12. The monuments
Sure, it’s a bit cliché but the monuments are some of the most special things about DC. They are beautiful, moving and most people who live in DC have their own special soft spot for at least one or two of the monuments.
11. The museums
The museums in DC are truly first class and the bonus is that most of them are free. If you’ve ever decided to just wander over to a museum because you had nothing better to do, you know you will miss the ease of visiting them when you are gone.
10. Real conversations with real substance (and debates)
People in DC may seem a bit intense but you learn to enjoy the deep philosophical discussions, hearty and enlightening debates and other honest conversations that you frequently find in DC.
9. Brunch & happy hour
Yes, lots of other cities have brunch and happy hour. But no other city seems to have embrace these two delightful outings with as much zeal as DC.
8. Hearing at least four different languages on your daily commute.
There is something wonderfully comforting about the diversity in the district. The melting pot effect of DC is something you experience on your commute, in the neighborhoods and through local restaurants. Without, life doesn’t feel quite as international.
7. The seasons
Washington might get hot in the summer and cold in the winter but the four season are all beautiful and well-represented.
6. Virginia wines
Virginia has become a popular winery location and DC residents are able to enjoy the fruits of their neighbor’s labor (quite literally!) Whether you love to drive out for a day at the wineries or have a particularly favorite local wine, you’ll miss the ease of finding Virginia wines when you leave.
5. Maryland crabs
And of course, our other neighbor Maryland, provides DC residents with the most delicious and flavorful crabs and seafood all year long!
4. Local markets with local artisans
DC has a thriving local market scene and it’s so easy to find unique and interesting gifts, clothing, decor and foods from the local artisans all over the DC area.
3. Half-smokes
Juicy, spice and smoky, the half smoke might not look very appealing but this satisfying DC delicacy always hits the spot. There is no other place in the world that offers the right blend of spices and meats like DC.
2. The low bar for snow days.
You will miss the many snow days DC manages to accumulate when you leave here. Most people in the country have to go into work or school with half an inch of snow on the ground.
1. Wondering if your friends and neighbors are secretly in the CIA
It’s the always constant question among people in DC: who of their friends or family works in the CIA? Is it your neighbor who goes on long trips to mysterious destinations? Or perhaps your brother in law who always seems to work strange hours? When you leave DC, the question doesn’t come up as much!
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