Rhode Island, the tiniest state with the biggest personality. From die-hard Patriots fans to seafood addicts to avid beach goers, everyone is born with a sense of New England pride, how could you not be? But, it isn't until you leave Rhode Island that you truly start to notice how amazing it is. Going all the way to Arizona for college made the love and pride I have for my home state that much greater. But, there's no doubt that I've learned quite a few things about Rhode Island, and the world outside of it along the way.
1. America does not run on Dunkin'
Contrary to popular belief, America does not run on Dunkin' Donuts. Finding a Dunks on campus takes way longer than popping into any of the Starbucks locations that are on every corner. But I'll admit, even Dunkin' Donuts cannot compete with Krispy Kreme donuts.
2. You will get made fun of for saying "wicked" and "bubbler"
Time and time again, people will stop me mid-conversation to point out when I say "wicked," usually correcting it to "hella." Not to mention the confusion people feel when hearing the word "bubbler." For all of you who don't know what these words mean, here is a quick rundown.
Wicked: excellent, very.
"Rhode Island is wicked awesome."
Bubbler: water fountain.
"I need a drink from the bubbler."
3. People think Rhode Island is in New York
Friend: "Oh I love Rhode Island! Do you shop in New York City a lot?"
WRONG. As tiny as it may be, Rhode Island actually is its own state, and NYC is a good four hours away.
4. Nobody understands New England
I've gotten endless responses on this one. When I mentioned I am from New England someone once asked "is that a state?" When calling myself a New Englander someone replied, "what are we in colonial times or something?"
And, my personal favorite. When telling my friend that I met someone who was from New England, she responded, "that's so cute, how does she like the United States?"
5. There are more food chains than just Panera, Chipotle and Five Guys
Hello to the beautiful world of food. In-N-Out, Whataburger, Raising Canes, Illegal Petes, Paradise, Jamba Juice and the list goes on. The best part about leaving Rhode Island was discovering the endless new places to eat, the worst part being the 20 pounds gained from it. But be prepared, your bank account will vanish.
6. Driving is totally different
Driving in Arizona has to be one of the most stressful experiences of my life. Taking U-turns into oncoming traffic? No rotaries? Legally riding in the back of a pickup truck? Well, I can't complain about that last one.
7. It takes more than an hour to drive across other states.
In Rhode Island, a 20-minute drive is considered a road trip. Anywhere else people will say "that restaurant is only 20 minutes away." ONLY? Not to mention that it literally takes hours to get to other towns. In Rhode Island, we take one exit over on the highway.
8. The beach is amazing
Easily one of the most noteworthy places in Rhode Island are the gorgeous beaches. Pools and lakes are not the same, and nothing can replace driving to Narragansett on a hot summer day or watching the sunrise from the Newport Cliff Walk.
9. The tiniest state holds some of the country's greatest things.
From the best bagels at Felicia's to wicked good doughboys at Iggy's to the award winning Allie's Donuts, nothing can quite top these Rhode Island classics. Oh, and I can't forget about Del's Lemonade, easily the best way to cool down on a humid summer day. Being able to see the historic Newport mansions, take a ferry ride to Block Island and watch the Providence Waterfire are just a few of the amazing things you can encounter in Rhode Island. You may know everyone in the entire state, not always a good thing, and you may grow tired of what it has to offer, but if you have ever left Rhode Island then you have surely come to realize what a perfect little home it really is.
