by Anonymouse

Created on: August 16, 2008   Last Updated: February 17, 2009

In small towns, the population dwindles from thousands to mere hundreds. Big business is replaced, by and by, by "the little guy". Saturday nights out are typically spent at quaint taverns instead of crowded nightclubs. Despite the so-called drawbacks, some are all too willing to trade their urban abodes for rural residences. However, when one considers the positive aspects of country living, that decision isn't much of a shocker.

Trash doesn't blanket the streets of unspoiled countryside. Graffiti is scarce to nothing. There are no skyscrapers blocking the sunrise view. As for traffic, those living in the country can forget about honking cars and raging drivers. The road is a peaceful and quiet place. Due to the lack of traffic, the air is much cleaner. Having so few people nearby makes country communities safer than the city. It's an absolutely glorious place for those who prefer their privacy.

Socialites will have some adapting to do. The city is more convenient for people with friends and acquaintances that like to visit often. In the country, everything is spread out. The convenience of public transportation vanishes. To visit, friends need to have cars and be willing to make the lengthy drive. It may not be an easy-access milieu, but upon arrival, at least city slickers will appreciate the ample parking space.

Even if people don't drop in too often, rural areas tend to be fraught with friendly neighbors. It never hurts to make more friends! Close communities with an everybody-knows-everybody attitude are usually bubbling over with locals happy to help those around them. Naturally, they expect the same in return. The people are sometimes nosy, and gossip can become rampant, but someone with nothing to hide (or who can keep a secret) will have nothing to worry about.

For those interested in opening a small business, being in the midst of a tight-knit community can be a great advantage. Offer the locals something they need and their loyalty and support will certainly pay off. The trick is not to compete with someone else nearby. Chances are the other business has already earned community loyalty, which won't be forfeited without a fight. Also, on the countryside, houses are so inexpensive! A low mortgage will mean that business profits won't have to be sky-high. Rural home values are also ideal for the retired.

Core values differ extremely depending on the area. This may be considered positive or negative depending on one's personal beliefs, but country locals are generally more religious than urban natives. Wholesome values are promoted by both the Church and the community. At home, most everyone seems to be less materialistic and more self-sufficient than urbanites. The ability to sew is more important than the clothing brands one wears. Being able to cook will get one much farther than knowing the best restaurants around. It's a simpler way of life; one that makes it possible to revel in the charm of the countryside.

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