Elfnoodles

John and I decided to spend some time looking around Georgetown this past weekend.

Its name and reputation carry this aura of boutiques and miscellaneous shops, ranging from rich exclusivity to general downtown city quirkiness. A fun place to hang out and shop. The people I know around here are always threatening to spend time there again soon, walking around, basking in the historic glow and character of Georgetown, and they always act abashed if you tell them you’ve never really looked around the place yourself.

But guess what? Georgetown sucks. Sorry guys. Maybe it was quirky and fun ten years ago, but if you still feel that way about it it’s time for another visit so that you can update your impressions and cross it off your to-do list. Georgetown is now exactly like a shopping mall but with none of the conveniences. The sun bears down, the sidewalks and roads are in terrible condition, the traffic is excessive, and the crowds are irritable and snobbish.

You may say that Georgetown cannot be blamed for traffic problems or broken sidewalks that the city lacks the funds to fix, and that sacrifices must be made if you want to shop in such a distinguished and interesting area. And sure, this would be true if you were visiting a distinguished and interesting area—but not if you are visiting an area that is almost completely populated with standard shopping mall fare. Polo Ralph Lauren, American Eagle Outfitters, Barnes & Noble, Pizzeria Uno. Character? Yeah, whatever.