11 Things Longtime Arizonans Wish They Could Tell Newcomers
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Monica Spencer
Author
I can’t say it enough: Arizona is one beautiful place that has a bit of everything for everyone. That must be why the majority of our population come from other states and countries. If you’re planning to move here as well, you might want to take a few minutes to read the rest of this article. Here are 11 things longtime Arizona residents would want to tell newcomers of the Grand Canyon state.
Don’t get offended, it’s just how most of us feel. Most native Arizonans are a bit territorial over this beautiful place because there has been such a heavy migration of transplants in the last couple decades. Give us time and we’ll eventually warm up to you newcomers.
Seriously, not a week in summer goes by without hearing of someone dying from heat exhaustion, whether they were out hiking on a 118-degree afternoon or trying to survive without air conditioning. Many parts of the state get pretty hot so learn how to become acclimated to the heat.
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The weather here in February won’t be the same as the middle of July. Clearly, some people underestimate the heat so plan on staying here for a week or so in the summer months before deciding to move here.
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Now that we’ve covered some of the dangers of the desert, don’t forget that Arizona is a very mountainous state. We have beautiful forests, riparian areas, and even an alpine tundra! Just remember to follow the leave no trace principles so these areas stay beautiful for generations to come.
Because Arizona has forests, mountains, and a tundra, we also get snow in quite a few areas of the state. It may not be tens of feet of blizzard but even places like Tucson occasionally see snow.
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Arizona is the real sunshine state, so make sure you have sunglasses, hats, an umbrella, and sunscreen.
That’s just rude.
Be prepared to drive everywhere. A lot.
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Arizona is an arid state with low humidity so expect to feel dehydrated a little more often than usual.
Every bit of water conservation helps: turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth, shave a couple minutes off your daily shower, and don’t water your lawn daily at 3pm. I believe in you!
Finding a coyote, javelina, or raccoon waltzing down your neighborhood street isn’t entirely a rare occurrence, especially if you live on the outskirts of town or near a park. Learn how to live with them and you should be fine.
If you’re an Arizona native, what are some other tips you would add to this list? And, if you happen to be a transplant, what are some tips you would give future residents?
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