when i was 11 we went around the whole town to visit our friends. we cycled everywhere and sometimes cycled outside town and came back hours later. that was 20 years ago. nowadays people dont let their kids outside their view. ok times change, but a lot of people are just panicky and far too overprotective... you should walk the whole way with your son and test him regarding his safety skills, i.e. crossing the roads. see how he manages, if you feel he is not confident or competent enough, practice, and then he should be ok...good luck...
Depends... Public transport is more environmentally friendly however its so expensive and often takes longer to get there, not always as comfortable and usually have to walk a fair distance to get to the bus stop, or station. Transport could arrive late.
