In the last 30 days there have been dozens and dozens of pieces written about Paso Robles, events in Paso Robles, specific wineries, and specific restaurants. So many that I have lost count and don’t think I have all the links to them anymore.
The point is, people outside Paso have been and continue to understand more and more why this is the place to visit or move to. Of course we don’t want everyone moving here but growth happens whether you like it or not. Paso was once a hidden treasure and now it may not be on everyone’s radar but we certainly are not as hidden as we once were.
We can go over all the talking points about what makes this area so great: half way between L.A. and S.F., Cal Poly SLO, each city in the county is unique, close to the mountains, close to some of the coolest beach communities on the planet, a growing craft beer scene, out of this world food, events of all kinds, close to Santa Barbara and Monterey, and of course…the wine.
As I’ve said before, however, the two things that always ring truest for me as to why Paso Robles is such a great town…the downtown square and the community of people that choose to make Paso their home or second home. That’s it. It’s just that simple. All the other stuff is gravy.
I babbled on and on above to lead you to this, the most recent article I came across about Paso (actually, my dad found it and shared it with me on Facebook). It’s from Travel & Leisure but I saw it on Yahoo Travel. We came in #9 on this list…but the coolest thing is that we have been coming in on many lists. I know some think it’s bad because it will bring more people here but it is my opinion that with the right leadership and with a community that sticks together the way we do (more often than not), we will be just fine. We’ll be able to keep that Paso feel while allowing for more tourism and slow, steady growth.
Cheers to Paso!
Vinvibe says
All love is good love…if $25 tasting room fees start cropping up, then ask us again. But for now, we love our new home here! Thanks again for sharing!
Matt (a.k.a. Hoot) says
Vinvibe, no doubt. I would not and will not pay those fees. This is a great community, very happy to be part of it. 🙂
Paul says
“the downtown square and the community of people that choose to make Paso their home or second home. That’s it. It’s just that simple.”
Well said! These are two of the main reasons why (when we are able to) retire to the Paso area. Might be 15 years from now but I’m working on it!
Matt (a.k.a. Hoot) says
Paul, really appreciate the comment and I also appreciate your love for the area too. It’s each and every one of us…we make Paso what Paso is and what Paso could be.