Is there anywhere in the state of MA that is friendly--as in NOT cliquey?

[LexWest]

Originally Posted by NickL28

I agree. Seems like everyone has this stuck up I an better than you attitude.

...And NYers don't think their city is the best in the World, and then there's everywhere else... .

Bostonians, like many New Englanders, tend to be reserved (which many people mistake for "snobbish"):They won't go out of their way to approach you; and they have to get to know you before the open up to you more. YMMV

[konfetka]

I think it doesn't depend on the people you meet, it depends on the kind of person you are. If you are a friendly confident person, who can show interest in other people and are able to distinguish between who is genuine or not, then you will be fine. Everyone will have a unique experience, based on their personality.

People who have a problem with this are may be focusing on the wrong type of people.

[gamma19]

Originally Posted by LexWest

...And NYers don't think their city is the best in the World, and then there's everywhere else... .

Bostonians, like many New Englanders, tend to be reserved (which many people mistake for "snobbish"):They won't go out of their way to approach you; and they have to get to know you before the open up to you more. YMMV

Kind of a catch 22 though. How do people "get to know you" if they won't talk to you in the first place?

[LexWest]

Originally Posted by gamma19

Kind of a catch 22 though. How do people "get to know you" if they won't talk to you in the first place?

This is where your initiation comes in...they won't come to you if you don't go to them. Boston is a city of neighborhoods. A simple "hi/hey" to neighbors in passing; regularly going to the local dive, grocery, etc. often enough; getting to know your coworkers, etc.; eventually, people will get to know you. It won't be easy; it may take time; one or two neighbors may begin to/may never like you; you might/might not only make a couple friends; but it won't hurt to try.

[thenewtexan]

For the love of God, not this crap again. People are people. If you want to make friends, take the initiative. Make th effort. Don't wait to get your a** kissed by complete strangers. That behavior is not genuine and does not fly in/around MA.

[miu]

Originally Posted by Lookinforhomeagain

I love MA but I keep hearing people talk about how Bostonians don't like outsiders--they grow up with their family and friends and they don't want anyone else in.
Seems rather close minded but is it NE thing or is there a friendly place that welcomes new people??
Mid 40's, no kids, and divorced. Outgoing, love animals--wow sounds like a personal ad! lol

Thanks!

Seriously? I've never had any problems making friends anywhere in MA. Stop looking for a place that welcomes complete strangers and newcomers with open arms. Just be yourself and gradually make friends with others that have your same interests.

I think that overall, the young people have it a bit easier making new friends. At their age, they are assumed to be single and without kids, and so have the time and freedom to hang out casually together at bars. And what happens at your age and mine (53), is that the assumption is that we already have full lives with spouses, kids and already established friendships... so we are approached less for new friendships.

Wherever you move to, just make it a point to join some community activities and volunteer for a charity event or an animal shelter. Or if you are spiritual, join a church. You just have to get out there and mingle. People in MA tend to keep themselves busy with work and life. Just try to blend in. But don't expect others to come knocking at your door with welcome gift baskets.

We are not cliquey by nature, and it's just human nature to gravitate towards others with common bonds. After all if there are no interests in common, then what would there be to talk about and do together?