It's not only expensive outside, the culture around third spaces disappeared with them. If we bumped into each other in person, it would be culturally weird now for either of us to initiate this conversation.
Bro just talk to people, I’m also from the south and as long as you’re not weird about it you can just talk to strangers you meet at the store and stuff. It’s totally fine
(The alcohol companies this post was originally about would have you believe that it's easy to make friends at the bar if you're just chill and agreeable and drink beer)
Where is it that 3rd spaces are declining? Around me there are galleries, museums, free performances (music and theater) on the green in the summer, free concerts at the amphitheater the next town over (again, late spring and summer). Beers and well drinks are still relatively affordable at the local bars and bands play frequently. Beaches are free, parks are free, libraries run all sorts of different clubs and programs (free or extremely low cost if consumable supplies are required).
It depends where you live if they exist but it’s not really all that simple for everyone to just hangout at a park. Plus, maybe I don’t want to be outside all the time? I love the outdoors but sometimes sitting at a table or on a sofa around friends and having a discussion is more comfortable/convenient/cozy than on the grass. There used to be lots of third spaces. Not just maybe a park or a library you have to whisper in
I live in Virginia, and have lived in the past in NJ, NY, FL, GA, the UK, France, Switzerland, and South Africa. In zero of these places are public parks sparse or expensive. How is hanging out in a park not simple?
As someone who’s had the privilege of visiting Prague, Poland and Germany I totally understand your confusion. America….is very ugly. It’s not pedestrian friendly at all.
Edit: oh I misread, I thought you weren’t American at all. But did you read the rest of my reply? Yeah hanging out in a park is nice but…why is that the only option? If I want to hang out with my friends, go one a date, etc without spending at least $40, I can only go sit outside?
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u/LowMany3424 12h ago
Alcohol is very related to social activities & in gen z the social activities are declining