Dear Aspen,
Lately I’ve been noticing that the bar scene has been different. People aren’t as friendly, and I’m not having as much fun as I used to. Am I getting too old for this?
I’m afraid so. But it’s not so much that you’re getting old, as the individuals who frequent the bars are getting younger. In the past few months we’ve seemed to have a surge of fresh 21-year-olds, ready to bar hop without a clue how to do so.
If you’ve just turned 21, there are a few things to consider when heading to the bars for your first real time (your birthday doesn’t count. Even the experienced get silly on the one day they’re allowed to.) Following these suggestions can make the entire experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Patience. Don’t shove mindlessly through a crowd of people. Yes, the bars will be crowded, and yes, it will be a struggle to move through the throngs of drinkers. However, everyone is going through that same struggle, and you are no better than anyone else out there. If you have to bump someone, acknowledge it. Apologize or make a joke (guys love the one about the accidental boob graze).
The same can be said about ordering a drink at the bar. If you’ve just drained your vodka-ginger and stepped up to the plate, there’s a good chance a few of those around you have been waiting longer. The wait doesn’t have to be terrible. It can be an opportunity to talk to that cutie you’ve been eyeing all night.
Intelligence. You know what won’t help your chances with that cutie? If you’re stupid. If you’ve reached the glory age of 21, you should be smart enough to recognize that it’s cold outside and you’ll probably need a jacket. If you’ve recognized this but have decided not to bring one so you won’t have to carry it, you’re not allowed to complain. (The same is to be said about high heels or getting hit on when wearing slutty clothes.)
Respect. If you’re old enough to drink, you’re old enough to understand that everyone deserves respect, whether it be other bar patrons or the staff who work there. Be nice to the bouncers, they can kick you out if they don’t like your attitude. Be kind to the bartenders, who can cut you off or have a bouncer kick you out. And don’t be rude to another customer, as he or she could be a relative or friend of a staff member, and therefore have you kicked out.
21-year-olds: welcome once again to the bottom of the totem pole. At the bars, 21 is the new 18. We’d love if you could prove us wrong.
