1. The quality of public transportation (or lack thereof).
Whether you're used to hopping on the T or whipping out your MetroCard, public transportation is simply a way of life in most metropolitan areas. However, don't take that ride from Park Street for granted as you will almost always need a car to get around many Southern states. Also, places in the South tend to be more a lot more spread out, making it difficult to afford grabbing an Uber or a taxi.
2. The insanely cold weather of the North.
Something that practically everyone living in the Northeast US can relate to is cold weather. From the notorious black ice to the disastrous nor'easter, weather in the North can be a learning experience. While your friends in the Carolinas are enjoying a nice glass of sweet tea on the front porch, you may very well find yourself in a spinning car after slamming your breaks in the snow.
3. Southern Hospitality? Debatable.
A common stereotype is that the South is full of southern hospitality and that people from the North are just too busy to talk. Let me break it down to you. Life in the South is filled with kinfolk, shade, and predictions for the SEC. You're typically known by who you're related to or connected with, and as a result, it can be hard making the social transition if you're coming from the North to the South. Remember, the South is big, but it can easily feel small.
4. The college life and difficulty of classes at elite colleges/universities
Although colleges in both the South and the North can have incredible sports programs, Southern schools take the win for college football and for producing incredible athletes. This also creates a sense of fun and tradition that can be undeniable for your college undergrad experience. However, going to school in the North can also leave you with phenomenal benefits. For example, the Ivy League and the NESCAC are both located in the North. With schools like Harvard, Tufts, NYU, MIT, Princeton, Carnegie Mellon, and countless more, going to school in the North can provide you with multiple job offers upon graduation.
5. Why is Southern food so addictive?
The iconic Waffle House is a gem of Southern culture. It's a meet-up spot, quick fix, and truck stop all in one. Other popular spots down South include Chick-fil-a, Whataburger, Zaxby's, Cookout, Bojangles', and Cracker Barrel. Despite being a bit fattening, food in the South is AMAZING!!! Staple items include chicken bog, sweet potato casserole, fried chicken, and baked mac-and-cheese. In New England, you will find it hard to avoid Dunkin' Donuts, Friendly's, and the infamous clam chowder.
6. I was going 40 on a 35, but did I really just get passed by a school bus?
Dealing with traffic in cities like New York and Boston can be frustrating at times. With some not-so-mentionable nicknames, drivers in the North have built a rep for driving aggressively. At the same time, many Northern cities can be strict when it comes to speed limits and road rules. Plot twist: If you adhere to the the speed limit in the South, prepare to get passed on the road or expect to have someone riding your bumper.7. BEFORE I LET YOU GOOOOOOO.... !!!!!
Line dancing is the pinnacle of Southern parties. Whether you find yourself doing the Wobble, Cupid Shuffle, Biker Shuffle, or the Shag for my young folks, line dancing is a big part of festivities in the South. Also, if you actually know the dance to Mr Hotspot's "My Friends," you are undoubtedly from the South.
8. The Language
Both the North and South have their fair share of differences in language. With "y'all" meaning "you all" in the South and "mad" or "wicked" meaning "very" up North, tourists are often obsessed with the differences in vernacular. Also, don't be surprised to hear people in Boston use the terms "force", "on dogs", or "aggy." Also, come to South Carolina and you will hear "finna" and "ain't" used just as consistently as the line at Chick-fil-a.
At the end of the day, no matter where we live, we all have a love and appreciation for the places we find home. Because honestly, who would we be without it?
Here's to ya, Boston!