12 Weird Side Effects Everyone Experiences From Growing Up In New Mexico
Where we grow up has an effect on who we become as adults. There are some ingrained habits we just can’t shake. Regardless of where you live as a grown up, a childhood spent in growing up in New Mexico leaves its mark, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
What would you add to this list?
If you’re considering relocating to New Mexico and are trying to get the lay of the land, you may be interested in this past article: “14 Surprising Things You May Not Expect When Moving To New Mexico.”
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Growing Up In New Mexico
What stereotypes are there about New Mexico?
There are quite a few New Mexico stereotypes - some true, some a little far-fetched. One of them is New Mexicans love of chile, and that can certainly be considered true. Chile is everywhere in the state - being sold from the backs of trunks in a parking lot, on the side of near every meal, or filling up people's fridges. People in New Mexico are often considered to love the great outdoors and spend a lot of time out in nature, and quite a few would agree. With so many beautiful natural areas and lots of open land to explore, it's no wonder why.
What are the best things about living in New Mexico?
If you asked someone what it's like to live in New Mexico, they'd probably have a lot of great things to say. Along with access to the best chile and other delicious regional food, there are a multitude of natural wonders right at your doorstep like Shiprock or the Carlsbad Caverns. New Mexico is full of beautiful architecture around every corner, plus a lot of art from a variety of cultures and influences. Living in the Land of Enchantment means you'll enjoy sunshine throughout the majority of the year, plus low light pollution resulting in gorgeous night skies. There are quirky and fun things about the state, as well, such as the fixation on UFO sightings, awesome festivals including hot air balloon festivals, and more.
What unique words and phrases do people in New Mexico say?
Living in New Mexico means you need to know the local vernacular. There's a lot of Spanglish to learn, especially, since the area is very culturally diverse. If someone says they want their food Christmas style, they mean they want red and green chile on it - it has nothing to do with the holiday. New Mexico's biggest city Albuquerque is often shortened to just "Burque" or sometimes just "ABQ." Out-of-staters might not know what New Mexicans mean when they use the term "portal," thinking maybe some interdimensional way of travel, but really it's just a covered back porch.