We love living in our little slice of paradise here in Northern California, but you have to admit there is a little bit of a learning curve when you first move here because it really is so different than the rest of the country. It's amazing though, and to all of you new Northern Californians or those contemplating moving to this area, please allow us to be the first to congratulate you!

1. It's way different than SoCal... the two regions are basically like two different states.

It seems like an obvious fact to those of us who live in this area and know it well, but it is hands down the number one lesson to learn here in Northern California.

2. Sometimes you will be late to work and not just because of gridlocked traffic.

Depending on where you live exactly, "traffic" on the road might mean Roosevelt Elk, like those pictured here, livestock, or maybe even tourists. Whatever gets in your way on the road in the morning, you might be surprised at how typically Northern Californian it is.

3. How to navigate windy country roads.

Our dramatic coastlines and our scenic mountain passes make for some windy, narrow roads where locals are sometimes guilty of driving way too fast. Remember to pull over and let people pass you if you are still getting used to the area.

4. You'll be able to find a change of scenery within just a short drive.

Mountains, valleys, farmlands, the ocean... these are all located within a short drive of each other. There's nowhere else in the world with such a variable climate that makes it so easy to change your scenery.

5. We have a ton of must-see tourist locations.

Pictured here is one of the coolest bridges in NorCal... and no, we obviously aren't talking about the Golden Gate Bridge! We prefer the Sundial Bridge in Redding. It is a pedestrian-only bridge over Turtle Bay on the Sacramento River.

6. But we also have some hidden gems that require you to get off the beaten path.

Who doesn't love Burney Falls? There's an amazing number of waterfall hikes in the Northern California area. Some require a little hiking and some you can drive to an overlook.

7. It can get pretty hot and dry here.

On a bright sunny day in Northern California, you will be lucky if you can find somewhere to cool off, like the Trinity River, pictured here. If not, you will be thanking your lucky stars for whoever invented air conditioning!

8. But Northern California also is home to near rainforest conditions in some areas.

The Redwood State and National Parks are a prime example. Lush, verdant ferns, giant redwood trees, and misty forests are typical of the North Coast.

9. You'll fall in love with your local farmers market and all the options for farm fresh food.

Did you know that the Sacramento area is known as the Farm to Fork Capital of the world? This means that Northern California is an epicenter when it comes to fresh produce. Get your farm fresh fruits and veggies seasonally and locally from our friendly farmers.

10. You also won't hate that we have some top notch food chains that the rest of the country can only dream of.

Get ready for the mouthwatering amazingness that is In-N-Out if you haven't yet lived in a state that has this beloved fast food chain! There are plenty of other grocery stores and restaurants that were started here, too. The first Raley's grocery store was located in Placerville.

11. And finally, you will learn that you won't want to leave anytime soon.

There's no better people or scenery around. Spend some time getting to know this great state and you won't regret it.

What are your favorite things about Northern California, whether you are new to this area or not? Be sure to share it with us on Facebook.