After living in Vermont for a long time, moving out of state can be a huge adjustment. Even if you stay in New England, there are some things that you just can't find anywhere else but the Green Mountain State.
1. Two Lane Highways
If you grew up and learned how to drive in Vermont, out of state highways are a big adjustment. All of Vermont's roads have no more than two lanes and the second you cross state lines, Vermonters can find themselves being passed on both sides on the interstate.
2. Real Maple Syrup
Living in Vermont, every household and restaurant offers real local maple syrup. Once you move out of state, you'd better bring your own because soon your meals will be smothered in fake corn syrup.
3. Foliage
As many tourists will tell you, it's hard to beat Vermont autumns. The trees all change colors and between dirt back roads, farms, and mountains, fall in Vermont has some of the best views and colors around.
4. Mountains
No one in Vermont lives unreasonably far from a mountain. Even in the more urban areas, you can still see mountains in the distance. This is optimal for both skiers and hikers (both of which, Vermont has no shortage of).
5. Church Street Marketplace
Everyone in Vermont has been to Burlington to shop on Church Street. The brick walkway is surrounded by local shops, food carts, and many nice restaurants. Out of state, it's hard to find shopping like this, with such a small and local feel.
6. Fresh and Local Food
In Vermont, you know where your fresh, organic food is coming from. There are many grocery stores with food from local farms and many restaurants incorporate food and drinks from local farms.
7. Environmentally friendly
Vermont makes it extremely easy to be green. Most restaurants and public trash cans are accompanied by recycling bins as well as compost. Once you move out of state, be prepared to cringe when you have no where to throw your plastic water bottle besides a trash can.
8. Creemees
Where would a list about Vermont be without a creemee? Out of state, if you order ice cream you're ordering "soft serve." As any Vermonter can tell you, this does not cut it. Creemees are much richer and taste much better (especially maple flavored).
