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Few things will help you acclimate to your new home faster than learning where things are
and how to get around your new neighborhood. Where's the nearest and best coffee shop,
grocery store, pharmacy, and park? What's the most convenient route to work, and when
does rush hour begin? What is the public transportation schedule? Knowing these things
provides a sense of comfort and control.
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Invest in a map
Begin by buying a map of your neighborhood, then take it and your family for an excursion
on foot, bike, mass transit, or by car. Learn the street layout and pattern (for example,
alphabetical or numbered, and so on) and find landmarks you can use to find your way
home. Time how long it takes to get to various destination points. Be sure every family
member memorizes your new address and new home, office, and mobile phone numbers
and knows numbers for emergency services such as police, fire, and ambulance.
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Contact your town's chamber of commerce
Most chambers of commerce compile helpful information about their communities, including
historical data, emergency call numbers, and government statistics. They also include the
names and contact information for clubs and organizations. Some clubs, such as historical
associations and garden clubs, conduct tours for members and nonmembers alike. Joining
one of these tours not only allows you to get a closer look at various neighborhoods, but
also allows you to meet new people.
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Take a tour
The best way to get the full story on the community is to talk with - or take a tour with - one
of your neighbors. Your neighbor or someone else familiar with the area can point out
driving shortcuts and routes to avoid during rush hour. If possible, join a carpool. You can
hook up with carpool groups by posting a notice on the bulletin board at school or work or
by placing an ad in the local newspaper.
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Town-sponsored teams
If your kids are into sports, getting them involved with town-sponsored teams is a plus for
everyone. The kids make friends among their teammates and you can make friends among
their parents. The same bonding experience holds true for non-sport activities such as
drama and music, among many others.
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Welcome to your neighborhood
The common thread among these various methods of familiarizing yourself with your new
neighborhood is getting out and asking questions. Talk to your neighbors, the mail carrier,
the librarian, the hardware store owner. Most people are eager to help. You'll find yourself
feeling welcomed by your new neighborhood in no time.
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