Maryland is a beautiful place. From Baltimore, Annapolis, to Ocean City, there's a lot to experience. Not just that, but the culture is also different if you're not from Maryland. From the things they eat to the things they say, there are a lot of interesting differences if you're not from here. So here's a guide for any "out-of-staters".
1. There is a lot of state pride.
The Maryland flag is featured everywhere. You can find it on shirts, sweatshirts, hats, beer glasses, shot glasses, and pens just at the local CVS. It wouldn't be a surprise to see the flag hanging outside of a house or maybe hanging on the wall inside of someone's room/dorm.
2. CRABS.
They're like crack, all Maryland people are addicted to crab. If you're not from Maryland, they will definitely make you try it. Apparently, there's nothing like a Maryland crab — but I wouldn't know.
3. The term "hip."
My roommate defines it as "to be knowledgeable of or to know." So, if you're talking to a Marylander about a current topic in the area and they say "I'm hip!" They basically mean they know what's going on/what happened.
4. The Baltimore Ravens or Orioles.
Not a Ravens or Orioles fan? Suddenly you don't matter, sorry!
5. The term "bop."
It's a measurement (kinda), like a mile or kilometer. For example, "Where's the closest Chick-fil-a?" "It's a bop away!" Usually referring to something generally far away.
6. Old Bay Seasoning . It goes on fries, pizza, crab, food, did I mention fries? Basically, anything you can eat, they will put Old Bay on. My roommate even has an Old Bay hat. Yeah, it's kind of a big deal.
7. Ocean City, Maryland. From the Boardwalk to the parties, there's always something great happening on the beach. There is so many shops to walk through and great places to get food, you can't go without getting a freshly squeezed lemonade.
8. Lacrosse, especially Salisbury University Men's Lacrosse. Am I right?