Best U.S. Cities to Experience Culture

Posted on April 8, 2013 by sharper

These five are just a few of the favorite American cities where culture is never in short supply.

Ranking U.S. cities can be mind-boggling, when you consider categories ranging from the hippest spots in the U.S. to the best cities for families, for instance.

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If it’s culture you’re after in this country, then you might consider the long list of great locations for living an artistic life.

To save some time, we have scoured our sources and come up with a short list of cities where culture is not hard to find. You might want to check these out for yourself.

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Experience Arts and Culture in Long Island City, New York

Posted on October 8, 2012 by tpham

In Long Island City, art can be found in unique spots, like sculpture parks on the side of buildings.

Located just across the East River from Midtown Manhattan and the Upper East Side, the Queens neighborhood of Long Island City (LIC) is known for its waterfront parks and thriving arts community. From a growing community of artists to an outdoor sculpture park, Long Island City is rich in arts and culture, which is a change from the overwhelmingly industrial epicenter LIC once was. If you’re from New York or are just visiting, head over to the westside of Queens to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the arts and culture of Long Island City. Here’s our list of the top five must-see places.

5Pointz
This outdoor art exhibit is considered to be the world’s first “graffiti Mecca.” The 200,000-square-foot building houses artists’ studios, and it has been legally painted on by a number of graffiti artists. As 5Pointz is known as the epicenter of the graffiti scene, it has created a united culture of aerosol artists from across the world. If you’re taking the 7 train in, look out for 5 Pointz around the Court House Square station. The building is open to the public for tours, and while there, you can bump into prominent artists, musicians, DJs, rappers and dancers, as well as filmmakers and photographers.
Where: 45-46 Davis St., Long Island City, NY 11101

MoMA PS1
One of the largest and oldest institutions in the United States, MoMA PS1 is located in Long Island City and is dedicated solely to contemporary art. It is an affiliate of the Museum of Modern Art, and the PS1 in its name comes from the former public school in which the museum is housed. The museum is used mostly for an exhibition space, rather than a collecting institution. If you’re heading to the area around the summer, be sure to check out the Warm Up summer music series. For families, enroll your children in the MoMA PS1 Young Architects Program, an annual series of competitions that allows aspiring architects the opportunity to build projects designed around MoMA PS1’s facility.
Where: 22-25 Jackson Ave., Long Island City, NY 11101

Socrates Sculpture Park
Socrates Sculpture Park has come a long way since its days as an abandoned riverside landfill. It was transformed into an open studio and exhibition space for artists, as well as a neighborhood park for locals. Today, the park is dedicated to providing artists an area to create and exhibit large-scale sculpture and multimedia installations. To see the artwork for yourself, visit the sculpture park at any time from 10 a.m. until sunset. Admission is free.
Where: 32-01 Vernon Blvd. at Broadway, Long Island City, NY 11106

Gantry Plaza State Park
Take advantage of Long Island City’s views of Manhattan at Gantry Plaza State Park, a waterfront park on the East River. The 12-acre park offers picnic tables, a playground, fishing pier, playing fields and a waterfront promenade. Take a stroll along one of the park’s four piers or through the park’s gardens and mist fountain for a relaxing afternoon. Worried about having to leave Fido at home? No worries, as Gantry Plaza allows leashed dogs in the garden area near the South Gantry.
Where: 4-09 47^th Road, Long Island City, NY 11101

Hunters Point Neighborhood
When visiting Hunters Point, you’ll notice the East River waterfront, as well as the gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline. This neighborhood is the first stop on the #7 subway when entering Queens. A few musts in Hunters Point include MoMA PS1 and 5Pointz, but if you’re looking for a great meal, head over to Lounge 47 (47-10 Vernon Blvd., Long Island, NY 11101), which is a laid-back bar and restaurant featuring vintage ‘70s décor, as well as a great backyard garden. Another thing you’ll notice when visiting Hunters Point are the 19^th-centure brownstones that line 45^th Avenue between 21^st and 23^rd Streets.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/SeanPavonePhoto

Plan a Staycation around Norwich, New York

Posted on September 11, 2012 by ag-admin

Can’t get away for a vacation? Plan a staycation in Norwich with you family and enjoy the great outdoors.

With the start of fall right around the corner, the thought of upcoming vacations may have crossed your mind. But with high gas prices and not a lot of vacation time left, your dream of getting away may be just that – a dream. That doesn’t have to be the case, though, especially for residents of Norwich and surrounding New York cities. Whether you’re looking to vacation with your family, friends or by yourself, consider planning a staycation and stay local while taking a break from your everyday life. Here are a few ideas for staycationing in Norwich.

Golf
Grab your clubs and head out for a fun and challenging day on one of these courses. Get a foursome together and make friendly wagers – closest to the hole, hole-in-one and overall winner. Some courses also offer up gorgeous views, so if you find yourself looking for your ball in the middle of the woods, at least you have a great view. Practice your golf swing and head out to play a round.

Canasawacta Country Club: A challenging par 70 course, Canasawacta is open to the public. If you’re not happy with your golf game, you’ll be happy with the traditional and family-friendly atmosphere found in the clubhouse. 261 County Road 44, Norwich, NY 13815
Gold Rush Miniature Golf: Fun for the entire family, Gold Rush has various themes in the mini golf course, such as western, pirate and cartoon. To make things more interesting, there are various elements that add to the fun, including a pond, waterfall and windmill. 4853 State Route 233, Westmoreland, NY 13490

Northeast Classic Car Museum
For car enthusiasts in the Norwich, N.Y. area, there’s the Northeast Classic Car Museum. This educational facility collects, preserves, interprets and exhibits vehicles which are related to the evolution of transportation. You’ll find more than 150 classic and vintage vehicles in the museum, dating from the early 1900s through the early 1970s. Additionally, you’ll find WWI and WWII airplane engines, videos and more. 24 Rexford St., Norwich, NY 13815

Outdoor Activities
With the weather beginning to cool down, there is no better excuse to spend some time outdoors. Although all two square miles of Norwich is land, the Chenango River winds south along the eastern edge of the city, and the Canasawacta Creek flows south along the western border. Check out these outdoor activities:

Bowman Lake State Park: For a relaxing local getaway, plan a camping trip here. Close to 200 campsites are located on the 660 acres of Bowman Lake State Park. The lake itself is 35 acres and stocked annually with rainbow and brook trout. If you’re not sure about committing fully to an outdoor adventure, you’ll be glad to know that the park provides hot showers and bathrooms. Other activities include a swimming beach, paddleboats, hiking trails and picnicking. 745 Bliven Sherman Road, Oxford, NY 13830
Chenango Canal Nature Walk: Spend a day in Bouckville and hike five miles along the waters of the Chenango Canal. The trail runs from Woodman’s Pond to the corner of Elm Street and Canal Road. Fishing enthusiasts will be glad to know that the canal is a year-round destination for trout fishing, using artificial lures only. The canal is stocked with brown and brook trout. Route 20 and Canal Road, Bouckville, NY 13310

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/4×6

Best Baseball Parks

Posted on July 30, 2012 by ag-admin

What better way is there to spend summer than spending it with your family at a ballpark? Check out these must-see stadiums and cross it off your bucket list.

It’s summer, and we are well into baseball season. Summer plans may include visiting the ballpark with your family and having hot dogs, cheering on your favorite team and bonding with your kids. But if you’re a sports enthusiast, you know that there’s more to a ballpark than just some seats, cold brews and hot dogs; it’s about which park is rich in history, has lots to offer baseball fans and has unique features. Here’s our list of must-see baseball parks around the U.S.

Fenway Park, Boston
To get here, you may need to grab that Rolodex to see if you have a contact whose dad’s former boss inherited tickets from his or her grandma. OK, so it’s not that bad, but tickets sell out quickly for a Red Sox game and rightfully so. Fenway Park is celebrating its 100^th anniversary this year, and although the outfield is oddly shaped, this is a ballpark for baseball fans. The stadium has basically remained in the same style and shape since it was built. The experience you’ll get at Fenway is second to none; it’s a true baseball experience. Including the hand-operated scoreboard to “Green Monster” in left field, Fenway will create a memorable baseball experience for you. Learn the lyrics to “Sweet Caroline” and be sure not to wear any Yankees gear, and you’re set.
4 Yawkey Way, Boston, MA 02215

Camden Yards, Baltimore
This huge ballpark somehow creates an intimate experience for baseball fans. When Camden Yards was built in 1992, it set the standard on how modern day ballparks should be designed. Most of the new parks constructed after 1992 mimic Camden. The ballpark is located in downtown Baltimore, and it was constructed over an old railroad station. One of the most noticeable things about this park is the B&O Warehouse which creates a backdrop in right field. For the full Orioles experience, enter Camden Yards through the Eutaw Street entrance, where you can mingle with other fans, drink a few beers before the game and have a pit beef sandwich from Boog’s Barbecue. If you’re looking for the Maryland staple, crabcakes, you can grab a Maryland crabcake sandwich on Eutaw Street.
333 W. Camden St., Baltimore, MD 21201

AT&T Park, San Francisco
One visit to AT&T Park and you’ll understand why tickets are sold out almost every night. There really isn’t a bad seat in the house. To get a good view of all of the action from the game, check out the field seats. If you’re looking for a great view in addition to the game, sit on the second deck looking out toward right field. The views from these seats include San Francisco‘s McCovery Cove, the Bay Bridge and Oakland Coliseum. For the kids, the park includes a giant Coca-Cola bottle slide and a 26-foot by 30-foot wide baseball glove. And, if you want to commemorate your visit to the park, create a stuffed teddy bear at the Build-A-Bear Workshop in the outfield. Don’t forget to stop by Orlando’s and get an order of garlic fries.
24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94107

Wrigley Field, Chicago
One of baseball’s oldest ballparks, the home to the Chicago Cubs is a must-see for baseball fans. It has become a staple and a major part of Chicago’s landscape. The atmosphere is addicting. Whether the Cubs are winning or not, the fans come out and show their support. As for the stadium, you’ll notice the ivy walls that still grow on the outfield walls, and the scoreboard is still hand operated. Before entering the ballpark, check out the restaurants outside of the field where you’ll meet lots of die-hard Cubbies fans and learn more about why they still root for a team who hasn’t won a World Series in more than 100 years. Then, take a stroll around the park to see statues saluting greats such as Ernie Banks, Billy Williams, Ron Santo and Harry Caray. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see and hear a local legend or a famous Hollywood A-lister sing “Take Me Out To the Ballgame,” a tradition started by Harry Caray. Whatever you do, don’t bring up stories about goats, and if it looks like the outfielder can jump up and make the catch, try not to steal it from him.
1060 W. Addison St., Chicago, IL 60613

Yankee Stadium, New York
Although it’s home to a team that is the most hated in the MLB, Yankee Stadium is also a place where fans come together to share their love affair with baseball. The new Yankee Stadium is a re-creation of the old stadium, and it doesn’t seem like much has changed. The Yankees won their 27^th World Series the same year they played in the new Yankee Stadium. The Yankees may be one of the most hated teams, but they have played host to some of the most legendary players of the game, including Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle and Lou Gehrig. You can check out the history of those players, as well as other great Yankee teams and players from the past in the Yankees Museum, located inside of the ballpark. Trying to find the best seat in the house? You don’t have to worry about that; almost every seat offers a great view.
1 E. 161 St., Bronx, NY 10451

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/jgroup

Dig Into These Most Indulgent Foods

Posted on May 8, 2012 by ag-admin

Certain types of caviar can cost more than $5,000 per kilogram, making it an incredibly indulgent food.

With summer just around the corner, you might be kicking your diet and exercise routine up a notch in preparation for beach and bikini season. But every now and then, your hard work should earn a well-deserved break. In honor of Eat What You Want Day, which occurs on May 11, we’re highlighting some of the most indulgent (both calorie- and price-wise) food in the world. We’re not advocating that you use this day to eat everything in sight, rather to take advantage of this day to eat something you otherwise wouldn’t have. So grab a fork and knife and dig in to these outrageous eats.

Hamburger

Renowned chef Daniel Bouloud elevates burger making to an impressive albeit expensive art with his extravagant Royale at the ultra swanky DB Bistro Moderne in Manhattan. Bouloud takes a premium sirloin beef patty and stuffs it with red wine-braised short ribs, a thick slice of rich foie gras and black truffles. Served on a homemade poppy seed bun, this fancy feast is topped with a heaping helping of fresh black truffles. And for just $120, you can get one of your very own.

Where: DB Bistro Moderne, 55 W. 44th St., New York, NY 10036

Caviar

The most indulgent caviar in the world comes from a type of Iranian beluga called Almas. A pale amber color, it comes from sturgeons that are 60 to 100 years old. This type of caviar generally costs more than $5,000 per kilogram in the United States, making it the most expensive caviar in the world.

Omelette

Start your day off right with one of the most expensive omelettes in the world. New York’s Le Parker Meridien Hotel elevates your standard breakfast diner far into something that will run you about $1,000. This gigantic concoction (appropriately named the Zillion Dollar Frittata) comes piled with caviar and an entire lobster folded into its eggy mass. If you’re not feeling the price tag, a smaller version is available for $100.

Where: Le Parker Meridien Hotel, 119 W. 56^th St., New York, NY 10019

Chocolate

For the chocolate lover, there are fewer things in life finer than the chocolate truffle. The Chocopologie truffle tops as one of the most indulgent chocolates in the world at $2,600 per pound. For that price you might expect a chunk of gold in the middle, but this decadent morsel is composed of 70 percent Valrhona dark chocolate, heavy cream, sugar, truffle oil and vanilla. Then, a rare French Perigord truffle is enrobed in the ganache base and rolled in fine cocoa powder.

Where: Knipschildt Chocolatier, 12 S Main St., Norwalk, CT 06854

Spice

Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world, selling in recent years for as much as $2,700 per pound. The spice is so expensive because it has to be harvest by hand and it takes more than 75,000 threads of the crocus flower to amount to one pound of spice.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Jostaphot

Top Five Cities to Visit with Your Pet

Posted on April 16, 2012 by ag-admin

Fido loves to travel just as much as you do, so check out these great pet-friendly cities.

If you’re a pet owner, you know that some of the most rewarding experiences can be had when you travel with your pet. So read on to discover our list of the top five cities to visit with your pet.

Seattle

If you and your pet love the outdoors and historical points of interest, you’ll love knowing that Seattle is vibrant and full of things to do for pets and their owners. And this city’s residents have a devoted love for animals, making it one of the most pet-friendly cities in the United States

What to Do: For a quaint neighborhood vibe, take your dog to beautiful Green Lake, where you can stroll around an expansive lake in the heart of one of Seattle’s most charming and quiet neighborhoods. For a beautiful view, head out to Discovery Park, which is situated on Magnolia Bluff and offers spectacular views of the Puget Sound. You might even be treated to some wildlife sightings, as the neighboring waters and forests are home to harbor seals, California sea lions and Townsend’s chipmunks. If you’re hungry, chow down on some good eats at Norm’s Eatery and Ale House on 36^th St., a laid-back pub that was named after a dog and welcomes pets.

Where to Stay: The Pensione Nichols Bed and Breakfast on 1^st Ave. in downtown Seattle is one of the most pet-friendly accommodations in the city, as dogs and cats of all sizes are welcome to stay.

San Francisco

While it’s true that San Francisco was a revolutionary city in the counterculture movement in the 1960s, its attitude toward pets and pet owners is also impressive. In fact, in an effort to discourage unethical puppy and kitten mills, the city’s Animal Control and Welfare Commission is looking to outlaw pet sales in Richmond County.

What to Do: San Francisco’s natural beauty and vibrant, laid-back vibe makes it a winner for travelers and their pets. The city is a veritable playground, so start off at Point Isabel Regional Shoreline, located in the nearby suburb of Richmond. This dog park is the largest one of its kind in the country, with more than 20 acres of pet-friendly lawns, leash-free beaches and pet-friendly restaurants like the Sit & Stay Café. And of course you’ll want to check out the city’s most famous landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge. You and your pet are welcome to take a stroll across this iconic piece of architecture. You and your four-legged friend can also hop on a cable car and take a tour of the city.

Where to Stay: While there are a ton of great hotels for you and your pup to hang your head, you’ll want to book a room at the Hotel Monaco on Geary Street near Union Square, which elevates the experience of a night’s stay. Both dogs and cats receive beds and toys in addition to specialized, in-room menus. You can also take part in the Guppy Love program, which loans you a complimentary goldfish to keep you company in your room.

Portland

It may surprise you, but Portland is more than just a hipster paradise. This jewel of the Pacific Northwest is also a laid-back, eclectic melting pot of different cultures and lifestyles and is very accepting of animal lovers.

What to Do: As one of the most pedestrian-friendly city, Portland has the most dog parks per capita in the country at 31, according to Forbes. If you happen to be in town in the fall, head on over to the pet-centric festival, Dogtoberfest, which is a dog-washing charity event that now features a street fair with live music and locally brewed beer. And speaking of beer, head to the Lucky Labrador Brewing Company, which is a great place for beer-loving folks and their pets. The craft brews have dog-inspired names and cater to all palates. If you need a pick-me-up, check out the Iron Mutt Coffee Company to get a caffeine fix while your pup enjoys a complimentary biscuit.

Where to Stay: There’s no shortage of pet-friendly hotels in this city, but downtown Portland’s Heathman Hotel really knows how to pamper your pet. Your pet will be treated to such perks as the “Bark of Sleep” pet bed menu and an exclusive walking tour of the city. Not only that, but all four-legged guests receive a complimentary physical examination voucher with their stay, redeemable at any Banfield Pet Hospital nationwide.

Austin

While “pet-friendly” might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Austin (“Live Music Capital of the World” or “Food Truck Central” might be up there), but this vibrant southwestern city in the Lone Star State is incredibly welcoming of your four-legged friends.

What to Do: Austin is known for its sunny, warm weather, so you’ll definitely want to spend some time outside. The city has 12 off-leash parks where dogs can run and play. If your pup gets a little too hot, let him cool off in the natural creek in Bull Creek District Park and Greenbelt on Lakewood Drive. If you visit Austin in the summer, you and your pooch can head to downtown’s Zilker Park and check out a concert or fun festival, or tour the city in a historic horse-drawn carriage, where your dog is welcome to ride, too. With all this fun, you’re bound to work up an appetite, so head on over to B.B. Rover’s Café and Pub, which offers covered outdoor seating and water bowls for thirsty pups.

Where to Stay: Stay in the heart of downtown and treat your pet to some southern hospitality at The Driskill. The “Pampered Pet Program” provides a comfortable pet bed and designer doggie dishes in your room, as well as bottled water and gourmet treats from the 1886 Café & Bakery. And when you’re ready to explore the town, the concierge desk can provide you with city maps that highlight pet-friendly areas, leashes and collars.

New York

According to PetTravel.com, there are more than 120,000 dogs living in the Big Apple. So, obviously, the city that never sleeps is well-equipped for travelers and the pets traveling with them. This big and bustling city has so much to do, from the shops to the subway, and your pet is invited along every step of the way.

What to Do: Obviously, you’ll want to start off at the heart of New York: Central Park. Here, your pup can run and play while you engage in some great people watching. For some pooch-specific fun, make the trek out to Long Meadow Dog Beach in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park, where your dog can swim and have fun. Let Fido strut his stuff as you tour the city on the NYC Dog Walking Tour, which visits neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, Soho, Lower East Side and Little Italy. If you can afford it, treat your dog to a day of pampering, as New York has some of the best holistic pet stores, deluxe pet salons and posh doggie day care centers around.

Where to Stay: If you want to stay in the heart of it all, splurge on a room at The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, smack dab in the hustle and bustle of the city. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure both you and your pet are comfortable.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/ktmoffitt

Best Places to Eat Seafood

Posted on September 19, 2011 by ag-admin

Indulge in crab, fish, shrimp, oysters or lobster at the best seafood restaurants in the country.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/maribee

In New England, nearly every restaurant menu has “award-winning clam chowder” on the menu, which may cause you to second-guess its credibility. While the area is known for its fresh clams, lobster and crab, finding the ultimate seafood restaurant may not be as easy as wandering into the place next to your favorite pub. For the best seafood the country has to offer, throw out the anchor at one of the following restaurants. Naturally, they’re all located on the Atlantic, Pacific or Gulf coasts.

Le Bernardin
What: For high-end seafood dining perfection, put eating at Le Bernardin on your bucket list. At the helm of this three-Michelin star restaurant is French native Eric Ripert, whose accidental takeover of the executive chef position in 1994 soon earned the restaurant its “Temple of Seafood” nickname. Indulge in the Japanese blue fin tuna, escolar, crispy black bass and wild Alaskan salmon cured with yuzu. Three-course tasting menus start at $70.
Where: 155 W 51st St., New York, NY 10019

Faidley Seafood
What: Quite the opposite of Le Bernardin, Faidley is a seafood market and no-frills restaurant (items are served on disposable plates), but the out-of-this-world jumbo lump crab cake is all you’ll be looking at. The crab is still lumped together when it’s fried, barely bound together with a hint of mayonnaise and batter, pieces of crab quite visible from the outside. The cream of crab soup also has visible chunks of crab in it, and the raw bar serves fresh oysters, clams – and ice-cold beer to wash it all down with.
Where: 200 N. Paca St., Baltimore, MD 21201

Swan Oyster Depot
What: Seafood salads are on the pricey side here, but you’ll get your money’s worth with shrimp, prawns, crab, a combination of the latter three or lobster on lettuce with Thousand Island dressing. Try the various, generously-portioned seafood cocktails, from crab to shrimp to clams, with house-made cocktail sauce. For the budget-conscious, order a bowl of the seawater-salty clam chowder for less than $5 and add a side of bread for $1, or split a salad with a friend and order a cup of the chowder.
Where: 1517 Polk St., San Francisco, CA 94109

Neptune Oyster
What: The quintessential lobster roll is the star here, and at $25, it’s worth the price. Instead of tossed with mayonnaise, the huge pieces of lobster are drizzled with hot drawn butter on a butter-toasted roll. While the clam chowder doesn’t claim to be the best in the city, it just may be (how’s that for irony?), with a more brothy, less creamy base than most, which makes the fresh clams and still-firm vegetables stand out even more.
Where: 63 Salem St., Boston, MA 02113

Hunt’s Oyster Bar and Seafood
What: On the other side of fancy, Hunt’s is a true dive bar. But you’ll hardly notice the digs when you dive into oysters on the half shell, sautéed crab claws, seafood platter with grouper, shrimp and scallops, crab cakes or any of the baked oyster choices: with butter and parmesan, three cheese, three-cheese Cajun or three-cheese jalapeno. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the frog legs and fried gator tail.
Where: 1150 Beck Ave., Panama City, FL 32401

Pike Place Chowder
What: With a name that includes the word “chowder,” you can probably guess what the specialty is here. But not just limited to New England-style clam chowder (though it’s exceptional), Pike Place Chowder also has seafood bisque, smoked salmon chowder, Manhattan-style chowder and seared scallop chowder, which you can order straight-up or in a sourdough bread bowl. The restaurant is also known for its Dungeness crab roll, filled with fresh crab and dressed with mayonnaise, celery and lemon juice and served with coleslaw. Fish ‘n chips baskets in cod, salmon or halibut are also a must-try.
Where: 1530 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101

5 Best Places for a Girls’ Getaway

Posted on September 15, 2011 by ag-admin

Kick back with your favorite girlfriends at one of the destinations below.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/lisegagne

You and your girlfriends have done countless road trips to the beach, bar crawls and nights at the club in your hometown. When it’s time to shake things up, cash in your frequent flyer miles and head off to a destination that’s decidedly you and your best friends, whether you’re the type who likes to party, shop, explore, relax or just laugh and talk. Check out our suggestions below for the best girlfriend getaways.

Best Party Destination – Miami, Fla.
If you have a friend getting married, Miami is the place to take her and her girlfriends to party before the big day. During the day, shop in or lounge on South Beach, or browse the boutiques at Ball Harbour Village, CoCoWalk in Coconut Grove or the Great Streets of South Beach. Go all out at Michy’s (but make reservations first), the upscale French bistro run by frequent “Top Chef” guest judge Michelle Bernstein. The spas, such as the Biltmore Hotel Spa, Serenity Aveda Day Spa and Mandarin Oriental Spa, and nightclubs, such as the Mansion, Buck 15 and Purdy, are plentiful in Miami.

Best Place to Shop – Manhattan, New York City, N.Y.
For high-end shopping, you can’t beat Manhattan in New York, with the original Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, as well as Fifth Avenue for high-end, hard-to-find items and luxury department stores Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and Barneys. Or shop SoHo, a neighborhood in Lower Manhattan that has boutiques featuring designs by local artists, as well as chain stores H&M, J. Crew and Prada. The famed Manhattan Mall, where the Gimbel’s flagship store was located, is on 34th Street, as are multiple chain stores. Stay and enjoy a Waldorf salad at the Waldorf-Astoria on Park Avenue to be in the hotel that’s been the filming location for countless movies, including “Serendipity,” “Maid in Manhattan” and “Scent of a Woman.”

Best Adventurous Getaway – Island of Kauai, Hawaii
When budget isn’t a factor, venture off to Kauai, the oldest of the Hawaiian islands. Take in the sparkling blue water at the 50 miles of beaches from Poipu Beach to Hanalei Bay, explore flourishing gardens and rainforests, snorkel amongst the reefs off Kee Beach and Haena Beach Park, hike the trails of Kokee State Park or zipline above Kauai’s emerald green valleys. You’ll also love wandering through the islands’ many charming small towns, such as the historic Old Koloa Town on the South Shore, Hanalei Town in North Shore or Kappa Town on the East Side (Coconut Coast). Stay at Ko’a Kea Hotel and Resort, a luxury hotel and spa on Poipu Beach on the South Shore, or indulge in a villa at the Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas with fully equipped kitchens, whirlpool tubs, DVD players and more.

Best Wellness Retreat – Sedona, Ariz.
Set against a gorgeous painted-desert backdrop in hues of purple, terra cotta, robin’s-egg blue, pink, orange and green, your soul may feel at ease just driving into the city limits of Sedona, Ariz. From there, you have your choice of spa resorts in the area, such as Canyon Ranch, a 70-acre wellness resort with yoga, dance, water aerobics and Pilates classes, massages, facials and health-minded food in controlled portions. Or, stay at Sedona Rouge Hotel and Spa, which has a Girlfriends Getaway package. If you’d like to see more views of Sedona’s stunning red rocks, hike through Coconino National Forest, where you’ll see them best.

Best Place to Unwind – Kennebunkport, Maine
The coastal New England town of Kennebunkport, Maine, is located just 20 miles south of Portland and 85 miles north of Boston, Mass. Historically a shipbuilding and fishing village, Kennebunkport is a myriad of laid-back shops, stately New England homes, art galleries, bed and breakfasts and seafood restaurants. You and your friends can book rooms in the Main House or waterfront cottages of the White Barn Inn and Spa, an award-winning, 150-year-old hotel, restaurant and spa. Dine in the AAA, Five Diamond White Barn Inn Restaurant for breakfast and dinner; groups of 10 to 15 can reserve the wine cellar for dining. The restaurant’s use of seasonal ingredients, elegant, understated charm and extensive wine list will have you saying “Ahh” in no time.

Best Pizza in the U.S.

Posted on August 25, 2011 by ag-admin

Each American eats 46 slices of pizza per year. Discover where the best places in the U.S. to grab a slice are.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/ShyMan

Hot, cheesy, gooey and satisfying, pizza is the ultimate comfort food, even though pizza patrons are divided on which style is the best. Whether you like New York-style, deep-dish, Neapolitan, thick or thin crust, you don’t have to visit Italy to find amazing pizza. In fact, no matter where you are in the U.S., you’re probably close to one of the best places to down a slice (or a whole pie) of crispy, chewy, delicious pizza. See below for our picks for the best pizza in the U.S.

Antico Pizza
Why: Inspired by a visit to the owner’s grandmother’s native village just outside of Naples, Antico Pizza features true Neapolitan pizza. Antico Pizza is crafted from ingredients imported from Napoli and Campania, such as buffalo mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes and Italian extra virgin olive oil. The pizza, which comes in one size, is cooked at 900 degrees in stone ovens, which leave the crust with the perfect amount of char. Favorites include the San Gennaro, with roasted red peppers, cipollini onions and sausage; the Margherita, the classic combination of tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, basil and garlic; and the spicy Diavola, with pepperoni, spicy red peppers and mozzarella.
Where: 1093 Hemphill Ave. NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

Rosario’s Deli
Why: Both an Italian market and deli, Rosario’s has pizza by the slice. Lines may be long, but they’re worth it for the handmade, house-made mozzarella and salami. Owner Rosario often claims that the pizza is so good because he makes what he likes to eat, and it shows. Order anything with sausage, salami, prosciutto and/or roasted red peppers, as they make them all in the back of the store. Take home some of the ingredients used in the pizza from the market, and if you have any questions about anything Italian food-related, ask Rosario – he’s an expert.
Where: 2255 31st St., Astoria, NY 11105

De Lorenzo’s Tomato Pies
Why: Pizza joints are a dime a dozen in New Jersey, but De Lorenzo’s has a welcoming, family feel, in addition to fantastic pizzas. Open only Thursday through Sunday, De Lorenzo’s Italian-style thin crust and BYOB policy has patrons lining up outside the door. Since the crust is thin, the toppings aren’t heavy or excessive; rather, the pizza shines in its simple, fresh ingredients. Try the sausage, pepper and onion combination, or for something different, try the clam pie, either white or red (though the red is the local favorite of the two).
Where: 530 Hudson St., Trenton, NJ 08611

Palermo Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria
Why: Could it be that the best pizza in Chicago isn’t deep-dish? The answer is yes and at Palermo Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria. Thin-crust pies rule at Palermo, and the secret’s in the slightly sweet sauce. Go for the in-house made sausage and mushroom pizza – and like the other options, it will be piled high with melted cheese. If you’re from out of town and want to take some home, order your favorite pizza half-baked and freeze it. Palermo’s also serves deep-dish, Chicago-style pizzas (called “stuffed pies” here), though the thin crust receives higher accolades.
Where: 3751 W. 63rd St., Chicago, IL 60629

Kylie’s Chicago Pizza
Why: Chicago-style pizza in Seattle? Believe it. Kylie’s piles the toppings high but evenly on the crunchy-chewy crust, and then tops that with a mound of tomato sauce. Order the 63 Bacon, with sausage, bacon, onions and jalapenos, or the Carnivore, with pepperoni, sausage, ham, bacon and chicken. If you’re vegetarian-inclined, the Mediterranean is full of flavor with artichoke hearts, red bell peppers, green olives, onions and feta.
Where: 3601 Fremont Ave. N, Seattle, WA 98103

9th Street Pizza
Why: Find New York-style pizza at this West Coast location that serves up hand-tossed dough-turned-crisp, thin, slightly chewy crust. Go traditional here and order the plain cheese, garlic-tomato-basil with cheese or pepperoni – the idea is not to pile the toppings too high so you can master the perfect New York-style fold. The slices are big, floppy and cheap here, served on parchment paper set on top of a paper plate, so if you’re a native New Yorker, 9th Street Pizza may feel like home.
Where: 231 E 9th St., Los Angeles, CA 90015

Little Deli and Pizzeria
Why: Serving up super-fresh ingredients, Little Deli and Pizzeria rules for New Jersey-style pizza in Austin. The crust is traditional hand-tossed, which turns into crispy, ever-so-slightly charred air pockets when baked on two-inch stone hearths. Order the pepperoni and cheese if you’re feeling nostalgic for the New Jersey days of the 1960s, and if you’re feeling adventurous, go for the white pizza, loaded with spinach, artichokes, roasted garlic, olive oil, mozzarella and ricotta, or the Bacon Blue pie – which needs no explanation. Little Deli is pet-friendly and has a BYOB policy.
Where: 7101-A Woodrow Ave., Suite K, Austin, TX 78757

Top 6 Cities to Reinvent Yourself

Posted on August 19, 2011 by ag-admin

Known for its residents' active lifestyle, Boulder, Colo., is a great place to reinvent your fitness routine.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/epicurean

From bad breakups to a dead-end job market or even just a change of lifestyle, the reasons that people have for wanting to ditch their “old life” and start a new one are endless. Whether you just graduated college and are looking to begin a career or you just want a fresh start in a new town, here are some great cities that are conducive to the art of self-reinvention that will fit your next stage of life.

Best City for Single Men
New York
If you have ever complained that there are no single women to date in your town, maybe you should consider moving to New York. According to a recent singles map of the United States from the Boston Globe, the best cities for single men are large metro areas located on the East Coast and Midwest. The best city for single men is New York City, where single women outnumber single men by more than 210,000.

Best City for Single Women
Los Angeles
Ladies, if you are tired of dating hand-me-down men in a market ruled by women, move west where the odds are stacked in your favor of finding “Mr. Right.” According to the latest data by the US Census Bureau, Los Angeles has 90,000 more single men than women. If you are looking to reinvent your love life, you can certainly reposition yourself in Los Angeles as a hot commodity.

Best City for Starting a Family
Virginia Beach, Va.
Perhaps you are looking to reinvent your life with a family in mind. In this case, a low crime rate, good schools, many parks and fun activities are key attractions. According to US News and World Report, Virginia Beach is just the place you are looking for. The city has the most playgrounds of any city in the United States and has 14 miles of free beaches to let your kids run wild. Your kids can explore an impressive ecosystem of species in the 9,000-acre Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which includes bald eagles and loggerhead sea turtles.

Best City for Starting a Career
Houston
According to Forbes Magazine, Houston is among the nation’s best cities to begin a career. Home to some of America’s strongest big and small companies, Houston attracts the country’s most talented professionals in the nation. Yahoo Hot Jobs ranks Houston as a top job city because it is considered a leader in the oil and gas industry, and a major health services center. Not only is Houston a good city to reinvent yourself for a new career, but it is also a good place to shop, eat out and enjoy a quality lifestyle that is for the most part, affordable.

Best City for Staying Active and Healthy
Boulder, Colo.
If you are turning over a new leaf and want to reinvent yourself as a health nut, consider moving to Boulder for maintaining a happy and healthy lifestyle. According to a recent Gallup poll of more than 353,000 Americans, Boulder ranks as the as the “happiest and healthiest” city in America. Western cities have long been ranked as healthy in terms of active adults and healthy lifestyle, but Boulder seems to take the cake this year based on key factors such as health status, nutrition and exercise, mental health and life balance.

Best City for Retiring
Las Cruces, N.M.
Retirement is the perfect opportunity to reinvent yourself. Take your hard-earned savings and start a new life to enjoy your golden years. Located in balmy southern New Mexico, Las Cruces is the perfect town to do just that. Who says retirement has to be boring? Many retirees consider this college town the perfect blend of activity and leisure. This city is for active adults who like living in a dry climate with very picturesque scenery. Plus, affordable housing means you can stretch your retirement dollars for years to come. There are plenty of cultural events to keep you busy and if you are interested in working during your retirement years, you can always pick up a part-time job.

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