Can someone describe upstate california? (Los Angeles, San Diego: utilities, low cost, manufacturing)

[mateo45]

Though it's the first time I've heard it used, actually anyone familiar with both Cali (yeah, I know) and New York State (where I'm originally from) will recognize the aptness of "Upstate" California, aka, a descriptor for a more out of the way and less-populated part of the state, in contrast with the better-known and more urban parts (like NYC). And it's certainly less vague than say, the much more commonly used NorCal or the North State.

In any case, IMO it's still a remarkable area that remains a relatively undiscovered treasure of terrific weather, clean air, spectacular natural beauty, low cost of living, slower pace, much less crime, affordable housing and scenic uncrowded highways. Although even in an upbeat economy, there is always the little matter of how to survive in a relatively isolated region with chronically high unemployment and low wages! And ah yes, the "culture"... that's kind of an "acquired" taste (and a topic of its own)!

[ladysheets]

NorCal is beautiful,i live in the Willits area now. Just moved here from the great state of Alaska to thaw out a bit..

we have family near and love all the warm sunshine ~ small town living at its best nothing around but thats the way we like it.

[TVC15]

Originally Posted by Curmudgeon

Without parsing terms, NorCal is simply beautiful; far more so than most of SoCal in my estimation. It contains a rugged, scenic coastline, redwoods, some quaint towns and villages, and some delightfully independent people, many of whom are as rugged as the topography. Much of it is economically depressed but you can't beat the seafood or the natural wonders.

Very true indeed!

[eccotecc]

Originally Posted by Mhundred

This is a term i actually just learned existed however it refers i believe to the rest of california north of the Bay Area region and sacramento.

What is is like there? Would it compare more to the pacific north-west or the bay area or is it quite unique in itself? Who do upstate californians more identify with?

I believe upstate California is called Oregon.

[eccotecc]

Originally Posted by .highnlite

What exactly is an Ox nard?

highnlite,

I believe an ox nard is an ox that stares at a computer.

[Chimérique]

Originally Posted by mateo45

And it's certainly less vague than say, the much more commonly used NorCal or the North State.

In any case, IMO it's still a remarkable area that remains a relatively undiscovered treasure of terrific weather, clean air, spectacular natural beauty, low cost of living, slower pace, much less crime, affordable housing and scenic uncrowded highways. Although even in an upbeat economy, there is always the little matter of how to survive in a relatively isolated region with chronically high unemployment and low wages! And ah yes, the "culture"... that's kind of an "acquired" taste (and a topic of its own)!

We spent 2-3 days in Ft. Bragg and Mendocino. Drove through Lucerne (Clear Lake) and Willits.
On the way back we drove highway 1 and 128: Mendocino to Cloverdale.

Did some sea kayaking in Mendocino Cove through the caves and kelp beds. Hiked Redwood trails near the Noyo and Navarro Rivers. Spectacular!

Lots of friendly folk in Ft. Bragg. AND.....

NOBODY CALLS IT "upstate" California. I actually asked several people from A Shop owner in a surf shop and an art gallery owner. A guy and girl who were in their 20's - born and raised in Ft. Bragg. A surfer in Ft. Bragg (Pudding Creek Beach). A middle aged waitress in Mendocino who was raised in Ft. Bragg. Two locals guys fishing from a cliff in Mendocino. They were all adamant it's called NOR*CAL OR NORTHERN CALIFORNIA! "never heard of upstate.......nothing...that sounds stupid"!

[Chimérique]

Originally Posted by ladysheets

NorCal is beautiful,i live in the Willits area now. Just moved here from the great state of Alaska to thaw out a bit..

we have family near and love all the warm sunshine ~ small town living at its best nothing around but thats the way we like it.

We drove highway 20 from Sac Valley into Willits. We did the skunk train from Ft. Bragg to Northspur, and while we were in Northspur the train from Willits was departing. It was a perfect day, warm and sunny along the Noyo River. NOR*CAL is beautiful, including the Willits area!

[WesternPilgrim]

I think I'm going to start using "upstate California". It seems to work. We've long needed a term to distinguish far northern California from the Sacramento and Bay Area metros. When I'm in SoCal, I'm always having to explain myself.

[SunnyTXsmile]

Originally Posted by eccotecc

highnlite,

I believe an ox nard is an ox that stares at a computer.

lol I love your recent posts. You're very amusing.

I can't rep. you again yet, but thumbs up on keeping C-D humorous and worth reading.

[SunnyTXsmile]

Originally Posted by eccotecc

I believe upstate California is called Oregon.

AHAHA Just saw this one, too! Someone really needs to give you your own show. Great material.