Well when i lived in Philly i would sometimes end up in less than desirable areas. I just made me ride quicker. Seriously, there is a difference between places that are just run down and in poverty and places where you are in danger from riding through.
I agree with JonR that the whole hygiene thing is exagerated. If you start off your ride clean, your not going to end up reeking just from a little sweat. Use the last 5 minutes or so of your ride as a cool-down period and the breeze created by riding will help dry you off.
All I can say is try it. Obviously, you aren't intimidated by the distance. So I wouldn't let the other things stop you.
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"only on a BIKE"