Cassie and I were both a little hesitant when we moved to Durham last Summer. During the 7 internships I spent in the Triangle I’d only heard one sentiment of Durham: avoid it at all costs. Citing crime, economic status, and racial tensions most people relegate Durham to some kind of third-world country, but if this past year has solidified anything for me it’s that I love Durham. Durham is home and I wouldn’t trade it for all the strip malls in the Triangle.
I once read that some towns display their jewels in showcases, but Durham’s are casually concealed in old cigar boxes and brown paper bags; I’ve always liked that sentiment. Durham has an authenticity and vibrance unmatched in the Triangle, as it’s full of diverse people all passionate about their community. It’s a community that prides itself on renovation rather than replacement, and you see that everywhere.
Durham is also foodie heaven. Here you’ll find hole-in-the-walls where generations of families have devoted their lives to making the best food possible. Outside of these mom & pop places you’ll find talented chefs shunning 5-star digs to bring accessible cuisine to the community, and a thriving latino population producing some of the best taquerias north of the border. There’s great food to be had all over the Triangle, but few places have such concentrated awesome as Durham.
Most importantly, you just feel welcome in Durham. Everyone has a shared sense of pride in where we live, and you feel it walking around the farmer’s market or waiting in line for an Only Burger. It’s definitely not for everyone, but for me I can’t think about living anywhere else. You stay artsy, Durham.
