Travel Guide to Bellevue Square

• HelloHi
  [haɪ]
• GoodbyeBye
  [baɪ]
• YesYeah
  [jɛ]
• NoNope
  [noʊp]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [pliːz/jʊr ˈwɛlkəm]
• Thank youThanks
  [θæŋks]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [ɪkˈskjuz mi/ˈsɔri]
• How are you?How are you?
  [haʊ ɑr ju]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [faɪn. ænd ju]
• Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [du ju spik ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [aɪ doʊnt ʌndərˈstænd]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [aɪd laɪk tu si ðə ˈmɛnju pliːz]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [aɪ doʊnt it mit]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [ʧɪrz]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [aɪ wʊd laɪk tu peɪ pliːz]

• Help!Help!
  [hɛlp]
• Go away!Go away!
  [ɡoʊ əˈweɪ]
• Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [kɔl ðə pəˈlis]
• Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [kɔl ə ˈdɑktər]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [aɪm lɔst]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [aɪm sɪk]

• I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [aɪd laɪk tu baɪ]
• I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [aɪm ʤʌst ˈlʊkɪŋ]
• How much is it?How much is it?
  [haʊ mʌʧ ɪz ɪt]
• That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
  [ðæts tuː ɪkˈspɛnsɪv]
• Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
  [kæn ju ˈloʊər ðə praɪs]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [wʌt taɪm ɪz ɪt]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [ɪts wʌn əˈklɑk]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [hæf pæst (ˈtɛn)]
• MorningMorning
  [ˈmɔrnɪŋ]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftərˈnun]
• EveningEvening
  [ˈivnɪŋ]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [ˈjɛstərˌdeɪ]
• TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [təˈmɔroʊ]
• 1One
  [wʌn]
• 2Two
  [tu]
• 3Three
  [θri]
• 4Four
  [fɔr]
• 5Five
  [faɪv]
• 6Six
  [sɪks]
• 7Seven
  [ˈsɛvən]
• 8Eight
  [eɪt]
• 9Nine
  [naɪn]
• 10Ten
  [tɛn]

• Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [wɛrz ə/ðə]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [wɑts ðə ˈædrɛs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kæn ju ʃoʊ mi (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 ....)]

Before European settlers arrived, the region that would become Bellevue Square was inhabited by the Coast Salish tribes, including the Duwamish and Suquamish peoples. They utilized the area's rich natural resources, including nearby lakes and forests, for sustenance and cultural practices, establishing deep connections to the land.

Bellevue's origins can be traced back to the late 19th century when European settlers began to arrive. In 1869, a land donation by David and Mary 'Minnie' Bell paved the way for the town's establishment. The name 'Bellevue,' meaning 'beautiful view' in French, was chosen for its scenic vistas of Lake Washington and the Cascade Mountains.

Bellevue Square, originally known as the Bellevue Plaza, opened in 1946 and was one of the first shopping centers in the Pacific Northwest. As Bellevue grew rapidly in the post-World War II era, the Square became a commercial hub, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and services that catered to the expanding population.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Bellevue Square underwent significant renovations and expansions. The addition of a multi-level structure and modernization efforts transformed it into a contemporary shopping destination. This evolution mirrored the growth of Bellevue as a suburban city, reflecting the changing tastes and needs of its residents.

Bellevue Square has become a vibrant cultural center, hosting various community events, farmers markets, and seasonal celebrations. The Square's role in fostering community engagement is evident through initiatives that promote local artists, cultural diversity, and environmental awareness, making it a focal point for social interaction in Bellevue.

In recent years, Bellevue Square has continued to evolve, with new luxury retailers and dining options enhancing its reputation as a premier shopping destination. The Square's integration with Bellevue's urban development plans illustrates the city's commitment to maintaining a dynamic and modern community while preserving its historical roots.

Bellevue Square is conveniently located in the heart of Bellevue, Washington. If you are arriving from Seattle, you can take the Sound Transit Link Light Rail to the Bellevue Transit Center, which is just a short walk from the Square. From other neighborhoods within Bellevue, King County Metro buses provide reliable service to Bellevue Square, with multiple routes connecting the area. For those driving, Interstate 405 offers easy access, and there is ample parking available in nearby garages.

Bellevue Square is pedestrian-friendly and easily navigable on foot, with many shops, restaurants, and attractions within close proximity. For longer distances, King County Metro buses serve the area well, with frequent stops. Biking is also a popular option, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-share programs available. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely used for convenient transportation around the Square and beyond.

Bellevue Square is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. While the area is well-policed, it is advisable to avoid isolated areas at night and keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded spaces. Areas like the Eastside Rail Corridor can be quiet after dark, so be cautious if walking through there. Always stay alert to your surroundings and trust your instincts.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Bellevue Square is close to several medical facilities, including Overlake Medical Center. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available within the Square. Familiarize yourself with the location of emergency exits and services in the area.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable and casual clothing suitable for shopping and dining. Don't wear overly revealing clothing, as it may not be considered appropriate in some establishments. Religion: While Bellevue is diverse, do respect local customs. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers. Don't take calls or play loud music in public transport. Greetings: Do offer a friendly smile and make eye contact. Don't be overly familiar unless invited. Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy the local cuisine and try food from various restaurants. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Bellevue Square like a local, consider exploring the nearby outdoor spaces, such as the Bellevue Downtown Park, which features beautiful gardens and a lake. Attend local events, such as the Bellevue Arts Museum's exhibitions or seasonal festivals, to engage with the community. Check out local coffee shops for a taste of the Pacific Northwest's coffee culture. Don't hesitate to ask locals for recommendations on hidden gems in the area.