Cinci : observations of an outsider
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11/8/2013
Came to Cinci 15 yrs ago. Came from a large European city. I'll try to be objective so here you go...
Negatives:
- conservative, resistant to change, non-progressive city(have been arguing about whether to introduce street-car to the city. This has been going on for years! )
- Most of the locals (especially the ones who grew up here) are closed-minded, sort of 'hillbilly' types. TIRED of them asking me 'where are you from". Go to Chicago, NY or LA... cannot imagine being asked this question there. ( I speak with little accent)
- therefore- this city is not for educated, open minded, cosmopolitan-metropolitan people (or foreigners). I Have B.S. and M.S. degrees + experience =impossible to find job. During rare interviews I was asked discriminatory questions. Fifth Third Bank is especially outstanding in this matter. I was laid off twice in 3 yr period. There is no diversity here, and if you speak with accent- PLEASE RELOCATE. Otherwise they will always be looking at you like you are an alien from another galaxy.
- it is true, the city has a large amount of rednecks. I don't mind rednecks, I like and respect all people. Rudeness is a major turn off.
-not for singles. I read that many singles leave the city. According to census, population of this city has been shrinking.
- a decent amount of big corporations to work for but not sure how to get a job there. None of those companies ever called me. I suppose if you do not know 'right' people doors will always be closed.
- and now I'm going to say something that will always stay in my memory: I'm a refined, classy woman from Europe and I honestly experienced major chock of my life when I saw people frying hot dogs on a Fountain Square. there were other ridiculous games going on ... Omg. So unclassy, unsophisticated, so 'country', so low class... Yes, this is Cincinnati
Positives:
- great place to rise a family. Plenty of suburbs with affordable housing. One only wonders why it is so affordable ... (is it because no one wants it ?)
-very nice Zoo, Theater, Aquarium and plenty of other family-oriented attractions. They could be costly but attending them here and there should be ok.
- nice topography, hills, OH river, spectacular views.
- I heard that cost of living is cheaper in Cinci.
- universities, colleges, sport teams, airport (too expensive though.. people have to drive to Dayton or Indianapolis to fly)
- overall livable city, ok to live.
- good neighborhoods with good schools
To sum it up: I do get if some people like the Cinci. you have to have a certain mind to feel comfortable here. Yes I get it and it is ok. Nevertheless, if you are a 'big' city person, cosmopolitan-metropolitan, progressive out of box thinker -this city is not for you. You will experience cultural shock and you will feel stifled and boxed in.
p.s. I'm in a process of relocation. I had enough.
Leslie | Cincinnati, OH