I found my last two Cambridge apartments through a realtor and neither of them were posted elsewhere. That being said that was quite a long while ago so things may have changed. But at least you avoid scams on CL and other sites by going directly through a broker.

I can tell you with certainty nearly 100% of my female friends would be bothered and annoyed if a man sidled up to them when they were taking time to do a personal workout. When most women go yoga class or the gym they are doing this generally solo activity for themselves, not to find a date. I'm in my 40s now but I spent a lot of time in the gym in my 20s and 30s and it was exhausting having men bother me when I was trying to workout. I can't count the number of times I've seen women have to take their earbuds out while they are in the middle of an exercise to talk to some guy who decides to invade their space.

That being said there totally are physical activities that welcome social interaction, intramural sports teams, running clubs, pick-up games of whatever. I think people drawn to these activities are looking for friendship, camaraderie, and maybe a date. A much better situation than tapping a woman on the shoulder in the middle of a workout at the gym.

Aside from those types of activities, there are tons of others that offer a meeting space: trivia nights, karaoke, speed dating, concerts, public lectures and discussions on topics of interest, adult education classes (CCAE has some cool ones across lots of topics), any kind of group class whether it be dance or something at a maker space. And then of course the tried and true option of going to a bar. And of course the dating apps galore.

I have been with my husband 23 years and I found his approach of asking me out by saying "I'd like to ask you on a date." to the point and refreshing. Instead of "Let's hang out." Or something else ambiguous.

I do not want a person trying to pick me up at the gym or yoga. Let me do my thing!

That really sucks! I lived in Central for almost 20 years. Was psyched to see Starlight Square emerge even though I’d recently moved away. A real shame about it’s dismantling.

I had neighbors who would always complain about random low-key, you-live-in-the-city-so-you-should-expect-this noise. Maybe unpopular opinion, but those types of people need to find another place to live outside of a bustling urban neighborhood.

100% the Tower at Mount Auburn Cemetery which is on the outskirts of Cambridge but has an amazing view of the whole area. It’s not always open this time of year so you may need to call them and ask or wait until spring. But Mount Auburn itself is incredible in spring, do win-win.