I live off campus (but within walking distance) so I have no choice but to "venture off campus" whenever I want to go somewhere. I am comfortable walking alone as long as it is not dark, and always walk with a friend or two at night. Coming home from the bars at 2 am, my roommates and I always try to find a guy friend to walk with us. Having common sense means that 99.9% of the time you will be perfectly safe in CP.
I do wish there was more shopping within walking/bus distance, although if there was I'd spend a lot more money so maybe that's a good thing after all!
