If you’re a resident of the Old Dominion – whether it’s been five years or 50 – you’ve grown accustomed to a uniquely Virginian way of life. From our driving habits to our cooking, the nuances of living here are important yet often go without saying. See how many of the following unwritten rules of living in Virginia you can relate to:
- When it comes to the weather, expect the unexpected.
CJ Oliver/flickr Whether it’s an extra sweater or an umbrella in your car, you’ve probably prepared for those “just in case” moments. Weather in Virginia can be spontaneous, and it never hurts to be prepared.
- Don’t forget the bug spray!
George Wesley & Bonita/flickr Mosquitos are an unwelcome population in Virginia, yet they are persistent well into the fall season. It never hurts to have some bug spray at the ready to avoid these pests.
- Keep an eye out for deer at all times.
wplynn/flickr Longtime residents of Virginia know that these creatures can appear from out of nowhere.
- Crab cakes are never a bad idea.
Virginia State Parks/flickr Wondering what to contribute as an appetizer? Looking for something to order for an out-of-town visitor? The answer is almost always fresh crab cakes.
- Don’t underestimate the small towns.
Randy/flickr Virginia’s small towns offer some of the most impressive history and unforgettable charm you’ll encounter.
- When in doubt, choose local.
fabulousfabs/flickr Whether it’s a trip to the nearby farmers market or a menu option, choosing what’s locally grown is always best.
- Always cheer for the Redskins.
C Watts/flickr You might be for another team, but you can never truly be AGAINST the Washington Redskins.
- Know that a craft beer – or cider – makes any meal better.
Thomas Cizauskas/flickr Virginia’s craft beer scene could rival just about any other state.
- Avoid I-95 at rush hour if at all possible.
girlwparasol/flickr Unless you’d like to add an extra hour or two to your commute, avoid this stretch of traffic if at ALL possible.
- Take advantage of our gorgeous outdoors.
Lukas Schlagenhauf/flickr When the weather is nice, always opt for a day outside. Virginia’s landscape is just too beautiful to miss!
- Share the love.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr A true Virginian will never stop talking about his or her love affair for the great state of Virginia.
Which unwritten rules of living in Virginia would you add to the list? We’d love to hear from you! For related content, be sure to read about the 10 Strange Habits Every Virginian Will Defend.
CJ Oliver/flickr
Whether it’s an extra sweater or an umbrella in your car, you’ve probably prepared for those “just in case” moments. Weather in Virginia can be spontaneous, and it never hurts to be prepared.
George Wesley & Bonita/flickr
Mosquitos are an unwelcome population in Virginia, yet they are persistent well into the fall season. It never hurts to have some bug spray at the ready to avoid these pests.
wplynn/flickr
Longtime residents of Virginia know that these creatures can appear from out of nowhere.
Virginia State Parks/flickr
Wondering what to contribute as an appetizer? Looking for something to order for an out-of-town visitor? The answer is almost always fresh crab cakes.
Randy/flickr
Virginia’s small towns offer some of the most impressive history and unforgettable charm you’ll encounter.
fabulousfabs/flickr
Whether it’s a trip to the nearby farmers market or a menu option, choosing what’s locally grown is always best.
C Watts/flickr
You might be for another team, but you can never truly be AGAINST the Washington Redskins.
Thomas Cizauskas/flickr
Virginia’s craft beer scene could rival just about any other state.
girlwparasol/flickr
Unless you’d like to add an extra hour or two to your commute, avoid this stretch of traffic if at ALL possible.
Lukas Schlagenhauf/flickr
When the weather is nice, always opt for a day outside. Virginia’s landscape is just too beautiful to miss!
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
A true Virginian will never stop talking about his or her love affair for the great state of Virginia.
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