Top 6 Reasons to Live Without a Car in a Big City
No matter if you decided to go car-less because of the recent credit crunch and its effect on global markets, or because you’ve been thinking of doing something to reduce your carbon footprint, there are always great advantages to not having a car. Now, if you’re wondering if people living in big cities can give up the comfort of having a car and not have our lifestyle destroyed, as US President Barack Obama would say: YES WE CAN. Here are is a top list of reasons why life without a car in a big city is not so bad:
1. You’ll spend less money. With insurance and gas prices, you’re bound to spend less not having a car even having to spend on subways, buses, and the ocassional cab. Very few big cites lack a cheap and at least reasonably effective mode of public transportation (that is one of the reasons behind them being big in the first place!)
2. You’ll be healthier. You’ll be forced to walk or bike (even if only to the station) which is good for your health and your appearance (ever seen the angelina jolies butt? Guess what? She walks everyday)
3. You’ll feel better about yourself. Not only for the health and great butt part, either. You’ll be helping out in reducing carbon emissions. Isn’t that a great example for your children, as well?
4. You don’t have to look bad. Whenever you have to mention you do not own a car, no ones going to think you’re a loser if you add a little explanation (”I actually do not even own a car. I do not believe in increasing carbon emissions unless I really have too”). People might think you are an arrogant for having so much self restraint and making them feel guilt, but they won’t think you’re cheap - so who cares.
5. You can manage it. Of course you will be lost if you are hauling around a million plastic bags plus a purse plus a small backpack. You will also look like a third grader. Instead, use some of that money you will be saving on insurance and buy one big bag or backpack or something with a shoulder strap or something. Go for something adult, professional and beautiful. Think sleek design and dark brown leather. Get something with lots of different chambers so you can organize everything. Believe me, if you’re willing to take the time to choose something well made that you don’t have to keep adjusting, you’ll still look good.
6. You get some time to think. When you have a car, you ALWAYS end up busy - every second. As soon as you step into the vehicle, you’re trying to get somewhere and not kill yourself. When you walk, you get a chance to look around, not to mention that it’s delicious to look out of a window while someone drives for you. Take the time to smell the roses, not your tailpipe.
No matter what the reason is, if you consider living in a big city without a car, think about donating to a worthy charity of your choice and make a positive impact on yourself, your family, and the rest of society.
Topics: public transportation, big city, living without a car, stop driving, no car