If you’ve spent a significant amount of time in Georgia, especially in or around Atlanta, you’ll recognize these ten experiences as unmistakably Georgian—signs you’ve truly lived there for far too long.
First, you’ve learned to slow down for everything: rain, sun, or even just to let someone merge. In Georgia, especially Atlanta, drivers are notorious for easing off the gas at the first sign of a raindrop or when the sun gets too bright—a phenomenon locals call the “sunshine slowdown.” Southern hospitality even shows up in traffic, where people actually let you merge, unlike in many other cities.
Second, you’ve made a mad dash to the grocery store at the mere mention of snow. In Georgia, a light dusting can shut down the city, and everyone rushes to stock up on bread and milk as if preparing for a blizzard, even though the snow rarely sticks around for long.
Third, you’ve escaped the city by renting a cabin in North Georgia. Whether it’s to beat the summer humidity or just to get some fresh air, trips to the mountains—especially to the alpine-style village of Helen—are a must for any true Georgian.
Fourth, you’ve dealt with endless construction. Atlanta’s roads are constantly changing, and it seems like every week there’s a new detour or lane closure. You know to leave at least 30 minutes early for any appointment, just in case the route you planned yesterday is gone today.
Fifth, you’ve survived the yellow dust clouds of pollen season. In spring, the air turns thick with pollen, coating everything in sight and sending allergy sufferers running for medicine and air filters.
Sixth, you’ve developed a “clean, old-fashioned hate” for either Georgia Tech or the University of Georgia. The rivalry between these two schools is legendary, and you can’t help but pick a side, whether you’re a fan of the Bulldogs or the Yellow Jackets.
Seventh, you’ve nursed a hangover at one of Georgia’s iconic comfort food spots—Chick-fil-A, The Varsity, Flying Biscuit, or Flip. These restaurants are staples for locals, and you know exactly what to order to cure whatever ails you.
Eighth, you’ve realized just how friendly Georgia is after traveling elsewhere. In other cities, people might ignore strangers, but in Georgia, people say “please” and “thank you,” hold doors open, and are happy to give directions to tourists.
Ninth, you’ve grown tired of taking visitors to the same tourist spots: the World of Coca-Cola museum, the Georgia Aquarium, and The Underground. You’ve been there so many times you could give the tours yourself.
Tenth, you feel guilty if you drink Pepsi instead of Coke. With Coca-Cola headquartered in Atlanta, drinking anything else feels like a betrayal. In fact, you might even call every soda a “Coke,” regardless of the brand.
These experiences are uniquely Georgian, and if you’ve lived through them all, you know you’ve made Georgia your home for a long, long time.
Sources:
- https://www.redfin.com/blog/30-signs-you-live-in-atlanta/
- https://secretatlanta.co/weird-wonderful-things-to-do/
- https://wheninyourstate.com/georgia/you-know-youve-lived-in-georgia-too-long-if-these-11-things-seem-totally-normal/