A tale of two states (Mar 7th)

fter several months of life in the Nevada desert, I've realized there's good reason why cost-of-living in California is so expensive.  It's because California is a nice place to live.  Sure, there are state income taxes, traffic snarls and higher unemployment.  But in California, there are also beaches, temperate climate and a boundless and diversified international economy for one to pursue their dreams.

But by far, California's most valued asset is its people and culture.  I'll probably get flamed for being an elitist, but I can keenly sense the difference between a college-educated population from a non-college educated one.  I can tell them apart in their demeanor, their sense of ambition and their acceptance of different people and cultures.  It's no wonder why many recent residents complain about the lack of culture and diversity here in Vegas.

Of course, California also has its share of undesirables, flunkies and criminal elements.  But on the education and diversity podium, the Golden State stands steps above the Silver State.  Living in Vegas city is like flying on Southwest: you get the basics without the extra nonsense. The basics may be more than enough to live on, but the nonsense are what makes life worth living.

Despite the difference in demographics, things are improving for Sin City.  As California refugees pour in, Las Vegas is slowly adopting California ways of life, whether it's reflected in the construction of Fry's Electronics or the rapidly growing Chinatown along Spring Mountain Road.  For myself, though, life in Las Vegas may never be as comfortable or interesting as California.  But this a good and interesting city to hang out before venturing towards another destination someday.