When I tell people I'm from South Jersey, they often jump to the conclusion that I live near Snooki, Pauly-D and the rest of the "Jersey Shore" cast - even though Seaside Heights is one of the hundreds of cities in New Jersey and among the many towns directly along the coast. Many of these same people believe that people like the cast of "Jersey Shore" are an accurate representation of the entire state, even though this is not at all the case. Thanks to shows like these, misconceptions about New Jersey are painfully common, but in my 15 years of experience, I have never seen them in real life. In reality, us South Jersians are just some fun-loving, nature-embracing, shoobie-hating, pork-roll-eating beach bums and I'm proud to call it home.
Living near the beach has always been the highlight of my time living in South Jersey. It is my favorite place to go relax after a stressful day. Whether it is 30 degrees outside in the middle of winter, before the sun rises on a summer day or among the seagull-feeding shoobies in the heart of summer - it has always been there to bring me peace and serenity, simply by listening to the waves crash against the shoreline and walking through the warm sand barefoot. Living 10 to 15 minutes from some of the most recognized resort destinations, including the best beach in America (claps for Ocean City) and Atlantic City, definitely has its perks. I mean, how many people are able to go these famous beaches to see fireworks both on the Fourth of July and New Year's Eve?
I have learned through experience that South Jersey has some of the best sports fans ever. If you have ever met a real South Jersey family, you would know that we are the most enthusiastic and energetic group in the crowd. Surely, you won't be seeing us cheering for the Devils, Giants or the Jets. You will be able to see us just across the Ben Franklin Bridge at Citizens Bank Park, Lincoln Financial Field and the Wells Fargo Center, cheering alongside the Philadelphia natives with a bucket of crab fries.
If you have ever been to South Jersey, you would already know that we have the best food around. We are the go-to state for milkshakes and fries at 3 a.m. at the local diner, and feature the best bagels (yes, better than New York) served with an egg, cheese and pork roll. I feel bad for people who have never experienced the magic of Wawa. Discovered on the East Coast, every corner is home to a Wawa in South Jersey, but then again, there's nothing wrong with convenience for a hoagie or a cup of coffee during a long, stressful day.
South Jersey is known for its boardwalks, and even better, its boardwalk food. You can find anything to satisfy your sweet tooth, including Johnson's popcorn, fudge from the Fudge Kitchen, Shriver's Salt Water Taffy or an old fashioned funnel cake. With so many options, you'll never go hungry. For people who don't know, New Jersey is the Garden State for a reason! We are the premier destination for tomatoes and corn, a hot commodity in the summer months. Tomatoes and corn may sound amazing, but nothing beats blueberries grown in the blueberry capital of the world located in the heart of South Jersey. As a huge fan of food (I mean, who isn't?) the food here is one of the many reasons I love South Jersey so much.
Shows like "Jersey Shore" often showcase the negative stereotypes associated with South Jersey, such as the orange tans, fist pumping and some "classy" Jersey turnpiking, but they neglect to show the positives. The amazing food, entertainment for the entire family, the beach in it's true beauty and the realistic culture of the state are all aspects that go unnoticed, but should certainly not be neglected. Although it sucks not be recognized, I'm thankful because us South Jersians get to keep the area to ourselves for a little bit longer. I love where I live because it makes me who I am and that's something that I wouldn't trade for the world.
