On the car front - we gave ours up two years ago - with a combination of buses, bikes, tubes, trains, and the occasional rented car, life goes on. We have two kids. It is not "completely impractical" -- other ways become the norm and easy quite quickly. To be honest, I expected we would break down and buy a car eventually but we are fine. I know it is not for everyone, but, it is less impossible than you think - I really was daunted by the prospect for sure!