So I grew up in Arizona as well as Bay Area, CA (my parents were divorced). Moved to Austin, Texas in 2000 and NM a couple years ago. I’ve never lived in the Northeast, never even been further than NYC in that direction, though I loved Brooklyn.
I’ve been thinking lately, partly because I’ve always hated the heat and partly because I’m sure global warming won’t be kind to the area, that I’d like to check out the Northeast, maybe upstate NY or around there. Maybe Maine. Maybe even Canada if things get particularly a way here. In any case, besides taking time to actually visit the area which I plan to do next fall for about a month, hopefully, I’d love to get any opinions about living in that region. Likes? Dislikes? Favorite areas to consider? Suggestions? Anyone make the kind of geographic change I’ve described? Thanks!
Also: NO, 4-WHEEL DRIVE DOESN’T MAKE YOU STOP FASTER IN SNOW. All it does is help you get unstuck if you slide off the road.
If you’re driving in winter conditions, you have to drive slower and allow for significantly more distance from the next car forward. Like, actually follow the 3-second rule and then double it. Also, always keep an ice scaper and an emergency blanket in the car. You will need the ice scraper. You hopefully won’t need the blanket, but it’s better safe than sorry.