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Followup To
Question -
Hi Helen! I currently live in NY and am considering relocating to VA. I'm looking to research towns that have excellent schools, nice neighborhoods, are safe, and are friendly to newcomers/Yankees! I live on Long Island, so I can't be too far from the coast... also, I don't want a summer town that turns into a "ghost town" after Labor Day. We're spoiled here with access to great restaurants and activities all year round. Any suggestions would be helpful.
Thanks,
Jennifer
Helen,
Thanks for your reply...it's helpful to speak with someone who lives in VA! I will check out VA Beach...are there any other towns your would recommend I research? We are in our early 30s, have a 2-year-old, and we are both professionals. We would like a family-oriented/friendly neighborhood with educated people, great schools, and a beach not too far away! The Williamsburg area looked nice, but maybe you could recommend some other towns. Also, what are the best hospitals in the area? We work in healthcare.
Thanks,
Jennifer
Answer -
Hi Jennifer,
I live in Virginia Beach, the largest city in Virginia. I am also from NY. Like any city, you need to check areas. Our schools are top notch. Great recreation, museums, sporting events. I see the same concerts that are also appearing in NY for less money and I actually get good seats. Shopping is fantastic - more choices and selection than I had in NY and nicer ambiance to shop. I originally lived in Westchester County. I live on the Chesapeake Bay, steps to our beach. Sandbridge area is right on the ocean. There are many communities around inlets and boating is big down here. It is a very cosmopolitan city that is alive in winter & summer. It's a great city. If you need any more specific information, feel free to ask.
Helen
Answer Jennifer,
I am not that familiar with Williamsburg, I generally just go there to shop in the outlets or take guests to Busch Gardens. It is lovely and the golfing communities seem to be older adults but I may be wrong. Virginia Beach and Chesapeake would be the two cities best meeting your needs. I have been down here two years permanently and 12 years part-time. Schools in Virginia Beach are excellent. Virginia has the SOL's which resemble NY learning standards. I'm an educational specialist and still travel back to NY to give teacher workshops. I am impressed with the school system and the facilities. As for healthcare it is top notch. My MD's in NY were out of Columbia Presby and I had concern when I transferred. I truly believe I've gotten better care down here. Sentara Hospitals are the major ones here. I believe there are 4: Beach General, Bayside, Leigh & Norfolk. All have been mentioned as top hospitals in the US. There's a Children's Hospital of the Kings Daughters, and Eastern Virginia Medical. Many smaller hospitals. Hope this is what you needed. Helen
