"Tucson-Love It & Hate It" a Tucson Travel Page by marlasimone4

Beautiful surroundings 20 min outside city in most directions. Stunning sunsets. Wonderful year-round weather (dry mid-temp-dry heat). I rarely get sick because the dry climate is good for my health. University culture and resources. Somewhat progressive compared to the rest of AZ. Emphasis on healthy, natural living. Spas are abundant. Housing is cheap. Close to Mexico & great Mexican food. Tucson airport is quick and easy..but see Chapter 2...Lots of fountains. Laid back lifestyle-not the hustle and bustle of the NE or some bigger cities. Cheaper rents. Tends not to be pretentious.

Tucson airport also flies almost nowhere and while it is officially called an international airport, it doesn't have any international destinations. This makes traveling more expensive and inconvenient. Relatively Progressive is the key phrase. People tend to be close-minded liberal, politically correct. Except for expensive ourskirts and Sam Hughes area, the place is pretty seedy and not so safe. (I pass a gun shop, a number of pawn shops, and loan shark places on my 15 min drive home from the University). My biggest complaint is the lack of depth I have found in many people and the pressure one feels to have a cheery, positive attitude. While I often like the emphasis placed on health and alternative healing, some of the stuff gets too cheesy sometimes. Also, there is a vocal group of activists who are always fighting among themselves with regards to Mexico-U.S. migration and seem to lose sight of the bigger picture. Some are alarmists and irritating. Can feel very isolated.

Arizona is one of the poorest states, puts little emphasis on or money into education (just moved down to 50! of U.S. states for education)! Very few job opportunities, and the few there are are often low paying when the cost of living is not equivalently low. Not enough cultural activities.

Beautiful desert, but no ocean nearby. The airport for those who love to travel (see above). Slower, often less stressful pace of life. Small town feel and mentality.