For Non-Southerners who have been to the South?

Question

I am from California and am planning on going to North Carolina. I I have had Southern friends all my life and am slightly conservative and a Christian. I have been to D.C., Baltimore, Florida and Louisiana. If I visit North Carolina or that general area would there be any cultural "shocks" I need to be aware of now, or "deal-killers" that might prevent me from being able to adjust to life in the Tarheel State if I move there? Thanks.

Musicklicker - stop being judgmental. I am not a Northerner. I do not tell anyone what to do. I want to move because the new-age ultra left in California have ruined my homestate (IMO). I would like to live in an area where people have genuine old-fashioned views. I do not join boards, I hate golf-courses, I am a live and let live type. I want to preserve the environment like you - and because I am in a one-man start-up company I no doubt willl be living in an already existing small apartment.

Could it be perhaps that people like you have given the South its negative image in the eyes of the world? You don't know me so how can you judge.

BYT THE WAY THIS QUESION WAS FOR NON-SOUTHERNERS. I HAVE ALREADY ASKED IT FOR SOUTHERNERS - SO POST YOUR BIGOTED COMMENTS THERE, OK?

All sincere and non-hateful answers are still welcome.

Answer 1

I'm a conservative christian californian who went to school in virginia beach. There were good and bad things, but I really did miss a lot of things about home. The thing I missed the most was probably food, we have a lot more variety of restaurants (especially ethnic ones) here. I also missed being able to see a lot of foreign movies, ethnic festivals and the kinds of things you have in major cities that you can't find in smaller ones (variety of shops, cafes, late night restaurants, etc.) Good points were it was close to the ocean, if you're used to being near water being landlocked is no fun. I also found the people to be more down to earth (the women were way more feminine than bay area women and that was very refreshing). It was annoying having to pay an "eating tax" (that's what I called it, they tax groceries). Also they didn't seem to think showing 49er games was a priority back there. The weather was a little tough too, we had hurricanes galore when I was there, and were without power for days (yes I know we have earthquakes here, but not every year!) and my first weekend there (in January) it hit 7 degrees. We got snowed in the worst winter and couldn't leave our homes.

All in all, I'd say Virginia was okay, but I was really glad to move back home.

UPDATE: Musicclick reminded me of a couple of other things: houses/condos are really cheap back there and he's right, the public schools are way better than they are here in CA.

Answer 2

There will be some, but nothing you won't get over, especially if you are from California! No matter where you go, it will be a little different. But that's part of the fun and adventure of going to new places. Enjoy the diversity that can be found in traveling. I have a very conservative Christian aunt who lived there for 5 years. So chill out and have a great time!

Answer 3

I'm a native from NC, and I can tell you what you need to do. First let me say, the reason most people like you are not welcomed with open arms is the fact people like you move here, and act like we didn't know how to get by until you showed up! The first thing you do is get on the boards and commities and try to change the way we do things here. "DON'T DO THAT" We did fine before you came, and we don't care to be treated like we are uneducated, hillbillies, and don't know up from down. When in Rome, do like the Roman's! I've lived in many states, and I can tell you, this place is different, the people are different, and we talk just a little slow. DO NOT make fun of the way we are, as some here are quick to take a physical poke at you. You are welcome to move here, and you will find you will be glad you did, once you get over the shock. You will find the people here are kind, real friendly, and have never met a stranger, but we don't care how you did it up north!! All that does is make everybody hate you, and I don't think that is what you want to happen, is it? I live near Asheville (in the mountains) and we don't care for all the people moving in here, because all they want to do is build golf courses, run our business, and make our taxes go through the roof. Why should we like people like that?? Don't come here with the idea that you are going to change everything to be like it was up north, that will not go over well at all. Don't expect people to welcome you with open arms, but once they get used to you, things will be fine, as long as you leave your attitude in California. You are going to be suprised at how smart some of the people here are, they just don't act that way, that's all. Also; it depends on which part of the state you move to, as to how the people will accept you. I hope you will move here and enjoy yourself, as there is no better place to raise a family than here! Our schools are in the tops in the nation, so we couldn't be that dumb! Don't worry, you will be just fine, as long as you take into consideration what I have said. We have many fine churches here and religion is very strong, so hook up with a church, and you will soon see, we aren't that different from anyone else. Treat us right and we will give you the shirt off our backs, treat us like idots, and you will be moving soon! Good Luck!

Answer 4

You have to go to the Raleigh - Durham - Chapel Hill area or on the coast. The rest of NC is out there. Country boring. Charlotte is up and coming. Wilmington gives you a small city with beaches and coast. Rural NC is out there where you may as well be in the outback of Australia. Oh, Ashville is OK if you are a booky boring guy. Hope your job offers a transfer as this is culture shock.

Answer 5

Sacrilege!!! did no longer you notice it? The door on the passenger area of the final Lee knock-off OPENED so the lady could desire to get in!! in case you do no longer have confidence me see time index a million:40. Oh, the question. Yeah, it is notably plenty what non-southerners think of the South is like.

Answer 6

Walter, Thank you for your reply to my Euchre question. I have some knowledge of the south having maternal relations that live in Nashville and I have brothers that live in North Carolina (one who recently moved there 2 weeks ago). Christianity and conservatism go hand in hand in the south. One suggestion, when getting to know the locals and they ask you to drop by for tea (iced, sweet) don't. They say that to everyone. But as you build relationships through your business you will come to know those that really want you to drop by for a cold cup of leaves. Good luck in your new adventure.

Answer 7

The biggest adjustment (I'm from San Francisco) is the lack of traffic and the people that talk and actually care, wanting to know how your day is going and want to get to know you. I have yearned heavily to return to South Carolina. I have been there three times and it is the nicest place, very affordable with greta people.

Beware of racism though. It still exists there.

Answer 8

You'll have to get used to people showing genuine kindness.

Answer 9

no liquor sales on sunday life is slower bible belt no same sex couples

Answer 10

theres nothing to do