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What were states that you thought you were going to hate but you ended up liking? What did you thought you were going to hate about it and what did you like about it to change your mind? I haven't traveled much yet so I can't really say till I do, if I do.
I wouldn't say I was going into it thinking I would hate it, but I was much more impressed with Michigan than I thought I would be. Outside of the major cities, the state is really beautiful and tranquil.
I was surprised when my work sent me to work in Greenville, SC that I ended liking the city and the state. I had a very negative opinion about going there and ended up with a much more favorable opinion.
Arkansas. I drove from Atlanta to Salt Lake City last year and was surprised by how pretty northern Arkansas on Highway 63 from Jonesboro to the Missouri state line was. There were quite a few rolling hills, twisting roads, and thick tree cover.
Texas. I also enjoyed the drive along Interstate 10 and 20 between El Paso and Fort Worth. It's surprisingly hilly all the way to Fort Worth and the scenery is really pretty.
Louisiana. I found the general feel of southwestern Louisiana to be mesmerizing. I was there during the summer and the humidity was beyond unreal. It added to the ambiance quite a bit. The food was amazing, the rainstorms were exciting, the people were some of the friendliest and lighthearted I've ever come across, and the general flat and swampy landscape was captivating.
I was very pleasantly surprised by the following states:
1. Missouri - I didn't really have any preconceived notions about Missouri, but I found the rolling, green hills and the picturesque towns to be lovely. Also, the people are very friendly.
2. Oregon - I am an "east coast" person and found myself absolutely captivated by the Pacific coastline of Oregon. The winding roads through such fertile land reminded me of Steinbeck novels.
3. Ohio - I had no idea that farmland could be so appealing. I loved the big, white farmhouses and the old barns and silos. I drove through several larger cities and I was impressed at how clean they generally were, and I also liked the architecture. The people were very friendly as well. As a southerner, I felt right at home.
Oklahoma. For some reason, I had pictured it as being flat, tan, and boring. Eastern Oklahoma turned out to be lush, green, rolling, and very natural and pretty. The western side of the state flattens out a bit but it still isn't drab tan like I had pictured it for whatever reason.
Based off the above comments, it seems that the Ozarks region of Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arkansas is an underrated portion of the U.S. Green country, quaint small towns, thriving small metros, friendly people, and my favorite part, the endless supply of lakes.
My vote is for Arizona and New Mexico. Much more picturesque than I had expected.
SD. The Badlands are amazing. Also had awesome Buffalo jerky at several stands along the highway.
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