It’s been a month since returning to the states from 2 years in Tokyo. Do I miss Japan? Sure, especially the food, the proximity to the rest of Asia, and the stimulating trials and challenges of being outside your home country and comfort zone. The work environment is much better here in the States, but that’s a whole other story. Anyway, I thought Tokyo was convenient – and it is – but Manhattan actually does it up. The last month of exploring and getting my bearings has allowed me to say I agree with Walkscore’s perfect rating. Is Manhattan pricey? You bet. Worth it? That depends. But to be able to get to work in 20 minutes (35 if walking the whole way), and have Central Park two blocks away, a movie theater one block away, and more restaurants, shops, and services than I can count (let alone enjoy because of the money being spent on rent; I’ll give you that), all around is just a wonderful convenience. And you are in NYC, with just about every walk of life in the world.
This will be the 4th year of not owning a car and dealing with all the hassles and costs that brings. Sure, it is nice to hit the open road from time to time, but thank you ZipCar for giving me that option. Getting back to the gist of this post though, the Walkscore for where I live tops out at a full 100. Over the last 3 years, I’ve been fortunate enough to live in 3 of the world’s great cities (perhaps being able to live there without a car is one of the reasons they are great) with my Walkscore going up every time I’ve moved. Cleveland Park in NW Washington, DC came in at 75. Yoyogiuehara in Tokyo notched up to 82 and now my area of Manhattan clocks in at the maximum value of 100. Where do I go from here? Well, I won’t beat 100, but perhaps I can still strive for a simple life that saves money while conserving resources. Tumbleweed Tiny House, anyone?
