What do Jimbocho, Tokyo; Borgerhout, Antwerp; Barra Fundo, Sao Paulo; Camberwell, London; Avondale, Chicago; and Glen Park, San Francisco all have in common? They were among the 39 best neighborhoods in the world according to TimeOut magazine, a British publication. Glen Park rated number 35 in the rankings.
Among other kudos, travel editor Grace Beard of TimeOut wrote:
For the past eight years, we’ve made it our mission to scope out the coolest pockets of the world’s greatest cities in order to create our definitive annual ranking. The places where stuff like nightlife, art, culture, and affordable food and drink can be found on every corner and down every backstreet. Where diversity is championed and independent businesses thrive, from old-school boltholes to the newest avant-garde art space. Put simply, the world’s coolest neighbourhoods are places that represent the soul of our cities, while maintaining their own unique local character that draws people in to live, work and play.
(See #35 for Glen Park)
The Glen Park News, as of now, has no idea how Glen Park was chosen for the honor. We were contacted by TimeOut but before we had time to reply, the presses were already rolling.
The TimeOut feature was quickly picked up by the SF Chronicle and KRON.
TimeOut mentioned the recent Night Markets, but did not feature Halloween festivities or the upcoming block parties, courtesy of Civic Joy Fund, nor the wealth of programs and recreational opportunities at the Glen Park Rec Center, nor the many other cherished businesses, nor the wealth of mass transit options. Still in all, we appreciate the shout out, knowing there are always gems in our neighborhood that only the locals are aware of.
Well, they couldn’t possibly include EVERYTHING that makes our neighborhood so special!