I moved to Virginia Beach in June of last year (2015). I currently work at my home field, Adventure Sports Park. I have been able to travel to many places in my years. I have seen many things, met many many people, and have done countless things. Virginia Beach is truly unique for a list of reasons.
It is really interesting living in a tourist city. Especially one that has its own season. The whole town turns into two totally different cities depending on the time of the year. In the summer it is a bustling, crazy, loud, fun, and exciting hotspot for tourists to come and enjoy. Live music everywhere, shops full of souvenirs, fresh seafood as far as the eye can see, and fireworks to top off each night. It is a great escape for people looking for a great family vacation spot. In the winter however, everything goes quiet. Everyone leaves, the boardwalk is desolate, the air has a calmness to it that becomes almost eerie. Don't get me wrong, there is something still so special about this place in the off season. This is the time that the locals dominate the city.
The idea of the "local" is the most strong in a beach town like this. A place that get flooded by tens of thousands of tourist creates a bond between the people who live here all year long. The look out for each other, support each other, and all know each other. It has been so cool to be adopted into such a tight nit community of amazing people. I have been able to make some amazing friends who have allowed me to do things and see things I never thought possible. I feel like I have become a local. They know the best spots to eat, drink, and more importantly, where to surf. The businesses all work together to benefit from each other and create tight connections. It is unlike anywhere I have ever lived, the closest bring Bristol, VA/TN.
I have loved living here and it is an amazing place to visit if you ever have the chance. I'm sure I will write more about it in future posts! If you're ever in town, be sure to hit me up!
