- Brian Norris
When first moving to Washington, D.C., I didn't know many people outside of the office. InterNations has changed that with some exciting events.
Life in Omaha
Safety and Security in Omaha
Omaha is a safe city for the most part, although in recent years there have been violent incidents in certain parts of the city as a result of racial tension. In this sense, you may feel safer if you avoid the district of North Omaha when looking for a place to live and work.
As with any other place in the world, however, if you exercise common sense and stay away from poorly lit areas, mind your own business, and keep valuable items out of sight, you will lessen the likelihood of becoming a victim of crime.
If you do witness a criminal act, it is important to keep calm and not put yourself (or any other onlookers) into danger. You should call 911 immediately to reach the police. This number can be called from any telephone for free, even from a cellphone, and in areas with poor network coverage.
Transportation in Omaha
As is the case with most North American cities, the best way to get from A to B in Omaha is with your own car. If you do not have a car, do not despair: the Omaha Metro is also a great method of transportation for those living in Omaha. It is a regular bus system with several different routes around town and schedules available online. If you are a student, disabled, or a senior citizen, it is also possible to purchase a pass at a reduced fare. When buying a regular ticket on the bus itself, it is generally preferred that you pay in correct change. Furthermore, you can bring your bicycle onto the bus and there are park and ride facilities around the city.
And if you ever need to get out of Omaha, it’s conveniently located on the Interstate 80, Route 75, and Lincoln Highway. Furthermore, there are Amtrak routes leading to San Francisco via Denver, as well as Greyhound Express coaches leaving each day to Chicago via Iowa City.
Culture and Leisure in Omaha
As a city located in the very heart of the Midwest, Omaha has a lot of cultural activity to offer. The University of Nebraska has its seat here, as do a few excellent private colleges — and of course, where there are students, there is bound to be a lively atmosphere. Because of the student population, the Omaha nightlife is also worth writing home about; however, please consider that in the United States you must be 21 years old to drink alcohol, and you may be asked to provide ID before you enter an establishment serving alcoholic beverages.
The Omaha arts scene is great, being home to music label Saddle Creek, for example. You’ll also not be left wanting for art galleries in Omaha, as there are several located in the downtown and Old Market areas.
If your idea of fun involves something a little more sports-oriented, Omaha caters to that, too. The city is peppered with golf courses and even holds the College World Series — the country’s biggest annual college baseball tournament — at its huge TD Park stadium.