Find A City

Here's a story in the Washington Post that's creating a stir: the warnings France gives to its citizens regarding American cities.  It's always fun to find out how others view us. Here are some of their suggestions (check to link and maybe your city will be there):

Boston: Avoid walking at night in Dorchester, Mattapan and Roxbury, and be wary of "petty crime" in Chinatown, the North End and Fenway.

I usually go to the North End when I'm in town and it's not that bad, but I suppose you should always be aware of your wallet or purse.

New York: Be wary in Times Square and at the Statue of Liberty, and don’t go to Harlem, the Bronx or Central Park at night.

I've never had any trouble at Times Square or the Statue of Liberty, but I guess you have to watch out in crowded places.  And Central Park is still trouble?  I thought that was the 60s and 70s.

Baltimore: “Considered a dangerous city except downtown.”

A little unfair. Baltimore has gone through renewal, and I think that "downtown" has gotten a lot bigger. But it's true, step too far outside it and you're in The Wire.

Pittsburgh: The French urge their citizens to avoid Mount Oliver, Hill District, Homewood-Brushton and Hazelwood.

And many Americans advise you stay away altogether.

Detroit: “The center is not recommended after the close of business.”

Just the center?  This is the best notice Detroit has gotten in years.  (I worked downtown one summer and it's true that everyone went home before the sun set.)

Chicago: Stay away from the West Side and anywhere south of 59th Street.

So much for the Museum of Science And Industry.  They should also note where the West Side starts, and, for that matter, where it ends.

New Orleans: Northwest of Dauphine Street, northeast of Ursulines Avenue, north of St. Charles Avenue and south of Magazine Street are areas of concern.

And don't try to speak French here, no one will care.

Los Angeles: France warns tourists to take care in Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice Beach and Long Beach, and to avoid Watts, Inglewood and Florence.

Hollywood is much better than it used to be, and Santa Monica, even with all the homeless around, seems pretty safe.  And if you want to hold on to your money, stay away from Beverly Hills.