It’s one thing to visit New Orleans, a whole other thing to live here. This city can be a little unforgiving at times—but if you stick through the hard times, there is so much beauty to share. It’s definitely a balance if you live here—but here are the things you will quickly learn once you move to New Orleans.

1) If you’re doing things right, then you should meet people easily.
Flickr.com / Yelp inc.
People here are friendly and easy to talk to—not to mention all the travelers who are always looking for people to hang out with.
2) It’s time to slow down.
Flickr.com / Brad Mongomery
The pace here just isn’t the same as it is in other places. I recommend getting used to it.
3) When it comes to your style—bring it!
Flickr.com / GB
People in New Orleans love to express themselves—there’s no reason you shouldn’t join in the fun.
4) Don’t wear uncomfortable shoes to Mardi Gras.
Flickr.com / Miguel Discar
You will end up walking a lot more than you thought.
5) Food is life.
Flickr.com / New Orleans
New Orleans residents are always thinking about the next delicious thing they're going to eat. It's a way of life when the cuisine here is this good.
6) Starting times for parties are more like suggestions.
Flickr.com / Zlatko Unger
There’s an unspoken rule that things just don’t start right on time.
7) Beware of the bugs.
Flickr.com / Bart Everson
If you’re from out of town, there is a good chance that the bugs are going to get to you one way or another.

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8) Community is life.
Flickr.com / Derek Bridges
And at the end of the day, what you will really come to value in New Orleans is the amazing people you will come to see as family.
9) Don’t sleep through Mardi Gras day.
Flickr.com / infrogmaion
Another rookie move—you’ll be regretting it all day long.
10) Don’t rely on the infrastructure.
Flickr.com / Duncan_idaho
New Orleans is old and in need of a lot of repairs—so expect issues with your plumbing, the roads, the electricity…
11) While you’re at it, a lot of city-run things don’t always work so well.
Flickr.com / Wally Gobez
In fact, there are a lot of things in this city that don’t work quite how they are supposed to.
12) Music is life.
Flickr.com / AS220
If you’re feeling down or confused or just plain sad, the music of New Orleans will always be there to lift you up.
13) The need for air conditioning.
Flickr.com / Jackie Bese
If you don’t have one of these, you are definitely going to be in trouble, especially from April through November.
14) Stay focused on your goals.
Flickr.com / Larry Vincen
New Orleans is full of distractions—if you want to succeed, you’ll need to stay laser-focused on what you’re trying to get done.
15) She’s got your back if you’ve got hers.
Flickr.com / Jason Mrachina
No doubt, you are going to have your ups and downs with Ms. New Orleans---but ultimately, if you stay true, the rewards will be amazing.

What did you learn when you first moved to New Orleans? What has living in this city taught you? Let us know in the comments below. We love to hear your ideas and feedback.

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