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The views expressed in this rave are those of the author and do not purport or reflect the opinions of Raleigh Magazine.
Dear Raleigh,
When we were looking for a change of pace from out west and searching for a new place to live, I have to admit I had to ask a friend if I was pronouncing your name correctly. You were that new to me.
Fast-forward several months and here we are: moved in, making friends and basking in all the amazing things about this little gem of a city. As someone who has lived as an adult in five different cities (including Downunda!), Raleigh, you not only had me at hello—but you might have me for life.
You’re not just the best of both worlds, you’re the best of all worlds. You are location meets good climate. You’re near coasts and mountains, home to an abundance of scrumptious bakeries (Boulted Bread, be still my heart!) and coffee shops with eye-catching architectural details (hey, Heirloom), thought-provoking culture, and a seemingly never-ending array of weekend getaway opportunities. Your city is a perfect marriage of urban and greenery—plus good-hearted people.
While hopping in the car to go hiking through the mountains or to swim in the sea isn’t feasible for every weekend, I can definitely make do with the 100+ lakes here in town and the many trails nestled within Umstead State Park.
And then there’s the glorious rain! (Yes, rain.) As a transplant from a town that’s situated near year-round wildfires, the plentitude of rain feels worth its weight in gold. And I hope the humidity never stops working its voodoo reverse-aging magic on my skin, which has been dried out for decades.
If you need me, I’ll be out paddleboarding at our neighborhood lake and basking in the fact that snow here is rare, or having a drink on my porch while waving to my neighbors.
Forever yours,
New in Town
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