Upstate New York: The Land of Endless Complaints (About NYC)
Upstate New York. A place where the air is crisp, the stars are bright, and the resentment towards New York City is palpable. It's like a never-ending soap opera, but instead of dramatic love triangles, it's a one-sided feud with the concrete jungle.
Why Do Upstate New Yorkers Hate Nyc |
The Great Divide: Upstate vs. Downstate
Let's be honest, the divide between Upstate and Downstate New York is as real as the Grand Canyon. Upstaters often feel like the forgotten stepchild, while New Yorkers are busy being, well, New Yorkers. It's a classic case of "Us vs. Them." Upstaters will proudly tell you about their "real" New York, complete with charming small towns, breathtaking landscapes, and a strong sense of community. Then, they'll roll their eyes and sigh about the "crazy city people."
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Why Do They Hate Us So Much?
It's a question that has puzzled many a New Yorker. Why do our Upstate counterparts seem to have a bone to pick with us? Let's explore some of the classic complaints:
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- The Weather: Upstaters love to brag about their four distinct seasons. Snow, they say, is magical. Ice storms are character-building. And mosquitoes are just a rite of passage. Meanwhile, we're down here in the city, melting like popsicles in July and complaining about the occasional snowflake.
- The Cost of Living: Upstate living is often touted as a financial utopia. Houses are cheaper, taxes are lower, and you can actually afford to buy a decent amount of land. In contrast, New York City is a financial black hole. But hey, we get world-class culture, 24-hour pizza, and the thrill of never knowing what your neighbor might be up to.
- The Pace of Life: Upstate is where time slows down. People have leisurely conversations on porches, enjoy the simple pleasures of life, and generally seem to have their priorities in order. In the city, it's a constant hustle and bustle. We eat our meals on the go, sleep in stolen moments, and measure success by how many emails we can answer before our next meeting.
It's Complicated
Of course, not all Upstaters hate New York City, and not all New Yorkers are oblivious to the charms of the countryside. There's a growing appreciation for the unique qualities of each region. And let's face it, we need each other. The city depends on Upstate for fresh produce, clean water, and a place for people to escape the concrete jungle. And Upstate relies on the city for economic opportunities, cultural enrichment, and a steady supply of tourists.
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So, while the rivalry may continue, let's remember that we're all part of the same state. And hey, maybe next time you visit Upstate, try some maple syrup. And next time you invite your Upstate cousins to the city, don't take them to Times Square.
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How to... Upstate Edition
- How to survive a Upstate winter: Layer up, invest in a good snow shovel, and embrace the coziness of indoor activities.
- How to make friends with a Upstater: Show genuine interest in their life, be prepared to talk about local events, and don't mention how late the city stays up.
- How to appreciate Upstate nature: Leave your phone behind, hike a trail, and stargaze.
- How to order at a Upstate diner: Be ready for hearty portions, friendly service, and the option to substitute home fries for any side.
- How to understand Upstate humor: It's dry, sarcastic, and often involves self-deprecating jokes about the weather.
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