Bergen County is collectively my favorite place on this Earth, but not just because of all the things inside of each town. Our county itself is filled with opportunities, amazing treats and countless memories that will stay with me forever. There are undoubtedly more than 10 reasons to love this place I call home, but these are some of the standouts and my personal favorites.

1. High School Rivalries.

You know all about the age old IHA vs AHA strife and the Bergen, Bosco, St. Joes and Paramus Catholic rivalries. You either love them, or you hate them. There’s no in-between.

2. Malls, Malls, Malls.

There’s a mall conveniently located within five to eight miles from your house. If there’s not, you’re obviously not from Bergen County… and don’t get us started about blue laws.

3: Our bagels = goals.

We have the BEST bagels, period. Sorry New York, and sorry central and south Jersey, but your bagels just don’t compare to ours.

4. Route 17 short-cuts.

Route 17 is your biggest nightmare, and if it’s not, that’s because your parents showed you the handiest short cuts imaginable when you were learning to drive. Now, you use them as often as possible to avoid taking 17.

5. Ramapo Valley County Reservation.

Ramapo Reservation is our hidden gem and most beautiful location on this list – if you haven’t checked these trails out, you’ve been wasting your time! Whether you're swimming or going for a walk with your dog, this spot is so important and precious to us Bergen County folk.

We’re only about 20-30 minutes from NYC, depending on which part of Bergen County you live in. Most of us have been to “the city” more times than we can count because of this, meanwhile, some people in the state haven’t ventured there once. #BergenCountyBlessed

7. Beach Days.

Bergen County is only a little over an hour away from the beach, also known as the Jersey shore. This means that everyday in the summer can be a beach day if you want it to be. Again, it’s all about our amazing LOCATION!

8. Diners.

Whether you’re craving pasta, pancakes or a Panini, the diner has exactly what you’re looking for. You can probably find one diner, if not more, in every town in Bergen County and they’re all amazing… some more amazing than others. You know who you are.

9. Pride in our people.

We will NEVER give up the chance to let people know that the Jonas Brothers grew up in Wyckoff. John Travolta lived in Englewood and went to Dwight Morrow. Lea Michele graduated from Tenafly High School. Our county has produced some pretty amazing stars, and we won’t let anyone forget it.

10. It’s home.

You grew up in Bergen County and even though it can sometimes feel small and ordinary, you know it’s far from that. Bergen County and all it’s little perks and quirks is your home, and you love it.