Florence

The city of Florence flanks the river Arno

Birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence seems to me to be a city stuck in time. This, perhaps, is its charm. It’s not difficult to imagine Michelangelo hard at work on another masterpiece or the Medici family ruling with an iron fist. Buildings in the historic center are perfectly preserved and cobblestoned streets have remained unchanged for hundreds of years. An ambitious new plan to make the city more pedestrian friendly has shut down the Piazza del Duomo and many streets in the center of town completely to scooters and cars. It’s great news for walkers, interesting for motorists. While the Centro Storico’s restaurant scene seems a bit dated, the trendy, less touristy Oltrarno south of the river has a lot of great dining options.

Eat:

Quattro Leoni

The owners of our hotel suggested this trattoria located in a quaint square in the Oltrarno. The unfussy restaurant has a cozy interior and serves delicious bistecca alla fiorentina and many other Tuscan specialties. We went a step above the house wine and purchased a bottle of chianti. It was still cheap and delicious. I also loved our no nonsence waitress.

4 Leoni Via de-Vellutini, 1r (Piazza della Passera)

055 21 85 62

www.4leoni.com

Gelateria della Passera

Patrons order at Gelateria della Passera

This gelateria is also located in Piazza della Passera and is a real gem. In Florence, gelateria’s are on every corner. Many are touristy and mediocre, but Gelateria al Passera serves unique fresh flavors in an incredibly quaint store front. Grab a cone and chill in the square or take your time meandering through the Oltrarno’s cobblestoned streets before heading back to your hotel.

Piazza della Passera 15

Cafe Giacosa

It’s no surprise this historic cafe is owned by well known designer Roberto Cavalli. Complete with animal print seat cushions and black and white photos of famous visitors, the cafe sits adjacent to his Florence boutique. It’s frequented by beautiful Florentines and the espresso bar is absolutely buzzing in the morning. Don’t miss the mouthwatering pastry case.

Via della Spada 10r

055 21 16 56

Pop Cafe

This artsy cafe and bar is frequented by students and is located in lively Piazza Santo Spirito. The inside is tiny, but I like the nice outdoor covered patio. Grab coffee or an aperitivi. The cafe is open all day, and reportedly serves a good healthy breakfast.

Piazzo Santo Spirito 18r

055 21 38 52

www.popcafe.net

Do:

The David stands alone

Galeria dell’Accademia

No visit to Florence would be complete without a visit to the Galeria dell’Accademia where Florence’s most famous resident, the David is on display. The shear size of the masterpiece is awe inspiring and a 360 degree view allows you to see the pale white lines that mark where he has been repaired over the years. The Galeria also features stunning paintings by Florentine artists spanning the 13th-16th centuries. Reserve a ticket in advance if you want to skip the lines which can be atrocious.

 

Via Ricasoli 60

055 238 86 09

The Uffizi

Construction on the Uffizi

Home to the Medici family’s private collection, you might expect Italy’s most famous art gallery to be modern and efficient. Sadly, this is not the case, still the infamous Uffizi is worth a visit. Jam packed with the best the Renaissance has to offer, the collection is unmatched. The spectacular Sala del Botticelli featuring Botticelli’s most famous works, including the Birth of Venus and Spring, is a highlight. Works by such masters as, Titian, Caravaggio, Michelangelo and Raphael are also on display. The U-shaped Palazzo degli Uffizi is huge, don’t expect to take in all 50-plus rooms in one visit. Renovations have begun. Here’s hoping the new amenities won’t be far off.

Piazza degli Uffizi 6

055 238 86 51

Looking up at the frescoed dome inside Florence's Duomo

The Duomo

Florence’s dramatic Duomo is the heart of the city and its most iconic landmark. Started in

The view from the top of the Duomo

1296, the word’s 4th largest cathedral took almost 150 years to complete.  A visit inside the cathedral is a must do, instead of just wandering around the interior, pay the extra money and scale the steep stone steps up the cathedral dome. Although not recommended for those with claustrophobia, spaces are tight, the climb rewards you with a 360 degree view of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Go through the Porta dei Canonici (Canons’ Door) to climb up inside the dome.

Piazza del Duomo

055 230 28 85

Palazzo Pitti

The real draw of the palace of Medici rivals, the Pitti family are the beautiful 16th century Boboli gardens. The terraced gardens are a prime example of a formal Tuscan garden and provide spectacular views of the Florentine countryside. The palace’s royal apartments and art galleries are also on display. Reserve at least one afternoon if you want to take it all in.

Piazza de’Pitti

055 238 86 14

Stay:

Hotel Cestelli

This boutique hotel owned by a Japanese/Florentine couple is a great value. Located near the Ponte Vecchio, the location can’t be beat. The common areas are a bit dark but the rooms have high ceilings and tasteful decorations. Pay more for a bathroom en suite.

Borgo SS Apostoli 25

055 21 42 13

www.hotelcestelli.com

Casa Howard Florence

This quirky guesthouse opened its Florence outpost in 2005. Located in a historic palazzo, rooms feature the same eclectic taste and affordable prices as the hotel’s Rome locations. Each of the 13 rooms is uniquely furnished, like the Hidden Room, a sexy den complete with red walls and erotic japanese prints. Casa Howard Florence is located a little ways from the Centro Storico but just yards from beautiful Piazza Santa Maria Novella. Cooking classes are also offered if you stay 3 nights or longer.

18 Via della Scala

Firenze, 50123

06 699 24 555

www.casahoward.com

The Duomo's ornate facade

Rome

The Colosseum

I really hate it when people say, “Rome, it’s just a big dirty city.” Why is Rome so consistently underrated? I can only surmise, when people go to Italy they’re lusting after a more small town experience. To me, Rome is one of Europe’s most beautiful and fascinating cities and a highlight of my trip to Italy every time. With ancient history around every corner, there is no end to what you can see and do in Rome. Thanks to the revitalization of some grittier areas, there’s now plenty of new to compliment the old.

Eat

L’Asino d’Oro

Outside seating at L'Asino d'Oro

This restaurant, which evokes the traditions of central Italy, is a true gem. Located on a quaint street in Rome’s hip Monti neighborhood, it is unpretentious and delicious. The cuisine is sort of creative peasant. Tender wild boar in chocolate sauce and caramelized pork ribs were standouts. Portions were ample and prices very reasonable. We were so blown away by the affordability of the wine list, at first we thought prices were by the glass. We decided to splurge on a bottle of Brunello. At 25 euros, it was still a steal. To guarantee a good table, preferably outside on a warm night, I recommend reservations.

Via del Boschetto 73

06 489 138 32

www.lasinodororoma.it

Urbana 47

This restaurant in Rome’s Monti neighborhood also emphasizes local ingredients and only sells food and wine from the Lazio region. The owner started a successful home delivery business selling newspapers and food, before opening the restaurant. The ingredients at Urbana 47 can all be purchased or delivered to your home and the producer of each ingredient is listed on the menu.

Via Urbana 47

06 4788 4006

www.urbana47.it

Inside Pastificio San Lorenzo

Pastificio San Lorenzo

Sleek Pastificio San Lorenzo is a worthwhile destination in newly revitalized and still somewhat gritty San Lorenzo. Located in an old pasta factory, the restaurant has a cool industrial feel, complete with white subway tiles and low hanging lights. The wine list is stellar and includes some great wines from the Lazio region. We loved the creative twist on Roman cuisine and the happening bar, which would have been a great place to grab dinner if you wanted to pop in without a reservation.

Via Triburtina, 196

06 9727 3519

www.pastificiocerere.com

Enoteca Provincia Romana

This wine bar restaurant is a welcome addition to the ancient center of Rome, which for years was notorious for having no good non-touristy eating options. Located behind Trajan’s column, this modern restaurant sells only food and wine from the local region. We loved the roasted pork sandwich. There was also a great selection of salads and meat and cheese plates. Serves lunch and dinner.

Largo del Foro Traiano 82/84

06 6766 2424

‘Gusto

This restaurant includes a pizzeria and wine bar and serves food in a sleek loft-like setting. Gusto is massive but different areas are well placed and still manage to feel intimate. We sat in the seating section near the wine bar and ordered salads and small bites, but we’ve heard the pizza is delicious.

Piazza Augusto Imperatore 9

06 322 62 73

www.gusto.it

Pizzarium

The lunch rush at Pizzarium

Hip Pizzarium is a contender for best slice in Rome. The tiny shop near the Vatican serves mouthwatering rectangular slabs with creative toppings. The restaurant promotes seasonal local ingredients and offers local beer and wine. Seating is extremely limited, basically a bench and counter outside, so expect to eat standing or sitting on the curb.

Via della Meloria 43

06 39 74 54 16

Moma

Metropolitan Moma is part café, part upscale restaurant. Downstairs you can grab stand-up espresso and delicious pastries at the sleek modern counter top. The upstairs dining room serves creative cuisine in an upscale setting. I like Moma for breakfast. The picture perfect muffins and croissants are delicious, and there are tables outside the café if you don’t feel like sipping your espresso standing up.

Via San Basilio 42

06 420 11 798

Il Gelato Di San Crispino

There are no cones at this gelateria, known for incredibly fresh, seasonal flavors. Considered one of Rome’s best, Il Gelato Di San Crispino takes itself very seriously. The interior is meticulous and offerings are stored under stainless steel lids. Portions are not very big, but flavors like honey and melon are unforgettable. The gelateria now has two locations. The original is by the famed Trevi Fountain, the second is near the Pantheon.

Il Gelato Di San Crispino with the Pantheon in the distance

Via della Panetteria 42

06 679 39 24

Piazza della Maddalena 3

06 976 01 190

www.ilgelatodisancrispino.com

Giolitti

Giolitti winding down for the night

Another contender for best gelato in Rome, Giolitti has been serving heaping portions of delicious gelato for decades. Famous for being Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck’s pick during the filming of Roman Holiday, Giolitti is definitely on the tourist track. The gelato doesn’t disappoint and flavors like dark chocolate and hazelnut are rich and indulgent.

Via degli Uffici del Vicario 40

06 699 12 43

Salotto 42

This slinky lounge bar serves clever cocktails and looks out on to a pleasant square backed by 11 Corinthian columns. The bartenders know what they’re doing. Drinks like the spicy basil- vodka, strawberry, chili, and basil and a twist on a mojito- rum, basil and muddled tomato were delicious.

Piazza di Pietra 42

06 678 58 04

www.salotto42.it

Do

When in Rome, there are certain things one must do even though they are extremely touristy, see the Vatican museums, the Sistine Chapel, The Colosseum, the Mouth of Truth. The details are in every single travel guide. I won’t bore you with those, but here are a few lesser-known activities I recommend.

View from the Palatine

Palatine Hill

Considered the birthplace of Rome, the Palatine is home to some of Rome’s most storied ruins. Ancient Rome’s most wealthy residents called the hill home. Sandwiched between the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, visitors can now visit the restored Casa di Augusto, home to Augustus before he became Emperor of Rome or stroll through the 16^th century Orti Faranesi gardens. Archeologists also claim to have found a pillar belonging to Nero’s fabled rotating dining table beneath a terrace on the hill. Some findings are still under dispute, but there’s no doubt the Palatine is a breath of tranquility in the city. Tickets include admission to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Via di San Gregorio 30

06 399 67 700

www.pierreci.it

The Pantheon

The Pantheon's spectacular domed ceiling

This temple turned church is no doubt one of Rome’s most famous attractions, but it’s one of my favorites and it’s free. Built by Hadrian in the 2^nd century where Marcus Agrippa’s original temple stood, the domed temple never ceases to take my breadth away. A perfect semisphere, it’s considered the ancient Romans finest architectural feat. It also holds the remains of some very notable Italians including famous artist Raphael.

Piazza della Rotonda

06 683 00 230

Villa Borghese

I must confess, I did not make it here on my last visit to Rome but it will be at the top of my list should I return. Many call the art gallery a must do and well worth the hassle of a mandatory prebooking. Cardinal Scipione Borghese was reportedly one of the most ruthless art collectors of his day but the collection, which includes works by Caravaggio, Bernini and Raphael is said to be among the best in Italy. Borghese built the villa to house his ever expanding art collection. Located in one of Italy’s most loved parks, it’s a beautiful setting. Make it a day trip and pick of fixings for a picnic lunch.

Piazzale del Museo Borghese

06 3 28 10

www.ticketeria.it

Visit Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps Late Night

Trevi Fountain during the day

During the day and even into the evening these two famous attractions are so swarming with people, it’s impossible to soak up their true aura. The Eternal City’s candle burns bright well into the night tough and I suggest visiting after midnight. Basking in the street light’s orange glow viewing the Trevi Fountain with just a handful of others is truly magical.

The fountain at night

Visit the Trastevere

During the day, Rome’s left bank is swarming with people spilling out of cute cafes and languishing the day away in picturesque squares. At night, young Romans and expats take to the bars which rock well into the night. Some of my favorites bars include Freni e Frizioni, a cool lounge located in an old garage and Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fa, a small beer bar offering one of the best beer selections in town.

Stay

Casa Howard

More of a guesthouse than a hotel, Casa Howard is a stylish home away from home. Split between two guesthouses, each room is uniquely decorated and ranges from the quirky Flower room to the more modern Zebra room. I like the Indian room complete with rich yellow and red tones and a beautifully tiled bathroom. Rates at Casa Howard are around 200 euros a night, reasonable for Rome, and the location by the Spanish Steps can’t be beat.

Capo le Case Guesthouse-Via Capo le Case 18

Via Sistina Guesthouse-Via Sistina 149

06 699 24 555

www.casahoward.com

A Night In Rome

Trevi fountain at 2:30 am

My husband and I are not night owls, but one of our favorite things to do when we travel to big cities is to have one epic night out. Places like New York, Paris and Rome are so stimulating, we find it easy to burn the midnight oil. If we were locals, I’m sure the novelty, and lack of sleep, would get old, but for now, this often ends up being the most memorable night of our trip. All you need is a long list of places, restaurants, bars etc… to check out, don’t get over served (a recipe for disaster) and allow yourself to be swept away by the city. You want to check out that bar you heard about but it’s in a completely different neighborhood, just hop in a cab and go. Before you know it, you’ll be scarfing down gelato at 1:30 in the morning, walking through the bewitching streets of Rome, thinking- now this is traveling.

San Lorenzo’s Hip New Spot

Inside Pastificio San Lorenzo

After much debate, sleek Pastificio San Lorenzo is where we decided to start our last night in Rome. It was a bit of an adventure getting to the restaurant in newly revitalized and still somewhat gritty San Lorenzo. We took the metro as far as we could and tried to get a cab from there, which wasn’t easy. Did you know in Rome you have to hail a cab from a designated spot, similar to Paris? I’m happy to say, it was all worth it. Located in an old pasta factory, Pastificio San Lorenzo had a cool industrial feel, complete with white subway tiles and low hanging lights. The wine list was stellar and included some great wines from the Lazio region. We loved the creative twist on Roman cuisine and the happening bar, which would have been a great place to grab dinner if you wanted to pop in without a reservation.

Bar Hopping in the Trastevere

Rome’s hip left bank was our next stop. We got dropped off in the heart of the youthful neighborhood and felt like we had been transported to Mardi Gras. People were absolutely spilling out of bars. It was a Wednesday night. The Trastevere has a reputation for being a bit too ex-paty, but we noticed lots of hip young Romans. Our first stop was Freni e Frizioni, one of Rome’s coolest bars. Located in an old garage, the décor was a mix of funky furniture and chandeliers. The real party though was outside where young hipsters were draped all over the chairs and tables that littered the large outdoor plaza.

The plaza outside Freni e Frizioni

After finishing our drinks, we went back down the street to Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fa, a long name for a tiny bar with the most extensive beer selection in the city. Choosing was a bit daunting for me, but I fared better than the Norwegian kid who seemed fresh out of high school and when asked by the bartender what we wanted replied, “a beer.”

Late Night Pizza

After finishing our frothy ones we decided it was time for meal number two and it had to be pizza. Bir and Fud, an offsoot of Pizzarium, was already closing up for the night so we hopped in a cab to Pizzeria Remo in the Testaccio. The Rome staple is nothing fancy, but we were delighted to find a healthy crowd still digging into their thin crust pies at almost 1 am. My husband and I sat and ordered a margherita pizza, which was at our table in minutes. We wolfed it down and then decided we might just have time to make it for one last gelato.

A Roman Holiday

Devouring our hard earned gelato as Giolitti closes up for the night

We hopped in yet another cab and told him to step on it. Giolitti, the Rome landmark where Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck famously used to grab gelato during the filming of Roman Holiday, closed at 1:30 am. We made it with just minutes to spare and slipped in as the shop was closing for the night. I decided to go for broke and ordered my favorite combo, chocolate and hazelnut on a cone.  Triumphantly we started walking slowly back to our hotel, but couldn’t resist getting one last drink.

Columns and Cocktails

The view from the bar at Salotto 42

I had read about Salotto 42 in Lonely Planet. Luckily it was right on the way. The slinky lounge bar serves clever cocktails and looks out on to a pleasant square backed by 11 Corinthian columns. The bartenders took great care in making our drinks. I ordered the spicy basil- vodka, strawberry, chili, and basil. It was delicious, but Justin’s twist on a mojito- rum, basil and muddled tomato was truly clever and amazing. The bar closed at 2 am. Seeing as we had criss crossed the city and closed down nearly every place we had been, we decided maybe it was time to call it a night.

The end of an amazing night

The walk back to our hotel took us right passed the Trevi fountain where we stopped to take in the moonlit setting. Joined by just a handful of others, including a few cops to prevent any shenanigans, it seemed a world away from the touristy trap feel we experienced at the fountain earlier in the day. Basking in the street light’s orange glow, I thought to myself, this is the way to see Rome. Back in our hotel room by 3 am, my feet thanked me, but the magical night is not one I will soon forget.

Pastificio San Lorenzo

Via Triburtina, 196

06 9727 3519

www.pastificiocerere.com

Freni e Frizioni

Via del Politeama 4-6

06 5833 4210

www.freniefrizioni.com

Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fa

Via Benedetta, 25

Bir and Fud

Via Benedetta, 23

06 589 40 16

www.birefud.blogspot.com

Pizzeria Remo

Piazza Santa Maria

Liberatrice 44

06 574 62 70

Giolitti

Via degli Uffici del Vicario 40

06 699 12 43

Salotto 42

Piazza di Pietra 42

06 678 58 04

www.salotto42.it

Moab

Looking back at Double O Arch

One year, when my mom was driving me back to school at the University of Colorado, we took a detour to Moab. I instantly fell in love with the landscape and the sporty feel of the town. I’ve jumped at the chance to go ever since. One of my favorite national parks, Arches, is mere minutes from Moab and offers absolutely jaw dropping scenery. I love the color of the evergreen trees against the red rock. The arches around every corner seem too perfect to be real. I’ve been to Moab in the fall and the dead of summer. While I love the warm nights, 110 during the day isn’t so great for hiking. I suggest going in September or October when the days are warm, the nights are cool, and the dry air is invigorating.

Eat

Desert Bistro

Moab’s most upscale option, the Desert Bistro has delicious salads and inventive entrees like smoked elk tenderloin with caramelized onions and a huckleberry, port wine reduction. Located in a historic ranch house with little twinkling lights outside, the ambience is very inviting and a special treat after a hard day of activities. Reservations are recommended. The restaurant is only open March-October.

1266 N. Main St.

Moab, UT 84532

435-259-0756

http://www.desertbistro.com

Muffin Love Cafe

The morning rush at Muffin Love Cafe

This new bakery and café seems to have struck a cord in Moab. There was a line almost out the door the whole time we were there.  Healthy breakfast and lunch options, many of them vegan, abound and are all served in a colorful, but not too earthy interior. We went for breakfast. Standouts included the vegan waffle and a warm quinoa bowl with nuts and agave. The bakery case was filled with delicious looking vegan and non-vegan muffins.

139 North Main St.

Moab, UT 84532

435-259-6833

http://lovemuffincafe.com

Slickrock Café

This cafe has been in Moab for as long as I can remember and serves reliable burgers and salads. The décor is a bit 90’s southwestern, but prices are reasonable and its located right in the heart of downtown Moab.

5 North Main St.

Moab, UT. 84532

335-259-8004

http://www.slickrockcafe.com

Moab Brewery

The atmosphere at this Moab staple is nothing special, but sometimes after a day of mountain biking you just want a cold beer. This micro brewery has plenty of delicious hand crafted ales to choose from. The food isn’t bad either. The menu includes the typical things you’d expect to see on a brewery menu but with a southwestern flare. I like the gazpacho spinach salad with jalapeno cornbread. The brewery also makes and serves it’s own fresh gelato out of a cold case in the front of the restaurant. Perfect for those hot Moab summer nights.

686 South Main

Moab, UT 84532

435-259-6333

http://www.themoabbrewery.com

Stay

Inca Inn proudly touts its Trip Advisor status

Inca Inn

This locally owned motel is nothing fancy and proud of it. The hotels website proclaims while they are not big or fancy…..”rooms are just as clean as we can possibly get them along with regular washing and maintenance of just about everything else.” The Inca Inn is proud of its rating on Trip Advisor, four out of five stars, and the continental breakfast, which includes fresh baked bread, is better than your typical hotel breakfast. The location between the center of town and Arches National Park is great. Rates, which can be anywhere between $50-$100 a night depending on the season, are very reasonable.

570 North Main

Moab, UT 84532

866-462-2466

http://www.incainn.com

Devils Garden Campground in Arches National Park

One of my favorite places to camp, campsites are spacious and are either nestled in amongst the red rock or offer spectacular views of the park. Fire pits with grates allow you to cook over an open flame and allow you to stay warm as the temperature starts to drop dramatically when the sun goes down. You’ll want to stay out as long as possible. The stargazing is absolutely incredible in Arches and will leave you wishing you knew a whole lot more about constellations.

Insider tip-Reservations are a must during peak season. Try to snag campsite #50. Nestled in amongst a large rock and beautiful trees, we loved the protected feel. The sight was still open enough to allow for great star gazing.

Our campsite for the first night #50

Devils Garden Campground is located in Arches National Park

http://www.nps.gov/arch/planyourvisit/camping.htm

Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn

I stayed at this hotel years ago. It has a great location right in the heart of Moab and is walking distance to many of Moabs best shops and restaurants. Rooms are clean and it has a nice pool.

16 South Main St.

Moab, UT 84532

435-259-2300

http://canyonlandsinn.com

Do

Devils Garden Primitive Loop

Partition Arch

This is the longest hike in the park and leads to eight arches. I’ve done it every time I’ve been to Moab, but it never gets old. Although it’s about 9 miles long if you walk from the Devils Garden Campground, it never feels that long to me. Each time you round another corner and see another arch you feel awestruck and rewarded for the miles you’re putting in. The hike is a mix of walking on sandy trail and scrambling on slickrock. It’s a great workout and a photographers dream. I can never resist sitting in the little window next to partition arch and taking in the view.

http://www.nps.gov/arch/planyourvisit/hiking.htm

Hike up to Delicate Arch at Sunset

View of Delicate Arch

It’s the most photographed arch in the park. When you hike up to the base, it’s easy to see why. Perfectly perched on the edge of a cliff, it seems straight from a movie set. Famous for the light that reflects off of it at sunset, I recommend hiking up in the early evening. You’ll notice many others have the same idea and it can be a bit crowded, but it’s worth it. Bring your headlamp. The hordes of people tend to turn around before the light gets really good, not wanting to hike back in the dark. There’s something magical about sitting in the natural amphitheater that circles out from the base of the arch waiting for the sun to go down. It’s as if everyone has purchased tickets to see nature’s most spectacular show. The hike is about 3 miles round trip. A good burn on the way up, but the decent is quick.

http://www.nps.gov/arch/planyourvisit/hiking.htm

Mountain Bike

Moab is famous for mountain biking and there are trails for all levels. If you’re beginner to intermediate like me, try Klondike Bluffs. The ten mile trail is about 15 minutes north of town. It’s good exercise and you get to experience what it’s like to ride on rock, but it’s not too technical. Once you’ve mastered that, then maybe you can move on to the Slickrock Trail, Moab’s most famous and notorious mountain bike ride. Bike rentals are made easy in town.Shops will even rent you a bike rack for about ten bucks if you don’t have one.

Poison Spider Bicycles

497 North Main St.

Moab, UT 84532

1-800-635-1792

http://poisonspiderbicycles.com

Rim Cyclery

94 West 100 North

Moab, UT 84352

435-259-5333

http://www.rimcyclery.com/

Camping Essentials

French press, good coffee, sierra cups, one decent knife, two non-stick pots, two frying pans, tin foil, cutting board, rags or dish towels, heat proof mugs, metal tongs, camping plates and utensils, bottle opener, tinfoil, camping wine glasses optional.

We love camping, but we also love great food. We try to elevate our cooking while camping to be a little more gourmet then heated up spaghetti sauce and noodles (although this does work in a pinch). I loved what we made in Moab. These recipes are easy and delicious.

Recipes

Cooking dinner over an open fire

Grilled rib eye with asparagus and baked sweet potato

Serves two

(We made this over a fire pit, but a camping stove would work too. You may still want to use the fire for the potatoes or change the method and steam or boil them.)

Two large rib eyes, bone in or out

Half a bundle of asparagus

Two small sweet potatoes

Olive oil

Salt

Pepper

Start a fire in fire pit. Allow large flames to die down and smouldering to set in, meanwhile wrap each sweet potato individually in tin foil. Place sweet potatoes on the hottest part of the grate, turn every five minutes to avoid scorching. Rinse and trim ends of asparagus then cut in half. Toss in a little olive oil and salt and pepper and place in frying pan. When potatoes have been cooking about twenty minutes, put asparagus on the grate along side them. Cook until slightly soft, 5-10 minutes. Remove from direct heat.

Heat other frying pan on grate with a little olive oil. Season steaks with salt and pepper then place in the hot pan. Cook four-five minutes each side for medium rare.  Remove from direct heat. Check potatoes. If soft to the touch, they should be done. Cut steak in half and serve. Reserve the other cooked steak for the next night.

Steak fajitas with simple guacamole

Serves two

1 red bell pepper

1 green bell pepper

1 large yellow onion

Packet of fajita seasoning

1 large ribeye (If don’t love red meat, tofu or chicken could easily be substituted)

Avocado

Lime

Small tomato

Garlic salt

Pepper

1 can of black beans

Whole-wheat tortillas

Sizzling steak fajitas

Start a fire in fire pit. Allow large flames to die down and smouldering to set in. Cut peppers and onion into long thin slices. Place all peppers and ¾’s of the onion into a non stick pot and put over fire. Cook until onions are caramelized and peppers are a little soft, about 10 minutes. Open a can of black beans and rip off the paper label. Place on the grill. Thinly slice steak. When vegetables are ready, add 1 cup of water and ½ a packet of fajita season. Stir it in and cook until mixture thickens. Add sliced steak and stir. Move to indirect heat.

Make guacamole. In a bowl combine one avocado, chopped tomato, rest of the onion chopped, juice from half a lime, a pinch of garlic salt and pepper taste. Mix to desired consistency.

Heat tortillas one minute per side on the grate and serve filled with steak fajita mixture, black beans and guacamole.

Tuscany

Archway in Castiglioncello del Trinoro

Tuscany with its rolling hills, bucolic settings, ancient wineries and hilltop towns is a true gem. It is possible to have an experience akin to the one popularized by Francis Mayes best selling Under the Tuscan Sun, if you do your research. It’s a vast area and some towns are more touristy then others. Chefs are doing amazing things in some of the lesser known towns and new boutique hotels are bringing modernity to the region, while also preserving the integrity of the original stone exteriors. My husband and I didn’t make it to every village we wanted to see (you would probably need a whole week to see everything) but we enjoyed our time in Tuscany immensely, and definitely plan to go back. These were some of the highlights.

Chianti Region

Eat:

Dario Cecchini’s Solociccia and Officina Della Bistecca

One of Dario Cecchini's buildings in Panzano

This master butcher has taken over an entire street in tiny Panzano with two restaurants and a butcher shop. Solociccia and Officina Della Bistecca are true destination restaurants- delicious food served in memorable settings. At Solociccia, food is served family style and includes six different meat courses. At the more expensive Officina, it’s all about the Tuscan specialty Bistecca alla Florentina (a huge slab of bone-in rib eye grilled on the outside but rare on the inside). Cecchini’s aesthetic is modern yet whimsical and the communal atmosphere makes for a memorable evening. Menus are fixed price and include house wine, water, bread, dessert and a narly grappa. Reservations are recommended for dinner. Also a great stop for lunch if you’re on the wine tasting circuit.

Via XX Luglio, 11

Panzano in Chianti Firenze

39 0558 52020

www.dariocecchini.com

Do:

Castello D’Albola

This beautifully restored medievel castle winery specializes in delicious Chianti Classico. Castello D’Albola is owned by one of Italy’s largest producers but it actually feels more laid back and less corporate than other wineries we visited. Castello D’Albola offers a great free tour of the winery several times a day and wine tastings are laid back and generous. Castello D’Albola’s Chianti Classico is incredibly smooth and at about 10 euros, very reasonably priced.

Pian d’Albola 31 53017

Radda in Chianti
Italy

0577 738019

www.albola.it/

Castello Di Brolio

Considered the birthplace of Chianti Classico, Castello Di Brolio is one of the oldest wineries in the world and well worth a visit. The castle itself dates back to 1000 AD. I found the tasting room, which is located in a more modern building at the bottom of the hill, to be fairly lackluster, but the castle itself is stunning. Park in the designated parking area and climb 15 minutes up the forest path to the castle gates. Purchase a ticket and enjoy a walk through the castle gardens.

53013 Gaiole di Chianti – Siena

39 0577 730220

www.ricasoli.it

Southern Tuscany

Eat:

View from the dining room at Osteria Aquacheta

Osteria Aquacheta

Eating at this osteria may be one of the most entertaining and delicious meals you’ll ever have. The stars of the show are Giulio Ciolfi, the owner/chef, and his meat cleaver. From the small dining room, you’ll be able to see him hacking away at a huge piece of meat in the open kitchen. A two inch thick slab is brought out to those who have ordered steak for inspection. If you approve of the size, Ciolfi will write the price down on your place mat and grill it for you with a simple preparation of olive oil, salt and pepper. The rareness of the meat might take you aback at first, but try it. My husband and I were both knawing on the bone at the end of our meal. Most steaks are big enough to share. Aquacheta offers two seatings a night at 7:30pm and 9:30pm. Tables are shared. Reservations are an absolute must. Not open Tuesday.

Via del Teatro 2,

53045 Montepulciano Siena

0578 717086

www.acquacheta.eu

Osteria Del Merlo

Outside Osteria Del Merlo

We heard about this restaurant from a local and it ended up being one of our favorite meals of the trip! Osteria Del Merlo is everything you hope to find in a restaurant while you’re traveling- delicious inventive food, great ambiance and affordable prices. We were aboslutely blown away by our appetizers, grilled peach with gorgonzola cheese and a burrata and slow roasted tomato salad. Located at the end of Garibaldi square, the restaurant’s main dining room is located inside a beautifully restored medieval tower, ahh Italy. The wine list offers all the regional favorites at reasonable prices. If you decide to indulge in dessert, the chocolate cupcake, basically chocolate cake with a gooey center, is delicious.

Via Sobborgo, 1

53040 Cetona – Siena

0578 238299

www.osteriadelmerlo.it

Inside Cafe Monteverdi

Cafe Monteverdi

Located in the tiny etruscan village of Castiglioncello del Trinoro, Cafe Monteverdi is a great place to grab lunch or a snack when you’re touring southern Tuscany. Like all the other buildings in Castiglioncello del Trinoro, the outside of the cafe has been brilliantly preserved but the inside is very modern. There’s even an ipad on the wall where you can check your email, or look at pictures of the beautiful villas that are also located in the town. Cafe Monteverdi is owned by the same person as the Villas at Mondeverdi (see below), but luckily, you don’t have to be a guest to eat there. The cafe has great salads, meats, cheeses and panini’s. It’s also the only place in the world where you can Tenuta di Trinoro by the glass-an extremely exclusive wine grown in the valley below.

Castiglioncello del Trinoro

Sarteano (SI)

www.monteverdituscany.com

Enoteca La Dolce Vita

This wine store and restaurant in Montepulciano offers a great wine list and delectable small bites. The restaurant is known for their bruschetta, but there are other fun things on the menu like pork shank with prunes and scallions and delicious meat and cheese plates. Go for lunch or a light dinner. Enoteca La Dolce Vita has several tables on the cobblestone street, but I also like the restaurants cellar like interior.

Via di Voltaia nel Corso 80/82

53045 Montepulciano (Siena)

39 0578 758760

www.enotecaladolcevita.it/eng

Osteria Del Teatro

We did not get to eat at this restaurant in Cortona, because it’s closed Wednesday (the only day we were there). We thought dishes like filettini di maiale all mele e caffe, pork fillets with apples and coffee sounded delcious-think Tuscan food with a twist using seasonal ingredients. Hopefully we’ll be back.

Via Maffei, 2

Cortona (Arezzo)

39 0575 630556

www.osteria-del-teatro.it

Stay:

Pool at Poggio Piglia

Poggio Piglia

It took 7 years to turn this old tuscan farm house into a hotel, but the attention to detail paid off. The newly opened boutique hotel is the perfect place to pick as a base while you explore southern Tuscany. Poggio Piglia maintains the beauty of the original structure while the interior and grounds infuse it with elegance and modernity. The vanishing edge pool, which overlooks the countryside, is stunning. Imma, the hotel’s concierge, provided us with some of the best service we’ve ever had at a hotel including making restaurant reservations and printing out directions on how to get everywhere. The guestrooms are spacious and tastefully decorated with rustic, yet modern furniture. After braving small, antiquated bathrooms at most hotels in Italy you’ll scream with delight when you see Poggia Piglia’s large modern ones. Starting at 135 euros a night, the room rates are extremely reasonable for a place of this caliber.

Frazione Macciano

53043 Chiusi (SI)

39 0578 274286

www.poggiopiglia.com

The Villas at Monteverdi

View from the Villas at Monteverdi

If you can afford it, and are traveling with a group of 4 or more, stay at the Villas at Monteverdi. Located in 900 year old Castiglioncello del Trinoro, the villas have been beautifully restored and retain the original facade, while the interiors offer all the comforts of a modern 5 star hotel. Owner Michael Cioffi, is behind the only privately funded archeological dig in Tuscany at Castiglioncello del Trinoro and a visit is a great opportunity to see archeologists and historians at work. Accommodations can sleep 4, 9 or 12 and a Saturday to Saturday stay is required. Dinners by a private chef under a grape arbor at your villa can also be arranged. Work has also started on a boutique hotel in town, so stay tuned.

Castiglioncello del Trinoro

Sarteano (SI)

www.monteverdituscany.com

Do:

Taste Brunello somewhere

Aged a minimum of four years in oak, Brunello is one of Italy’s most special wines. The grape, a rare clone of Sangiovese, is grown in the hills surrounding Montalcino. Unfortunately, the 14th century town seems to have one purpose only these days-selling Brunello. Its narrow streets are filled with wine shop, after wine shop each the same as the next. It all feels a bit touristy and inauthentic. Instead of tasting in town, I recommend going directly to one of the vineyards. Casanova di Neri is located just outside of Montalcino and grows some of the most delicious and award winning Brunello d’Montalcino. Go in for a tasting, and consider taking a bottle home. Brunello’s can be aged for decades, but beware, you’ll be hard pressed to find a bottle for under 30 euros.

Podere Fiesole

53024 Montalcino SI

0577 834 455

casanovadineri.com‎

Sant'Antimo Abbey

Sant’Antimo Abbey

This blush colored Abby sitting in a field surrounded by gentle Tuscan hillsides seems to be plucked from a painting. The church was built in the 12th and 13th centuries and is considered the most important Romanesque building in southern Tuscany. Simple and anadorned, the Abbey is a refreshing departure from many of Italy’s famous and more opulent duomos and cathedrals.

From Siena take direction Buonconvento > Montalcino. Once in Montalcino follow the signs for Abbazia di Sant’ Antimo or Castelnuovo dell’ Abate. Before you reach Castelnuovo dell’Abate you will see the Abbey on your right.

Walk through the wine cellar at Redi Winery

Redi Winery makes delicious Vino Nobile but perhaps the most fun part about the winery is making your way to its tasting room deep within the hillside. After finding the entrance next to the Palazzo Ricci, you’ll travel down an ancient staircase that leeds you through cavernous ancient wine cellars. You’ll pass through rooms filled with large wooden casks of wine that look like they haven’t been moved for centuries, before ending at the wine tasting room and shop. There you can taste and purchase wine.

Via di Collazzi 5

Montepulciano

39 0578 716092

www.cantinadelredi.com

Hike to the top of Cortona

Tuscany’s many hilltop towns will no doubt give you an appreciation for a nice flat stroll, and perhaps none more than Cortona. The town, which was made famous by the film Under the Tuscan Sun, has a web of quant cobblestone streets that snake their way up a very steep hillside. Why not embrace it and put on your hiking shoes? At the very top of Cortona is an ancient fort that offers spectacular views of the Tuscan countryside. It’s a good climb and will certainly leave your heart pumping. On your way down, treat yourself to dinner at Osteria Del Teatro. You’ve earned it.

Just start walking up. If you pass the 19th-century Chiesa di Santa Margherita, you’re on the right track.

Taste cheese in Pienza

Pienza is famous for two things, being the home of Pope Pius the II, and pecorino cheese. The town is a bit touristy for my taste, and I wouldn’t recommend staying there, but you can easily see everything in an afternoon. Park your car outside the city walls and stroll through town, taking in the well preserved Renaissance architecture and the beautiful Palazzo Piccolomini which contained the Pope’s private apartments. On your way out stop at Bottega di Naturalista and pick from a mouthwatering array of pecorino di pienza. You can choose, fresh, medium-aged or mature depending on your taste.

Pienza is on the main road to Montepulciano

Bottega di Naturalista is at Corso Rosselino 16

Facade of the Cathedral in Orvieto

See the Cathedral in Orvieto

Orvieto’s 14th century cathedral is a true masterpiece and a must do for anyone interested in Gothic architecture. When you approach the cathedral, you’ll immediately be struck by the ornate golden frontage. My favorite part is the more simple side walls made of alternating white travertine and blue-grey basalt stone. The Dr. Seuss like effect is echoed on the inside and gives the cathedral a more whimsical feel then other religious buildings in Italy. Once inside, you’ll be humbled by the sheer size of the nave, which was left uncluttered on purpose. The cathedral is famous for the Chapel of Madonna di San Brizio, or new chapel. Painted by Luca Signorelli in the 1500’s, the frescoes depict the events surrounding the Apocalypse and the Last Judgment and are said to have influenced the style Michelangelo used in the Sistine Chapel. As in all cathedrals in Italy, make sure your shoulders and knees are covered or they won’t let you in.

Orvieto is in Umbria, south of the Tuscany region right off the A-1

Sayulita

Located 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a quaint surf community with great food and local flavor. To get there, take a cab from the airport for around $40 U.S., or take the bus for around $2.50. Sayulita is small and addresses are scarce. We’ve tried to include directions to each recommended location. It’s so tiny, a quick walk around town should get you oriented, but if you’re having trouble finding a place, just ask someone.

Here’s a link to a video of our most recent Sayulita adventure.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2YSFtrCtWU

Eat/Drink

Choco Banana

A must do. One of the best chocolate-covered bananas you’ll ever have. Also- great for coffee, internet connection, breakfast, and smoothies. We love the green goddess.

The center of Sayulita on the Plaza

Miro Vino

This Italian Latin fusion restaurant is one of the more upscale in town. With views of the kitchen you’ll enjoy fresh fish, a choice of pasta dishes, amazing thin crust pizza, and great drinks. Although just steps from the main street, the Italian owner has created a very inviting dining ambiance with tables tucked back in amongst foliage and lights strung overhead.

On the Sayulita Plaza (follow your nose)

Fish Taco

Not to be confused with Sayulita Fish Taco Restaurant and Tequila Bar, the name says it all. It’s simply the best fish taco we’ve ever had. A healthy piece of fresh mahi mahi is served on a flame broiled flour tortilla and piled high with guacamole, cabbage, salsa and drizzled with ranch dressing. It might sound strange, but this combo is absolutely delicious. At about 2 bucks a taco, it makes for a cheap but satisfying meal.

On Ave. Revolution east of the main plaza

Tacos on the Street

Located on the other side of the bridge, this tiny restaurant serves just two types of tacos, steak and veggie. The steak is likely to be the best you’ll have. The meat is marinated all day. The veggies are fresh and local. The owners are friendly and double as your wait staff. It’s BYOB so stop at a local market and grab some frosty drinks. Not to worry, if you forget, there’s a market across the street.

On the brand new road that runs into Sayulita. It’s before the bridge if you’re on your way into town.

Capitan Cook/Patricia’s

If you’re lounging on the beach and get a snack-attack, find your way to Patricias. It’s located on the beach and has the best guacamole and ceviche you’ll find on the beach. Owned by native Oregonian’s, it also offers some thirst quenching beverages like limonata.

Beachfront

Tamal

This french-owned bar specializes in wine and gourmet tamales. The tiny place has a great cozy atmosphere and the wine selection is one of the best in town.

It’s on Ave. Revolution just west of the Petit Hotel Hafa

Buddha Bar

This east-meets-west restaurant lounge offers some of Sayulita’s best nightlife. Surf movies sometimes play on a projection screen and DJ’s spin current hits. The drinks are decent and the sushi is not a bad option for a late night meal.

On Calle Marlin at the end of the street by the beach.

http://buddhasayulita.com

There is great food to be found on the streets of Sayulita, but it’s not always the easiest to find. Keep your eyes, and nose alert for a lady cooking chickens on the street. You can buy a whole or half chicken. This grab-and-go option comes with rice, beans, and tortillas. Eat it on the beach or take it back to your hotel or condo if you want to eat in. Visitors can’t get enough of the churros that are made fresh and sold out of a flat-bed truck. We’ve often seen the truck located near the bridge in town in the afternoons, but locations seem to change. If you can’t find it, ask around.

Stay

Petit Hotel Hafa

Owned by French proprietors, this charming boutique hotel is located a stone’s throw from the main plaza… but far enough for a fairly quite nights rest. The decor has a bohemian, romantic feel. I love the gift shop on the ground floor which sells beautiful leather and pearl jewelry. The communal roof deck is also amazing. At around $75 U.S. a night it’s very reasonable.

55 Avda. Revolucion
Calle Jose-Mariscal, 63732 Sayulita, Mexico
01 329 291 3806

www.hotelhafasayulita.com

Casa Higuera

Ocean views, great sized rooms, and private steps to the beach.

http://www.sayulitalife.com/higuera

Villa Pcaso

Antonio Gaudi meets Pablo Picasso. You can rent out single rooms or the entire house for larger groups.

http://www.villapcaso.com/

Do

Surf

Sayulita is primarily a surf town. The beach break located out front offers great surfing for all levels. If you’re a beginner stay to the left (the left if you’re facing the ocean) some of the best surfers in Mexico surf the break to the right and rocks closer to the beach make it a little more treacherous. Check the tides, surf charts, and storm systems for a more accurate surf report. There are plenty of places in town to rent boards and great surf camps if you want to polish your skills.

Yoga

Many yoga studios conduct week long yoga retreats in Sayulita. Sometimes classes are open for drop ins. Classes are also offered weekly in the palapa above town. The Haramara Retreat south of town hosts many of the yoga retreats and also offers classes. Core Power Yoga has a week long retreat in Sayulita every year. For more information check,

http://www.corepoweryoga.com/

For Haramara’s year-round yoga schedule go to,

http://www.haramararetreat.com/

Hike/Rock Jump

Take a stroll on the beach… and continue south past the Villa Amore to increase the adventure. After a half-hour of minor rock scrambling you’ll come to a rock you can jump into the Pacific Ocean from. Time the jump with the incoming tidal swell to maximize the water’s depth. Please, only do this if you have scouted out the area and done your research. Locals often jump off the rock, it might be a good idea to watch them do it first.  The whole trip should take you about 2 hours, there and back.

For more of an adventure- Start south of the jumping rock by about an hours hike. Directions are difficult—but will give it a shot. Follow roads from Sayulita to the Beach of the Dead. Travel North along the waters edge. It’s some walking, some rock scrambling. About 45 minutes in, there will be a medium-risk up-climb (about 40 feet) with a high-risk down-climb. Make sure to wear rubber-soled shoes. Continue north until you get to the Jumping Rock. Continue north until you reach Sayulita beach. This is not recommended for those who have never rock-climbed or rock scrambled. If you are afraid of heights… this is also not for you.

Run

Do some soft-sand training or stay on the streets and attack the hills. There are a few routes that will take you up into the hills North of town and into the forest. The trails will eventually dump you onto the beach… do some circuit training on the sand, stretch and turn around, or run south on the beach back to town.

Other things to consider:

Take a boat trip to an island- private boat, cold beers, and a secluded island.

Captain Cook/Patricia’s can arrange boat tours.

Polo Grounds- watch a polo match, ask around for times.

Palm Springs and Joshua Tree

Palm Springs is a mere 2 hours from San Diego, but seems a world away. The playground of the rich and famous during the golden age of Hollywood, it harkens back to a bye-gone era, think three martini lunches and duck a l’orange. Parts of Palm Springs seem a bit lost in time, but some cool hotels and restaurants are breathing new life into the city. Joshua Tree National Park is a gem and just 45 minutes from Palm Springs. We recommend a couple nights of outdoor adventure in Joshua Tree followed by some pampering in Palm Springs for a well rounded vacation.

Eat/Drink:

Canyon Flours Bakery

We’ve been eagerly awaiting the grand opening of this gluten-free bakery. Located in a stylish mid-century modern building, we’re pleased to say it’s now open on the weekends as a tasting kitchen. Take advantage of the free beach cruisers provided by the Ace Hotel and peddle two miles down N. Palm Canyon Dr. to get to the bakery.

515 N Palm Canyon Dr. Suite B-10
Palm Springs, Ca 92262
760-327-7771
http://canyonflowersbakery.com/

Ace Hotel’s Kings Highway and Amigo Room

In addition to a fun Hipster vibe, the Ace Hotel’s two restaurants have great food and drinks.

The Kings Highway is a good option for breakfast, or lunch. Whether you decide to dine inside the sixties-style diner or chill poolside, you’ll be able to order Stumptown coffee and an array of breakfast items. Options include a great huevos rancheros or lighter home-made granola with fresh fruit. The Kings Highway also serves pie and other deserts… great for a late night snack attack.

Escape from the Palm Springs sun into the Amigo Room. The low lit bar and restaurant serves refreshing mixed drinks made with fresh fruit. They also offer a great local beer called Kings Highway on tap, a great deal during happy hour.

The Amigo room menu can be ordered in the restaurant, or out by the pool. The popcorn with truffle oil and black bean burger are highlights but you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

701 East Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA
760-325-9900
http://www.acehotel.com/palmsprings/dining

The Parker

Swallow the pill and fall down the rabbit hole… the look of this hotel is a “trip.” A photographers dream, the well-manicured back forty allows you to get lost at the pool, pingpong tables, or a hidden area for pictures. The Parker also has three different places for food and drinks. Mr. Parker’s is the most upscale and offers an old hollywood vibe with big booths and a very french menu. Sit outside under the covered patio and enjoy breakfast or lunch at Norma’s, a sort of upscale diner. Located in the lobby, “The Mini Bar” is a great place to get a drink or light meal.

4200 East Palm Canyon Dr.
Palm Springs, CA
760-770-5000
http://www.theparkerpalmsprings.com/dine/

Stay:

The Ace Hotel and Swim Club

As Ace Hotel loyalists, we have slept, eaten, and partied at each of their four  locations (Seattle, Portland, New York, and Palm Springs). While we love them all, this might be our favorite. The stylish boutique hotel has found the perfect mix of functional space, hip vibe, great location, and fantastic food. We typically like to explore on our vacations, but the Ace is so cool we hardly leave once we step on the premises.
There are two great pools which allow for a respite from the consuming desert heat. Wait staff offer food, refreshments, and snow cones. 3-speed beach cruisers are a free amenity provided to all guests, making it easy to ride through the neighborhoods and into downtown… or if you want a change of scenery, peddle due south on East Palm Canyon Dr. two miles to the Parker.
Fireplace common areas are scattered throughout the grounds great for enjoying wine late in the evening. If you are traveling with a larger group/event, look into renting the event space located by pool #2 and inquire about the taco dinner the hotel offers for bigger parties. The Ace’s rates are pretty reasonable but we’ve found some screaming deals on travel websites during the hotel’s off season.

701 East Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA
760-325-9900
http://www.acehotel.com/palmsprings

The Parker

We have yet to stay here (it’s hard to stay anywhere but the Ace), but we do plan on trying it one of these days. The Jonathan Adler designed hotel is mid century modern meets Alison and Wonderland. It’s very playful and whimsical and I especially love the vast and extremely lush grounds.

4200 East Palm Canyon Dr.
Palm Springs, CA
760-770-5000
http://www.theparkerpalmsprings.com/

29 Palms Inn (Joshua Tree)

An oasis in the middle of the desert, the 29 Palms Inn is simple but stylish and seems at odds with the town it’s in (Twentynine Palms is dusty, sprawling and completely lacking character). The only reason to go to Twentynine Palms would be to gain access to Joshua Tree National Park or stay at the Inn or both. 29 Palms Inn also has a great restaurant that serves simple but well prepared dishes. It’s actually quite popular. Reservations are recommended.

73950 Inn Ave.
Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
760-367-3505
http://www.29palmsinn.com

Do:

Run/Bike

Many of the most well preserved mid-century modern homes in the U.S. are in Palm Springs. The best examples are in the neighborhoods right around old town. We love running or biking through the neighborhoods and pointing out our favorites.

A run in Palm Springs is a stroll down memory lane and a trip back to the golden-era. If you decide to run, get out early… it heats up fast and there is very little shade.

By bike: there are signs that point out good routes for cyclists.  Follow posted signs into town, through the neighborhoods, or along the edge of the local foothills.

http://www.palmsprings.com/city/palmsprings/bikemap.html

Joshua Tree National Park

Palm Springs is a great place to station yourself if you’re planning to visit Joshua Tree National Park. A playground for rock climbing enthusiasts, you can go for the day or camp overnight. Joshua Tree has nine campgrounds to choose from. Our favorite is Indian Cove campground, which offers roomy campsites and great rock scrambling/top-roping. Each site has a fire pit. Tent camping doesn’t have to mean “roughing it.” The restaurant at 29 Palms Inn is a short 20 minutes away if you’d rather dine out and enjoy a nice cocktail… but wine under the stars at your campsite isn’t bad either.

http://www.nps.gov/jotr/index.htm

Lummi Island

View at sunset from the Willows Inn porch

Lummi Island is the most accessible San Juan Island, but perhaps the most overlooked, until now. The Willows Inn and restaurant has been getting well-deserved attention since it hired Noma trained chef Chef Blaine Wetzel. The wunderkind’s fresh, seasonal tasting menus are truly inspired and have been earning rave reviews. My husband and I decided to spend two nights at the Willows post wedding to unwind. It was romantic, relaxing and most of all incredibly delicious.

Stay:

The Willows Inn

Outside the Willows Inn

An eco friendly bed and breakfast with decidedly simple decor, the Willows Inn is located on the sunset side of the Island and has an incredible view of the Puget Sound. Rooms are available in various buildings, some cascade up the hill behind the main Inn, some are on the beach. We stayed in the Rose Room- a reasonable $150 a night. Breakfast is also included in your room rate. The offerings change daily and are served in the main dining room.

2579 West Shore Drive

Lummi Island, WA 98262

360-758-2620

www.willows-inn.com

Eat:

Dirty martini, prosecco and salmon in a cedar box

Willows Inn Restaurant

The praises of this restaurant have been sung in every food and wine magazine imaginable. I was curious if it would live up to the hype and I’m pleased to say I was not disappointed. The air on Lummi feels fresher, the sea saltier and the earth more fruitful. These flavors all come out in the food which is refreshingly devoid of sugar and sauces. During dinner we saw one of the most incredible sunsets we’ve ever seen and we loved the cocktail hour that kicked off the evening.

Call the Inn to make a dinner reservation. If you are staying at the hotel you will be able to make the reservation when you book your stay. If you are not staying overnight, dinner reservations can be made 14 days before your requested date.

The Willows Inn restaurant

The Taproot Cafe

Also at the Willows Inn, the Taproot is open for lunch and serves lighter more inexpensive meals than the Willows Inn restaurant. It’s also a great place to grab coffee or a pastry. The Taproot serves dinner on Monday and Tuesday when the Willows Inn restaurant is closed. Go during the summer when they’re serving their famous local spot prawns.

Do:

Kayak

Elakah Expeditions offers half or full day trips around the island or out to Lummi Rocks. If you stay at the Willows, they’ll be able to help you arrange the trip and the company will even pick you up at the Inn. It’s no hassle and a great way to see the rocky beaches and clear waters that surround the island.

360-734-7270

www.elakah.com

Hike

The view from Lummi Peak

For spectacular views of the San Juan Archipelago head to the Baker Preserve Trail. Located on land owned by the Lummi Island Heritage Trust, the steep 1.64 mile trail zig zags its way up Lummi Peak. From the overlook, you can see you each one of the San Juan Islands on a clear day. The descent is quick. You go back down the same way you came. The hike is a great way to get in a workout and see the island’s lush evergreen forests.

From the ferry turn left onto Nugent Road. After 1.5 miles, the main road turns left (becoming Sunrise Road). After 0.8 miles, turn right at a stop sign onto Seacrest Drive. After 0.3 miles, turn right at the Baker Preserve Trailhead parking area (on right side of road, with wooden “ENTRANCE” and “EXIT” signs marking the location.)

http://www.liht.org/

Getting to Lummi Island

Lummi is a quick ferry ride from Bellingham, Washington (about 1 hour 40 minutes north of Seattle). Beware, Lummi is not connected by ferry to any of the other San Juan Islands so island hopping is not really an option if you decide to stay on Lummi.

To get to the ferry

• From Interstate 5 take Slater Road Exit
• Turn West on Slater Road
• Follow Slater Road 3.22 miles to Haxton Way
• Turn left or South on Haxton Way
• Follow Haxton Way 7.02 miles to the Whatcom County Public Works Lummi Island Ferry

For more information and the ferry schedule
http://www.co.whatcom.wa.us/publicworks/ferry/index.jsp

Central California

A true food and wine lovers paradise, I’ve dreamed of visiting Napa Valley for years. My husband and I finally made the trip and I was not disappointed. I was delighted to find a downtown Napa undergoing a major revitalization with historic renovations, a beautiful riverfront and delicious restaurants around every corner.  The postcard perfect towns of Yountville and St. Helena also have great dining options.

Eat:

Oxbow Public Market

Inside Oxbow Public Market

This permanent indoor market is a bit overwhelming for a foodie like me. Too many amazing choices! The founder was Project Manager for the Ferry Building in San Francisco and it’s easy to see the connection. The Oxbow Public Market even has some of the same vendors like Hog Island Oyster. Oxbow is a great place to grab items for a picnic or eat in. There’s a gourmet taqueria, an organic ice creamery, a Ritual Coffee Roasters and a Kara’s Cupcakes just to name a few. The market also hosts an outdoor farmer’s market ever Tuesday and Saturday morning, so if you go then prepare to be even more overwhelmed!

610 and 644 First St.
Napa, CA 94559
707-226-6529
www.oxbowpublicmarket.com

Redd

Redd may get overshadowed by Yountville’s iconic French Laundry, but it is absolutely delicious and a good choice if snagging a table at Thomas Keller’s legendary restaurant alludes you. The first venture for Chef Richard Reddington who has worked in such kitchens as Jardiniere in San Francisco and Napa Valley’s Auberge, Redd serves inventive, regional cuisine in an elegant, modern setting. The dinner menu at Redd is made up of entrees, and decently sized small plates. If you’re having trouble making up your mind do what my fiancé and I did and eat tapas style. Everything we had was delicious, but the risotto with lobster and meyer lemon and the yellowfin tuna tartare were true standouts.

6480 Washington Street
Yountville, CA 94599
707-944-2222
www.reddnapavalley.com

The courtyard outside Bouchon

Bouchon Bakery

If you think Yountville is a tad too perfect, eating at Thomas Keller’s idealic French bakery might put you over the edge. Sitting in the courtyard outside, you feel literally transported to a quant café in Provence.  You can’t really go wrong with any of the pastries. My fiancé and I had zero self control and ordered one of just about everything, but we especially enjoyed the banana muffin and a sort of open-faced strawberry, almond croissant.

6528 Washington St.
Yountville, CA 94599
707-944-2253
www.bouchonbakery.com

Ad Hoc

Another Thomas Keller establishment, we did not have the pleasure of eating here, but we peaked our heads in and loved the laid back vibe and look of the homey comfort style cuisine. Ad Hoc serves a four course, prix fix menu five nights a week and is much more affordable then Keller’s nearby French Laundry. When we popped in they were serving fried chicken, which looked delicious. We’ll be back!

6476 Washington St.
Yountville, CA 94599
707-944-2487
www.adhhocrestaurant.com

Ubuntu

This Michelin starred restaurant in downtown Napa is a truly unique concept. A restaurant and yoga studio, Ubuntu takes local and sustainable to a whole new level. Much of the vegetarian restaurant’s garden-fresh menu comes from its own biodynamic garden. The interior has a modern, zen aesthetic. Dishes like warm focaccia with truffled pecorino and apricot/almond agridolce, will leave even a meat lover like me going bring on the veggies. Many of the dishes can also be prepared vegan.

1140 Main St.
Napa, CA 94559
707-251-5656
www.ubuntunapa.com

Morimoto

Iron Chef star Masaharu Morimoto opened his first west coast restaurant in downtown Napa’s new riverfront development last year. The Asian fusion food is a tad spendy but extremely fresh. I like the large light filled space right on the boardwalk, overlooking the Napa River.

610 Main St.
Napa, CA. 94559
707-252-1600
www.morimotnapa.com

Farmstead

The view from Farmstead’s patio

This farm to table restaurant was exactly what my fiancé and I were craving one night, simple, seasonal cuisine served in a beautiful outdoor setting. Farmstead also has a beautiful interior. Housed in a former nursery, the 110-seat restaurant has a modern yet rustic feel. The restaurant is owned by Long Meadow Ranch and serves the ranch’s all natural grass fed beef. We had the sirloin with arugula and potatoes and the rock bass with sausage and cioppino broth. Both were delicious. Perhaps our favorite thing about Farmstead though, the unbelievably cheap $2 corkage fee. The proceeds are donated to local community serving non-profits.

738 Main St.
St.. Helena, CA 94574
707-963-9181
www.longmeadowranch.com/Farmstead-Restaurant

Stay:

Napa River Inn

Napa River Inn’s entrance

This reasonably priced hotel is located right on the Napa River in the historic Napa Mill.  Built in 1884, the red brick building has been beautifully restored and iswalking distance to the Oxbow market and many of Napa’s best shops and restaurants. There are also some great restaurants and shops located in the hotel complex.

500 Main St.
Napa CA, 94559
707-251-8500
www.napariverinn.com

Do:

Wine Taste

View from the porch at Frog’s Leap

Frog’s Leap

The tasting room at this winery is located in a house that feels ripped from the pages of a Pottery Barn catalogue, but in the best possible way.  Guests are served tastings out on the wrap around porch surrounded by lush gardens. At $20 a piece, the tastings aren’t cheap, but the pours are bigger than average and can easily be shared. Guests are encouraged to walk around the property. Be sure to check out the  iconic red barn. It was built in 1884 and still houses winemaking facilities today.

8815 Conn Creek Rd.
Rutherford, CA 94573
707-963-4704
www.frogsleap.com

Cuvaison

This Napa green certified winery has two tasting rooms, one in Carneros and one in Calistoga. We visited the latter, which featured friendly servers and a small modern tasting room. The tasting fee is $15, one of the more reasonable in the valley. The Calistoga location also has a great outdoor picnic area and is one of the only wineries where you’re allowed to bring your own food.

4550 Silverado Trail
Calistoga, CA 94515
707-942-2468
www.cuvaison.com

Buena Vista

A courtyard at Buena Vista

Considered the oldest premier winery in California, Buena Vista feels like a slice of Europe. The original ivy covered stone structures are still there nestled in the hillside. Tasting’s are only $10 and last I checked you could print a two for one tasting coupon on the winery’s website.

18000 Old Winery Road
Sonoma, CA 95476
800-926-1266
www.buenavistacarneros.com

Ehlers Estate Winery

Another historic winery, Ehlers’ tasting room is located in a beautiful stone structure built in the 1800’s. The wine is all estate grown and 100 percent organic. It’s delicious, but you’ll pay for the privilege of tasting it. The tasting fee is $25 a person. You may feel better about it though when you know one hundred percent of the proceeds from the sale of Ehler’s wines go to a non-profit dedicated to funding international cardiovascular research. Appointments are recommended.

Outside of Ehler’s tasting room

3222 Ehlers Ln.
St. Helena, CA 94581
707-963-5972
www.ehlersestate.com

Visit Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Falls

About a 4-hour drive from Napa, Yosemite could easily be its own trip, but my fiancé and I love to rough it then pamper ourselves so we decided to combine the two destinations into one road trip.

Yosemite is a place every American should see.  Our national parks are true treasures and this one may be the crown jewel. We drove in on Big Oak Flat Road. The view after you pass through the tunnel is jaw dropping and almost seems like something out of a Pixar movie. The lush valley unfolds in front of you with a huge waterfall at the end cascading down to the valley floor.

We did not have reservations, but we managed to snag a camping spot at Camp 4. Campsites are shared and the facilities are nothing great, but at 5 dollars a person it’s a steal. I also like the communal atmosphere. The Yosemite Falls trailhead is basically in camp. We hiked to the top of Yosemite point (about 9 miles roundtrip).  The trail is extremely steep and not for beginners, but you get to see the falls from pretty much every angle and the view of Half Dome from the top is spectacular.

The Ahwahnee Lodge

Don’t leave the park without a visit to the Ahwahnee. The historic Lodge’s dining room complete with a 34 foot tall beamed ceiling is stunning and serves a legendary brunch on Sunday.

www.nps.gov/yose/

London

I’ve had a soft spot for London ever since I lived there for a semester in college. At the time, I was more interested in shopping on Oxford street and checking out the night life than I was in searching out great restaurants. Recently, I had the opportunity to go back and really dove in to the culinary scene. The city has come a long way on the food front. I didn’t have a single bad meal and my restaurant search led me to check out some hip parts of London I had never experienced before.

Eat:

Gail’s Bread

A great spot for breakfast or lunch, Gail’s has delicious pastries, ready-made salads, jams and great coffee. I liked it so much, I went twice for breakfast the last time I was in London! The décor reminded me of the café’s I love on the west coast, but still offers British staples like English muffins and toast and jam. There are locations conveniently located throughout the city. The Notting Hill location has plenty of tables and is a great place to take a break while shopping on Portobello Road.

138 Portobello Road
London W11 2DZ
0207 460 0766
www.breadltd.co.uk

Ottolenghi

One look at the window of this shop will leave you salivating. Ottolenghi has picture perfect pastries, great coffee and take away items. The Kensington location is tiny and is only able to do take out. I’ve heard the other two locations are larger.

1 Holland Street
London W8 4NA
020 7937 0003
www.ottolenghi.co.uk

River Café

This restaurant is famous for its rustic Italian food, much of it cooked in a wood fired oven. It’s a little ways out of central London, but it’s worth the trek and will give you a chance to check out a part of the city you probably wouldn’t see otherwise.  The one mile walk from the Hammersmith Tube Stop to the restaurant is lovely on a nice day. The River Cafe has a wonderful ambience and sits right on the Thames. It’s very popular, so reservations are recommended.

Thames Wharf Rainville Road
London W6 9HA
020 7386 4200
www.rivercafe.co.uk

Hummingbird Bakery

The cup cake craze is alive and well in London. Touted as the home of quality American baking in the UK, Hummingbird bakery is basically the Brits version of Magnolia. I thought the red velvet cupcake, which some say is their most popular, was a little dry but the black bottom cupcake was delicious and different from flavors I typically see in the US!

47 Old Brompton Road
London SW7 3JP
020 7851 1795
www.hummingbirdbakery.com

St. John Bread and Wine

This is the type of place where you might need help deciphering the menu, but don’t let this dissuade you. A true foodie haven, St. John serves delicious and inventive, locally sourced British cuisine. They also have a great wine list. I had the dover sole with brown butter. It was delicious! The restaurant is in the hip Shoreditch neighborhood right across from the revamped old Spitalfields market.

94 Commercial St.
London E1 6LZ
020 3301 8069
www.stjohnrestaurant.com

Inside Spitalfields Market

Ben’s Cookies

This company started in Bath, England but now has locations in London. The cookies are unique, and more cake like, than your average cookie but still delicious. They’re served fresh from the oven and are extremely moist. You’ll know when you’re getting close. The smell will be impossible to resist!

9 Pelham Street
London SW7 2^ND
0207 589 9155
www.benscookies.com

Stay:

Base to Stay

This place is a great find-affordable, great location and clean modern rooms. To keep costs down, the hotel has forgone some of the typical amenities like a restaurant and bar, so no room service, but you should be out exploring anyways. The rooms have nice new appliances, flat screen TV’s and free wifi. Best of all, singles start at just 92 pounds a night for singles, pretty much unheard of in the city!

25 Courtfield Gardens
London SW5 0PG
020 7244 2255
www.base2stay.com

Dean Street Townhouse

This new establishment is from the creators of ultra hip SoHo House. The Georgian style building in London’s SoHo neighborhood has been beautifully restored in keeping with the time period but also feels very new. It smells better than any hotel I’ve ever been to because of the CowShed products they use. Rooms are affordable for London. The tiny broom cupboard room is just 99 pounds a night! I also recommend the hotel’s bar and restaurant. The bartenders are true mixologists and the British brasserie style food, think fish and chips with mashed peas, is very good.

69-71 Dean Street
London W1D 3SE
0207 434 1775
www.deanstreettownhouse.com

Los Angeles

Eat/Drink:

Intelligentsia

With similar standards to Portland’s Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Intelligentsia is setting the bar for quality coffee in the Los Angeles area. Coffee can be a bit on the spendy side, each cup is brewed to order, but it’s a great treat and both LA locations have a cool, hipster vibe. Barista’s work behind a large square shaped coffee counter (watching them at work, you’ll truly feel like your in some kind of coffee laboratory).  These hipsters are truly elevating the practice of espresso making into art and the banana wheat germ muffins make a great light breakfast.

3922 W. Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90029
323-663-6173

1331 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
310-399-1233
www.intelligentsiacoffee.com

Cafe Stella Menu

Café Stella

This cute café is tucked away in a quant courtyard, right next to the Silverlake Intelligentsia. They also serve their coffee, so it’s a great option if you want a sit down breakfast instead of just a muffin. The French Bistro also serves lunch and dinner.

3932 Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90029
323-666-0265
www.cafestella.com

Huckleberry Cafe

This artisan bakery is extremely popular, and once you walk in the door, it’s not hard to see why. The bakery case is simply loaded with picture perfect rustic pastries like strawberry crostatas and valhrona chocolate dipped donuts.  Making a decision is almost impossible for me, so I usually leave with a to go box. Huckleberry also serves great salads, sandwiches and breakfast items, which you order at the counter, so it’s a great place if you want a delicious but fairly quick breakfast or lunch.

1014 Wilshire Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90404
310-451-2311
www.huckleberrycafe.com

Joan’s on Third

Another place I can never seem to make up my mind is Joan’s on Third. The gourmet market also serves delicious salads, sandwiches and breakfast items. They’re French style omelettes are some of the best I’ve ever had and I absolutely love the strawberry buttermilk muffin. Lunch is equally as good. The ready made salad case leaves me salivating every time.

8350 W. 3^rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-655-2285
www.joansonthird.com

Inside Church and State

Church and State

One of the coolest things about this French restaurant, I think, is its unexpected downtown location. Getting there is a bit of an adventure, you do have to drive through some sketchy areas, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised when you turn onto Industrial. The urban street is home to really cool renovated lofts and feels a little like Portland’s Pearl District. With lights strung across the ceiling and an open kitchen, Church and State’s ambience manages to be modern yet warm and inviting. The food is delicious, the tart flambé is a must order. I also like that you can order petit portions of some of the entrees. There’s also a great British pub across the street.

1850 Industrial St.
Los Angeles, CA 90021
213-405-1434
www.churchandstatebistro.com

Gjelina

This restaurant on Venice’s uber hip Abbot Kinney really has it all- awesome outdoor seating, delicious seasonal cuisine and reasonable prices. When eating at the restaurant, you definitely feel like you’re in one of LA’s hippest spots but Gjelina manages to avoid the pretentiousness of many of the most sceney spots. The menu is great and includes wood fired oven pizza, small plates and entrees. I recommend reservations for dinner, although if you go late enough you may still be able to get in. It’s also a great spot for lunch.

1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
310-450-1429
www.gjelina.com

Pizzeria Mozza

I love wood fired oven pizza. In my eyes, the pizza served at this Hollywood hotspot is second only to Ken’s in Portland and the crust may even be a little bit better. A joint venture between Nancy Silverton (of LA’s famed LA Brea Bakery) and Celebrity Chef Mario Batali, Pizzeria Mozza really has perfected the art of the crust. It’s extremely crispy on the outside, but chewy and airy on the inside. The truffle cheese pizza is delicious as is all the other rustic Italian food. I also love the restaurant’s warm ambience complete with red walls and wood furniture. Pizzeria Mozza is a true start hangout. I saw Michael J. Fox and Shannon Doherty here on the same night (I know, quite the star sighting). If you want a table, reservations are an absolute must and they book up well in advance. Luckily the bar is reserved for walk-ins.

641 N. Highland Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-297-0101
www.pizzeriamozza.com

Cobras and Matadors

This little restaurant on Beverly serves delicious Spanish style tapas and best of all, it’s BYOB. They don’t serve liquor, but you can bring your own beer and wine and there’s no corkage fee. I love the steak with chimichurri and bacon wrapped dates.

7615 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-932-6178

El Carmen

This dark, Mexican style bar is known for its margaritas, but I also love the food. The menu is small, but they have all the Mexican staples I love, great guacamole, ceviche and tacos. It’s reasonably priced (even better during happy hour) and I like the dark intimate setting. It’s small. I recommend calling a head if you want a table.

8138 W. 3^rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-852-1552
www.elcarmenrestaurant.com

Kogi BBQ

A Kogi Taco Truck

We may have this taco truck to thank for the roving food cart trend we’re now seeing around the country. One of the first to post locations via Twitter, Kogi has a huge following and has spawned a ton of copycats, but few live up to the original. Kogi serves delicious Korean BBQ fused with Mexican. Dishes like short rib tacos and sweet chili chicken quesadillas pack a ton of favor. Luckily, there are now five trucks roaming around the streets of LA, so your odds of finding a location near you during the lunch hour are much better.

www.kogibbq.com

Loteria Grill

If you’re shopping at the Grove and get hungry, walk straight passed all the chain restaurants and head for this small outpost at the Grove Farmer’s Market. The LA institution is known for having some of the most authentic, yummy Mexican food around. The chicken mole tacos are delicious and I love all the different flavored agua frescas. It’s also cheap and fast, if it isn’t too busy.

6333 W. 3^rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-930-2211
www.loteriagrill.com

Varnish

The “hidden bar” trend seems to be catching on all over the country. My fiancé and I seek these places out on our travels and Varnish in downtown LA is definitely our favorite. From the creators of Milk and Honey, Varnish truly feels like an old speakeasy. It’s located in the back of Cole’s French Dip (the door to the bar is marked by a picture of a martini glass). Walk in and you’ll a find dim lighting, couples sitting in cool wooden booths and the most expertly made prohibition era cocktails you’ll find anywhere. If you get lucky, there may even be someone playing old standards on the antique piano.

118 E. 6^th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90014
213-622-9999
www.varnishbar.com

The Little Door and Little Next Door

This whimsical French/Mediterranean restaurant is a perfect date spot. Outside Tables at Little Next Door sit under an ivy-covered patio. The Little Door is the more expensive part of the restaurant and has a romantic courtyard setting. Prices at The Little Door are expensive, but luckily the brasserie, the Little Next Door, is more reasonable and serves delicious French staples like steak frites.

8164 W. 3^rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-951-1210
www.thelittledoor.com

Lemonade

Also on Abbot Kinney, Lemonade is a brilliant concept as far as I’m concerned. The décor is sort of American diner meets modern café. A dozen or so ready made salads are offered daily and people can order however much and whatever combination they like. Wash it down with a glass of fresh squeezed cucumber lemonade and you’ll have the perfect light lunch. I’ve only been to the Venice location but there are others throughout the city.

1661 Abbot Kinney
Venice, CA 90291
310-452-6200
www.lemonadela.com

Stay:

Petit Ermitage

I’ve been dying to stay at this boutique hotel in West Hollywood, that’s being billed as the fashionable and more affordable alternative to the Chateau Marmont. The décor is bohemian yet elegant. There’s even a rooftop pool.

8822 Cynthia St.
W. Hollywood, CA 90069
310-854-1114
www.petitermitage.com

Sunset Towers

This hotel is a bit more pricey, but if you can snag a good deal during a slow week you won’t be disappointed. Formerly the Argyle, the hotel was built in 1929 and is rich in Hollywood history (John Wayne, Howard Hughes, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and Frank Sinatra have all stayed here). The art deco building is newly remodeled and the West Hollywood location on Sunset can’t be beat.

8358 Sunset Blvd.
W. Hollywood CA 90069
323-654-7100
www.sunsettowerhotel.com

Maison 140

This small hotel is not far from LA’s famed Rodeo Drive but is decidedly unpretentious. The hotel is reminiscent of a Parisian Inn with a bit more modernism throne in. I love the bold patterns and black, white and red color palette. The 43- room hotel also has a great little bar in the lobby called Bar Noir. The cocktails are top notch and black and white films like Philadelphia Story are projected on the wall.

140 Lasky Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
310-281-4000
www.maison140beverlyhills.com

Shelter

This boutique hotel is a great find. Rooms start at just $89 night and are clean and modern. The hotel is located on a quiet street on the edge of Korea Town. It might seem like a strange location, but it’s actually great if you want to spend most of your time exploring LA’s hip new downtown hangouts or quirky Silver Lake.

457 Mariposa Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90020
213-380-6910
www.shelterhotels.com

Viceroy Santa Monica

The interior of this Santa Monica hotspot was designed by LA it decorator, Kelly Wearstler. It’s classic and sophisticated, yet thoroughly modern. The location is great if you want to spend your time in LA by the beach or browsing the cute shops on Abbot Kinney in Venice. The bar is also a scene Friday and Saturday nights.

1819 Ocean Ave.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
310-260-7500
www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com

Do:

Shop on Abbot Kinney Blvd.

You could easily spend a day browsing the cute shops on this quaint street in Venice. I love the absence of chain stores. Every shop seems to offer something unique and many of the stores sell locally made goods. Here are some of my favorites:

Bountiful-Home goods store that stocks the most amazing array of cake stands anywhere.

1335 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
310-450-3620
www.bountifulhome.com

Steven Alan-Simple but stylish clothes for men and women.

1601 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
310-452-3413
www.stevenalan.com

Elvino-Well thought out wine selection from around the globe, that isn’t too overwhelming.

1142 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
310-396-9705
www.elvinowines.com

Nightcap Clothing-This hot bohemian clothing line’s flagship boutique is on Abbot Kinney. Think sexy lace dresses and comfy but stylish loungewear.

1225 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
www.nightcapclothing.com

Run or Walk to Griffith Observatory

When we’re in LA, Justin and I usually run up to Griffith Observatory. It’s short but steep and kicks my butt every time. If you’d like a more leisurely activity, just walk up. Built in the 1930’s, the observatory’s unique architecture is something to behold and the view on a clear day is stunning. I also love exploring the neighborhoods around the park, which have lovely tree lined streets and beautiful historic homes.

Located in Griffith Park above the Los Feliz neighborhood.
www.griffithobsevatory.org

Get Lost at the Getty

The J. Paul Getty Museum houses European paintings, drawings and sculpture, but I think the modern white buildings and meticulously manicured grounds are also a work of art. Perched high atop a hill, the Getty has amazing views and is a stunning place to be at sunset. Admission to the museum is free, although parking costs $15. I recommend going after 5 pm Saturday for the Getty Center’s evening hours when parking is also free and the museum is open until 9pm.

1200 Getty Center Drive (Access is via the main gate on N. Sepulveda Blvd.)
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-440-7300
www.getty.edu

Dog and People Watch at Runyon Canyon

This is a great hike, not too far from the hip hotels on Sunset. One minute you could be having breakfast in West Hollywood and then the next, getting a dose of fairly fresh air hiking in the Hollywood Hills. On weekends it seems like everyone and their dog is here. I love seeing the different breeds and the steep trails make for a great workout.

2000 N. Fuller Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
323-666-5046
www.laparks.org

Bali

Ubud:

A path in Ubud

Located in the mountains, Ubud is artsy and lush. It’s the place to go if you want to see Bali’s famed rice paddies, eat amazing organic food and buy local art.

Stay:

Honeymoon Guesthouse

The rooms are done in a traditional Balinese style. It almost feels like you’re staying in a temple. It was reasonably priced and you get breakfast in your room. Cooking classes are also offered. They’re very popular so book ahread.

Jalan Bisma,
Ubud, Bali 80571
+62 361 973 282
www.casalunabali.com

Eat:

Casa Luna

The hotel’s restaurant. It’s on a different street. Justin and I had dessert there one night and thought it was really good. It also has a nice romantic atmosphere.

Jalan Raya,
Ubud, Bali 80571
+62 361 977 409
www.casalunabali.com

Homemade bread and beet dip at Sari Organic

Sari Organic

This is a must do! It’s an organic restaurant in the middle of a rice paddy. You have to walk to it, it’s about 20 minutes off the main road, but it’s worth it! They don’t have a website, so if you’re having trouble finding it, ask around.

800m down the Abangan Water Way
+62 0361 780 1839

Do:

Sacred Monkey Forest

Hike: There are lots of beautiful hikes through the rice paddies.

Seminyak/Leggian:

Seminyak is the most upscale town on the beach. There’s lots of great shopping and restaurants. Leggian is right next to it. It’s a little more crazy, but there are some nice places. I would not stay in Kuta, it’s very touristy.

Stay:

Tony’s Villa

It’s not far from the beach. It’s reasonably priced and has a nice pool.

Jl. Petitenget, Kerobokan Kuta
Seminyak, Bali 80361
+62 361 736 166
www.balitonys.com

Eat:

Ku De Ta at sunset

Ku De Ta

Expensive for Bali, but an amazing setting! It’s a restaurant right on the beach in Seminyak. It’s quite the scene at sunset. Picture beautiful people sitting on the manicured lawn drinking pitchers of Sangria watching the sun go down.

Jalan Kayu Aya 9
Seminak, Bali 80361
+62 361 736 969
http://www.kudeta.net

Grocer and Grind

Gourmet market and great place to get breakfast and coffee.

Jl. Kauy Jati 3x Petitenget Beach
Seminyak, Bali
+62 361 737 321
www.grocerandgrind.com

The Beach House

This is in Echo Beach, which is west of Seminyak. You’d have to take a taxi to get there. One of my favorite places to eat on the island. I liked it so much we ate there twice. It has amazing seafood and a cool, beachy vibe.

Jalan Pura Batu Mejan
Canggu, Bali
+62 (0361) 7474604
www.echobeachhouse.com

Do:

Tanah Lot

This is the most famous sea temple in Bali. It’s pretty touristy, but still worth doing. We went at sunset. Our pictures are amazing. Be sure to walk up the hill west of the Temple. There’s a great view of the coastline from there.

The Bukit Peninsula:

This part of Bali is more remote than other parts of the island. It’s absolutely beautiful and includes some of Bali’s most famous surf sports including Padang Padang, Dreamlands, and Uluwatu.

Stay:

Suara Ombak

I did not get to stay here, but Justin has and he loved it. This hotel is all inclusive and is made up of little cottages. A total surfer hangout, it’s directly above Bingin, a world class surf spot, a short scooter ride away from Uluwatu and Padang Padang and walking distance to Dreamlands Beach.

www.wavevoice.com
+62 361 742 8482

Eat:

Jimbaran Bay

This area is in between the southern part of Bali and Seminyak/Leggian. There are a bunch of seafood stalls right on the beach. It’s a pretty famous place to have dinner. You sit so close to the ocean, you may actually have to move your table to avoid getting wet if the tide is high.

Do:

Uluwatu

The sacred temple on the southern tip of Bali. I didn’t get to go here either but heard it was amazing. There are monkeys too!

Paris

Paris truly is a special place. Cute cafes, iconic landmarks everywhere you look and buildings that for the most part don’t exceed the height of the Arc de Triomphe. It all makes for an unspoilt view and an, I feel like I’m in a movie experience. For food lovers the city frankly can not be beat. I recommend getting around largely on foot, to hopefully ease your mind about indulging in all that rich french food.

Eat:

Le Chateaubriand

The 11^th best restaurant in the world as ranked by the S. Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, this is a must do if you’re in Paris. My fiancé and I had one of the best meals of our lives here. It’s simple, but extremely imaginative food served in a surprisingly unpretentious atmosphere. The interior is simple, French bistro, but the wait staff is some of the hardest working you will ever find. The fixed price menu changes daily and is very reasonable for a restaurant of this caliber. When we went, the five-course meal was 45 euros a person. Reservations are a must! Make sure to call way in advance. The word is out on this place!

129 Avenue Parmentier
Paris, 11e 75011
01 43 57 45 95

Le Comptoir and L’Avant Comptoir

I did not have the pleasure of eating at Le Comptoir while I was in Paris, but my sister, who lived there for nine months, told me it was one of her favorites. She says they have the best salted caramel ice cream she’s ever tasted.

I did eat at L’Avant Comptoir, though, the small next door take out creperie and wine bar. It offers sweet and savory crepes-some of the best I’ve ever had. My pick-nutella and banana, but the savory crepes were also outstanding.

Le Comptoir, which serves specialties from southwestern France, is impossible to get into for dinner without a reservation, so if you’re not able to plan ahead, go for lunch. For a quick bite while sight-seeing, L’Avant Comptoir is a great option!

9 Carrefour De L’Odeon
Paris, 6e 75006
01 44 27 07 97
www.hotelrsg.com

Les Coquettes

A Christian Constant restaurant, Les Coquettes serves delicious French food in a modern, unpretentious setting. Constant has several restaurants along this stretch of rue Saint Dominique and is known for great Parisian fare without the fussiness or high prices. At Les Coquettes, food is served in cast-iron dishes-think French comfort food. Reservations are not accepted, there’s not even a telephone.

135 r. St Dominique
Paris, 7e 75007
www.lesrestaurantsdeconstant.com

Pink Flamingo

This quirky pizzeria serves inventive pizzas like the Obama, and the Che (Cuban pork, cilantro and plantains). You can eat your pizza at the restaurant or take a pink balloon and a delivery person will find you when it’s ready, if you sit along Canal St. Martin. Below is the address for  the Pink Flamingo I went to, but more locations are opening allover Paris including the Marais, Aligre, and Montmartre.

Pink Flamingo Canal
67 rue Bichal
Paris, 10e
01 42 02 31 70
www.pinkflamingopizzeria.com

Rose Bakery

With two locations in Paris, Rose Bakery is a great place to stop for breakfast or lunch. The café’s are British run and have delicious pastries as well as salads, soups and risottos. Very popular, you may have to wait in line during peak hours. Closed Monday.

Rose Bakery, Le Marais
30 Rue Debelleyme
Paris, 3e 75003
01 49 96 54 01

Rose Bakery, Montmartre
46 Rue des Martyrs
Paris, 9e 75009
01 42 82 12 80

Stay:

Hotel Amour

I have not stayed here but I’ve heard great things about this quirky hotel is Paris’ 9^th Arrondissement. Not far from Montmartre, the Hotel Amour is a bit off the beaten path in Paris but not far from famous sights like the Sacre Coeur and the Moulin Rouge.  Each room is decorated differently and I’ve heard from friends who have stayed here hotel staff will even switch out furniture in your room while your away to keep things interesting.

8 Rue Navarin
Paris, 9e 75009
01 48 78 31 80
www.hotelamourparis.fr

Hotel Relais Saint Germain

This 4 star hotel is a bit pricey but beautiful and located on a quaint corner in Saint Germain. It’s also home to Le Comptoir and L’Avant Comptoir so great food awaits just steps from your room.

9 Carrefour de L’Odeon
Paris 6e 75006
01 44 27 07 97
www.hotelrsg.com

New York City

The Empire State Building

When I go to New York, I stay up later, stand on my feet more and eat more decadent food. I find the pulse of the city infectious and it gives me energy I didn’t know I had. While I often pay for it with a cold by the time I get home, I never regret taking full advantage of my trip to the NYC.

Super Secret Spots:

PDT

My fiancé loves this hidden bar inside gourmet hot dog shop, Crif Dogs. Access to PDT, which stands for Please Don’t Tell, is through a vintage

PDT is inside this gourmet hot dog shop

phone booth. You pick up the phone to speak to the hostess. If there’s space for you, they’ll let you through the back of the booth. It’s a trip! The sexy speakeasy serves classic cocktails and an abbreviated menu from next door. This bar has gotten pretty popular, so reservations are recommended.

113 St. Marks Pl.
New York, NY 10009
212-614-0386
www.pdtnyc.com

Kuma Inn

This restaurant on a nondescript Lower East Side street serves absolutely delicious Filipino Thai fusion. Located on the second floor of an apartment building, it’s a bit of a hidden gem. Dishes are served tapas style and are very affordable. It’s BYOB with a small corkage fee. We grabbed beers at a mini market around the corner, but feel free to bring sake or a bottle of wine. I recommend reservations. It’s a pretty small place.

113 Ludlow St. 2^nd Fl.
New York, NY 10002
Between Delancey and Rivington’212-353-8866
www.kumainn.com

Milk and Honey

This supper secret speakeasy is typically members only, but through some persistence, (and graveling) we were able to get in for a pre-dinner drink. Milk and Honey takes the prohibition theme seriously. There’s no menu, you just tell the waitress what type of spirit and flavors you like and the bartender will whip up one of the most expertly mixed cocktails you’ll ever have. Don’t do what I did and ask for vodka (apparently it wasn’t served during prohibition and adds no flavor to your drink so M&H doesn’t have it). I fear revealing the location just wouldn’t be right, but through online searching my fiancé and I were able to find contact info, so we encourage you to do the same.

Mexican style corn at La Esquina

La Esquina

This upscale Mexican restaurant is located deep inside New York’s iconic Corner Deli. Reservations must be made three weeks to the day of your desired time. When you get there, you’ll talk to a bouncer standing by an unmarked door in the deli. They’ll lead you downstairs, past the kitchen to La Esquina, the dark, sexy Mexican style brasserie. Margaritas are delicious as is the fresh, authentic cuisine. I love the grilled corn with cotija cheese and lime.

114 Kenmare (Between Kenmare and Lafayette)
New York, NY 10012
646-613-7100
www.esquinanyc.com

Angel’s Share

Tucked away inside a Japanese restaurant, this elegant bar is not easy to find but well worth a visit. There’s a strict no standing policy, so you’ll only be allowed in if seats are open. I recommend going early in the evening or mid week when it’s not so busy. If you get sat, hopefully it will be in one of the booths by the big window where you can stare at the hustle and bustle of the city. An absolutely ideal spot on a cold winter night!

6 Stuyvesant St., 2^nd Floor
New York, NY 10003
212-777-5415

Coffee/ Bakeries:

Baked

Baked in Red Hook

Getting to this bakery deep in Brooklyn’s Red Hook neighborhood is a bit of a trek, but worth it. Specializing in updates of old classics, their cupcakes, cookies and cakes (like the Sweet and Salty, layers of chocolate cake with salted caramel and chocolate buttercream) are all delicious. The Baked Brownie has been called the best by many, including Oprah. The Baked franchise also has two excellent cookbooks.

359 Van Brunt Street
Brooklyn, NY 11231
718-222-0345
www.bakednyc.com

Jack’s Coffee

Jack’s serves delicious fair trade, organic coffee on an adorable West Village Street. The space is small, but if you’re able to snag a table, it’s a great place to read the paper and grab your morning cup a Joe. The shop also serves delicious homemade pastries. The chocolate chip cookies are amazing!

138 West 10^th St.
New York, NY 10014
212-929-08-21
www.jacksstirbrew.com

Momofuku Milk Bar

David Chang’s New York City restaurants like the Ssam Bar and Ko have a cult like following, but my favorite Chang establishment is the Momofuku Milk Bar. This dessert haven is a kind of gourmet Dairy Queen with unusual soft-serve flavors like cereal milk, and candy bar pie. The cookies and cakes are also delicious. I highly recommend the banana cake, a heavenly concoction of banana cream, hazelnut crunch and fudge.

207 2nd Ave.
New York, NY 10003
212-254-3500
www.momofuku.com

Billy’s Bakery

Magnolia seems to get all the buzz, but I prefer Billy’s in Chelsea.  It has a similar old-fashioned feel and serves delicious classic American baked goods.  The cupcakes are extremely moist and I love the simple but well executed flavors like red velvet and banana with cream cheese frosting.

184 9^th Ave. (Between 21rst and 22nd)
New York, NY 10011
212-647-9956
www.billysbakerynyc.com

Lunch/Dinner:

Taim

Taim’s storefront in the West Village

This tiny shop in the West Village is all vegetarian and serves the best falafel sandwich. The hummus is pitch perfect and you can’t go wrong with any of their three different flavors of falafel. Have it in a pita or forgo the carbs and get a platter with a selection of Taim’s delicious salads. It’s cash only and there’s just a handful of seats at the counter. Taim also recently started a food truck that can often be found in Midtown Manhattan. Follow them on twitter to get the info on their latest location.

222 Waverly Place
New York, NY 10014
212-691-6101
www.taimfalafel.com

Pearl Oyster Bar

Being from the West Coast, I thought a lobster roll was some sort of sushi until a recent trip to New York. I now know it is one of the most delicious things on earth and I can’t imagine anyone does it better than the Pearl Oyster Bar. They’re lobster roll is served open faced on a buttery brioche roll and piled high with fresh lobster salad. At $26 the price is steep, but rest assured they won’t skimp on the lobster and it’s big enough to share. Everything else at this Greenwich Village staple from oysters to clam chowder is delicious and while we did not have dessert, we’ve heard great things about the hot fudge sundae.

18 Cornelia St.
New York, NY 10014
212-691-8211
www.pearloysterbar.com

Outside the Breslin

The Breslin

This upscale gastro-pub at the hip Ace Hotel recently earned its first Michelin star. Once you try dishes like pork belly and mash, it’s easy to see why. The food is interesting yet comforting and always a bit decadent. I love the thrice cooked chips, basically a twice baked potato in French fry form.

16 W. 29^th St.
New York, NY 10001
646-214-5788
www.thebreslin.com

Pulino’s Pizza

It’s taken me a while to find a wood-fired oven pizza place in New York that I think is on par with my faves on the West Coast, but this foots the bill. Like other Keith McNally restaurants (Pastis, Balthazar) Pulino’s really packs them in. Don’t be turned off by the huge neon sign out-front, the ambience inside is warm and inviting. I love the various antipasti platters served on wood cutting boards and the margherita pizza with prosciutto.

282 Bowery
New York, NY 10012
212-226-1966
www.pulinosny.com

Freeman’s

I love the location of this restaurant, tucked back at the end of an alley in the Lower East Side. Freeman’s specializes in seasonal rustic American cuisine and serves delicious entrees like roast chicken with crispy fried smashed fingerling potatoes and salsa verde. The restaurant is also popular for weekend brunch and only takes reservations for parties of six or more.

End of Freeman Alley between the Bowery and Chrystie
New York, NY 10002
212-420-0012
www.freemansrestaurant.com

Minetta Tavern

This Keith McNally owned bistro is sceney and spendy, but I love the history and the old school ambience. The Minetta Tavern originally opened in 1937 and was reportedly frequented for everyone from Ernest Hemingway to E.E. Cummings. The restaurant was renovated in 2008, and while it’s now much more shiny and upscale, the red booths and black and white floor still seem to harken back to the right era. Parisian steakhouse meets New York tavern, steak is really the specialty here but the Black Label Burger is also amazing. With prime dry-aged beef and caramelized onions, it’s probably the most decadent burger you’ll ever have.

113 MacDougal St. (Between Bleeker and W. 3^rd St.)
New York, NY 10012
212-475-3850
www.minettatavernny.com

Café Gitane

This cute café in the Jane Hotel is a rarity in New York, amazing food, great ambience and very reasonable prices. The food is French-Moroccan fusion. People come for the couscous, which is layered with hummus and stacked high. It’s decadent and delicious. I love the waiter’s black and white striped shirts and the beautifully restored spaces low key, yet hip atmosphere.

242 Mott St. (Between Houston St. and Prince St.)
Ne York, NY 10012
212-334-9552
website under construction

The Standard Hotel

The Standard

The uber swank Standard in New York’s Meatpacking district has two restaurants great for grabbing dinner or just drinks. The Standard Grill has a raw bar and yummy drinks like the Penny Drop, a concoction of vodka, ginger and lime. Next door, the Biergarten is perfect for getting rowdy. The large outdoor space under the High Line has German sausages, beer and pretzels and would be the perfect place to station yourself on a warm New York night.

848 Washington St.
New York, NY 10014
212-645-4100 (call for reservations at the Standard Grill)
www.standardhotels.com

Markets:

Chelsea Market

I would recommend just about any eatery in this indoor market in New York’s Meatpacking District. From crepes, to books to groceries, Chelsea Market has it all. You could easily do your shopping at the various gourmet markets or go for breakfast or lunch. Some of my favorite places include Sarabeth’s Kitchen, Friedman’s Lunch, and Bar Suzette.

75 9^th Ave. (Between 15^th and 16^th Streets)
New York, NY 10011
www.chelseamarket.com

Eataly

The latest brainchild of super chef Mario Batali, Eataly is a gourmet Italian market with a unique concept. Each section also includes it’s own restaurant. Eataly is a feast for the senses and can be a bit overwhelming, but is a must do for anyone who loves Italian food. In addition to having amazing eat in restaurants which serve anything from pizza to seafood, there are great take away items like hard to find pastas, baked goods and Italian wine and beer.

200 5^th Ave.
New York, NY 10010
212-229-2560
www.eatalyny.com

Stay:

Ace Hotel

Check-in at the Ace Hotel

Located neat the Theater District and Macy’s, the Ace is in a great central location.  The rates are cheap for New York and while the rooms are small, they’re well thought out and some even have views of the Empire State building. When you stay at an Ace, you really won’t want to spend too much time in your room anyways. You’ll have too much fun hanging in the plush lobby. Filled with comfy couches it’s sort of Hogwarts meets hipster. The Breslin restaurant, Stumptown Coffee Roasters and No. 7 Sub Shop are all in crawling distance. The Ace is also home to an Open Ceremony, a hip New York boutique famous for collaborating with different designers.

20 W. 29^th St.
New York, NY 10001
212-679-2222
www.acehotel.com

Jane Hotel

With rooms starting at $99 a night for singles with shared baths, the Jane is very affordable for New York. The hotel is in a great location in the quaint West Village right next to the Hudson River. Rooms are inspired by ships cabins, an homage to the hotel’s original purpose as a hotel for sailors. Built in the early 1900’s, the Jane is rich in history. In 1912, the survivors of the Titanic reportedly stayed there until the end of the American inquiry into the ship’s sinking. Like the Ace, the hotel’s bar and lobby, known as the Ballroom, is a cool hangout complete with comfy couches, Persian rugs and a fireplace.

113 Jane St.
New York, NY 10014
212-924-6700
www.thejanenyc.com

Do:

The exterior of the Guggenheim Museum

Visit a Modernist Masterpiece: The Guggenheim

Considered one of the 20^th centuries most important architectural landmarks, the Guggenheim is just as much a work of art as the pieces of art it houses. The museum was completed in 1959 and designed by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. While Wright did not live to see its completion, the modernist design is considered by many to be his masterpiece. Unlike your typical museum, visitors start at the top of the inverted ziggurat and work their way down. The museum features special exhibits in the grand rotunda as well as a permanent collection, which ranges from Impressionism to contemporary art.

1071 5^th Ave.
New York, NY 10128
212-423-3500
www.guggenheim.org

Walk the High Line

One of the most brilliant examples of repurposing I’ve ever seen, the High Line was originally built in the 1930’s to lift freight trains off the streets of Manhattan. Now it’s been transformed into an absolutely pleasant above ground city park. Complete with walking paths and naturalistic plantings, the High Line offers amazing views of the Hudson River and the city. When all sections are complete, the High Line will be a mile and a half long and will run through the Meatpacking District, Chelsea and Hell’s Kitchen. The High Line currently runs from Gansevoort St. in the Meatpacking District to West 34^th between 10^th and 11^th Avenues. Access is possible at Gansevoort St., 14^thSt., 16^th St. 18^th, St. and 20^th St.

212-500-6035
www.thehighline.org

The High Line

Head across the Bridge to Brooklyn

No longer Manhattan’s shy little sister, Brooklyn has really come into its own. Many of the coolest new bars and restaurants are opening in hipster haven Williamsburg. I still have a lot of exploring to do in this area and plan to do so on my next trip to the NYC, but I encourage you to take the L train to Bedford Ave. Get out and explore! For added adventure and exercise, try walking back to Manhattan via the Brooklyn Bridge.

Barefoot in the Park

A view from Central Park

I can’t go to New York without a visit to Central Park. I’ve walked through when the leaves are changing colors, on a frigid winter day and ridden a bike through during the peak of spring. It’s wonderful every time. There’s something truly magical about being surrounded by tranquility and natural beauty while still being able to see New York City Skyscrapers peeking out from behind the trees. I typically enter by the Plaza at 59^th and 5^th Ave., make my way past the pond, under Diprock arch and onto Belvedere Castle. I can’t leave without passing through Strawberry Fields, a memorial to singer John Lennon who was shot and killed outside the Dakota. The ornate German renaissance style apartment building is on the corner of 72^nd and Central Park West, and is also worth a look.

www.centralparknyc.com