdy partner?
  [haw-dee part-ner]
• Fine. And you?Doin' good. You?
  [doin' good. you?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [I ain't catch-in' on]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI reckon I'll take a gander at the menu
  [I reckon I'll take a gan-der at the menu]
• I don't eat meatI don't do no meat
  [I don't do no meat]
• Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bot-tums up]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI reckon it's time to settle up
  [I reckon it's time to set-tle up]

• Help!I need a hand!
  [I need a hand]
• Go away!Git!
  [git]
• Call the Police!Get the sheriff!
  [get the sher-iff]
• Call a doctor!Need a doc!
  [need a doc]
• I'm lostDone lost
  [done lost]
• I'm illFeel poorly
  [feel poor-ly]

• I'd like to buy...I reckon I'll take...
  [I reckon I'll take]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just brows-in']
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [what's the dam-age]
• That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [that's a bit steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can y'all do better on the price?
  [can y'all do bet-ter on the price]

• What time is it?What's the time of day?
  [what's the time of day]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
• Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-ty]
• MorningMornin'
  [morn-in']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [even-in']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest'day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorrah
  [tom-or-rah]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [ate]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [where's the]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [what's the addy]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [can you point it out]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to)]

Montrose emerged in the late 19th century as one of Houston's first planned communities. Established by entrepreneur James H. Smith in 1911, the neighborhood was designed to attract affluent residents with its tree-lined streets and beautiful lots. Its proximity to downtown Houston made it a desirable location, leading to a rapid influx of families and the establishment of various amenities.

By the mid-20th century, Montrose became a hub for the arts and counterculture, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. The neighborhood attracted artists, musicians, and writers, fostering a vibrant creative scene. This period saw the opening of iconic venues like the Numbers nightclub and the development of street art that reflected the social and political changes of the time.

Montrose is renowned for its cultural diversity, particularly as a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community. The neighborhood began to gain recognition as a safe haven during the 1970s, culminating in the establishment of the annual Houston Pride Parade, which attracts thousands of participants and visitors. Montrose's acceptance and celebration of diversity have significantly shaped its identity.

In the late 20th century, Montrose faced challenges from urban development, prompting residents and local organizations to advocate for the preservation of its historic homes and character. The Montrose Historic District was designated in 1986, protecting many of the area’s architectural gems, from bungalows to Victorian-style houses, and reinforcing the neighborhood's unique charm.

Today, Montrose continues to thrive as a cultural mosaic, blending its rich history with modern influences. The neighborhood is known for its eclectic mix of art galleries, boutiques, and eateries, reflecting the ongoing evolution of Houston's urban landscape. The Montrose area remains a focal point for social and cultural events, contributing to the broader narrative of Houston's dynamic identity.

Montrose is centrally located in Houston and can be accessed easily from various neighborhoods. From Downtown Houston, take the METRO light rail's Green Line to the Museum District station, followed by a short bus or rideshare to Montrose. If you're coming from the Galleria, you can catch a bus on Richmond Avenue that heads directly into Montrose. The nearest major airport is George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), about 30 miles away, where taxis and shuttle services can take you to Montrose.

Montrose is best explored on foot or by bicycle due to its pedestrian-friendly layout. The city has a network of bike lanes, and several bike rental services are available. Public transport options include METRO buses that run through the neighborhood. For longer distances, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely used and convenient.

Montrose is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, it is advisable to avoid certain areas after dark, particularly near the edges of the neighborhood where crime rates may be higher. Always stay alert, avoid displaying valuables, and stick to well-lit streets during nighttime.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. There are several hospitals in and around Montrose, including the Houston Methodist Hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance and carry a copy of important documents with you.

Fashion: Do embrace the eclectic style of Montrose; casual and artistic attire is welcomed. Don't wear excessively formal clothing as it may seem out of place. Religion: Do respect local beliefs and practices if visiting religious sites. Don't impose your views on others. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and offer your seat to those in need. Don't engage in loud conversations on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a warm smile and 'hello.' Don't be overly formal; Montrose has a relaxed vibe. Eating & Drinking: Do explore local eateries and try unique dishes. Don't leave a restaurant without trying the house specialties.

To experience Montrose like a local, visit the numerous art galleries and street murals scattered throughout the area. Attend local events, like the Montrose Art Walk, to engage with the community. Explore the diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars; don't hesitate to ask locals for their favorites. Visit the nearby Buffalo Bayou Park for a taste of nature and outdoor activities.