Believe it or not, college students do enjoy a life outside of their textbooks. *Cue gasps from every professor on campus.* Dorming or commuting, the Ramapo College bubble can become a bit claustrophobic. Do you dare venture out into unchartered territory? What will you find out there? Fret no more! coming from someone who knows the local lay of the land pretty well, I’m confident this list of unique shops will serve to your convenience.

1. Chocolates With Love

Where: 47 Interstate Shop Center, Ramsey, NJ

Why You'll Love It: Homemade Chocolate, Endless Options, Mom & Pop Shop

Chocolate literally cures everything. And don’t settle for the average store-brand chocolate when there is chocolate like this a few miles from campus. I’m talking chocolate covered pretzels with sprinkles and peanut butter chips on top, chocolate covered Oreos, decadent truffles, chocolate covered s’mores, addictive sea salt caramels…the list could go on. Think: Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory, except in Bergen County, NJ!

2. The Honey Pot

Where: 165 Franklin Turnpike, Mahwah, NJ

Why You'll Love It: Less Painful Wax, Spray Tans & Facials, Highly Ranked in Bergen County

As college students, we deserve a little pampering. Waxing is an essential part of our beauty routine and finding the right waxer is no easy task. But that’s probably because you haven’t been to The Honey Pot yet. This full-service waxing salon also features custom spray tans, facials, collagen treatments for the eyes and lips, and skincare products. Did I mention your first spray tan is only $30? What’s more, their wax is a “hard wax,” which hurts exponentially less than traditional paper wax. Beauty is pain? Not here.

3. Organico

Where: 475 Franklin Turnpike, Ramsey, NJ

Why You'll Love It: Smoothies & Juices, Healthy & Organic Options

A health food store with a café that features smoothies, fresh juices, soups, sandwiches, and other organic dishes, Organico is a perfect spot to hit when you’re on your health-kick. It’s like a vegetarian and vegan wonderland, with a variety of veggie-friendly offerings. I’m not kidding, this place is addicting. Try the Coco Coconut Eco Shake and you will understand. It tastes sinful but it is totally nourishing. Eating healthy isn’t boring over here.

4. Ramsey Gourmet Farm

Where: 465 Franklin Turnpike, Ramsey, NJ

Why You'll Love It: Fresh & Delicious Produce, Sushi Bar

For college students, it’s all about the two C’s: convenience and cost. Located right next to Organico, Ramsey Farms boasts some of the freshest produce all at a cost that won’t hurt your wallet. Bonus: there’s a sushi bar in the back of the store. There’s only so much campus food you can take, am I right?

5. Hazel Boutique

Where: 74 E Main St, Ramsey, NJ

Why You'll Love It: Trendy, Unique Selection, Closer Than All Malls

It’s Friday night and you have nothing to wear. This is basically every college student’s dilemma, everywhere. You could go to the mall, but you don’t have time for that. Plus, who wants to wear the same few tops that everyone else is wearing? Cue: Hazel Boutique. Just minutes from campus, this trendy little shop is dripping in insta-worthy “night out” outfits that will definitely make heads turn.

6. CARS: Sandwiches & Shakes

Where: 114 E Main St, Ramsey, NJ

Why You'll Love It: Gourmet Fast-Food, Drunk Eats, Close To Brady's At The Station

Ok, let’s be real for a sec. It’s all cute and trendy to be healthy most of the time, but drunk eats are still a major component of college life. What would a night at Brady’s be without a sandwich and shake combo?

7. Mia's Kitchen

Where: 83 Lafayette Ave, Suffern, NY

Why You'll Love It: Reminds You Of a Home-Cooked Meal, Healthy, Close To Campus

You know when you’re just really craving a home cooked meal? Mia understands you. And she invites you into her kitchen. She also probably cooks better than your mother, just saying. Anyway, the little café is met with a quirky, old-school ambiance. The walls are dressed in old records and the feel is welcoming and “homey."

8. Angelo's Desserts & Espresso Café

Where: 96 E Main St, Ramsey, NJ

Why You'll Love It: Large Frozen Dessert Selection, Edible Cookie Dough

If you’re a normal human and need a little something sweet after dinner, then Angelo’s has you covered. Frozen dessert is no joke. Luckily, Angelo’s offers an array of soft-serve custard, frozen yogurt, homemade ice cream, gelato, and Italian ices. That’s right… try making a decision with all of those choices in front of you. Better yet, they sell EDIBLE COOKIE DOUGH. As if I needed to continue explaining why this place is a true dessert wonderland, there are espressos and pastries available as well. Did I mention it’s 10 minutes from campus?

9. Yoga Synthesis

Where: 225 N Franklin Turnpike, Ramsey, NJ

Why You'll Love It: First Class FREE, Welcoming To All Levels

When the stress of exams and papers consumes your every thought, you might want to consider channeling that mental energy into positivity. Yoga Synthesis is welcoming to all levels of Yogis from beginners to experts, with the sweetest teachers and a truly tranquil atmosphere. New students can enjoy their first class free! I knew that would grab your attention…