David’s guidebook

Here in the area, public transportation is not available, and Uber and drivers of the type are not usually available or willing to drive the mountain roads and/or the distances. Other than the many experiences in the town “clusters”, most everything else in the area requires driving. The scenery on the drives is spectacular, yet the driver must pay very careful attention, and not be distracted with anything while traveling these roads. It is a good idea to allow multiple drivers, so that everyone can enjoy what is able to seen from the car.

Mountain people are happy people. “Altitude Affects Attitude” is a saying we have here. While we do live in a “modern” world, the locals are proud people and hold tight to what may be perceived as “old fashioned” values. Expect “conservative” attitudes. Abusing the “peace and quiet”, the beauty, the cleanliness, and the slower pace of life will ultimately result in an unpleasant response. The mountain culture is something that has to be experienced in full in order to truly understand the root of the passion of these people. Look. Listen. Learn. Live.

Act like a tourist...get “Tourist Prices”. Act like a local...get batter prices...and a smile! This is usually the case in most antique and second-hand shops. Just don’t expect this at other shops and chain-style establishments. You may get a funny stare instead of a better price and a smile.

This is what is considered a “Temperate Rainforest”. It usually rains every day in the summer...for at least a small shower, and many days in the spring. Fall and winter are usually dry, but it is always a good idea to be prepared...just in case!

Yes....we may sound funny to many people...we already know that. Just don’t go around thinking you are being nice by trying to talk like us. It doesn’t work...and only makes you look silly. “Hello” is always a good thing to say and hear...and when someone asks you “How are you?”, you must answer. “How are you” is NOT the same as “Hello”. Cursing is also a big “no-no”! And don’t be shocked when a total stranger passes you on the road and waves at you. Wave back...smile...and keep driving. It’s how we show each other that “all is well”.

Children who are not familiar with the mountains need extra attention. Not only are the obvious dangers around such as steep cliffs, trip hazards on trails, hidden water dangers, dense forests and vehicular traffic zipping around blind curves...but also, our wildlife can pose a danger. Bees, snakes, and bears are all around...and even though they don’t want us around just as much as we don’t want them, we must share the same space at times.