As a native, I want to thank you for painting a positive picture of my home. It is a breath of fresh air to hear positivity from an unbiased visitor. Again, thank you.
@@LNJuggernaut Well, he said "west Va" not "WV" so he clearly missed "Don't" #1 of this video :D Maybe most people where this person is from don't finish school?
As a rule, while driving around West Virginia, especially on the back roads, if the signs say slow to 20 mph for the curve, do it. Otherwise you might not make it around the curve.
Espacially if you come from germany :D the stated speed limits here are completly overly cautious. slow down to 35mph for the next curve and you can easily take it at 70mph. no one here takes speed limits serious, so i definitly had to learn it the hard way :D
My first time in West Virginia was an overnight stop in Beckley. I’m from Ontario and I was blown away with the drive once we got out of Pennsylvania and into the serious mountains. As we checked into our hotel there was a young lady working the counter along with the person helping us. As soon as she heard we were Canadians she leaned over and asked with great enthusiasm “Are y’all here for Bridge Day?!”. My face betrayed my ignorance and she looked crushed when I said we weren’t and that we were on our way to Myrtle Beach. She got enthusiastic again when I asked what Bridge Day was and I let here give us an almost scholarly review of the New River Gorge Bridge and the activities and celebrations that make up Bridge Day. Her joy at telling us about the area rubbed off and on our way home we made sure we stopped at the observation area and ever since I’ve slowed down a little when I go over that bridge just to soak it in. Also, anywhere I go if I’m talking to anyone who’s a paramedic or first responder I ask them if they go down to Beckley for Bridge Day. Haven’t had any of them say they hadn’t been or weren’t planning on going. They all know about it. Love West Virginia. 🇨🇦🇺🇸❤️
Thanks so much from a native West Virginian. Most people give our home state a bad name . It really is a beautiful state ! Thanks again and God Bless .
I was born and raised in WV. As a Black man you wouldn’t believe all of the stupid jokes I got especially from fellow sailors when I was active duty Navy stationed at Pearl Harbor in the early 90s. While stationed in VA I heard a poll on the radio about how much Virginians didn’t like West Virginians. I thought that our only rivalry was between WVU and VT. Regardless I’ll always love my home state and can’t wait for next summer’s vacation.👍🏾🇺🇸
@@woltersworld Try North WV out next time. It's markedly less ravaged by coal mining. Blackwater Falls state park and Harper's Ferry are wonderful places to visit and there are numerous riverside and creekside drives that are gorgeous, not to mention the awesome mountain roads that bikers enjoy every summer. Great river swimming holes right alongside a dirt and gravel road just 20 minutes from my home.
I can attest, I was waiting for my buddies car to get fixed and we were hanging out in a shop when a guy came in and ended up giving us a rafting tour down the new river for free, we just had to supply the beer. Very welcoming people.
Haha! I love that! As a WV-ian, I too can attest to this statement! I few kind words and a pack of beer will get you a fun adventure and a great story! Sometimes it can even get your buddies to help you out on projects and such! It is currency in some places. Lol
My mom was born in Morgantown. I found the address of the home she lived in and would love to someday see it. Also, would like to see where other family we visited as kids lived, but doubt I could find those homes.
Born and raised in the hills and holler of the mountain state, thanks for not dragging it through the mud and making it look like the beautiful place that it is.
Pretty much spot on report. I am WV born and have returned after living in Los Angeles and North Carolina. I returned because I love it here. The mill at 4:53 was owned by my family and was moved from Pocahontas Co to the park. As a kid my Dad carved his name in a beam and it is still there. 100% correct on the rolls and dogs. A note on Cell service...West Virginia has a few Dark Zones with zero service and many more were most phones just do not work. Flat landers panic on their first visit!!! Thanks....PS some great photography
When I first saw this title with the word “Don’ts" incorporated, I thought this would be just another West Virginia hit-piece. Thankfully, I was wrong. The information is actuate and respectful. The Mountain State is my home state and I plan on returning there when retired. The economy isn’t good but the kindness and good nature of the people outweighs any pot of gold. Thank you for this thoughtful review.
WV is a great state in which to retire. Low property taxes, plenty of recreation, nearby for short day trips to surrounding states, etc. If only WV would eliminate taxes on SS benefits.
I got to visit WV this summer and OMG! I fell totally in love! I’ve never seen such beauty in all my 62 years. I’m born and raised in Florida and now…my goal is to move to this gorgeous state and enjoy the rest of my days surrounded by God’s beauty! Thanks for this video!
Great video, but as someone born, raised, and still living all over WV I got 2 things: 1) the WV Hotdog is chili sauce, coleslaw, AND mustard...you can't forget the mustard. 2) part of the reason a huge patch of WV doesn't have much cell service or even radio stations is because of the National Radio Quiet Zone. The NRQZ is centered between the Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, West Virginia, and Sugar Grove Station in Sugar Grove, West Virginia. Most of this area severely limits wireless signals and a small patch near the radio telescopes prohibits any wireless signals. They have vehicles that drive around with equipment to track down any Rouge wireless signals and they will find you and tell you to turn the devices off while in the zone. Mainly bc it can interfere with the very sensitive radio telescopes.
Some times us West Virginians forget all the awesome things our state has to offer. I live near Harpers Ferry. It has always been a favorite place of mine.
Just moved here to Shepherdstown from So California. My kids are in Brunswick MD. Still amuses me when driving along the 340 over the Shenandoah along Harpers Ferry and then across the Potomac passing through 3 states (West Virginia/Virginia / then Maryland) in 3 minutes. Love the beautiful clean air and greenery, thunder and lightening when it rains, floating and kayaking down the Potomac and have enjoyed visiting all the historical sites so far!
Many of my family members worked the coal mines and they were proud of doing it and taking care of their family. They are not uneducated people. They are some of the kindest,most genuine people u will ever meet.
They were also very brave if you ever see the documentary of how they got the unions in. Fought the company and the feds and won. Gotta be proud as heck for that.
@@trutsieo5430 A college or university degree is no automatic guarantee of ANYTHING. I've know college graduates who were hardly smarter than a tree stump.
I live in WV and have lived here my whole life. Most of the people here have only been on the mountains to ski. 70% of the population lives on the western side of the state which is a huge valley.
As a west Virginia woman..thank you for your kind words about my beloved state.I hope everyone that comes here to visit will leave with happy memories.dont forget to kick your shoes off and wade in a creek ..and watch for deer on the roads!they will literally run at your car !!!!be safe!
FYI, last I checked a few years ago, over 200 Americans are killed by deer each year (running in front of their cars), than bears, black or brown, which kill someone on average once every other year.
I used to live in DC and ride my motorcycle out to WV every weekend. I soon learned NOT TO STOP BESIDE THE ROAD. Because so MANY PEOPLE WOULD PULL UP AND ASK IF THEY COULD HELP. I loved exploring that area and the folks there.
Finally someone that's talking good about my state I hate how people always make jokes about WV and WVians and saying we arent much of a state we have so much culture and the food is amazing especially the pepperoni rolls its amazing and we have so many cryptids and it's really nice and interesting learning about all our history
Wild and Beautiful, WEST VIRGINIA. Very proud to call the Mountain State my home and John Denver said it better in his song ... 🎵Almost Heaven, 🪕WEST VIRGINIA Blue Ridge Mountain Shannondoah River...🎶🎻
Yeah. I always love when I tell people I'm from WV and they either say something about me having all my teeth or look at my feet. Makes me really feel welcome.
We have so much culture and amazing things about our state that goes overlooked because of stereotypes and flaws. It’s a damn shame that most people can’t see the beauty of it because I love my state
I am Italian American born & raised in an Italian neighborhood in North Jersey & drove through West Virginia in search of pepperoni rolls & found a beautiful state.
WV has traditionally had a large Italian population. Many Italians came to WV for coal mine jobs around the turn of the century. Italian wives would send their husbands off to work with a lunch made from leftover dough scraps and pepperoni, i.e. the pepperoni roll.
Clarksburg/Bridgeport/Morgantown, that whole area has a lot of Italian heritage. The southern part of the state where I grew up has a lot of English/Irish heritage. It makes for an interesting mix, that's for sure.
Thanks from West Virginia next your in the mood for a pepperoni roll try and make it around the end of August and visit the city of Clarksburg for the Italian heritage festival its a very fun time
Thanks for the differentiation on western Virginia. As someone who grew up in WV and eventually had to move down south, it blows my mind to this day how many people don't realize WV became its own state.
Thank you for your positive thoughts about WV. As a native West Virginian, I am very proud to live here. I was born and raised here. I love my hills, mountains, and rigged terrain. We have the best fishing rivers in the state. People come all states to fish them. I love the spring shot you are doing, the Red Bud trees are blooming, the trees are just getting their leaves, but the most beautiful time is the fall. God's rainbow of trees. @4:50 the picture of Babcock State Park is the most viewed pic of WV. Only in WV can you have all 4 seasons in one day. The Tamarac behind you is one of the most expenses place in WV. WV invented the pepperoni rolls. I even make Pepperoni gravy, talk about good! Some of us still use wringer washers.
Thank you for this beautiful representation of my home state. I think people underestimate the grandeur of the land and the kindness of its residents. We're quirky, but that's what makes us interesting!
Great place to visit, I’m 62 yo UTV rider, they have the Hatfield mccoy off road trail system, hundreds of miles of trails, the people are great, don’t be afraid to speak to them and they will friendly up to you, support their economy as much as you can, life is tough here, the beautiful scenery is amazing, like my dad always told me, leave it better than you found it! Enjoy this godly place!
I love your style! Most people would be saying "Don't go there. Don't do that." It would be putting our State in a negative light. You did the opposite! You advised travelers on what not to miss out on! Even life-long residents can get blase about what is here because we see it every day and for us it is normal. You are reminding us of what an absolutely beautiful place we live in! Your tone is upbeat and encouraging. You also give some good advice on what NOT to do (diss the coal industry, etc) that could make your stay uncomfortable and prompt you not to make a return visit. You mentioned many of the places to visit and activities to do in a short time, and there are so many more that you did not have time to get into in such a short presentation (kayaking, fishing, hunting, 4-wheeling, to name just a few). A major update for those that read this: We actually have a NATIONAL PARK now! The New River Gorge was just named a National Park! Thank you for your positive, informative, and upbeat take on Wild, Wonderful, West "By God" Virginia!!!!
I remember when someone asked me where I was from, and I told them West Virginia. They then said, "Oh! What part of Virginia?" I then said, "No, WEST Virginia" and I shit you not they looked at me in 100% seriousness and with a bitchy voice said, "Uh what's the difference?" Guess they thought we only had 49 states
That happened to me when I went to KY. I explained that we are the state that looks like a middle finger....yes, I gave them the finger for reference of course 😉
Was in NYC on vacation had someone ask me if WVa was a new state. Have had several people ask me if we are close to Richmond, I always say the wrong state.
@@Circee11 If you wanna see what the State looks like yourself, use the right hand. If you are trying to demonstrate for others, flick them off with the left hand ... but remember the State has a stubbie, likely from working the sawmills. That being said, we always figured there was a big difference between West Virginia and West By God even from the inside of the State.
I seriously hate it so much. I’ll tell someone I’m from West Virginia and they’ll say “western Virginia?” like they’re correcting me. No dummy we’ve been our own state for 150 years.
Awwe!! On behalf of all West Virginians, thank you for this video!! We love our state and welcome all who visit!! “Country roads take me home”🎶Let’s go Mountaineers!!!!!!!💛💙
I've been in many states, West Virginia is absolutely Beautiful, the mountains are Majestic, not as high as Rockie mountains but for the East USA Magical!
My wife and I drove to west Virginia from Maine to buy some stained glass from a company for her artwork. The people we met and had a chance to speak with couldn't have been nicer. Everyone was so nice, even the folks at the gas station. And it really is a beautiful state.
Moving back to WV next month after living away for over 10 years. Parents are getting older, and I miss the mountains. Thank you for the positive review of my home state!
Thanks so much for shining a positive light on our beautiful state! And actually the pepperoni roll was created back in the day by Italians that immigrated here, and they were created for the coal miners so they could have a substantial lunch that didn’t need any refrigeration. And the term “redneck” was referred to the coal miners because they wore red bandanas around their necks. Coal is very dirty and the bandanas were to wipe their faces or cover their nose and mouth I really enjoyed this video. Thank you!!
I just got home from the Grand Tour. I took your advice, and stopped for the West Virginia hot dogs lunch at Tamarack. Outstanding! Thanks for steering us right.
I moved to WV from Western North Carolina 13 years ago. As a life-long hillbilly from a line of hillbillies that goes back 300+ years I can tell you that WV is a hillbilly state, and that is something to be PROUD of! Don't shrink from, or be offended by being called a hillbilly. Moving to WV was like going home for me, as WNC has become overrun with outsiders from all over the US (and elsewhere) and the southern Appalachian culture and dialect that Iwas raised with is basically gone.
As a Mountaineer, I can say that you nailed every point. We do have a beautiful state with wonderful people. For an amazing pepperoni roll...go to Buckhannon, WV and grab one from the Donut Shop or Zul's! Keep up the good work, sir!
I moved to Texas for a job. When I retired I came back HOME to WEST "By God" VIRGINIA!! You can take the boy out of West Virginia but you can't take the West Virginia out of the boy. Cliches are cliches for a reason. Usually just 'cuz they're TRUE! I 110% agree on Mom & Pop places. Where ever I've been, from California to Texas to Alaska, to Florida, and places in between. These places represent the soul of the state and the authentic spirit of the locale. Thanks for visiting WV. You done good.
Born in Fairmont but grew up in NJ. It will always be West by God Virginia! Hope to find a spot to retire to in the coming years. Always a mountaineer.
@@jeffg.8964 There is a reason you are not in West Virginia. Besides what is the currency exchange in West Virginia lately? Because that is a Third world country.
Was born and raised in overpriced, overegulated, overcrowded New Jersey and moved to Wild and Wonderful West Virginia in 1997. Affordable housing, low taxes, sensible regulations freedom loving patriotic people who love their country their families and God. Never regretted moving here lots of space, fresh air, mountain scenery, awesome wildlife, beautiful forests, rivers, lakes waterfalls.
@@gtpcruiser02 First of all. No regulations is NOT good. You don't want your neighbors to start collecting old cars on their lawn and putting them on cinder blocks. 2nd, over crowded would depend where you are in NJ. Huterdon country NJ is the third riches county in the country and by no means is crowded. 3rd. Patriotic people are found everyone, as matter fact one of the elected officials of WV was at the insurrection of January 6th and is going to do time for that. 4th. You might want to check when comes to pollution where WV stands because they don't have regulations and people dump their used can oil in any stream. 5th. Low taxes is not necessarily great considering that a great portion of the taxes go to schools and therefore you have a better school system, with more educated people. NJ is the 3rd in the country for best school systems. 6th. God doesn't exist and he did exist he won't go to WV, he will probably go to Canada since, that is ranked number one in the world. I do agree with the beautiful scenery, and wild life and forests if you like to collect ticks when is warm.
West Virginians are a proud people we have been living and working in these mountains for hundreds of years we are steeped in German ,Italian , Dutch, Irish and Scottish ancestry , I am also the proud Grandson of a WW2 vet and West Virginia coal miner.
As a West Virginian, thank you for the positive video about my state. We do have a lot of cool things to see and do. I could take up pages of places to see and things to do all over the state.
Loved this video!! West Virginia is the most beautiful state of all!! My family is from Charleston, and I loved going to visit when I was little. The never ending beautiful view everywhere you looked is a feeling of peace and serenity. Happy to say that myself and my kids will be moving there in a few months. We are currently looking for land to purchase, this is where my soul is happiest!
I live in New Zealand & we have some pretty awesome stuff here as well but you've totally sold me on West Virginia, I'd love to go there someday, It's definitely my kinda place.
I'm from New Zealand and I can't wait to get to West Virginia one day, I love watching videos on here about the people and the landscape, and I could listen to the accent all day! I watch alot of Soft White Underbelly video, and he has a playlist of interviews from Appalachia, some of them are heartbreaking stories but many of them are just awesome stories of their lives. There's a video of a lady called Ruby, that woman is absolute gold. I would love to sit down with someone like her and hear all about her way of life and how to raise a garden (I think that's the phrase?!). Just salt of the earth, genuine, hard working people!
My daughter who was born and raised in West Virginia moved to New Zealand years ago . She tells me the two places have a kinship. Hope you make it here someday, I think you'll like it.
Love how you pointed out coleslaw as a condiment. I've lived in WV my whole life, and I was a teenager before I found out that coleslaw can be eaten straight!
@@truthiswhatiseek I’ve been on a binge lately making coleslaw fir my hot dogs. I just can’t figure out how to soften the buns. Maybe it’s a brand I can’t get in CA. I’ll be living back hime in WV soon
@mominthe209 the get soft buns. When your hot dogs are boiling. Lay a splatter screen or even a double broiler over the water. Lay your buns on it and cover with a dish cloth. Be careful not to catch the dish cloth on fire. I'm not speaking from experience or anything...😵 A splatter screen works better for me but watch them carefully. It doesn't take long for them to get nice and soft. Maybe 5 mins or less depending on how many you are steaming. Good luck!
Being a native of WV I agree with this message. Even though I am a transplant to VA I visit my home state often. I live on the border of WV and VA in the great Shenandoah Valley, best of both worlds. I consider the most beautiful state in the Union but then again I’m bias. I recognized so many of the pictures you had on your video. Blackwater Falls, Harpers Ferry, Jackson’s Mill and others. Thanks for doing a respectful video of my home state. Every time I go home I stop somewhere and get pepperoni rolls, sometimes my sister makes them for me. They were a regular household food growing up.
Thanks for sharing this as a West Virginian and ex Coal Miner which my Papaw died of black lung disease as a deep Coal Miner, and the Coal Trucks and the back hollers are especially dangerous.....Best pepperoni rolls are at Super American gas station's
I'm a long time subscriber and viewer. YOU FINALLY MADE IT TO MY STATE! I live right off 77 exit 1, just outside the tunnel in Bluefield. I'm thrilled you gave us such a glowing video. I cannot wait to see more. Thank you so much!
I’m glad I took the time to watch this. I’m a native West Virginian and this made my heart smile. Thank you for such a sweet video about my favorite place!
I'm from McDowell County, lived here all my life. I'm about and hour or so away from the Tamarak, where you are standing in your video. Thank you for all the nice things being said about West Virginia cause so many times it's always the opposite. And not only do we put slaw on them dogs we put slaw on some homemade pinto beans with a side of hot buttery buttermilk cornbread. :)
Our daughter just finished her first year at WVU in Morgantown, WV. We had never been in the state before we toured the school. (from Illinois) What a beautiful area! Love the mountains and sunsets! Thanks for covering this lovely state! Last fall we drove from Morgantown south to Tennessee and it was gorgeous. We stopped at New River Gorge National Park at it was awesome!
must be great to flaunt your priv. prob a lawyer husband with a great parental background right? in this dead ass state that wont help people with 0 already your worth is shown in dollars here and we welcome you to this treat of backwash and racism bless it
@@datderpysnipersquad9773 ozzy osbourne after snorted them they shot out of his weenis so i kept them as souvenir. great pets and affordable ebay prices on used snorted fire ants
You didn't drive north from Morgantown to Tennessee. Either you drove south to Tennessee or you drove north from Tennessee. Just saying. But if you're ever in Morgantown in the fall and have a day to kill check out Dolly Sods.
@@petehenry7878 I didn't mean I drove North. I put (north) as a reference for people who didn't know where Morgantown in WV was located. Thanks for Dolly Sods suggestion.
As a long time fan of your channel, this made my Mountaineer heart so happy. ❤️ As I was clicking the video, the 1st "don't" that came to mind was don't confuse West Virginia with western Virginia. You did not disappoint. 😂
Ty Ty Ty for painting WV in a positive light.. I have been away serving my country for 20 years, you make me wanna TAKE MY COUNTRY ROADS HOME AGAIN... GOD I MISS MY JOT DOGS.. God Bless your family and the Mountain State..
I work for a delivery service that has me going from the upper midwest to North Carolina and back monthly. I second your love for West Virginia enthusiastically, Charleston is a favorite part of the trip. It looks like a model railroad, with more bridges, boats, trains, state capitol, university, river and hills drilled in way tighter than in real life. But it is real!
Hey from charleston wv. Thanks for the kind words and yes our state is beautiful I love the mountains. I moved away for 5 years and missed it so bad I had to come back. Come see us here in west Virginia we welcome you.
As a native, I love the eastern part of the state. Blackwater falls, Seneca rock, smoke hole caverns, Glady national park, Pendleton overlook, dolly sods and spruce knob are some of the most spiritual places to see. If you find yourself in a small town called Franklin stop at the Thompson's motel and eat at the fireside cafe restaurant, it's delicious!
Thank you very much for that interesting insight! I would like to visit West Virginia because I really think that the people are quite open and friendly there and of course also because of the beautiful mountains and landscape. I hope that that C-madness will get better or disappear in 2022 (never give up my hope :-)) Warm Greetings from a Greek-Germany West Virginia fan
You hit every important aspect! Pepperoni rolls, the slaw on our dogs, and no dissing of the history of the coal industry!! Thank you! You accurately described our beauty and our people 🥰
He said there were no hillbillies. That's not true. I travel to West by God Virginia several times a year. I deal with the hill people all the time. They make pretty good whiskey
@@josephthibeault9919 True that, but the origin of the term goes back to the late 1600s and early 1700s with the Scots Irish immigration to America. A lot of the people named their sons William to honor William of Orange after the Glorious Revolution (See English Civil Wars). There were so many Bills in the Appalachian mountains. that they became known as hillbillys. The term is part of my Scots Irish heritage.
Found this randomly, and click to make a comment. You sir are a natural! This was informative, pertinent, entertaining articulate just great! Thank you thank you
I moved to WV 2 years ago to be near family in PA. I just couldn't live in PA because the people aren't quite as friendly and I wanted a small closeknit town vibe. I found a small town on the top of thr hills in the lower northern panhandle. The folks here are so friendly and helpful. There are some people who are making bad choices and i have a heart to give back and try to help in some way. I just love it here and i never plan to leave.
I moved from Ohio to West Virginia when I was a young woman. I taught school in Braxton County for a number of years. Immediately fell in love with the gorgeous scenery and was overwhelmed by the kindness of people I met there. I met and married my darling, brilliant mountaineer husband there. I will always have deep respect and sweet memories of this fantastic place and culture.
I have basically been around the world and anywhere I may be, WV is always my home. My out of state friends switch and call WV their home after only living here a short while. It really has a way of making one relaxed and comfortable with a strong sense security for some odd reason as well. All of my friends are very proud to call WV home as am I.
Impressed you showed the 12 mile road train tressle at mile marker 5 on I77. I live in southern west virgina but work in virginia and travel this portion of I 77 daily, I would advise any vistors from east river mountain tunnel to Princeton to please be very cautious. A trickey bit of highway. West Virginia is very multidimensional, wheeling is much different than berkey springs, than white sulfur springs than parkersburg. And, the third Saturday in October is Bridge day!!!
Best friend is from Summerville WV, took my first trip there at 21 and we had a great time. 7.5 hours drive from NJ but worth every bit to experience this great state. The WV hot dog is LEGIT. We got em on a piece of texas toast, covered in chili, whiz, and coleslaw. One bite and i was hooked, must of polished off 15 of em during my trip! Highly recommend new river gorge and summersville lake! Tons of activities from zip lining down a mountain to white water rafting. Hopefully i make it to Bridge Day one year!!
Solo woman coming from flat IN for last min Christmas trip with my small dog. Thank you. Mountain driving terrifies me but that’s why we’re coming. The beautiful views and hiking. Thus far people WV folks on social media have been so helpful.
I'm an Ohio native, currently living in Pa. We spend almost every weekend in WV! Honestly the nicest, friendliest people (opposite of Pa lol) Beautiful state with so much to see & do. We love WV!!
You're totally correct, West Virginians are friendlier than Pennsylvanians, hands down. I'm Pennsylvania born and bred so I can say that with authority. Moved to West Virginia in late 2017 and have lived there ever since. Best decision ever. Greetings all the way down south in Mercer County, WV! PS I like your name by the way, lol
Me, a native West Virginian: "I wonder how accurate this will be." Wolters World: *Opens with don't confuse it with Virginia and say App-uh-latch-uhn right* Me: "...nailed it" Also, don't forget our third delicacy. Always get breakfast at Tudor's Biscuit World
Yea, grew up in WV, live a few states away. Everytime someone mentions my accent and asks where I am from, I say West Virginia. I always get a reply like I have family that lives in Roanoke or some other city in Virginia. I quit correcting people a long time ago.
I have lived in WV for 15 yrs and left Cincinnati because we loved it so much. Everything you said was point on. The only thing I would add is do not speed..for two reasons one he mentioned it may say 45 mph but many turns may be a max of 30. Second is cops are very aggressive here...especially with drivers...do not speed. It is the most beautiful place I have been to other than Switzerland. It's a must see Especially the New River Gorge and rafting if you can.
what about internet? can you get Hughes satellite if you aren't in the middle of a city or are there too many trees and mountians to onstruct a signal?
Man, you did a great job. I started watching your shows well I guess I started watching the ones in Ecuador. Now I'm from West Virginia so I thought I was going to have to critique your video. LOL. I'd say you hit it on the head. We are definitely mountaineers, Virginia and West Virginia are definitely two separate states that get confused quite often and drives us nuts. Pepperoni rolls are the best and that is how a good majority of us eat our hot dogs. And I say the same is true with the coleslaw I just never really paid attention to the fact that we really do use it as a condiment. So funny. Loved your video it was great
Perfect timing, I'm planning a short trip out this summer and looking forward to being up in the mountains! Thanks for the heads up on the pronunciation of "Appalachian" and on the foods!
THANK YOU WOLTER FOR A CORRECT VIEW OF WV WE THANK YOU I THANK YOU🤗❤ FROM A 68 YR. OLD BORN WV NATIVE FROM MERCER COUNTY, PRINCETON,WV LAND OF BLUE GRASS HAZEL DICKENS, MY AUNT Y
I’m a Bailey from Wyoming and Logan County. I have lived in NYC for well over 30 years but love my home state. My mama’s family is from Eastern Kentucky.
Having grown up in W VA I truly appreciate your tips. Anyone from a metropolitan area may be taken back by how Mountaineers will initiate conversations or ask questions to strangers. Be patient while driving and don't start a road rage. It might not end well for you. And by the way, if if you open you eyes and ears, you'll likely understand why it's called Almost Heaven. God bless.
Thank you for a great video! Based on what you showed us, I definitely want to come and visit. You certainly get a lot of great information across in a short amount of time. Thanks, again!
Great video Mark! Appreciate your enthusiasm and appreciation for my home state and hometown of Harpers Ferry. I currently live in Bloomington IL so your warning comments on the roads and driving literally made me LOL. Spot on!
@@Iamwtfboi So He is pronouncing it correctly? I've never hear it pronounced this way until the last few months having grew up about 600 miles to the west and been wondering about this since hearing it pronounced this way. And yes I know how the people of this region would cringe. I grew up in Wisconsin and the way you an tell someone not from Wisconsin is by the way they pronounce some of our names.
Thank you for this! I live in Huntington and both my parents work in the tourism industry here. It makes me so sad how much hate West Virginia gets when it is so pretty and the people are kind and good! Yes, we have our downfalls, but what state doesn't? You did our state proud and I thank you for that!
I love your profile picture-very beautiful! And YES about having a local as a tour guide!! I was fortunate enough to encounter this sweet young couple near Blackwater Falls last year, they let me follow them to a couple of other beautiful locations that I would have otherwise missed! Love your state!
As a native, I want to thank you for painting a positive picture of my home. It is a breath of fresh air to hear positivity from an unbiased visitor. Again, thank you.
most of west Va people are on drugs and poor
@@jimbean7652 thats mature, and no we are not lol
@@LNJuggernaut Well, he said "west Va" not "WV" so he clearly missed "Don't" #1 of this video :D Maybe most people where this person is from don't finish school?
@@DevinPlays Most of those people you reference are either from Alabama, Mississippi, or West Virginia
Did you forget your username is literally "idiot675" or are you being ironic...or just from one of the other two states?
As a rule, while driving around West Virginia, especially on the back roads, if the signs say slow to 20 mph for the curve, do it. Otherwise you might not make it around the curve.
LOL I live there and fr YOU NEED TO WATCH YOUR SPEED U BE SEEING FORD F150’s DRIVING 130 DOWN THE KIDS ZONE
We were there last week. My family is from Lewisburg. My husband was really taking in the hairpin turns on the mountains.
Espacially if you come from germany :D the stated speed limits here are completly overly cautious. slow down to 35mph for the next curve and you can easily take it at 70mph. no one here takes speed limits serious, so i definitly had to learn it the hard way :D
@@Scrabbl84 Sounds like you must have had an OMG moment or two. :D
meh... add 10mph and accelerate thru the apex.
My first time in West Virginia was an overnight stop in Beckley. I’m from Ontario and I was blown away with the drive once we got out of Pennsylvania and into the serious mountains. As we checked into our hotel there was a young lady working the counter along with the person helping us. As soon as she heard we were Canadians she leaned over and asked with great enthusiasm “Are y’all here for Bridge Day?!”. My face betrayed my ignorance and she looked crushed when I said we weren’t and that we were on our way to Myrtle Beach. She got enthusiastic again when I asked what Bridge Day was and I let here give us an almost scholarly review of the New River Gorge Bridge and the activities and celebrations that make up Bridge Day. Her joy at telling us about the area rubbed off and on our way home we made sure we stopped at the observation area and ever since I’ve slowed down a little when I go over that bridge just to soak it in. Also, anywhere I go if I’m talking to anyone who’s a paramedic or first responder I ask them if they go down to Beckley for Bridge Day. Haven’t had any of them say they hadn’t been or weren’t planning on going. They all know about it. Love West Virginia. 🇨🇦🇺🇸❤️
Man I bet y’all were disappointed when you got to Myrtle Beach….that place isn’t what it used to be….I’d rather be in WV….and MB was my home town…
If you get the chance, try whitewater rafting the Gauley. You have to go to Africa to find better.
@@noaht5191 I live in SE NC now and I really miss my hills.
@@georgesakellaropoulos8162 Gauley can be dangerous when they let the Summerville lake dam rush into the gauley
@@JackLight2009 yep. It can get pretty spicy.
Thanks so much from a native West Virginian. Most people give our home state a bad name . It really is a beautiful state ! Thanks again and God Bless .
You are very welcome. We loved it so much we are coming back!
I was born and raised in WV. As a Black man you wouldn’t believe all of the stupid jokes I got especially from fellow sailors when I was active duty Navy stationed at Pearl Harbor in the early 90s. While stationed in VA I heard a poll on the radio about how much Virginians didn’t like West Virginians. I thought that our only rivalry was between WVU and VT. Regardless I’ll always love my home state and can’t wait for next summer’s vacation.👍🏾🇺🇸
@@woltersworld Try North WV out next time. It's markedly less ravaged by coal mining. Blackwater Falls state park and Harper's Ferry are wonderful places to visit and there are numerous riverside and creekside drives that are gorgeous, not to mention the awesome mountain roads that bikers enjoy every summer. Great river swimming holes right alongside a dirt and gravel road just 20 minutes from my home.
@@RosieGirl777 JD Vance hasn't helped!
@@alexandrawhitelock6195 I didn’t know that . What has he done? I’m not being sarcastic either. Thanks friend
I am not offended by the name HILLBILLY. I’m proud of it. We are proud genuine Americans.
West Virginia is highly underrated for visiting! We went there last year for a mini vacation. The people were SO nice!
Us Mountaineers welcome all!
Thank you, we love everyone.
We’re really not that bad. 😁
Don't let them fool you. We are dicks
Don't tell people that! We have an image to maintain, Eddie!
I can attest, I was waiting for my buddies car to get fixed and we were hanging out in a shop when a guy came in and ended up giving us a rafting tour down the new river for free, we just had to supply the beer. Very welcoming people.
Haha! I love that! As a WV-ian, I too can attest to this statement! I few kind words and a pack of beer will get you a fun adventure and a great story! Sometimes it can even get your buddies to help you out on projects and such! It is currency in some places. Lol
Honestly the kind words about the people here made me tear up, I'm so proud to be from West Virginia. 💜❤
Love it here..never want to leave. I doubt the state will let me.
Same here
My mom was born in Morgantown. I found the address of the home she lived in and would love to someday see it. Also, would like to see where other family we visited as kids lived, but doubt I could find those homes.
Born and raised in the hills and holler of the mountain state, thanks for not dragging it through the mud and making it look like the beautiful place that it is.
Pretty much spot on report. I am WV born and have returned after living in Los Angeles and North Carolina. I returned because I love it here. The mill at 4:53 was owned by my family and was moved from Pocahontas Co to the park. As a kid my Dad carved his name in a beam and it is still there. 100% correct on the rolls and dogs. A note on Cell service...West Virginia has a few Dark Zones with zero service and many more were most phones just do not work. Flat landers panic on their first visit!!! Thanks....PS some great photography
Flat landers lol 😂 that’s great!
I'm a Flatlander Floridian,now living in North Carolina. Born in Tennessee the hills are no worries with me.
Thank you for being so respectful for our state and people. We don’t have much, but we are proud of what we do have.
I’ve lived all over the US and have traveled internationally. Now that I can work from anywhere, I’ve picked WV as my home. Love this state!
What part?
Amy, we’re glad you’re here!
Hello how are you doing today? I'm prince hamdan the crown prince of Dubai. Nice meeting you. I will want to know you, I have an offer for you
@@princehamdan8826 😆
Welcome to Almost Heaven
When I first saw this title with the word “Don’ts" incorporated, I thought this would be just another West Virginia hit-piece. Thankfully, I was wrong. The information is actuate and respectful. The Mountain State is my home state and I plan on returning there when retired. The economy isn’t good but the kindness and good nature of the people outweighs any pot of gold. Thank you for this thoughtful review.
Do you mean you think he miss spelled ‘don’ts’ or that he meant don’t go there? Because if it’s the first one he spelled it right
@@kayzeaza I was referring to the topic in general - not the spelling.
WV is a great state in which to retire. Low property taxes, plenty of recreation, nearby for short day trips to surrounding states, etc. If only WV would eliminate taxes on SS benefits.
7:00 🌭 👀
The Mountaineers are priceless..amazing self-reliant people..Bless them all and their families !!!
I got to visit WV this summer and OMG! I fell totally in love! I’ve never seen such beauty in all my 62 years. I’m born and raised in Florida and now…my goal is to move to this gorgeous state and enjoy the rest of my days surrounded by God’s beauty! Thanks for this video!
...and also the 7:00 🌭 👀
No. Dont do it. From Oct to Apr the entire state is a miserable wintry mix gray garbage pit.
@@tritiumglo4699 although I live here, it’s true. Summer is better if you come for the beauty
We would love to have you . But keep your house in Florida lol a lot of people here have summer homes down south 🤣 but some people love the snow
@@tritiumglo4699 it's miserable regardless. lol
Great video, but as someone born, raised, and still living all over WV I got 2 things: 1) the WV Hotdog is chili sauce, coleslaw, AND mustard...you can't forget the mustard. 2) part of the reason a huge patch of WV doesn't have much cell service or even radio stations is because of the National Radio Quiet Zone. The NRQZ is centered between the Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, West Virginia, and Sugar Grove Station in Sugar Grove, West Virginia. Most of this area severely limits wireless signals and a small patch near the radio telescopes prohibits any wireless signals. They have vehicles that drive around with equipment to track down any Rouge wireless signals and they will find you and tell you to turn the devices off while in the zone. Mainly bc it can interfere with the very sensitive radio telescopes.
@tarantulacollective only a true West Virginia no how to eat a hot dog. 😋
Some times us West Virginians forget all the awesome things our state has to offer. I live near Harpers Ferry. It has always been a favorite place of mine.
I live a mile away from the WVU campus. There’s a lot to do when the students are in town because everywhere has people.
I really miss living in Jefferson County. I loved living in Charles Town and taking regular hikes on the AT.
Just moved here to Shepherdstown from So California. My kids are in Brunswick MD. Still amuses me when driving along the 340 over the Shenandoah along Harpers Ferry and then across the Potomac passing through 3 states (West Virginia/Virginia / then Maryland) in 3 minutes. Love the beautiful clean air and greenery, thunder and lightening when it rains, floating and kayaking down the Potomac and have enjoyed visiting all the historical sites so far!
Harper's Ferry is so pretty
@@humblehalfacre8464 underrated place 🔥 this area is so beautiful!
Many of my family members worked the coal mines and they were proud of doing it and taking care of their family. They are not uneducated people. They are some of the kindest,most genuine people u will ever meet.
And have more common sense that many people with 4 year college degree & master’s.
@@trutsieo5430 common sense goes a long way. My dad calls some of the college kids “educated idiots” lol
They were also very brave if you ever see the documentary of how they got the unions in. Fought the company and the feds and won. Gotta be proud as heck for that.
@@trutsieo5430 A college or university degree is no automatic guarantee of ANYTHING. I've know college graduates who were hardly smarter than a tree stump.
they took care of the nation
My experience: Mountain people are genuine, good people. No matter on which continent.
Except for the people from Hills have eyes.
I live in WV and have lived here my whole life. Most of the people here have only been on the mountains to ski.
70% of the population lives on the western side of the state which is a huge valley.
True.
@@cookiecracker6266 lol. Wow that is the truth
I love you mountain people! don’t let the city people ever come to your area and bring you down, fight like a son of a bitch.
As a west Virginia woman..thank you for your kind words about my beloved state.I hope everyone that comes here to visit will leave with happy memories.dont forget to kick your shoes off and wade in a creek ..and watch for deer on the roads!they will literally run at your car !!!!be safe!
You forgot to tell them don’t shake a pill bottle
FYI, last I checked a few years ago, over 200 Americans are killed by deer each year (running in front of their cars), than bears, black or brown, which kill someone on average once every other year.
I used to live in DC and ride my motorcycle out to WV every weekend. I soon learned NOT TO STOP BESIDE THE ROAD. Because so MANY PEOPLE WOULD PULL UP AND ASK IF THEY COULD HELP. I loved exploring that area and the folks there.
This is so true.. 😂 people are so helpful and nice
Finally someone that's talking good about my state I hate how people always make jokes about WV and WVians and saying we arent much of a state we have so much culture and the food is amazing especially the pepperoni rolls its amazing and we have so many cryptids and it's really nice and interesting learning about all our history
Wild and Beautiful, WEST VIRGINIA. Very proud to call the Mountain State my home and John Denver said it better in his song ...
🎵Almost Heaven, 🪕WEST VIRGINIA
Blue Ridge Mountain
Shannondoah River...🎶🎻
Yeah. I always love when I tell people I'm from WV and they either say something about me having all my teeth or look at my feet. Makes me really feel welcome.
What is a cryrttid
@@hippiechicksmomma2727 the flatwoods monster grafton monster mothman the lochness monster those are examples of a cryptid
We have so much culture and amazing things about our state that goes overlooked because of stereotypes and flaws. It’s a damn shame that most people can’t see the beauty of it because I love my state
I am Italian American born & raised in an Italian neighborhood in North Jersey & drove through West Virginia in search of pepperoni rolls & found a beautiful state.
WV has traditionally had a large Italian population. Many Italians came to WV for coal mine jobs around the turn of the century. Italian wives would send their husbands off to work with a lunch made from leftover dough scraps and pepperoni, i.e. the pepperoni roll.
Clarksburg/Bridgeport/Morgantown, that whole area has a lot of Italian heritage. The southern part of the state where I grew up has a lot of English/Irish heritage. It makes for an interesting mix, that's for sure.
Im a native West Virginian and my first love was an Italian girl who's dad worked in the coal mines. Sweet memories
Thanks from West Virginia next your in the mood for a pepperoni roll try and make it around the end of August and visit the city of Clarksburg for the Italian heritage festival its a very fun time
Thanks for the differentiation on western Virginia. As someone who grew up in WV and eventually had to move down south, it blows my mind to this day how many people don't realize WV became its own state.
That's crazy
It used to make me crazy when The Weather Channel used to refer to us as Virginia! I mean, they're pointing at a map, for crying out loud!!
I know it’s crazy! You would think people would have learned that in American history ..
@ blacks speaking Russian living in Georgia...and there's a New Mexico?... How educational. Thanks.
Thank you for your positive thoughts about WV. As a native West Virginian, I am very proud to live here. I was born and raised here. I love my hills, mountains, and rigged terrain. We have the best fishing rivers in the state. People come all states to fish them. I love the spring shot you are doing, the Red Bud trees are blooming, the trees are just getting their leaves, but the most beautiful time is the fall. God's rainbow of trees. @4:50 the picture of Babcock State Park is the most viewed pic of WV. Only in WV can you have all 4 seasons in one day. The Tamarac behind you is one of the most expenses place in WV. WV invented the pepperoni rolls. I even make Pepperoni gravy, talk about good! Some of us still use wringer washers.
As the Recorder / “Vice-Mayor” of Harpers Ferry, I want to thank you for the shout out to our beautiful, charming, historic town!
Bill Withers wrote Lean On Me from the inspired childhood he had in WV.
Slab Fork, WV
@@marcddailey I think he grew up in Beckley as a young person.
He went to school in Beckley.
my great grandparents lived in Monaville WV. He was a coal miner there until they moved to New Jersey in 1925.we are still here in NJ farming.
Good morning Wes
Good on ya “ New Jersey fresh “ 🍅 🫐 🌽
I now own 32 acres in WV because Jersey is a garbage state.
Born and raised in Logan, WV
I grew up 12 miles or so from Monaville in a town called Man.
Thank you for this beautiful representation of my home state. I think people underestimate the grandeur of the land and the kindness of its residents. We're quirky, but that's what makes us interesting!
Great place to visit, I’m 62 yo UTV rider, they have the Hatfield mccoy off road trail system, hundreds of miles of trails, the people are great, don’t be afraid to speak to them and they will friendly up to you, support their economy as much as you can, life is tough here, the beautiful scenery is amazing, like my dad always told me, leave it better than you found it! Enjoy this godly place!
Finally someone making a video on West Virginia and not completely dissing the state the whole time, thank you for focusing on the positive 💯
I love your style! Most people would be saying "Don't go there. Don't do that." It would be putting our State in a negative light. You did the opposite! You advised travelers on what not to miss out on! Even life-long residents can get blase about what is here because we see it every day and for us it is normal. You are reminding us of what an absolutely beautiful place we live in! Your tone is upbeat and encouraging. You also give some good advice on what NOT to do (diss the coal industry, etc) that could make your stay uncomfortable and prompt you not to make a return visit. You mentioned many of the places to visit and activities to do in a short time, and there are so many more that you did not have time to get into in such a short presentation (kayaking, fishing, hunting, 4-wheeling, to name just a few). A major update for those that read this: We actually have a NATIONAL PARK now! The New River Gorge was just named a National Park! Thank you for your positive, informative, and upbeat take on Wild, Wonderful, West "By God" Virginia!!!!
Harpers Ferry National Park is another one
💙
I remember when someone asked me where I was from, and I told them West Virginia. They then said, "Oh! What part of Virginia?" I then said, "No, WEST Virginia" and I shit you not they looked at me in 100% seriousness and with a bitchy voice said, "Uh what's the difference?"
Guess they thought we only had 49 states
That happened to me when I went to KY. I explained that we are the state that looks like a middle finger....yes, I gave them the finger for reference of course 😉
Was in NYC on vacation had someone ask me if WVa was a new state. Have had several people ask me if we are close to Richmond, I always say the wrong state.
@@Circee11 If you wanna see what the State looks like yourself, use the right hand. If you are trying to demonstrate for others, flick them off with the left hand ... but remember the State has a stubbie, likely from working the sawmills. That being said, we always figured there was a big difference between West Virginia and West By God even from the inside of the State.
My doctor here in South Dakota legitimately put I was from Western Virginia in my medical notes. I was like oh man I may be in trouble here lol 😆
I seriously hate it so much. I’ll tell someone I’m from West Virginia and they’ll say “western Virginia?” like they’re correcting me. No dummy we’ve been our own state for 150 years.
Awwe!! On behalf of all West Virginians, thank you for this video!! We love our state and welcome all who visit!! “Country roads take me home”🎶Let’s go Mountaineers!!!!!!!💛💙
I've been in many states, West Virginia is absolutely Beautiful, the mountains are Majestic, not as high as Rockie mountains but for the East USA Magical!
@dnblubird9 are they smaller because they are older?
My wife and I drove to west Virginia from Maine to buy some stained glass from a company for her artwork. The people we met and had a chance to speak with couldn't have been nicer. Everyone was so nice, even the folks at the gas station. And it really is a beautiful state.
Moving back to WV next month after living away for over 10 years. Parents are getting older, and I miss the mountains. Thank you for the positive review of my home state!
Awesome to get back home
Thank you so much for such a positive and uplifting video for us West Virginians!
Thanks so much for shining a positive light on our beautiful state! And actually the pepperoni roll was created back in the day by Italians that immigrated here, and they were created for the coal miners so they could have a substantial lunch that didn’t need any refrigeration. And the term “redneck” was referred to the coal miners because they wore red bandanas around their necks. Coal is very dirty and the bandanas were to wipe their faces or cover their nose and mouth I really enjoyed this video. Thank you!!
I just got home from the Grand Tour. I took your advice, and stopped for the West Virginia hot dogs lunch at Tamarack. Outstanding! Thanks for steering us right.
I moved to WV from Western North Carolina 13 years ago. As a life-long hillbilly from a line of hillbillies that goes back 300+ years I can tell you that WV is a hillbilly state, and that is something to be PROUD of! Don't shrink from, or be offended by being called a hillbilly. Moving to WV was like going home for me, as WNC has become overrun with outsiders from all over the US (and elsewhere) and the southern Appalachian culture and dialect that Iwas raised with is basically gone.
As a lifelong Hillbilly, and West by God Virginian myself Jeff, I concur. 👍
Wv born and raised, moved to southwestern nc...and yes i was a coalminers daughter
Indianapolis flat land guy here..i stop there every year and sht my pants driving..all love tho and some of the best food in merica
I hope you don't think all of us like to be called a hillbilly. I'm a mountaineer and proud of it.
It’s happening here too. They come here n want to make it like what they left. If you liked it there so much. Stay.
As a Mountaineer, I can say that you nailed every point. We do have a beautiful state with wonderful people. For an amazing pepperoni roll...go to Buckhannon, WV and grab one from the Donut Shop or Zul's! Keep up the good work, sir!
That donut shop pepperoni roll is worth the drive.
@@squiresphone I'll 3rd this
Ballat for the girl from Buckhannon
I moved to Texas for a job. When I retired I came back HOME to WEST "By God" VIRGINIA!!
You can take the boy out of West Virginia but you can't take the West Virginia out of the boy.
Cliches are cliches for a reason. Usually just 'cuz they're TRUE!
I 110% agree on Mom & Pop places. Where ever I've been, from California to Texas to Alaska, to Florida, and places in between. These places represent the soul of the state and the authentic spirit of the locale.
Thanks for visiting WV. You done good.
Born in Fairmont but grew up in NJ. It will always be West by God Virginia! Hope to find a spot to retire to in the coming years. Always a mountaineer.
@@jeffg.8964 There is a reason you are not in West Virginia. Besides what is the currency exchange in West Virginia lately? Because that is a Third world country.
@@cookiecracker6266 man don’t hate on this place. Yea it’s not the best area to live but if people
Wanna be here then let them.
Was born and raised in overpriced, overegulated, overcrowded New Jersey and moved to Wild and Wonderful West Virginia in 1997.
Affordable housing, low taxes, sensible regulations freedom loving patriotic people who love their country their families and God.
Never regretted moving here lots of space, fresh air, mountain scenery, awesome wildlife, beautiful forests, rivers, lakes waterfalls.
@@gtpcruiser02 First of all. No regulations is NOT good. You don't want your neighbors to start collecting old cars on their lawn and putting them on cinder blocks. 2nd, over crowded would depend where you are in NJ. Huterdon country NJ is the third riches county in the country and by no means is crowded. 3rd. Patriotic people are found everyone, as matter fact one of the elected officials of WV was at the insurrection of January 6th and is going to do time for that. 4th. You might want to check when comes to pollution where WV stands because they don't have regulations and people dump their used can oil in any stream. 5th. Low taxes is not necessarily great considering that a great portion of the taxes go to schools and therefore you have a better school system, with more educated people. NJ is the 3rd in the country for best school systems. 6th. God doesn't exist and he did exist he won't go to WV, he will probably go to Canada since, that is ranked number one in the world. I do agree with the beautiful scenery, and wild life and forests if you like to collect ticks when is warm.
West Virginians are a proud people we have been living and working in these mountains for hundreds of years we are steeped in German ,Italian , Dutch, Irish and Scottish ancestry , I am also the proud Grandson of a WW2 vet and West Virginia coal miner.
As a West Virginian, thank you for the positive video about my state. We do have a lot of cool things to see and do. I could take up pages of places to see and things to do all over the state.
Loved this video!! West Virginia is the most beautiful state of all!! My family is from Charleston, and I loved going to visit when I was little. The never ending beautiful view everywhere you looked is a feeling of peace and serenity. Happy to say that myself and my kids will be moving there in a few months. We are currently looking for land to purchase, this is where my soul is happiest!
That is awesome. It really is gorgeous. We love it
I live in New Zealand & we have some pretty awesome stuff here as well but you've totally sold me on West Virginia, I'd love to go there someday, It's definitely my kinda place.
Come on over you will ❤ it
Hello 👋🏻 New Zealand 🇳🇿 from Moundsville WV 🇺🇸
Harpers Ferry welcomes you!
You will fall in love with WEST VIRGINIA. 💕🪕💕🎻🤗
Hello from Parkersburg Wv😁Whatcha waiting for? 😜😜
I'm from New Zealand and I can't wait to get to West Virginia one day, I love watching videos on here about the people and the landscape, and I could listen to the accent all day! I watch alot of Soft White Underbelly video, and he has a playlist of interviews from Appalachia, some of them are heartbreaking stories but many of them are just awesome stories of their lives. There's a video of a lady called Ruby, that woman is absolute gold. I would love to sit down with someone like her and hear all about her way of life and how to raise a garden (I think that's the phrase?!). Just salt of the earth, genuine, hard working people!
I hope you get out here someday. You won't regret it
My daughter who was born and raised in West Virginia moved to New Zealand years ago . She tells me the two places have a kinship. Hope you make it here someday, I think you'll like it.
We look forward to your visit!
@@KidKenobiii come on down
Love how you pointed out coleslaw as a condiment. I've lived in WV my whole life, and I was a teenager before I found out that coleslaw can be eaten straight!
I learned that from grandparents. I live in ohio and ask for hotdogs like that. That look at me like I’m crazy. They’re missing out. 🤪
@@truthiswhatiseek I’ve been on a binge lately making coleslaw fir my hot dogs. I just can’t figure out how to soften the buns. Maybe it’s a brand I can’t get in CA. I’ll be living back hime in WV soon
Angel hair coleslaw with spicy peanut butter sauce/dressing is to die for. The stuff i use is Asian - Thai - bought at Walmart.
Some people just don't know fine dining!
@mominthe209 the get soft buns. When your hot dogs are boiling. Lay a splatter screen or even a double broiler over the water. Lay your buns on it and cover with a dish cloth. Be careful not to catch the dish cloth on fire. I'm not speaking from experience or anything...😵 A splatter screen works better for me but watch them carefully. It doesn't take long for them to get nice and soft. Maybe 5 mins or less depending on how many you are steaming. Good luck!
Being a native of WV I agree with this message. Even though I am a transplant to VA I visit my home state often. I live on the border of WV and VA in the great Shenandoah Valley, best of both worlds. I consider the most beautiful state in the Union but then again I’m bias. I recognized so many of the pictures you had on your video. Blackwater Falls, Harpers Ferry, Jackson’s Mill and others. Thanks for doing a respectful video of my home state. Every time I go home I stop somewhere and get pepperoni rolls, sometimes my sister makes them for me. They were a regular household food growing up.
Thanks for sharing this as a West Virginian and ex Coal Miner which my Papaw died of black lung disease as a deep Coal Miner, and the Coal Trucks and the back hollers are especially dangerous.....Best pepperoni rolls are at Super American gas station's
I'm a long time subscriber and viewer. YOU FINALLY MADE IT TO MY STATE! I live right off 77 exit 1, just outside the tunnel in Bluefield. I'm thrilled you gave us such a glowing video. I cannot wait to see more. Thank you so much!
Driving through west Virginia moving from NH to NC was beautiful. It truly is a beautiful state.
I work on the WVa. Parkways/ Turnpike and I receive so many great compliments about our state.
I’m glad I took the time to watch this. I’m a native West Virginian and this made my heart smile. Thank you for such a sweet video about my favorite place!
Great Video not very often our state gets the recognition it deserves.
I'm from McDowell County, lived here all my life. I'm about and hour or so away from the Tamarak, where you are standing in your video. Thank you for all the nice things being said about West Virginia cause so many times it's always the opposite. And not only do we put slaw on them dogs we put slaw on some homemade pinto beans with a side of hot buttery buttermilk cornbread. :)
Our daughter just finished her first year at WVU in Morgantown, WV. We had never been in the state before we toured the school. (from Illinois) What a beautiful area! Love the mountains and sunsets! Thanks for covering this lovely state! Last fall we drove from Morgantown south to Tennessee and it was gorgeous. We stopped at New River Gorge National Park at it was awesome!
must be great to flaunt your priv. prob a lawyer husband with a great parental background right? in this dead ass state that wont help people with 0 already your worth is shown in dollars here and we welcome you to this treat of backwash and racism bless it
@@toot1231 Damn, who put fire ants in your pants 😂
@@datderpysnipersquad9773 ozzy osbourne after snorted them they shot out of his weenis so i kept them as souvenir. great pets and affordable ebay prices on used snorted fire ants
You didn't drive north from Morgantown to Tennessee. Either you drove south to Tennessee or you drove north from Tennessee. Just saying.
But if you're ever in Morgantown in the fall and have a day to kill check out Dolly Sods.
@@petehenry7878 I didn't mean I drove North. I put (north) as a reference for people who didn't know where Morgantown in WV was located. Thanks for Dolly Sods suggestion.
As a long time fan of your channel, this made my Mountaineer heart so happy. ❤️
As I was clicking the video, the 1st "don't" that came to mind was don't confuse West Virginia with western Virginia. You did not disappoint. 😂
I STILL blame John Denver.
Western Virginia, like around Oakwood, was very interesting. US 460 has really nice views.
Ty Ty Ty for painting WV in a positive light.. I have been away serving my country for 20 years, you make me wanna TAKE MY COUNTRY ROADS HOME AGAIN... GOD I MISS MY JOT DOGS.. God Bless your family and the Mountain State..
I work for a delivery service that has me going from the upper midwest to North Carolina and back monthly. I second your love for West Virginia enthusiastically, Charleston is a favorite part of the trip. It looks like a model railroad, with more bridges, boats, trains, state capitol, university, river and hills drilled in way tighter than in real life. But it is real!
Thanks for the kind words for my wonderful state & Mr bee chips too
Hello how are you doing today? I'm prince hamdan the crown prince of Dubai. Nice meeting you. I will want to know you, I have an offer for you
Hey from charleston wv. Thanks for the kind words and yes our state is beautiful I love the mountains. I moved away for 5 years and missed it so bad I had to come back. Come see us here in west Virginia we welcome you.
Pocahontas County here, home of Snowshoe ski/golf resort and the world's largest steerable telescope. We have to keep check on the ufOS.
Speaking of bad cell service... 😏
I'm from Virginia and think West Virginia is simply gorgeous. I would love to take the family and visit one day, particularly Harper's Ferry.
Harpers Ferry is only an hour drive from DC and just minutes from NOVA. West Virginia is only 20 miles from Washington Dulles Airport as a crow flies.
Thanks for the tips. Heading to WV tomorrow for rafting and Harpers ferry
The best and most balanced review of beautiful West Virginia. Thank you! Every day I crave my Mother's Chili Slaw Dogs.
WV native here. If they flattened the State of WV, it would be bigger than TX
Wow, nice factoid!
It wouldn't suck nearly as much, either. West Texas is essentially hell.
And if you flattened a Texan, you'd have a Mexican pizza.
Not true
@@marshallsee9794 joke dude
As a native, I love the eastern part of the state. Blackwater falls, Seneca rock, smoke hole caverns, Glady national park, Pendleton overlook, dolly sods and spruce knob are some of the most spiritual places to see. If you find yourself in a small town called Franklin stop at the Thompson's motel and eat at the fireside cafe restaurant, it's delicious!
Retiring to Northern West Virginia and I can't wait!! The pepperoni rolls we had there were in what I'd call dinner rolls. They were very good!
Thank you very much for that interesting insight! I would like to visit West Virginia because I really think that the people are quite open and friendly there and of course also because of the beautiful mountains and landscape. I hope that that C-madness will get better or disappear in 2022 (never give up my hope :-)) Warm Greetings from a Greek-Germany West Virginia fan
You hit every important aspect! Pepperoni rolls, the slaw on our dogs, and no dissing of the history of the coal industry!! Thank you! You accurately described our beauty and our people 🥰
He said there were no hillbillies. That's not true. I travel to West by God Virginia several times a year. I deal with the hill people all the time. They make pretty good whiskey
Absolutely right on….👍
I’m so glad you finally did a video on WV! It’s definitely underrated.
Thanks Matt
I've never had a problem with being called a hillbilly. I wear that name with pride because I know the history behind the name.
To me, hillbillies are people who can solve problems.
@@josephthibeault9919 True that, but the origin of the term goes back to the late 1600s and early 1700s with the Scots Irish immigration to America. A lot of the people named their sons William to honor William of Orange after the Glorious Revolution (See English Civil Wars). There were so many Bills in the Appalachian mountains. that they became known as hillbillys. The term is part of my Scots Irish heritage.
We don’t care if you call us hillbillies it’s the name of my high school we definitely wear it with pride🙏🏻🇺🇸🙏🏻
@@g.mantua1195 love me some history this my friend blew my mind .. Thanks for that knowledge
I pride myself on being a hillbilly as well.
Found this randomly, and click to make a comment. You sir are a natural! This was informative, pertinent, entertaining articulate just great! Thank you thank you
Thank you very much. I appreciate it. All the best to you!
I moved to WV 2 years ago to be near family in PA. I just couldn't live in PA because the people aren't quite as friendly and I wanted a small closeknit town vibe. I found a small town on the top of thr hills in the lower northern panhandle. The folks here are so friendly and helpful. There are some people who are making bad choices and i have a heart to give back and try to help in some way. I just love it here and i never plan to leave.
Thankyou. It’s true. WV is almost heavenly for those of us who love living with nature. To me, it holds my very best memories.
Best Pepperoni Rolls in the state is in Clarksburg at Tomaro's Bakery... and the best chilli is Custard stand!!!!
Clarksvurg has some good italian food
Clarksburg*
A Sunday morning routine
Pepperoni grill in Charleston makes different style than Tomaros but decidedly better
Nu Era in Logan makes the best pepperoni rolls!
I moved from Ohio to West Virginia when I was a young woman. I taught school in Braxton County for a number of years. Immediately fell in love with the gorgeous scenery and was overwhelmed by the kindness of people I met there. I met and married my darling, brilliant mountaineer husband there. I will always have deep respect and sweet memories of this fantastic place and culture.
What a blessed life you're living ❤
I have basically been around the world and anywhere I may be, WV is always my home. My out of state friends switch and call WV their home after only living here a short while. It really has a way of making one relaxed and comfortable with a strong sense security for some odd reason as well. All of my friends are very proud to call WV home as am I.
Impressed you showed the 12 mile road train tressle at mile marker 5 on I77.
I live in southern west virgina but work in virginia and travel this portion of I 77 daily, I would advise any vistors from east river mountain tunnel to Princeton to please be very cautious. A trickey bit of highway.
West Virginia is very multidimensional, wheeling is much different than berkey springs, than white sulfur springs than parkersburg.
And, the third Saturday in October is Bridge day!!!
Great video! Thanks for showing my home state in such a positive light.
I’m very happy to see that my home state is getting more videos like this. I hope y’all have a good time if you do decide to visit for a bit!
Best friend is from Summerville WV, took my first trip there at 21 and we had a great time. 7.5 hours drive from NJ but worth every bit to experience this great state. The WV hot dog is LEGIT. We got em on a piece of texas toast, covered in chili, whiz, and coleslaw. One bite and i was hooked, must of polished off 15 of em during my trip! Highly recommend new river gorge and summersville lake! Tons of activities from zip lining down a mountain to white water rafting. Hopefully i make it to Bridge Day one year!!
Solo woman coming from flat IN for last min Christmas trip with my small dog. Thank you. Mountain driving terrifies me but that’s why we’re coming. The beautiful views and hiking. Thus far people WV folks on social media have been so helpful.
I'm an Ohio native, currently living in Pa. We spend almost every weekend in WV! Honestly the nicest, friendliest people (opposite of Pa lol) Beautiful state with so much to see & do. We love WV!!
You're totally correct, West Virginians are friendlier than Pennsylvanians, hands down. I'm Pennsylvania born and bred so I can say that with authority. Moved to West Virginia in late 2017 and have lived there ever since. Best decision ever. Greetings all the way down south in Mercer County, WV!
PS I like your name by the way, lol
Me, a native West Virginian: "I wonder how accurate this will be."
Wolters World: *Opens with don't confuse it with Virginia and say App-uh-latch-uhn right*
Me: "...nailed it"
Also, don't forget our third delicacy. Always get breakfast at Tudor's Biscuit World
Yes! Definitely visit tudors their biscuits are so good
And ramps in season...
Meh, Tudors is ok, but Suzi’s Biscuits in South Charleston are way better!
Yea, grew up in WV, live a few states away. Everytime someone mentions my accent and asks where I am from, I say West Virginia. I always get a reply like I have family that lives in Roanoke or some other city in Virginia. I quit correcting people a long time ago.
@@brucefisher4025 Consult with your board certified gastroenterologist beforehand.
Or just roll the dice!
I have lived in WV for 15 yrs and left Cincinnati because we loved it so much. Everything you said was point on. The only thing I would add is do not speed..for two reasons one he mentioned it may say 45 mph but many turns may be a max of 30. Second is cops are very aggressive here...especially with drivers...do not speed. It is the most beautiful place I have been to other than Switzerland. It's a must see Especially the New River Gorge and rafting if you can.
Oh, my! Thank you for your kind words!! It's a blessing to read your comments!
Just buy a radar detector most cops don’t have radar on. Just big cities like Charleston or Huntington use laser.
what about internet? can you get Hughes satellite if you aren't in the middle of a city or are there too many trees and mountians to onstruct a signal?
Love that you started off with the WV/Western Virginia lesson! Great video
Man, you did a great job. I started watching your shows well I guess I started watching the ones in Ecuador. Now I'm from West Virginia so I thought I was going to have to critique your video. LOL. I'd say you hit it on the head. We are definitely mountaineers, Virginia and West Virginia are definitely two separate states that get confused quite often and drives us nuts. Pepperoni rolls are the best and that is how a good majority of us eat our hot dogs. And I say the same is true with the coleslaw I just never really paid attention to the fact that we really do use it as a condiment. So funny. Loved your video it was great
OMG - I am from 'Down Under' Australia. I love your talk on West Virginia and the scenery you have captured is fantastic.Thank you.
Perfect timing, I'm planning a short trip out this summer and looking forward to being up in the mountains! Thanks for the heads up on the pronunciation of "Appalachian" and on the foods!
Don’t miss out on Seneca rocks or the New River Gorge.
I’ve lived here my entire life and I honestly have never heard Appalachian pronounced the way he did 😭
If you go by Seneca rocks should check out dolly sods wilderness. It's a different world up there.
@@WagnerBoy55 Black Water Falls, Canaan Valley, and Jennings Randolph Lake are beautiful areas, as well.
@@joshuabeck2439 And hit Spruce Knob while you are at it.
THANK YOU WOLTER FOR A CORRECT VIEW OF WV
WE THANK YOU
I THANK YOU🤗❤
FROM A 68 YR. OLD BORN WV NATIVE FROM MERCER COUNTY, PRINCETON,WV
LAND OF BLUE GRASS HAZEL DICKENS, MY AUNT
Y
I’m a Bailey from Wyoming and Logan County. I have lived in NYC for well over 30 years but love my home state. My mama’s family is from Eastern Kentucky.
As a lifelong Mountaineer, I appreciate your take on our beautiful state and its people! Thank you.💕
Hello how are you doing today? I'm prince hamdan the crown prince of Dubai. Nice meeting you. I will want to know you, I have an offer for you
Quit annoying people before I report you to thesite, get a real job scammer
Having grown up in W VA I truly appreciate your tips. Anyone from a metropolitan area may be taken back by how Mountaineers will initiate conversations or ask questions to strangers. Be patient while driving and don't start a road rage. It might not end well for you. And by the way, if if you open you eyes and ears, you'll likely understand why it's called Almost Heaven. God bless.
Thank you for a great video! Based on what you showed us, I definitely want to come and visit. You certainly get a lot of great information across in a short amount of time. Thanks, again!
Great video Mark! Appreciate your enthusiasm and appreciation for my home state and hometown of Harpers Ferry. I currently live in Bloomington IL so your warning comments on the roads and driving literally made me LOL. Spot on!
Hello how are you doing today? I'm prince hamdan the crown prince of Dubai. Nice meeting you. I will want to know you, I have an offer for you
As an Ohioan, I applaud your pronunciation of "Appalachian".
As a West Virginian, Appalachia is misspronounced so bad in Fallout 76 it makes me cringe, also, may the Appalachian states stick together forever!!!
Well, that's how it's pronounced.
@@Iamwtfboi So He is pronouncing it correctly? I've never hear it pronounced this way until the last few months having grew up about 600 miles to the west and been wondering about this since hearing it pronounced this way. And yes I know how the people of this region would cringe. I grew up in Wisconsin and the way you an tell someone not from Wisconsin is by the way they pronounce some of our names.
@@rockyzman he's definitely pronouncing it correctly.
@@duaneadkins1261 That's not how we pronounce it in the Northern Panhandle.
Amazing video! I think Walter is one of the most culturally educated people on this planet! Keep up the great work! ❤️
Thank you for this! I live in Huntington and both my parents work in the tourism industry here. It makes me so sad how much hate West Virginia gets when it is so pretty and the people are kind and good! Yes, we have our downfalls, but what state doesn't? You did our state proud and I thank you for that!
It bums me to see what are city has turned into every time I hear EMS my first thought is who overdosed this time and it's said to feel that why
Nothing better than having a native West Virginian as a guide.
I love your profile picture-very beautiful! And YES about having a local as a tour guide!! I was fortunate enough to encounter this sweet young couple near Blackwater Falls last year, they let me follow them to a couple of other beautiful locations that I would have otherwise missed! Love your state!