There’s no question that Southern California is a pretty awesome place to live. Although this is perhaps one of the greatest places in the United States, there are also a few things you’ll definitely want to avoid to make living here a lot easier. Take a look at these 10 things that we’ve come up with and tell us what you think. Can you relate to any of them?
1. Referring to California as "Cali."
If you've lived in SoCal long enough you may already know that people cringe when you say "Cali." It's a surefire way to stand out in Southern California as a newbie, so just make sure to call it SoCal or Southern California and you'll sound like a pro.
2. Heading to the grocery store without reusable bags.
Not only is it better for the environment to get into the habit of using reusable bags, but it's also easier on your wallet. Show up at the grocery store without your own bags and you'll be charged a fee for each one you use.
3. Going on a hike without packing enough water.
It can get pretty hot in the summertime in SoCal. And heading out on the trail without enough water is dangerous. Make sure to plan ahead and fill up those water bottles before you take a long hike in Southern California.
4. Dining in a chain restaurant.
Why head to a chain restaurant when you can dine at one of SoCal's many locally owned restaurants? With every cuisine imaginable to choose from in SoCal, your taste buds will never be bored.
5. Ignoring the parking signs
The parking signs in Southern California can be pretty confusing. Especially in the big cities. One mistake you don't want to make is to ignore the parking signs or not read them closely, as you'll be certain to get a ticket. Or worse, get towed. And we all know that comes with a pretty hefty price tag.
6. Driving in the rain.
Although we get plenty of sunshine in Southern California, we also get some rain during the winter months. It may not rain often but, when it does, it creates some seriously challenging driving conditions. Namely, slick roads. If at all possible, it may be better to wait for the roads to dry out before heading out on a long drive.
7. Assuming your out-of-town visitors love sushi just as much as you do.
Our love for sushi in SoCal is clear. We even have a sushi roll named after our state — the California Roll! But assuming that everyone loves sushi as much as we do is a mistake you don't want to make. Especially when entertaining guests from out of town. You may want to stick with a more mainstream meal just to play things on the safe side.
8. Driving in Rush hour traffic.
Traffic in SoCal is a given. Leaving yourself enough time to get somewhere is imperative. If you have the option, make sure to travel outside of standard rush hour in order to avoid the headache of bumper to bumper traffic. If you have no choice but to travel during rush hour, then just make sure to allow more time than you think you need in order to arrive on time.
9. Getting sunburnt.
Don't assume you won't get a sunburn when it looks a little grey outside. Even when it's overcast in Southern California, it's easy to get a sunburn since we spend so much time outside. Just make sure to slather on the sunscreen and you should be fine.
10. Being unprepared for snow and ice on the road.
Snow and ice in SoCal? Yep! Although most people think of sun and sandy beaches when it comes to Southern California, there are places in the SoCal mountains that get plenty of snow and ice each year. Just make sure you're prepared and you'll be able to navigate the weather conditions with ease.
Do you agree with this list of things everyone in Southern California should avoid? What else would you add to this list? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
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