1. There’s Nothing Better Than The Smell Of Salt In The Air
News flash, Virginia as a whole is a great place for outdoor lovers, especially Virginia Beach. It may not have the mountains of places like Utah, but they don’t have our waters. It was previously named one of America’s fittest cities, and it’s no shock considering all the time our residents spend outside.
Fishing is a way of life around here. Trout fishing in the lake or catching swordfish in the ocean, it doesn’t matter which you prefer. The fishermen around here are one giant fish-loving family. When you’re not fishing, you’re whitewater rafting. Or hiking. Or biking. Or kayaking. You’re just outside.
2. You Know Jet Noise Is Nothing To Be Afraid Of
Between the Navy jets, helicopters and the Norfolk International Airport it almost feels like some form of aircraft is constantly buzzing over everyone’s head. What might be somewhat of a spectacle elsewhere is basically just background noise here.
You know how when someone vaguely hears a bee buzzing around in the bushes behind her on a hot summer day and doesn’t pay much notice to it? That’s kind of how people from Virginia Beach react if a jet’s flying five feet over their heads.
3. Your Parents Encouraged You Play On A Pile Of Trash
Every weekend you head out to Mount Trashmore for a walk around the park or you have fond memories of your parents taking you to play on Kids Cove as a tot. Or maybe you just like to watch some of the professional skateboarders that show up at random.
Like Tony Hawk. Remember when he skated here? That was cool.
4. Wanting To Trip Tourists... All The Tourists
Virginia Beach has a love/hate relationship with tourists. They love the money they bring in to keep the town hoppin’, an estimated $1.28 billion in 2012, but hate it when they come for the summer to take over the beaches. But you’re from V Beach, so you know where all the best beaches are hidden away.
Hey, if it weren’t for the tourists a lot of people in VB would be out of a job. So keep ‘em coming, please!
5. Everyday Feels Like You’re On An Episode Of Pawn Stars
Try traveling down any road in Virginia Beach without driving past at least a dozen pawn shops. It doesn’t happen. That’s kind of typical of any tourist town, though.
Virginia Beach homes often have an eclectic array of interior decorating and designs. All of the knick-knacks and trinkets picked up at the pawnshops kind of make the homes look like pawn shops themselves, but in a much homier way.
6. What? Colorful Sea Animals Aren't Normal?
Dolphins live on land around here, and they come in many different colors. Because they’re statues. You probably have a photo or two stashed away of your valiant attempts to straddle one these rainbow or glittered covered beasts.
This is one thing that VB kind of pilfered from Norfolk, except they have mermaids, and everyone here knows that mermaids are no way as cool as dolphins. Dolphins are prettier, end of story.
7. You Were Sure You Were Going To Be A Rapper Or R&B Artist When You Grew Up
And who could blame you with all the famous ones that have come out of this city? Pharrell? Born and raised! Missy Elliot? Yep, her too! Clipse and Timbaland, as well. You’ve probably stood in line to check out a rap battle happening on every corner of this city at some point in your life. Maybe you participated in one yourself.
8. You Know More About The Military Than Half The People In The Military
Fun fact: Virginia Beach has a violent crime index that is 30 percent lower than the national average, which means it’s a pretty safe place for a city of its size. A lot of this probably has to due with the large presence of the military in this beachside town.
You know the safety they provide is a huge perk. Plus, if you grew up here you realize you probably know more about the military than half of the people in the military at this point. Like the difference between a navy carrier and a combatant.
9. Driving To Work Is A Fight To Survive
Unfortunately, the great weather and access to the beach hasn’t made residents of Virginia Beach friendlier drivers. Road rage and some horrible planning make driving along The Boulevard seem like a demolition derby. You’ve got enough experience to win a NASCAR race after a year on these roads.
They may be trying to turn the entire stretch of road into U.S. Route 58, but you’ll never hear anyone from Virginia Beach call it that. It’s The Boulevard.
10. You Know The Best Food Is Always Served Without A Fork
No Forks CheeseSteaks & More is tucked away from tourists in an unassuming strip mall. If you live in Virginia Beach you’ve devoured one of their famous JoJos, or you at least know someone who has.
Rib-eye stacked with seasoned fries, provolone and a heapin’ helpin’ serving of cheese whiz. Yes, cheese whiz. A little heaven on earth right here in Virginia Beach.
