Up until college, I had lived in Southern California my entire life and, if I'm being totally honest, I kind of took it for granted. I was so excited to leave and explore my new home in Washington that I hardly spared a thought to what I would miss about California after moving (besides, of course, my family and friends). Fast forward about three months into my first year and I realized how much I missed California; I was seriously regretting not spending more time at my favorite places and enjoying some of the Golden States' best aspects. There are some things California has that are impossible not to miss.
1. GOOD Mexican Food.
Authentic Mexican food is fairly accessible in Southern California (thank goodness) but finding it elsewhere is like finding a $100 lying on the ground.
2. The Weather.
I've never missed sunny California more than when I was living my first winter in Washington. Non. Stop. Rain. Now, the weather in California is always something I look forward to, especially in the evenings; California has the most epic sunsets.
3. Sandy Beaches.
The west coast has gorgeous beaches, but the sandy beaches in California are my favorite. I was kind of shocked when I moved up to Washington and realized their beaches are made of rocks rather than sand.
4. Diversity.
California is full of so much awesome diversity – there are people from all different cultures, backgrounds, and lifestyles and being surrounded by that is invaluable. It's something I definitely miss.
5. Amusement Parks.
Disneyland, California Adventure, Six Flags, Knott's Berry Farm, and the list keeps going. I was pretty surprised to find that other places don't have the same amusement park selection (if any at all).
6. In-N-Out.
So simple, so delicious. I haven't found a place quite like In-N-Out anywhere else and I always find it's one of the first places I visit when I'm in SoCal.
7. California Burritos.
These burritos are what dreams are made of. For those who don't know, they're filled with carneasada, cheese, fries, sour cream, and guacamole. I mean, sure, they're California burritos, but they're good enough that they should really be available everywhere.
