Posted on 04/02/2005 2:53:32 PM PST by thoughtomator
I'm in the final steps of securing a new consulting contract, and it looks like I'll be moving to the Washington, DC area.
I could use some advice for getting myself settled from those who are familiar with the area. The job site is in Lanham, MD, near where the eastern side of the Beltway crosses route 50. I have a car already, and the hours are such that I will thankfully be able to avoid rush hour traffic in both directions. I've got some family there who will put me up for 2-4 weeks while I get myself settled and find an apartment.
What would be really helpful right now is advice on where to find an apartment in reasonably convenient commuting distance. My needs are very simple, I don't need a lot of space, just basic amenities, a place to park my car, and a decent neighborhood. I'm a 32-year-old male, unmarried, no children, no pets, and a quiet, modest lifestyle. A "young adult" area, or even a college area, might be more appropriate than a family-oriented neighborhood where I think I'd be more out of place.
From what I have been told, I should look in the north or northwest neighborhoods inside the beltway, or in Arlington, Alexandria, or towards Annapolis.
If anyone can give me an idea of where to look to find such accommodations, or what neighborhoods would be suitable, or any tips on living around the DC area, they'd be very much appreciated. I'm coming from Manhattan so I am used to a fast-paced dense urban environment with insane traffic but excellent public transportation, to give an idea of my point of reference.
You are not too far from the University of Maryland at College Park. Locating close to the university will allow access to the cultural and social amenities of the University community.
You'll have to check out the Adams Morgan area for the nightlife.
You will have Georgetown quality and variety, at Maryland prices. Either way, all the benefits of both Baltimore and Washington will be easily available to you and your family.
If taxes are a major concern, stay away from Washington, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Prince George's County, in that order.
Congressman Billybob
Latest column, "The Fatal Attraction of the Inside Straight"
If I were you I would locate within walking distance of the University. Living in DC is insane (or will make you insane). The rush hour in DC is a nightmare, so live close to work.
http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?city=College%20Park&state=MD&zip=20742&country=us&zoom=7
My work hours will be 12:30pm to 9pm, zero rush hour concerns. That should give me a bit more flexibility in choosing a place to live.
Hmmm. You could party every night until 2AM and still get plenty of sleep before work. Ah, to be 21 again.....
Yeah, well... I'm 32 so I can party one night during the week till 2AM and get to work on time.
Try Falls Church, VA
LOL. Find a nice girl and settle down, then. Raise a family.
why not live in the socialist republic of MD closer to his place of employment than to come to live in that cesspool of liberalism here in VA, AND have to have Jim Moran as a congressman to boot!
I will no longer talk Moran with you. I tend to loose.
YOUR congressman, not mine : )
Don't bet on it. There is "Rush Hour" and then there is the rest of the day that looks just like Rush Hour but isn't called that. All it takes is one rain drop, brake slam, bridge jumper, road work or out of control truck and you suddenly find yourself on a multi-lane parking lot. Live close to where you work - as close as possible. The weekends are no better.
Sorry for the gloomy report. On the bright side, there is lots to do here if you can figure out how to get to it.
Yeah I have heard that there are a lot of complaints about the traffic... but I live in Manhattan now, it can't possibly be worse than here.
Aye, Lockheed-Martin.
yeah but then he has to hope that the U of MD doesn't win any sporting events bc don't they set college park on fire...? ; )
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