4 Things That Really Surprised Me When Moving to Maine

Since I recently moved to Maine, I have noticed a few things that make Maine stand out from other places. Granted I have only been here for a couple of weeks, but four things have really stood out.

Everyone is wicked friendly

When I say everyone is friendly, I mean everyone! My landlord is amazing, as are my neighbors and coworkers. However, there was one type of place that I did not intend on everyone being so nice: a restaurant.

I am used to having rude service when going to a restaurant. However, that does not seem to be the case in Maine.

You may say I was the rude person in the restaurant. I'm not annoying or anything, but have gone to a couple of restaurants one hour before closing. I do not try to go in that close to closing, but sometimes it happens.

The servers in Maine have been absolutely amazing! They have been nice and attentive. I used to think that it was rare to get a server that was attentive. One of my friends even came up with a rule that if they had to ask to get their cup filled, that they would deduct from the tip. I'm not saying that is right, but just an example of how I am not used to this type of service.

Another amazing thing that I noticed at the restaurants in Maine is that the check is not just given to me when plates are taken away. Servers have not rushed me at all, and I have actually had to ask for the check. The only other time that I witnessed something like this was in Spain.

Stores close early

Okay, this I haven't been much of a fan of. It seems that a lot of the stores around here close early.

You may not think that 7 pm is early for a store to close, however, I was expecting stores (especially at the outlets) to be open until 9 pm.

In my head, I honestly believe the stores close early so that workers are able to go spend more time with their families (which if this is the case I do appreciate).

Driving can be dangerous

Moose aside, I've learned that Maine can be scary to drive in when the sun is down.  It is hard to see the lines in the road, and I honestly think that I drove in two lanes this morning.

Maybe more lighting is needed, or maybe a new paint job on the roads. Either way, you just have to be careful when driving when the sun is down.

How delicious blueberry-flavored anything is! 

I knew Maine was huge for blueberry production, however, I did not know how delicious blueberry food is.

I never thought that I would have blueberry BBQ-flavored wings, but I did, and it was not a mistake.

Blueberry seems to be just about everywhere in Maine, and I am not upset with that!