The phenomenon is strange, but the obsession is real: if you live anywhere on the East Coast from Pennsylvania down to Florida, odds are, you're hooked on gas station fast food. But while most other areas would find this to be lowly or disgusting, Wawa - our gas station of choice - is what inspired this delicious craze. And while there are countless differences between our beloved Wawa and any other gas station or fast food restaurant, there are five distinct reasons explaining why Wawa is an East Coast obsession:

1. They're open 24 hours.

As a hard working college student, there is nothing more vital for my sanity than late night Wawa runs and hot meals on-the-go. With my days jam-packed with class, work, and studies, I often don't realize I've gone a full day without eating until I'm grinding through a late-night paper writing session! That being said, it's reassuring to know that Wawa's doors will be open regardless of the time, day, or weather. What's more, is that you never have to venture alone since most friends are always down for that impromptu Wawa run; it truly is the epitome of a full college experience.

2. The food is delicious!

Most folks in this day and age know to avoid the allure of fast food; in addition to having no nutritional value, the quick and easy convenience can no longer compensate for the soggy, greasy, mediocre taste. Fortunately, this is where Wawa breaks the mold - its food comes with variety, real ingredients, and good flavor! If you're in the mood for something fast and simple, grab one of their pre-made sandwiches, hot off the rack and ready to go. If you want something healthier, they have fresh fruits and salads of all different types. A fan favorite, however, is ordering straight from the deli where they prepare hoagies, frozen drinks, hot breakfast sandwiches, desserts, mac n' cheese, and countless other customizable options. You'll never run out of meals to choose from, and anything you order is bound to be great.

3. The rivalry with neighboring Sheetz.

Although the East Coast is dominated by Wawa - the superstores popping up on every street corner, a similar, formidable competitor has slowly emerged in the battle for popularity. In much of the same way, Sheetz is a gas station/fast food hybrid that attempts to lure customers with the warm, familiar glow of 24-hour treats served in a clean atmosphere. However, those who grew up in a Wawa town know better than to sacrifice their hunger to the enemy. As a Wawa girl myself, I can't explicitly say which store has better a selection or taste; like most others, I stubbornly reject any run-in with Sheetz and have never even set foot into one of their locations. Nonetheless, we will always adamantly insist that Wawa is far superior - our bizarre dedication only fueled by the competition.

4. The promotions!

Anyone who lives in the vicinity of a Wawa knows that Hoagiefest is essentially its own local holiday. Between the jingle, the tee shirts and the heightened urgency to make food runs, the entire East Coast seems to unify over the thought of discounted Wawa! However, Hoagiefest is not the only sweet allure for loyal customers; the frequent free coffee, Wawa rewards, and other intermittent deals keep people coming back more than they already do!

5. The clean and friendly atmosphere.

Imagine needing to pitstop for gas on the sketchy offramp of a highway. What comes to mind? Probably the pungent odor of gasoline, slimy public bathrooms, and a cramped convenience store that sells greasy, rotisserie hotdogs. Built on years of subpar experience, gas stations seem inherently lousy. However, Wawa completely inverts those standards through its uncommon warmth and cleanliness. The store is always bright with freshly mopped floors and colorful foods. The technology is modern, dazzling, and convenient. Even the employees seem happy and friendly as they quickly prepare your order! As far as gas stations go, Wawa is impressive and unlike any other - the inviting atmosphere making every trip a good one.