Williamsburg: A Journey Through Colonial America

• HelloHowdy
  [houd-ee]
• GoodbyeFarewell
  [fair-well]
• YesYea
  [yay]
• NoNah
  [nuh]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [pleez/yur wel-come]
• Thank youMuch obliged
  [muhch uh-blahyd]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [pahr-dn mee]
• How are you?How ya doin'?
  [hao yuh doo-in']
• Fine. And you?Fine. An' you?
  [fahyn. an' yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speek ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [ahy ent kach-in' on]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the bill, if you will
  [let mee see the bil, if yuh wil]
• I don't eat meatI ain't a meat eater
  [ahy ent uh meet ee-ter]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up now, if you please
  [ahyl set-l up now, if yuh pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Git!
  [git]
• Call the Police!Send for the constable!
  [send fawr thuh kawn-stuh-bul]
• Call a doctor!Fetch the sawbones!
  [fetch thuh saw-bohns]
• I'm lostI'm discombobulated
  [ahym dis-kuhm-boh-byuh-lay-tid]
• I'm illI'm ailin'
  [ahym ay-lin']

• I'd like to buy...I reckon I'll buy...
  [ahy rek-uhn ayl buy]
• I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [ahym just brow-zin']
• How much is it?What's the damage?
  [wuts thuh dam-ij]
• That's too expensiveThat's mighty dear
  [thats mahy-tee deer]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya come down on the price?
  [kan yuh kuhm doun on thuh prahys]

• What time is it?What o'clock is it?
  [wut uh-klok iz it]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [its wuhn uh-klok]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [haf past (ten)]
• MorningMornin'
  [mawrn-in']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-tur-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [eev-nin']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
• TodayToday
  [tuh-day]
• TomorrowMorrer
  [mawr-er]
• 1One
  [wuhn]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [fawr]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
• 8Eight
  [ayt]
• 9Nine
  [nain]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [wheres thuh]
• What's the address?What's the location?
  [whuts thuh loh-key-shun]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kan yuh show mee (on thuh map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens thuh nekst (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a tik-it (to)]

Williamsburg served as the capital of the Virginia Colony from 1699 to 1780. Its status as the capital made it a political and cultural center, where key decisions and events took place that shaped early American history.

Established in 1693, the College of William & Mary is the second-oldest institution of higher education in the United States. It played a significant role in the education of many prominent figures in American history, including Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and John Tyler.

Completed in 1722, the Governor's Palace was the official residence of the colonial governors of Virginia. It exemplifies the grandeur and elegance of colonial architecture and served as a symbol of British authority in the American colonies.

Originally established in 1674, Bruton Parish Church is one of the oldest churches in the United States. The current building, completed in 1715, has been a central place of worship and community gathering for centuries, hosting notable figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.

Williamsburg was a hotbed of revolutionary activity during the American Revolution. Key events, such as the signing of the Virginia Resolves in 1765 and the Virginia Declaration of Rights in 1776, took place here, setting the stage for independence.

Located just a short drive from Williamsburg, Historic Jamestowne is the site of the first permanent English settlement in America, founded in 1607. Visitors can explore archaeological finds, reconstructed buildings, and learn about the early struggles and triumphs of the settlers.

In the early 20th century, philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. funded the restoration and preservation of Williamsburg's historic district. This project transformed the city into a living museum, allowing visitors to experience life in 18th-century America through meticulously restored buildings and engaging reenactments.

Williamsburg has a rich African American history, from the enslaved individuals who lived and worked in the city during the colonial period to the contributions of free Black residents. Sites like the First Baptist Church, one of America’s oldest African American congregations, shed light on this important aspect of the city's past.

During the Civil War, Williamsburg was the site of the Battle of Williamsburg in 1862. The city saw significant military activity and occupation by Union forces, which left a lasting impact on its residents and infrastructure.

Today, Williamsburg is a vibrant city that blends its rich history with modern attractions. It serves as an educational and tourist destination, where visitors can explore historical sites, enjoy cultural events, and experience the legacy of America's colonial past.

Williamsburg is located in the southeastern part of Virginia. The nearest major airport is Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF), around 20 miles away. Alternatively, Richmond International Airport (RIC) is about 45 miles away and offers more flight options. From either airport, you can rent a car, use a taxi, or book a shuttle service to reach Williamsburg. Amtrak also operates services to Williamsburg, making it accessible by train from various cities along the East Coast.

Once in Williamsburg, you can get around using various modes of transportation. The Williamsburg Area Transit Authority (WATA) operates buses that cover most tourist attractions and key areas. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available. For a more historical experience, consider taking a horse-drawn carriage ride. If you prefer self-driving, car rentals are available, and many attractions offer ample parking.

The official currency in Williamsburg, like the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, and you can easily withdraw cash if needed. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and contactless cards are also becoming more common.

Williamsburg is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should still be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your personal belongings, especially in crowded places. Although Williamsburg does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it's always advisable to stay aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Williamsburg has a local police department and several medical facilities, including Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, several pharmacies are available throughout the city.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably, especially if you plan to walk a lot. In summer, lightweight clothing is essential due to the humidity. Religion: Do respect all religious sites and practices. Some historic churches may have guidelines on attire. Public Transport: Do have exact change or a transit card for buses. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile and a 'hello'. It's considered polite and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Virginia ham and colonial-style dishes. Don't forget to tip, as it is customary in American dining establishments.

To experience Williamsburg like a local, visit the Williamsburg Farmers Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with costumed interpreters at Colonial Williamsburg to get a deeper understanding of 18th-century American life. Consider exploring beyond the main tourist attractions by visiting lesser-known historical sites and local parks. For an authentic dining experience, try some of the historic taverns offering period-specific menus.