DC is basically a small town, and if you spend any amount of time here, you'll know what I mean. The good news is lots of people arrived here from somewhere else, and they remember being new, and it's pretty easy to meet people and make friends. Imagine moving to a town where everyone had known each other since kindergarten?! That's not DC. I moved here 18 years ago and I went on some of the walking tours (on a free tour weekend) to get to know various neighborhoods. I joined a couple museums (NBM, NWMA) at a level that would allow me to go to opening receptions or special events (where I could meet people with common interests). I went to happy hour when invited so I could meet people. I joined a book club. I got season tickets to a cool theater. I volunteered to work at events and a local women's shelter. I joined professional orgs and volunteered on committees. I picked an apartment that was absurdly small (300 sf) but located in the middle of everything (adams morgan) so i would be encouraged to get out, and it would be easy to do things without a long metro trip on either end. There are lots of ways to meet people. What do you like doing? What are your values? I assure you, you will find your tribe!

As for safety, basic common sense rules. Don't walk alone after dark - especially not with headphones on, where you can't hear what's around you. Take an Uber or a cab of you're headed home late. Don't leave your bike unlocked in public (highly recommend capitol bikeshare in lieu of owning an expensive bike). Don't leave a purse or laptop bag or backpack unattended or hanging on the back of a chair in a crowded location where it could be swiped. Be aware of your surroundings. If you are walking around and feel unsafe, get to a public location, or find someone to walk next to so it looks like you're together. Lock your doors at night. If you have a car and park on the street, don't leave tempting items in it overnight for thieves. Have Amazon or other deliveries go to a location where someone can receive them (door man, receptionist, or mail drop location), don't leave them on your doorstep for swiping. Don't talk to people standing on the street with clipboards "do you have a minute for the environment" they are persistent and will suck up half your day. Wear a condom.