It's funny how we all wanted to leave good old Jersey, but weirdly enough there are some things about this place we just can't help but miss and love. Here are some of my favorites.
1. The Shore.
Hands-down the best beaches in the world. When you refer to the beach as the shore, all your out of town friends finally realize why they called that notorious show "Jersey Shore."
Long walks on the Boardwalk were the greatest way to finish off a great day at the shore. Not to mention the end rides and shops along the way. Fun fact: we have the longest boardwalks in the world. Yeah, pretty cool.
3. Salt Water Taffy.
Something that most people outside of Jersey either don't understand or just don't like have clearly never experienced the beauty that is salt water taffy. What I wouldn't give for a piece of Shriver's Taffy right now.
4. The Bread and Bakeries.
I never realized that taking a bite out of a sandwich would never be the same after leaving home. With an amazing Italian bakery on pretty much every corner, any other place outside our borders is pretty much a let down.
5. Cold Cuts.
Something that is paired beautifully with our amazing bread is cold cuts. You are never going to find a platter of cold cuts quite this amazing anywhere else.
6. Water Ice
.
Something I thought was everywhere but actually is only specific to the Jersey/Philly area. I never thought explaining water ice would be so difficult to outsiders but apparently it is. It is not a Slushie. Not ice cream. It is water ice. And I could really use a Gelati right now.
One of the first things people from school said to me was, "Oh, you're from New Jersey? Don't all you people do is go to malls and shop?" Yes, yes we do. And being so close to some of the best malls in the country you can't help but spend a little. Or a lot.
8. TastyKakes.
What I wouldn't give for a Krimpet or a Kandy Kake. They were the snack to end all snacks at lunch.
We are very famous for our produce; after all, we are the Garden State. And Jersey tomatoes are my favorites.
10. Lucy the Elephant.
Yes, we have a building that's a giant elephant, and her name happens to be Lucy. She's iconic.
11. The Statue of Liberty.
That's right, the symbol of America is in New Jersey waters.
12. Jug Handles.
Something really unique to good ol' Jersey and something that we all love to hate. Sometimes the only way to make a left turn was to use the jug handle.
13. And finally, the people.
We are notorious for our bluntness, but hey, we tell it like it is. It's just faster that way. Sometimes.
