This is interesting. Heck no do I want to live in the country or in the middle of nowhere. Maybe for a retreat once in a while.
I'm with the NF from Philly and Mr Random -- I need to where the action's at. Like right in it, but in a dwelling that is comfortable and quiet, and slightly set apart from the main throughfare.
Even in big cities, each neighborhood is it's own island. I don't want to live in the boonies of a city. Been there, done that. I also dont' want to live in a super 'urban' area where I have to be hypervigilant and feel the need to carry around a boxcutter for protection. Been there, done that.
But tucked away in a hidden street or set of streets in the middle of a hip, happening area in a major metropolitan city? Especially an area that is convenient to other hot, happenin areas?
Oh yes, please.
Right now I live in a major US city in a neighborhood that is upscale and well-heeled with lots of restaurants, bars, etc. A lot of Europeans live here, lots of embassies around here, and the early 20ed-30ed and upwardly mobile. I enjoy the convenience of the central location and amenities, the SAFETY, the cleanliness, and the general pleasantness of the area. It's also pretty busy for the city.
I don't like how it does NOT feel like a neighborhood and how the prices are a bit jacked for basic grocery items, etc. And the price at restaurants in the neighborhood = also jacked. Sometimes you just want a quick bite alone, and the 'seen and be seen' eateries around here aren't meant for that.
On the flip, my neighborhood is also kinda boring in that it's really...genteel and one note. I like the energy and tension of metropolitan cities. A little edgier, please.
One thing I keep in mind now when thinking of where to live is my proximity to friends and the ease with which I can stumble home and crash on my own bed after a fun evening out or have folks visit me. I like walking aronud the neighborhood and seeing friends.
Otherwise, I'd be happy to live in slightly cheaper, less central residential neighborhoods that are still accessible by public transportation or car give or take 15-20 minutes.
Also, for shorter terms I'm totally down with living in a quaint coastal village overseas.
And I would love to live on the beach! That's still in driving or even better, subway distance to the heart of the city.
Or the whole 'living in a hut in the mountains' thing. It would work much better if I were in a committed, happy relationship and living with my partner. By myself? I would get lonely and bored after a while and my social skills woud dry up.