Laredo: A Gem of Culture and History on the Border

• HelloHola
  [OH-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
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• YesSí
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• NoNo
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• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
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• Thank youGracias
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• Excuse me/SorryDisculpe/Lo siento
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• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
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• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
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• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
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• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-TYEN-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseQuisiera ver el menú, por favor
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• I don't eat meatNo como carne
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• Cheers!¡Salud!
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• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tee-RAH pah-GAHR, pohr fah-BOHR]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
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• Go away!¡Vete!
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• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
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• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
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• I'm lostEstoy perdido
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• I'm illEstoy enfermo
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• I'd like to buy...Quisiera comprar...
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• I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
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• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
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• That's too expensiveEsto es demasiado caro
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• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
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• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
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• It's one o'clockEs la una
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• Half past (10)Y media (10)
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• MorningMañana
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• TomorrowMañana
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• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está el/la...?
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• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
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• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo pasa el próximo (autobús)?
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• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [oon boh-LEH-toh (ah ...)]

Laredo was founded on May 15, 1755, by Don Tomás Sánchez de la Barrera y Garza. Originally established as a Spanish colonial settlement, it was part of the Nuevo Santander province. The town was named after Laredo in Cantabria, Spain, and was initially used as a ranching community.

In 1840, Laredo briefly became the capital of the short-lived Republic of the Rio Grande. The republic was an attempt to secede from Mexico, and although it lasted less than a year, it left a lasting mark on the region. The historic Republic of the Rio Grande Museum now commemorates this intriguing period.

During the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), Laredo found itself at the crossroads of conflict. After the war, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo transferred control of Laredo from Mexico to the United States. Many residents opted to move across the Rio Grande to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, rather than become American citizens.

Laredo played a unique role during the American Civil War as a Confederate stronghold. The town's location made it a key point for trade and supply routes. The Battle of Laredo, also known as the Battle of Zacate Creek, occurred in March 1864 when Union forces attempted to disrupt Confederate cotton trade routes.

The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s marked a significant turning point for Laredo. The Texas Mexican Railway connected Laredo with Corpus Christi, enhancing trade and mobility. This development bolstered Laredo's position as a trade hub and facilitated economic growth.

Throughout the 20th century, Laredo experienced substantial growth and modernization. The construction of international bridges over the Rio Grande improved cross-border commerce. The establishment of educational institutions like Texas A&M International University further contributed to the city’s development.

Laredo is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, most notably the Washington's Birthday Celebration, which has been held annually since 1898. This month-long event includes parades, pageants, and a variety of other festivities that highlight the city's rich cultural heritage.

In recent decades, Laredo has emerged as a major player in international trade, thanks to its strategic location on the U.S.-Mexico border. The city's economy is heavily influenced by the logistics and transportation industries, with the Laredo International Airport and World Trade Bridge serving as critical infrastructure.

Laredo is serviced by the Laredo International Airport (LRD), which offers flights from major cities in the United States. Alternatively, you can drive to Laredo via Interstate 35, which runs directly through the city. There are also bus services available from major cities in Texas and neighboring states.

Getting around Laredo is convenient with options such as car rentals, taxis, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. The city also offers public transportation through El Metro, which operates buses across various routes. For those interested in exploring the city on foot, downtown Laredo is particularly walkable.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the city. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Laredo is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it has areas with higher crime rates. Neighborhoods to be cautious in include parts of South Laredo and certain areas around the downtown region. Always stay vigilant, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your belongings secure.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Laredo has several hospitals, including the Laredo Medical Center and Doctors Hospital of Laredo. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the city. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather, which can be quite hot. Avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local religious customs, especially if visiting churches or other places of worship. Public Transport: Do be polite to bus drivers and other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake. It's customary to say 'hello' or 'buenos días' (good morning) in Spanish. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Tex-Mex cuisine and be open to new flavors. Don't refuse food offerings, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Laredo like a local, visit the vibrant downtown area, especially San Agustin Plaza, which offers a glimpse into the city's rich cultural history. Explore the Laredo Farmers Market for fresh produce and local crafts. Don't miss the annual Washington's Birthday Celebration, one of the biggest events in the city, featuring parades, concerts, and more.