The Great Good Place

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In Ray Oldenburg’s book, “The Great Good Place” he describes the third place as “a generic designation for a great variety of public places that host the regular, voluntary, informal, and happily anticipated gatherings of individuals beyond the realms of home and work” (Oldenburg 16). Home and work are seen as the “first” and “second” spaces, and anywhere outside of home and work (cafés, bars, libraries etc.) are considered “third” spaces. Third spaces are very common among large cities and towns and those with higher populations. These types of spaces cater to the community they are in and improve city/town life they reside in; they help better the economy, encourage and produce social interaction, and create a neutral and friendly environment that suits the needs of those who go to them. …show more content…

Third places are very helpful for businesses because they “attract people and add vibrancy to a location” (Bernhardt). If communities held bi-annual festivals or events they would draw in an abundance of people which would then in turn, help the businesses and the economy of the communities flourish. Third spaces also help the economy because they better the daily lives of the people who live in the community. People like having a place they can go to and relax that is separate from their home and work life. For some that might be a bar, while others might find comfort in a quiet neighborhood park. A popular third space that draws in many different people is Club La Vela in Panama City, Florida. It is a popular destination for both locals and visitors and it attracts people to the other businesses

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