We know we’re annoying when we do it, but it’s just too hard for those of us from the Bay Area to not mention that we’re from the Bay Area.
Here are ten reasons why we never shut up about it:
1. Perfect Weather
There’s literally nowhere else in the U.S. (and probably even the world) that has better weather than the Bay Area. It’s sunny practically year-round, there’s zero humidity, and it rarely gets hot to the point where it’s uncomfortable. Even during the winter, most people only need a light sweater or jacket.
2. Sports Teams
People in the Bay Area take great pride in their sports – and for good reason. The Bay is home to the most successful American baseball team in history, aka the San Francisco Giants, as well as the 2015 NBA finals champions, the Golden State Warriors. If you’re walking around anywhere in the Bay Area, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll see people sporting their love for Bay Area teams on T-shirts or hats.
3. Scenic Views
If you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy nature shot, the Bay Area has unlimited picture opportunities. Between spots along the Pacific Coast (Big Sur and Point Reyes), the hills of San Francisco, and hikes around Marin, it’s impossible to deny the beauty of California.
4. Diverse Food
No matter what type of food you’re craving, the Bay Area has a fresh and authentic batch of it. While California might be known for its Mexican food, there’s also hundreds of great Chinese, Indian, and Vietnamese restaurants, among many other types. And, because the Bay Area is located right next to the ocean, sushi restaurants are always top-notch.
5. Latest Technology
Take a drive through the Bay Area and you’ll pass almost every major technology company's headquarters. Apple, Yahoo, Google, Facebook--the list is endless. It’s basically internships galore out in the Bay Area.
6. San Francisco
The Bay Area is home to one of the most lively and diverse cities in the US –San Francisco. The City by the Bay, as it’s nicknamed, hosts the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, Lombard Street, and Twin Peaks, just to name a few things. After a visit to San Francisco, you’ll completely understand why Tony Bennett wrote the song “I Left My Heart in San Francisco." But, whatever you do, don’t refer to San Francisco as “Frisco”.
7. In-N-Out
Ask anyone from the Bay Area (or California in general) what his or her favorite burger joint is, and the answer will almost always be In-N-Out. There’s nothing like eating a Double-Double with Animal Fries once you come home from an out-of-state college.
8. Rap Music
The Bay Area lays claim to the best rap scene in the nation--the hyphy movement. Mac Dre, E-40, Keak da Sneak, and Mistah Fab all call the Bay Area home. Because the Bay Area has such a big music scene, it’s easy to find concerts on the weekends.
9. Festivals
People from all over California, and even the rest of the nation, flock to the Bay Area for festivals like Pride, Bay to Breakers, and Outside Lands. Even if you attend these festivals each year, every time will be a unique experience.
10. Acceptance
The Bay Area prides itself on being one of the most, if not the most, diverse areas in the United States. No matter what ethnicity you are or what language you speak, the Bay Area will feel like home. If you’re looking for a place to be yourself, the Bay Area is the place to be.