Southern hospitality can feel like a warm hug—or a bit too much—for some Northerners.

There’s no denying the charm of Southern hospitality. Many Southerners pride themselves on being warm, welcoming, and polite, even to complete strangers. But what feels like everyday kindness below the Mason-Dixon line can sometimes come across as overbearing or puzzling to those from the North. The cultural gap between “bless your heart” and a straight-shooting “what’s up?” is real, and it can lead to some hilariously awkward moments.
Here are some ‘friendly’ Southern habits that often leave Northerners a little uncomfortable—and maybe even a bit charmed by the end of it.