What's bad about Richmond? (Charlottesville, Chamberlayne: apartments, crimes, hotel)

[more to life]

Perhaps the stark distinction in classes would become less stark if the "upper class" would stop looking at the "lower class" as a less than human stench to be avoided. Maybe a better alternative would be to take steps toward tearing down the socio-economic and racial barriers that create ghettos. Is it possible that your purpose in life might ought to be bigger than living a convenient self-centered life away from anyone who may cause you discomfort? And maybe, just maybe could it be that except for the area you were born, or the parents you were born to, or maybe a few poor choices ... you might not be stuck in the ghetto. Just a thought.

[Anders15]

Well this article has a lot of truth in it IMO.


I just feel like I am out of the loop. People that love it here must know something that I don't. I would love to know what it is. I don't have a pet to walk, I don't hang out in clubs, I don't smoke so I guess that is the problem. Someone please tell me what I am doing wrong here because I do not enjoy feeling like this..

[richmondpics]

What do you enjoy doing?

[01va571]

Mosby, Gilpin Courts, Hillside courts

[xGrendelx]

Originally Posted by RonMaverick804

Well this article has a lot of truth in it IMO.


I just feel like I am out of the loop. People that love it here must know something that I don't. I would love to know what it is. I don't have a pet to walk, I don't hang out in clubs, I don't smoke so I guess that is the problem. Someone please tell me what I am doing wrong here because I do not enjoy feeling like this..

Have you tried learning about the history of Richmond? Richmond's roots run very deep and are fun to explore, and that way you might be able to find something to relate to with the city or something you like about it which will, in turn, lead to more things you like about the city. I don't know if you're originially from the South, but try to embrace its Southern culture. It's okay to be laid back, hang out, move at a slower pace, and relax in Richmond. The cyclist community is HUGE in Richmond, so if you have a bike get out and ride! It's a great way to meet people and find out new activities to get involved with (bike races around the city go on all the time, for example). Richmond has a lot of problems, yes. But the city DOES have a lot of charm if you can find it. I think most old cities are that way. There's plenty of things to like about Richmond, even though they may be harder to find (it took me 6 years to enjoy the city!).

I don't know if the people know something you don't, but they're probably just a different type of people than you are. From my experience with the city, most people are laid back and easy going. Almost care-free. Especially in neighborhoods like The Fan. I've found many people are very personable. They acknowledge each other and nod or say "hi" when they see each other on the street. I think most of that has to do with being Southern.

And if the news bothers you, why not shut it off? I get bummed out by news too. Sometimes it's best to avoid it.

[Paris_Tim]

Originally Posted by htlong

dungajin,
you have painted a pretty accurate picture of richmond housing, but you didnt mention living in the neighboring counties such as hanover or new kent or varina areas.
the city as with most cities isnt the best and yes i venture into the city as little as possible mostly for dr. appointments. i dont think one needs $100,000.
a year to live in a good area...although it woulnt hurt.
housing prices have gone wild here in va, and they keep on building,
i think the bubble is about to break and we will see the prices start falling do to supply and demand, yesterday i saw a sign in eastern henrico offering new houses starting in the $300.000 range.......i cant imagine paying $300,000. for any place to call home or why people will become slaves for a big home and a big suv?? i also believe its these interest only loans offered ,and people speculated the market ,the time for interest only is comming to an end, and the loans are requiring people to start the real payments has come you will be seeing repos left and right soon...but heck i may be wrong...

Boy!! Doesn't THIS ring true three years later!! Dead on!

[MadMaz]

Thank you for your comments, we are moving from Australia and I have been reading everyone's comments , I like your honesty.
I live in Perth WA and we have trouble spots here to and you just would not go there late at night, the police are dealing with it, what more can be done.

I would like some advice on safe area's to search out, we don't have children so no need for schools, I wonder if you could help.

Thanks

[htlong]

mad,
it depends on what you are looking for? peace and tranquility or traffic and stores within a few blocks.
I myself have found the Elko area meets my peaceful needs with the new white oak shopping center/mall at laburnum and I-64 makes shopping easy within 15 min.
but most people want the west end or midlothian area to many people/traffic for me.

[Charlesaf3]

sounds like the fan/museum district would work well for you madmaz

[JAMWOCK]

If you're going to Richmond, I recommend the "FAN" area in the town of Richmond. Very little crime, great zoning with homes and small shops ( like laundromats, restaurants, starbucks, book shops, libraries, sports bars) interspersed between the brownstones and historic townhomes. Houses are a bit pricey, but the ambiance is great- nice access to almost everything and walking distance to museums, churches, cinemas, etc. A bit like a very quiet Manhattan street, I love Richmond..it might not look as shiny new as some towns, but that is because it is an OLD historically protected town.

What I would describe as shabby chic. ( MY INTERPRETATION of the term)

Very preppy, very waspy, very Daughters of the Revolution-ey! Lots of Statutes of Generals! Very old school and Esquire-y.