Do You Like Big Cities?

For many, the allure of big cities is irresistible due to their ceaseless transformations, cultural diversity, and vibrant energy. However, this is not the case for everyone. In this article, we explore the pros and cons of living in large cities and why some individuals, like the author, find them less appealing than smaller towns or the countryside.

The Appeal of Changing Urban Centers

North American big cities often draw residents and visitors with their dynamic and evolving landscapes. Take Chicago, for example. Let's journey through its changes over the decades:

1960s: Characterized by the emergence of new skyscrapers, such as the Marina City complex. 1990s: Known for its renaissance of the Arts district and the burgeoning restaurant and nightlife scenes. 2015: The city saw significant urban growth, including the addition of new parks and the continued development of its downtown area.

While change can be exciting, it can also be overwhelming for residents who demand stability in their living environment.

Challenges and Drawbacks

The author has personal experiences and observations that highlight why big cities may not appeal to everyone. For instance, they emphasize the abundance of people, noise, and the lack of quiet outdoor spaces like those found in smaller towns or rural areas. The following points capture this sentiment:

Population Density: The author avoids big cities because of the sheer volume of people, finding it difficult to enjoy solitude and outdoor activities that require quietness, such as stargazing. Audible Disturbances: The constant hum of city life—man-made and natural sounds—can be overwhelming for those who prefer serenity and peace. Security Concerns: Negative experiences with crime have led the author to avoid big cities, despite their many advantages. The threat of criminal activity, traffic congestion, and the lack of safe evacuation routes can be a significant deterrent.

Advantages of Large Cities

Despite these drawbacks, there are numerous benefits to living in larger cities:

Modern Infrastructure: Well-maintained public transportation, access to healthcare, and extensive amenities can significantly enhance quality of life. Urban Greenspaces: Parks, gardens, and green spaces promote physical and mental well-being. Cultural Diversity: Big cities offer a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and experiences that smaller towns cannot match.

Preference for Stable Urban Environments

However, the author’s preference tends to lean towards cities that offer a more stable and accommodating environment.

Modern, Clean Infrastructure: Cities with modern and clean public transportation systems are more appealing. Healthcare Availability: Access to extensive medical services is crucial for maintaining good health. Crime Rates and Air Quality: Cities with low crime rates and good air quality provide a safer and healthier living environment. Sustainable Living: Reduced proximity to factories and power plants minimizes pollution.

While some large Western cities meet these criteria, the majority do not. The author finds East Asian cities, particularly those in East Asia, to function better and have lower crime rates. This preference is further fueled by the author’s interest in these cities' unique cultural aspects.

Conclusion

The author’s criticism of big cities highlights a broader issue in urban living: the need for balance between development and maintenance. While big cities offer numerous advantages, they also come with challenges. The author believes that if criminal rates were lower, infrastructures were more robust, and people had better morals, big cities would be more desirable. However, until these issues are resolved, the author remains skeptical about the appeal of living in large urban centers.

Ultimately, the choice between living in a big city or a small town or rural area depends on individual preferences, lifestyle needs, and personal experiences.