After Jay Z released “Empire State of Mind,” Katy Perry responded with a love letter to the West Coast with her hit anthem “California Gurls”: an instance of the much larger invasion of West Coast love in pop culture. Even if you are not dreaming of a life on California’s sunny shores or near Oregon’s rushing waterfalls, you can still experience the magic of a West Coast existence.
There has been a long-standing rivalry between the West Coast and the East Coast. A 2013 American Psychological Association study found differences in the personality of those on either coast: the West Coast is “relaxed and creative,” while the East Coast is “temperamental and uninhibited.” The culture for those who live and work in either place also varies. The East Coast is full of historic cities like New York or Boston, whereas the West Coast is ripe with the innovative atmospheres of San Francisco, Silicon Valley, or Los Angeles. Regardless of which living environment seems appealing, the West Coast is undoubtedly the best vacation destination in the U.S.
The West has a diverse natural landscape, reports Earth@home: snowy mountains, arid deserts, sandy beaches.This variation offers an activity for everyone, from if you want to ski or take a trip to the Sierra Nevada mountains. If the beach is more your style, enjoy Santa Monica or Venice Beach. If hiking is your ultimate vacation, visit Redwood or Yosemite national parks. No matter what brings you joy, it is found on the West Coast.
The West Coast also has a unique food culture. It is the birthplace of farm-to-table dining. Time magazine described the exodus of New York chefs moving to L.A., Portland, or San Francisco because of the access to quality ingredients and emphasis on experimentation. The West Coast’s focus on redefining cuisine will certainly make for an interesting culinary experience.
Lastly, the West Coast has an immense impact on film and popular culture. L.A. houses various iconic movie sets, production studios, and music labels. It is also home to countless celebrities, making it influential in style and fashion.
The East Coast may have bustling cities and historic hubs, but nothing beats the vibrant beauty of a West Coast sunset. To enjoy true nature, relaxation, and innovation, hit play on OneRepublic’s “West Coast” and take a trip to the beautiful West.