There's Something Incredibly Unique About This One City In Washington

When the United States and Canada decided on a border, marking the boundary along the 49th parallel line seemed like a great idea. It was – except for a few things. It divided Vancouver Island in half, which brought up the debate of whether or not it should just be left in two. They eventually decided to just give the whole island to Canada, and we were given the beautiful San Juan Islands.

But that wasn’t the only issue with this line. It also cut off a small end of the Tsawwassen Peninsula, leaving a small American town all by itself – which came to be known as Point Roberts, Washington. Because the town is surrounded by the ocean and Boundary Bay, the only way to get back to the mainland (other than boat) is by driving all the way up and around through Canada.

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To get to most places, it's nearly a 45-minute road trip, and requires crossing two international borders - twice. To reach the mainland, you have to pass the Canadian border up to Tsawwassen, circle around to White Rock, and then back down again over the U.S. border through Blaine.

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Sounds like a great morning commute, right? The long, international trip is pretty much an everyday thing. They don't have a school past the 3rd grade, dentist, pharmacist, veterinarian, or even a hospital anywhere in town.

And because most American health insurance companies won't cover treatment by Canadian doctors, residents have to travel all the way to Bellingham if they need medical care.

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But living between two countries really gives residents the best of both worlds. Depending on the currency rates, Canadians who live north will travel across the border to pick up groceries and gas when it's cheaper. And when it's the other way around, Americans will head north and do the same.

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Residents are also able to enjoy a quiet, peaceful way of life here in such a remote location. And with all of the top-notch security being right next to the international border, the area's lucky to have an extremely low crime rate.

Steven Moore/Flickr

Despite being on the end of a Canadian peninsula, the town is still brimming with American pride. Every year, they host a spectacular, community-wide Fourth of July celebration. It features a parade, fireworks, and a delicious pancake breakfast at the community center.

Michael Chu/Flickr

Lighthouse Marine Park is one of the four lovely public beaches you can explore in town. It's a relaxing place to go for a stroll along the boardwalk, out for a picnic, kayaking, whale watching, or to capture some of the most gorgeous sunset photography over the water.

Chris/Flickr

Despite the cons of living in such an isolated place, over a thousand people are still happy to call Point Roberts home. They may have to pass over the border four times just to take the kids to school or to pick up their prescription - but they really wouldn't rather have life any other way.

Pretty awesome, eh? Have you been to Point Roberts?