Meeting places

Finally had a proper chat with one of the neighbours today in the stairwell. Despite it being a common area, its often like a ghost town and apart from the polite smiles in the passing I don't think I actually know the names of any of the neighbours.

Apart from the guy upstairs who's name I know due to the Christmas card put through the door, but not a scooby as to what he looks like.

I come from a small town which is a bit like Cheers - a town where everyone knows your name (and business).

I'm not sure which I find preferable ....