Let's start by considering the advantages. First, think of the gas money and the time saved if you know your neighborhood well. The sooner you learn all that your neighborhood has to offer the sooner you will be discovering the great Chinese restaurant around the corner (and the sooner you will be able to stop driving across town everytime you have a craving for Lo Mein).
Second, knowing your neighborhood leads to knowing your neighbors and an increased sense of community. And what's better than being greeted by name when you enter your (now local) Chinese restaurant?Third is safety. People who know their neighborhoods and neighbors better are more able to quickly identify and thus prevent crime.
Okay, so now that you are aware of a few of the benefits of knowing your neighborhood, how do you get started?
1) Take a hike. Well, a walk or a bike ride will do just fine. Check out WalkScore.com to determine how walkable your neighborhood is and what's in the immediate area. If you discover that your neighborhood isn't very pedestrian-friendly, take a drive without a destination in mind. The goal of your outing should be to explore the back roads and find out what's near by -- not to run 5 errands in 45 minutes.
2) Talk to your neighbors while you are taking that stroll. Find out their favorite restaurants, grocery stores, theatres, and night spots in the area. Chances are that they have already done a lot of the dirty work for you and can recommend a a great sushi restaurant or an affordable dry cleaners.
3) Get a local paper. Pick up a local paper to find out what cultural, social, educational, and culinary events are happening in your area. This is a great way to meet new people and get to know your new neighborhood.
