NM the most foreign state (home, live in, moving)

[santafe400]

Hi everyone. I was just thining that New Mexico is probably the most exotic state in the country. I think in terms of culture shock from outsiders, we are probably #1. This is in account to demographics, history, architecture, climate, etc. I have heard friends who visit NM for the first time that it takes alot of getting used to. Even the "do-whatever" feel of the people seems to be a rare commodity.

So just for conversation sakes, this would be my list of the top 5 most exotic/foreign states in the US.

5. Mississippi
4. Louisiana
3. Hawaii
2. Nevada
1. New Mexico

Any thoughts?

[Cathy4017]

Originally Posted by santafe400

Hi everyone. I was just thining that New Mexico is probably the most exotic state in the country. I think in terms of culture shock from outsiders, we are probably #1. This is in account to demographics, history, architecture, climate, etc. I have heard friends who visit NM for the first time that it takes alot of getting used to. Even the "do-whatever" feel of the people seems to be a rare commodity.

So just for conversation sakes, this would be my list of the top 5 most exotic/foreign states in the US.

5. Mississippi
4. Louisiana
3. Hawaii
2. Nevada
1. New Mexico

Any thoughts?

Well, I've been in and out of New Mexico all of my life, since I am a native West Texan, and I feel at home here. So NM wouldn't be on the list for me, but I'm sure it would be for East Coasters and probably some Midwesterners, maybe?

I lived in MS, and I did have culture shock--BAD. Although I wouldn't ever go back to MS, LA or HI, I've never been to Nevada. What is it about Nevada that you would consider it a culture shock to some? Now you've got my curiousity up.

[nmnita]

Culture shock is a matter of opinion: we did leave NM for many reasons, part being the mind-set of the people, part to get closer to our family in OK, Ar and Texas, but I don't know if I would put it quite in the catagory of the OP> It certainly is different, that I agree with.

I know, many probably think the same about Arkansas, but you would be surprised if you visited certain areas of the state. At least the majority of the people who live here haven't lived here for 250 years or more,especially in the NW corner. Just my thoughts, BTW: I think NM has a lot to offer, but it just wasn't for us.

Nita

[santafe400]

I've never been to Nevada. What is it about Nevada that you would consider it a culture shock to some? Now you've got my curiousity up.

I think it would be due to the general focus of the state economy: gambling. I think due to the nightlife as well is just seems different to me.

[rybert]

I'll second you on that. We're pretty different.

[BrianH]

Wasnt a culture shock for me. Moving from Ireland to the most laid back place I have ever been was easy for me

[nmnita]

Originally Posted by BrianH

Wasnt a culture shock for me. Moving from Ireland to the most laid back place I have ever been was easy for me

laid back, I guess it depends on where you live in the state and what you call laid back?

Nita

[rybert]

There is a reason we call it the land of manana!

[desert sun]

NM was the first minority majority state along with Hawaii and I think California and Texas then became one too. It is different here, I think New Mexico and Mississippi are long lost step brothers.

[malamute]

Originally Posted by santafe400

Hi everyone. I was just thining that New Mexico is probably the most exotic state in the country. I think in terms of culture shock from outsiders, we are probably #1. This is in account to demographics, history, architecture, climate, etc. I have heard friends who visit NM for the first time that it takes alot of getting used to. Even the "do-whatever" feel of the people seems to be a rare commodity.

So just for conversation sakes, this would be my list of the top 5 most exotic/foreign states in the US.

5. Mississippi
4. Louisiana
3. Hawaii
2. Nevada
1. New Mexico

Any thoughts?

Too many Midwesterners in New Mexico to make it seem exotic -- maybe it depends on the town.