Va Beach/Hampton Roads
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6/24/2006
I've lived in Virginia Beach for the majority of my life and I would say that like any other place, this city has its pros and cons. I've read the other comments on this city that have mentioned high drug use and crime. Every city has their "bad areas" and Virginia Beach is no exception, however that does not describe the majority of the city. Although the oceanfront does get exceptionally crowded during tourist season, they take care of their locals, providing large discounts on parking ($1 vs $7.00-$10). What I have always found to be one of the best aspects of Virginia Beach, or the Hampton Roads area in general, is that it allows its residence's to experience very different environments. If you are in the mood to go to the beach one day, you are always welcome to Virginia Beach, and if you want to take a stroll downtown, Downtown Norfolk is only 10-15 minutes away using the interstate. There's tons of nature trails for those who are into those kinds of things, history fanatics are never let down in the state of Virginia in almost every city, and those interested in a decent night life always have the bars on the strip or Granby Street in downtown Norfolk. The area of Hampton Roads is compiled of cities that are within a decent drivng distance from each other (not more than an 45 minutes) making it easy to get from one place to another. The public schools in Virginia Beach are the best of any of the cities within the Hampton Roads area. There are four large universities in the area (Regent University -Va Beach, Old Dominion University, which was once a branch of William and Mary - Norfolk, Norfolk State University - Norfolk, and Christopher Newport University - Newport News). I am a graduate of Old Dominion University, and while it may not be as school spirited as many other colleges, considering it mainly a commuter school, the education offered is definitely worth the money. The lifestyle here falls between is not too fast paced but its not too slow and businesses are growing within the area. Virginia Beach is the home of Lillian Vernon's headquarters, Stihl's headquarters, and CBN's headquarters- among other businesses that are finding themselves within the newly developed town center in Virginia Beach. Cost of living is decent (I've seen much worse for areas that weren't as great) and the people here are much more friendly than others have made them out to be. I do a lot of traveling and I would say that Virginia Beach has a good mix
dee | Virginia Beach, VA