If you're considering the move, or like me, and have recently moved to Arizona, you can find truth and maybe something new in this article. There's more to Arizona than understanding its temperature ranges from 70-120 degrees throughout the year. Here are some in's and out's you should know when becoming an Arizonian.
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1. Cacti are everywhere.
I used to think cacti were just something they threw on every postcard to give it that “authentic” Arizona look anyone would recognize. But no, they actually grow everywhere. The first few weeks I lived here, I was that obvious out-of-stater shouting, “Look at that cactus, it’s huge!” The eye rolls were enough to shut me up until I, too, became normalized to the cacti around every corner.
2. Every House Has a Pool
This is not an exaggeration, I promise you. A house with a pool always seemed as an added luxury in my eyes, but that's not the case here. No matter the size or quality of a house, it has a pool. Now I see pools equal to fireplaces in those states that actually use the heating in their houses.
3. Conservative to the grave.
Arizona has, for some time, been a proud Republican state. They love their guns, their conservative values and their border, so don’t you come left winging into this state without being ready for some long winded back lash.
4. The Grand Canyon is amazing – but there's so much more.
Clearly, one of the seven wonders of the world is truly breathtaking and mesmerizing, but there is also so much more that this state has to offer: Sedona, Monument Valley, Horseshoe Bend, Havasu Falls, Montezuma’s Castle and Antelope Canyon, just to name a few. All red rock beauties, but each so unique, giving Arizona a fresh new look with each location.
5. Shade parking trumps the distance.
Now this one is a necessity if you want to survive driving on a hot day in Arizona. A true Arizonian will sacrifice that longer walk if it means their car won't be preheated to 350 degrees.
6. Hispanic culture is everywhere.
It's no secret Phoenix has some of the best Mexican food you are going to find north of the border. But the Hispanic influence can also be seen in Arizona's architecture, jewelry, artwork and community itself. There are countless fascinating festivals, street art and dance celebrations that show Arizona's strong hispanic community, especially during Hispanic Heritage month, which occurs between September and October.
7. Arizonians love California.
OK, now this one was the most surprising to me, not being a native to Arizona. It seems everyone has, at one time, either owned an annual pass to Disneyland, vacationed in California for the majority of summer or owned a beach house in California. Locals here can’t get enough of California. I’ve even heard Arizona referred to as “the cheaper California." Touché.
8. You can (almost) have it all.
Arizona really is in a prime location. It’s something you may not notice until one lives here, but it has almost everything within an arm’s reach. You want mountains and snow? Check out Flagstaff’s renowned ski hills. You want easy access to the ocean? How about Rocky Point Beach, Mexico or San Diego, both a five hour drive from Phoenix. More of a lake person? Have you heard of Lake Havasu, or maybe Lake Powell? If that doesn't satisfy you, the airport flies to and from just about anywhere. The opportunities really do seem endless.
9. Everyone is in shape or getting in shape.
The whole tan, blonde and beautiful stereotype? Yes, that’s very real. People here are in, or are on their way to being in, incredible shape. It’s almost forced on you when the temperature is so hot that you have to be comfortable showing some skin. Plus, most activities include hiking or being by the pool six months out of the year.
10. No one gets used to the heat.
Really though, no one can get used to 120 degree days. I’ve learned that you just avoid the outside unless it’s to or from the car, you drink your body weight in water and air conditioning becomes your best friend.
