1) Never have I lived somewhere that the drivers are so conscious of pedestrians. What I mean is that I have almost rear-ended a few of my fellow MA drivers while in town centers, etc... because the car in front of me will suddenly stop to let some one pass.
2) In the same vein, never have I lived somewhere that when I am walking with the kids, cars will stop even when they have green lights to let me cross.
3) At least in West Medford, the gas-tank fillers, tellers, and grocery clerks are cordial. You might not get a full-out smile but you will get a hello and a thank you, which I think it better than nothing (like places in DC).
4) Let's face it, no matter where you live - "friendly" or "un" - the DMV is never the most fun thing. But, my MA DMV experience was actually quite nice. The whole process was organized and efficient. The tellers I went to were willing to let me come back, not wait in line, and bring back the right paperwork. Now, this occurred the third week we lived here and I was blown away.
5) Overall, when we found out we were moving up here I was really nervous. I thought people would be really, well, yankee. Now, when I say this I am not exactly sure what I mean. But, I grew up in "the South". I went to school in Atlanta. I married a Virginian. I can openly say that I have yet to meet anyone openly rude or even curt.
All that being said, I have also observed that people are less "inclusive" than people in the DC area. And I think this is mainly because in DC, most folks are in a state of transition. It seems that every, of 2-4-6 years, there are exoduses in and out of the city. Whereas in the more residential areas of Medford, etc... people have been here for generations and plan to be for many to come.
As an example, J goes to a Preschool in Woburn. We live in West Medford. As the crow flies there is only about 7 miles between the two. But, it is about 2 towns away. The moms in J's class are amazed that I drive 20+ minutes one-way to bring J to and from school. Of course, to me 20+ minutes is nothing... especially since the average speed is 35 and it's through two, adorably quaint town centers - Winchester and Woburn.
In closing, I have to give a big BOO-HISS to MSN for listing Boston at such a rank. I whole-heartedly disagree. Here's to BOSTON and it's neighboring towns! Thanks for welcoming us in the dead of winter. We can't wait for spring.
Here are some shots of our wintry welcome to the NE:
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