Single and carfree
Posted on 30. Aug, 2009 by Tony Arranaga in Featured
Not to be confused with single and carefree – I’m working on a post that addresses the stigma associated with singles who don’t own a car. For me it’s a choice, however there are many people who simply can’t afford one. I see one of two reactions whenever I divulge my carfree status. Some people just get it. They’ll give me a high five, ask questions about why I’m writing this blog and what I’m learning and experiencing while using the lightrail and living carfree. Then there are others who look at me with a raised eyebrow, followed by the once over, and then repeating my status in the form of a question ‘you don’t own a car??’ I’m now to the point where after seeing the latter reaction, I don’t even try explaining. What is your perception of people that are carfree? Would you date a guy who doesn’t have a car? Be honest. I have thick skin. If you are carfree, does the scenario mentioned above happen to you? Be sure to post your comment below.
7 Responses to “Single and carfree”
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Stefanie Neuburger
31. Aug, 2009
Yes I would date someone without a car and yes I have. I don’t think a car should be the determining factor in whether someone is dating material. If a car isn’t necessary and you can get around without it, then great! You spend less money, impact the environment in a positive way and keep traffic light. Plus think of the workout you get by walking/biking everywhere! Who wouldn’t want to date someone like that!
Twoaday
31. Aug, 2009
@lightrailblog yup
Dottie
31. Aug, 2009
Well, my husband and I are carfree, so my answer is “yes.” When we started dated in high school, though, his license and occasional use of his mom’s car was a big plus, I must say.
Kathryn
31. Aug, 2009
I am carfree, so for me it’s the opposite question: Would you date someone who has a car?
I know it can be done, because I have done it successfully, and over quite a large distance. I’ve been lucky to date wonderful people who appreciate the reasons I’m carfree and share the general philosophy–if not the actual practice–of being carfree. That’s the key for me: a person doesn’t have to be carfree to be in the running, but they’ve got to be comfortable going on carfree dates and generally being carfree whenever it’s practical and possible. Major brownie points if the guy suggests the carfree date and plans it!
I’ve had many people tell me that it’s easier to be carfree as a female. They say that there’s more of a stigma against a guy without a car than a girl, who is naturally in a position to be picked up for dates. That may be true, but then why do there seem to be more carfree males than females? Of all my carfree friends, 90% are male. In my experience, often I find myself the only girl riding my bicycle home from work on the canal, the only professional female on the bus.
Carfree dating is such an adventure — so much better than being stuck in a car having to focus on the road. Give it a shot!
Chloe
02. Sep, 2009
Dating is a distant memory for me, but I think if someone doesn’t respect the carfree choice, then they aren’t the type of person I even want to associate with…nevermind date.
Ellie
03. Sep, 2009
I would date someone who is car-free. Mainly because I am car-free myself and can respect the many reasons why someone is or chooses to be car-free.
I’ve gotten the same reaction from people but I determined they weren’t worth my time, so I never developed relationships with them if all they worried about was a car.
Adron
03. Oct, 2009
Did you ever write up this blog entry? I’ve been working up a similar entry, because in Portland, there are actually a number of ladies and guys who wouldn’t date a person with a car to save their lives. They’re pretty militant about it in PDX sometimes.