As we're approaching the last sprint in finalizing UM-DE, the first ever hyperlocal map of Germany, we regularily come across 'peculiar perspectives' on what really is relevant on maps for mobile humans.
Turns out, the pecularity mainly is fueled by cultural incompatibilities. As maps are all about learned cultures and habits, this isn't too surprising.
Here's an example that should make a story of its own: When I finally booked for O'Reillys Where 2.0 in San Jose well in advance to get a cheaper rate, I checked transportation to the venue in downtown San Jose from the AirBnB-site I booked. The VTA (Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority) does have a website but it's Trip Planner is offshored to ... to Google.
The routing from my prospective temporary home to the conference site in downtown San Jose works like a breeze. However, there's a note that never would turn up in any european routing service or mass transit trip planner:
Beta: Be careful! - There's probably no sidewalk on this route.
(translated back into English from German)
Good old, new Europe. If there ain't no sidewalk visible, you're likely walking on a Autobahn. You shouldn't.
The US perspective on the walkable world seems to be a variation of "you shall not walk if there's no sidewalk" or something alike.
This is a major cultural twist because in Europe there's almost always sidewalks everywhere. Sidewalks are a feature so common that is is even not labelled in official cadastral maps. If there isn't a sidewalk, you're on a really large and ugly street and walking is not a good idea.
In the US it seems, walking is either an arcane habit or not feasible at best. The domination by vehicle traffic seems to be so far-reaching that the absence of sidewalks gives a reason to claim a general warning to would-be pedestrians.
Note to myself for our current negotiations with map providers at large: talk about sidewalks with just another cultural gap in mind.
Anyway, there are decent sidewalks as aunt Googles' street view shows along my route to public transport.
