Here in Virginia, we like to think of ourselves as welcoming. There’s nothing more spectacular than showing a newcomer the beautiful ways of living in the Old Dominion. Yet there are some things that – no matter what – will make a true Virginian uncomfortable. The following behaviors are truly cringe-worthy, and we can’t pretend to hide our reactions should you…
- Mispronounce the names of our small towns.
John M/flickr It’s understandable that if you’ve never been to some of our lovely small towns, you wouldn’t now how to pronounce them. But we can’t promise we won’t cringe if you pronounce the ’t’ in “Crozet” or the ‘u’ in “Staunton.”
- Claim that you just don’t like breakfast.
Navin75/flickr Skipping out on breakfast just isn’t an option when you live in a state that has perfected the art of biscuits and gravy.
- Refer to our beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains as “hills.”
Gayle Trautman/flickr The Blue Ridge Mountains may dwarf in comparison to the Rockies, yet they’re no less majestic by any means.
- Claim that Virginia isn’t really the South.
Wikicommons Regionally speaking, Virginia is included in the southern U.S., as it’s situated south of the Mason-Dixon line. Much of our history and culture has been shaped by a southern heritage. And if you ask us, our mid-Atlantic location gives us a wonderful identity that’s both diverse and unique.
- Drive at a snail’s pace.
damian entwistle/flickr Scenic routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive are, of course, meant to be enjoyed. But please drive at moderate speeds and use the lovely pull-offs to admire the view!
- Litter.
Daniel Novta/flickr Now this is just unacceptable behavior.
- Assume the first settlement colony was at Plymouth Rock.
Tom Simpson/flickr We Virginians have the privilege of living close to Jamestown, the true first settlement, and won’t let you forget it.
- Ask us about our state motto.
Elvert Barnes/flickr Our unique Virginia slogan has been used by tourism for over 50 years. Sure, it’s unique, but what’s not to love?
- Forget that Washington D.C. isn’t part of Virginia.
Daniel Mennerich/flickr While we love our proximity to the Nation’s Capital, there’s no way that D.C. is part of Virginia. The further away we are from that traffic, the better!
- Proclaim you’d rather go elsewhere for “real” BBQ.
Alamo BBQ/Facebook Plenty of states offer incredible barbecue, and you better believe Virginia is one of them. If you haven’t tried authentic Virginia BBQ, you are truly missing out.
What would you add to the list? Be sure to share with us in the comments below! For more humorous content, be sure to read about the 15 Ways To Spot A Tourist In Virginia.
John M/flickr
It’s understandable that if you’ve never been to some of our lovely small towns, you wouldn’t now how to pronounce them. But we can’t promise we won’t cringe if you pronounce the ’t’ in “Crozet” or the ‘u’ in “Staunton.”
Navin75/flickr
Skipping out on breakfast just isn’t an option when you live in a state that has perfected the art of biscuits and gravy.
Gayle Trautman/flickr
The Blue Ridge Mountains may dwarf in comparison to the Rockies, yet they’re no less majestic by any means.
Wikicommons
Regionally speaking, Virginia is included in the southern U.S., as it’s situated south of the Mason-Dixon line. Much of our history and culture has been shaped by a southern heritage. And if you ask us, our mid-Atlantic location gives us a wonderful identity that’s both diverse and unique.
damian entwistle/flickr
Scenic routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive are, of course, meant to be enjoyed. But please drive at moderate speeds and use the lovely pull-offs to admire the view!
Daniel Novta/flickr
Now this is just unacceptable behavior.
Tom Simpson/flickr
We Virginians have the privilege of living close to Jamestown, the true first settlement, and won’t let you forget it.
Elvert Barnes/flickr
Our unique Virginia slogan has been used by tourism for over 50 years. Sure, it’s unique, but what’s not to love?
Daniel Mennerich/flickr
While we love our proximity to the Nation’s Capital, there’s no way that D.C. is part of Virginia. The further away we are from that traffic, the better!
Alamo BBQ/Facebook
Plenty of states offer incredible barbecue, and you better believe Virginia is one of them. If you haven’t tried authentic Virginia BBQ, you are truly missing out.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
