The culture of the US South is worlds apart from its northern counterparts, and there’s an array of unique customs to navigate for visitors. If you’re visiting the South for the first time, there are certain things to be aware of and avoid saying so you don’t accidentally offend. From food slanders to accidental stereotypes, these are 19 things you should never say to a Southerner.
“I Don’t Like Cooking”
Hearty home-cooked meals are the lifeblood of Southern states, from the plains of Texas to the forests of Alabama. Admitting that you don’t like cooking, or that, even worse, you’ve never attempted to cook for yourself, will be met with shock. You may be invited over by a well-meaning Southerner keen to show you how to cook your favorite meal from scratch.
“Why is the Weather Always so Humid?”
Southern states are known for their high humidity levels, and pointing this out isn’t going to change the weather. Visitors aren’t expected to rejoice at the amount everyone is sweating, but complaining about it will be met with a few eye-rolls.
“Hey Y’all”
“Y’all” might be the default phrase when addressing a group in the South, but it can sound strange coming from a visitor. Depending on who you talk to, trying to replicate southern phrases in a different accent can come across as patronizing.
“Football is Just a Game”
College football is a cherished community affair for most places in the South, and attending Saturday matches is a religious affair. Try to avoid saying that football is “just a game” unless you want to upset the locals.
“Aren’t You All Conservatives?”
Another common assumption is that everyone you’ll meet in the South will have a conservative political view. Jokingly wondering whether everyone sitting around the dinner table is conservative should be kept to yourself. Political inclinations can be a tricky subject matter, as members of the same family might have opposing views.
“Southern Food isn’t Great”
Southerners aren’t overly sensitive folk, except when someone criticizes their food. If home-cooked meals with lashings of gravy aren’t your idea of a great meal, it’s best to keep this to yourself.
“I’ll Take My Tea Without Sugar”
As Dolly Parton once said, sweet tea is “the house wine of the south”. There’s nothing Southerners love more than catching up over a glass of sugary tea on a hot day, and it would be a shame to miss out on this cultural opportunity.
“There’s Nothing To Do Here”
Unless you’re visiting Texas, Houston, or another large southern city, you might wonder how the locals keep themselves entertained. Instead of complaining that there’s nothing to do in a rural part of the south, try asking locals for some tips.
“I’ll Just Send Them a Thank-You Text”
Southerners value politeness and courtesies, such as thanking someone in person. They’ll be honored that you took the time to stop by and say thank you rather than sending a meaningless text.
“I’d Hate To Have a House With a Porch”
Porches not only provide respite from the heat, but they’re also a great social venue for Southerners. If you’re opposed to having a porch or think they’re a ridiculous addition, don’t share this with your Southern friends.
“I Don’t Like Gardening”
Southerners have famously green thumbs and love gardening almost as much as cooking. To state that you don’t like gardening, especially if you’ve never tried it, might attract derision.
“My Grandmother’s Recipe is Better”
Family recipes are a coveted element of Southern tradition, and they bring a level of love and care to home-cooked meals. Brazenly stating that your Grandma’s meatloaf recipe is superior to the one you just tried might ruffle a few feathers.
“Bless Your Heart”
To an outsider, the phrase “bless your heart” can seem perfectly sweet and innocent. But it’s often used with a tinge of sarcasm, especially if someone thinks you’re acting stupidly. To avoid offending a Southerner, evaluate a situation before using this nuanced phrase.
“What’s so Special About Waffle Houses?”
Waffle Houses may be ubiquitous across the US, but they have a special kind of cult following in the Southern states. While it’s every visitor’s right to have their own opinions regarding this eaterie, they might be better off smiling and nodding when asked if they like waffles.
“I Don’t Believe in God”
While Southern states are home to many atheists, the Deep South is known for its religious population. Non-believers who are keen not to offend their hosts may want to keep their Atheism to themselves, at least until they know the locals better.
“I Don’t Have Time to Stop and Chat”
People in the South are incredibly friendly and well-meaning, often taking time out of their day to chat. Refusing to stay and “shoot the breeze” with a friendly local is a missed opportunity. You’ll often hear a fascinating tale and get some great cultural insight.
“It’s too Hot”
Complaining that it’s too hot in one of the Southern states is an age-old example of stating the obvious. Locals know they live in a famously warm climate, and they don’t need tourists to remind them.
“Do You Own a Gun?”
The stereotype that all Southerners own a firearm rages on and brings anti-firearm locals to despair. Visitors might be tempted to ask this question as soon as they step into a Southerner’s home, but this could be an insensitive decision.
“NASCAR isn’t That Great”
NASCAR is another cornerstone aspect of Southern culture and has been around since the Prohibition era. It quickly becomes clear when visiting the South that each family has a favorite driver or car and is quick to discuss their favorite race. Jumping into a conversation expressing your dislike of NASCAR could be met with some sour responses.
“Do You Live On a Farm?”
Media portrayals of Southern folk have outsiders thinking everyone lives on a ranch or farm. But unless you’re visiting a rural area of Texas, asking this question can rub people up the wrong way. It tells locals that you’re buying into Southern stereotypes, and they’re likely tired of hearing them.
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