Florida is one of the most unique states that is inhabited by even more unique people. People that are born and raised in Florida have a distinctive vibe that others don't understand. Besides being Flo-grown and being known for its alligators and oranges, Florida is inhabited by a wide variety of people that all share the bond of being Flo-grown. Here are just a few things only true Floridians can relate to.
1. When in doubt, the beach is always the answer.
Floridians are spoiled with some of the best beaches in the world and are sure to not take them for granted. Every chance we get, we can be found soaking up the rays on the shores. I have even been guilty of going to the beach before work and showing up for my shift sandy and covered in SPF.
2. Bipolar weather is normal.
Florida is known for its sunny skies and storms that can appear within a matter of seconds. Floridians are used to planning beach days only to have them ruined by thunderstorms. Chances are if you've been born and raised in Florida, you have endured some type of extreme weather. Hurricanes occur almost casually and completely true Floridians are completely unfazed.
3. You've never seen snow.
Most Floridians have never seen the powdery white substance Northerners refer to as snow. White Christmases are unheard of in the Sunshine state, and Christmas usually consists of us stubbornly wearing holiday sweaters in the scorching heat. While we hope to experience snow eventually in our life time, true Floridians prefer white sand beaches over shoveling snow any day of the year.
4. You freeze if the temperature is below 70 degrees.
Since most Floridians haven't experienced snow, freezing temperatures are not our thing. If the temperature happens to fall below 70 degrees during the fall and winter months, Floridians are quick to grab their UGG boots, woolen scarves and space heaters to combat the "cold" weather. We're spoiled by tropical temperatures almost year around and are unashamed of our intolerance for cold weather
5. Publix is a major key to success.
Publix is known for its produce, bakery goods, sushi, BOGO deals and for their famous Pub Subs. Every Floridian has had one and are completely addicted. Any other sub falls short to the superior Pub Sub and all its delicious glory.
6. Traffic and tourists are your biggest pet peeves.
One of the worst parts about living in paradise is the tourists that come with it. We love to share our state, but every Floridian hates the road rage influenced by Snow Birds and Spring Breakers.
7. Visiting Disney World is a right of passage.
A trip to Walt Disney World is a fond memory for most children raised in Florida. Having Disney, Universal Studios and Busch Gardens within driving distance for locals, most Floridians have experienced these parks at some time in their life and own a pair of Mickey or Minnie ears.
8. You're accustomed to heat and humidity.
Any Floridian has had to adapt to the hot and humid weather we experience it 90 percent of the year. Sweating every time you walk outside is simply the day in the life of a Floridian.
9. Your area's beach is the best.
Even if you're not from a beach town, every Floridian has their favorite beach destination. A Floridian values their go-to beach and will defend it against any others who challenge it.
10. You live where everyone wants to vacation.
This saying may be cliché but holds some truth. Family always wants to visit and whenever you boast where you're from, people automatically become jealous. You can't help but brag about being from the best state.
11. You live in paradise.
While the bipolar weather and Snow Birds can seem bothersome at times, you love being a Floridian and are proud to live in the Sunshine State.