Hyper-Local Tours in NYC

Having recently played “tourist” in my own hometown (see previous post), I felt inspired to explore more of New York from an out-of-towner’s perspective. I’ve already done the Circle Line cruise, all the major museums, a city bus tour, and even a bike trip through Harlem, so I was looking for a new take on the city I’ve spent most of my adult life working in.

Though it’s no secret that Brooklyn has become New York’s hot new hang out, I know relatively little about the borough. My family and I once took a tour of the Dyker Heights Christmas lights, but that was a few years ago. It was high time for another trip to this part of the city, but I needed something kid friendly? That’s when I stumbled upon Turnstile Tours.

My older son is very much into engineering and has a keen interest in ships and old military boats, so touring the Brooklyn Navy Yard was not going to be a hard sell. We set out on a beautiful spring day and joined Turnstile’s founder Cindy VandenBosch to spend a couple of hours exploring this 300-acre historical landmark.

Cindy VandenBosch leads a tour of the Brooklyn Navy Yard. (Photograph courtesy Turnstile Tours)

In all honesty, if I were to drive by the place on my own, I probably wouldn’t have paid it much notice. Old dry docks that once thrived during the Civil War are mostly empty, industrial cranes surround the skyline, and a creepy-looking old naval hospital annex stands frozen in time.  So what’s the big deal?

Like the rest of Brooklyn, this area is going through an aggressive transformation. Yes, there is still some maritime business going on, but what makes this place so intriguing is the progressive new “green” architecture and industrial development that’s happening here. And if we hadn’t had a guide to explain everything, we never would have appreciated the full story.

Ultimately, the highlight of this excursion, and the key to any successful tour, is the guide. Cindy was not only extremely knowledgeable about all things Brooklyn Navy Yard, she’s a passionate and engaging storyteller.

As we cruised from one location to the next in our special Navy Yard bus, Cindy told us about what life had been like for the immigrants who came here to build a new life. Listening to her made me realize that sometimes it’s really the history of a place, rather than the attractions itself, that makes it truly worth visiting.

If you have younger children (ages 6-13), the company offers a special hour-long tour for families that makes learning fun and interactive. Basically, it’s one big scavenger hunt with a series of hands-on demonstrations to help kids understand what the Brooklyn Navy Yard is all about. Given the company’s hyper-local focus, it came as no surprise that most people who take the tour are from NYC.

John Lee and his Bapcha Korean food cart on 49th Street. (Photograph by Jennifer Strader)

As we said our goodbyes, Cindy told me about some of Turnstile’s other unique offerings, including an “Immigrant Foodways Tour“of Brooklyn and a “Food Cart Tour” in Midtown. When my son, who like many teenage boys eats his parents out of house and home, heard the word food cart, his eyes lit up.

Being curious, I found myself on yet another Turnstile tour less than a week later. Our guide Andrew Gustafson, a historical researcher, geographer, and cartographer, who also happens to blog about a wide range of topics relating to New York City’s history, led our small group (consisting mostly of tourists from Australia and Denmark) around Midtown Manhattan.

We spent two hours eating our way from Rockefeller Center to 42nd Street. Braving the cold spring wind was a small price to pay for the chance to sample street fare from Trinidad, Korea, Bangladesh, Mexico, and Belgium — with Gustafson’s take on the history of the New York City’s food-cart culture as a soundtrack.

As we walked and talked between “meals,” I was struck by just how many food carts I saw. Funny how I never really took notice before. I would learn that there are, in fact, about 2,800 legally licensed (and highly regulated) vendors around the city. That’s a lot. I would also learn more about the fascinating folks who run these small businesses and the unique set of challenges they face.

Andrew explained how the tour helps support the Street Vendor Project, an organization that provides legal representation and other useful resources to the nearly 20,000 people who make a living selling “street food.”

So after a tough (and filling) afternoon of research, I concluded that this very atypical tour was well worth the effort — for my family, and for others who want to dig a little deeper while they’re in New York. Best of all, if you’re in the city with the kids, besides maybe saving you some money, you won’t have to worry about finding a family-friendly restaurant and keeping the kids entertained –- at least for one afternoon.

Hyper-Local Tours in NYC Andrew Gustafson , brooklyn , Brooklyn Navy Yard , Candy VandenBosch , Circle Line , Food Cart Tour of Midtown , Food Carts , new york city , Preferred Family , Rainer Jenss , Street Vendor Project , Turnstile Tours

I Heart My City (in the Spring)

There’s still a chill in the air here in Washington, D.C., but the days are getting longer, the cherry blossoms are starting to pop, and residents are beginning to shed those cumbersome winter coats. Spring is upon us (at least for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere), and we’re embracing it with open arms by highlighting seasonal must-dos from our amazing I Heart My City community.

From ice cream to air shows, palaces to train rides, here are 20 ways to make the most of the next few months in 20 cities around the globe:

Shelly’s Oxford (United Kingdom): Head to nearby Wytham Woods to see the bluebells at their finest.

The Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, on the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace. (Photograph by Ncburton, Flickr)

Megan Natalie’s Seoul (South Korea): Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace’s gardens to experience a piece of paradise you’d swear couldn’t exist in Seoul (make sure to watch the changing of the guards).

Ewelina’s Krakow (Poland): Take a walk to Krakus Mound at Podgórze; a nice, green hill where you can take a blanket and relax.

Annie Fitzsimmon’s NYC (United States): Celebrate the bounty of post-winter produce and eat anything with ramps on it because they’re only in season for a few weeks! Motorino has a great ramp pizza, and ABC Kitchen never fails with its in-season menu.

Keith Bellow’s Montreal (Canada): Hang around near McGill and Prince Arthur, soaking up the sun and the street life.

Anya’s Istanbul (Turkey): Visit Topkapi Palace. The flowers are in bloom and it’s positively stunning.

Katherine’s Athens (Greece): Take a bus to Cape Sounion, the ancient ruins of Poseidon’s temple. On the short bus ride from Athens, you’ll wind along the coast and enjoy some of my favorite views.

Berlin’s Boxhagener Platz flea market is open on Sundays. (Photograph by La Citta Vita, Flickr)

Madeleine’s Annapolis (U.S.): Check out the Blue Angels air show at the United States Naval Academy commencement.

Maja’s Belgrade (Serbia): Go to Zemun in Old Town and have lunch at one of the fish restaurants on the Danube.

Colleen’s Beijing (China): Fly kites by Houhai Lake.

Zain’s Amman (Jordan): Pack a picnic and visit the Hellenistic site known as Iraq Al Amir.

Shannon Switzer’s San Diego (U.S.): Check out the wildflowers in Anza Borrego Desert State Park.

Yvonne’s Berlin (Germany): Explore Berlin’s many flea markets to find great vintage clothes, furniture, books, and local art.

Sylvia’s Tokyo (Japan): Go for hanami (cherry-blossom-viewing parties) in a park with a big group of Japanese friends, some beer, and some sushi.

Jessica’s Barcelona (Spain): Experience a traditional Catalan calçotada which consists of getting together and eating large quantities of local green onions known as calçots along with romenesco sauce, regional wine, and good company.

Hang out outside Vienna’s MuseumsQuartier. (Photograph by Photongatherer, Flickr)

Jennifer’s Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates): See Abu Dhabi from the water. Hire a dhow (traditional wooden boat) for a tour, charter a speedboat to take you to one of the 200 islands off the main island, or kayak amongst the mangroves.

Karen’s St. John’s, Newfoundland (Canada): Watch the last ice depart from the Atlantic from atop Signal Hill National Historic Site. Check out the on-site gift shop where local music, books, and culinary delights make excellent gifts.

Isabel Eva’s Madrid (Spain): Take a trip on the Tren de la Fresa to Aranjuez. During the 50-minute ride, you will be served fresh strawberries. Once in Aranjuez, you can take a tour of the Museo del Ferrocarril (the railway museum) and the Palacio Real (the royal palace).

Lea’s Vienna (Austria): Do as the locals do and head to the MuseumsQuartier to hang out on one of the over-sized flexible furniture elements called Enzis.

Nat Geo’s Washington, D.C. (U.S.): Check out the National Arboretum and Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens, two of D.C.’s hidden gems.

Wherever you are, what’s your favorite thing about your city in the springtime? Tell us about it in the comment section below.

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The World’s Best Neighborhoods for Spotting Street Art

Stumbling upon vibrant street art may seem like you’re digging for a needle in a haystack but it’s actually easier than you think, especially if you know where to look. Many cities where street art culture flourishes have one or two neighborhoods where street artists tend to leave their mark. From Bogotá’s colorful La Candelaria to London’s gritty East End, here are 11 of the world’s best neighborhoods for spotting street art.

Williamsburg – Brooklyn, New York

Brooklyn. Photo courtesy of Megan McDonough.

For many tourists, a trip to New York City rarely includes visiting all five boroughs. Yet, just a short subway ride from Manhattan is Williamsburg, one of Brooklyn’s most up-and-coming neighborhoods. Home to galleries, trendy bars and vintage shops, the area draws a young and culturally curious crowd with an appreciation for street art and other forms of creative expression.

Taking advantage of Williamsburg’s public spaces and abandoned lots, emerging artists come here to work on a variety of experimental street art ranging from stylized text to poster-work, stickers and stencils. While graffiti and murals are scattered throughout the neighborhood, North 3rd Street and Bedford Avenue is a good starting point. Keap and Hope streets are generally covered in street art as well.

Kreuzberg – Berlin, Germany

Berlin. Photo courtesy of Megan McDonough.

Even in Berlin’s quiet and more residential neighborhoods, street art is never far from view, so one can only imagine how much there is to see in punk-driven, alternative neighborhoods like Kreuzberg. Most guided street art tours start in Mitte and end at the East Side Gallery, a section of the former Berlin Wall in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg consisting of 105 paintings from artists around the globe.

If touring the neighborhood solo, the best starting point is around the Kurfürstenstrasse and Mehringdamm U-Bahn stations, where various forms of street art are easily spotted. Don’t skip the “Spaceman” by Victor Ash, which is said to the biggest stencil currently in existence. If traveling in late April, there is an annual three-day Gallery Weekend celebrating art through a series of events, parties and special gallery openings.

La Candelaria – Bogotá, Colombia

La Candelaria. Photo credit: Guache Street Art via Flickr.

Bogotá’s downtown La Candelaria neighborhood is starkly different than the modern buildings that tower over trendy Parque 99 in the north. The mere size of the city can be intimidating to travelers but the vast majority of local street art is conveniently located in La Candelaria, as are most of the city’s museums and various cultural attractions.

Despite the crowded squares, traffic-jammed roads and slew of budget hostels and bars catering to Bogotá’s boom in tourism, La Candelaria still maintains its old town charm. A simple walk through the pedestrian streets yields an array of old and new street art with subject matter ranging from thought-provoking political messages to pop-culture references.

Belleville/Menilmontant – Paris, France

The phrase “Paris is for lovers” goes way beyond the literal translation. While city landmarks like The Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe do make for a romantic backdrop it’s just as easy to fall in love with the street art here too. For the most innovative and representative graffiti, head northeast to the Ménilmontant and Belleville neighborhoods.

Formerly two small villages, they became part of central Paris back in 1860 and have since become a hub for art connoisseurs and leisure travelers alike. Explore solo or tag along on one of the regularly scheduled street art tours where guides navigate the Parisian streets highlighting work from famous local artists like Space Invader and Jef Aerosol.

Brasil – Santiago, Chile

Brasil, Santiago. Photo courtesy of Megan McDonough.

Several of Santiago’s neighborhoods have evolved throughout the years to cater to different industries. For example, El Golf serves as the center for international business affairs while Lastarria houses many of the city’s cultural museums and upscale restaurants. On the other hand, the often-overlooked neighborhood of Brasil is somewhat of an outdoor museum in its own right.

Before relocating to Las Condes, rich families built their mansions in Brasil, which explains why the area boasts a mix of architectural styles and a maze-like design. Nowadays, residents are evenly mixed between young university students and older tenants who never relocated. It’s the perfect place to spot vibrant street art in Santiago and also the most affordable neighborhood if on a budget.

Santa Teresa – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Santa Teresa neighborhood. Photo credit: Rodrigo Galindez via Flickr.

Unlike in most cities, street art is legal in Rio de Janeiro as long as the artists are granted permission by building owners. While street art can be spotted just about anywhere here, Santa Teresa has become the most recognized neighborhood for artists eager to showcase their work.

Located on the top of a hill in the center of the city, Santa Teresa was once an upper-class neighborhood that later fell into disrepair. Then in the 1960s and 1770s artists and other creative moved to the area and slowly transformed the deteriorated neighborhood into the artistic hub it is today. Narrow streets and colonial architecture keep the neighborhood’s history alive while street art reflects current affairs. Art galleries and studios are also located in Santa Teresa to appeal to all artistic talents.

Beyoglu – Istanbul, Turkey

Located just north of the Golden Horn in Istanbul, Beyoglu (also known as Pera) was once a fashionable neighborhood with large apartment buildings in the late 19th century. As years passed, the wealthy residents moved to other neighborhoods and crime seeped into the streets. Today, gentrification has lessened crime and attracted the artistic community.

The result is a relatively quiet residential neighborhood with a good number of art galleries, cafes, restaurants and coffee houses. This cultural revival has in turn attracted aspiring stencil and graffiti artists to the area who use the alleyways as their own personal canvas.

East End – London, England

London. Photo courtesy of Megan McDonough.

Similar to other global cities like New York and Berlin, London neighborhoods each have their own unique personality. A far cry from the city’s posh West End, London’s East End is an international mix of cultures that forms a uniquely cohesive whole. The gritty neighborhood has emerged as a prime location for spotting street art, with organized walking tours now a regular occurrence.

Banksy, who hails from England and is probably most widely-recognized street artist in the world, has several pieces still in tact in London’s East End. For a crash course in London street art, start in Spitalfields and make your way to Brick Lane via Fournier Street. If time permits, venture into the nearby areas of Shoreditch and Camden for more variety.

Wynwood – Miami, Florida

Breathing new life into Miami‘s otherwise forgotten Puerto-Rican neighborhood, Wynwood is now bursting with color thanks to a few local artists who helped to give the area a much needed facelift. With the Midtown Miami urban development, people looked at Wynwood with new eyes, converting abandoned warehouses into trendy cafes, lounges and restaurants.

Now, there are more than 70 galleries, art collections and an impressive amount of street art to keep passerby entertained. Most of these art attractions are located between North 36th Street and North 20th Street. Every second Saturday of the month, the neighborhood hosts an “ArtWalk” where locals and tourists can browse from one gallery to the next at their leisure. Wynwood also has a thriving fashion and textiles industry.

Hosier Lane – Melbourne, Australia

Hosier Lane

Unlike many of the other cities rounding off our list, Melbourne artists steer clear of creating graffiti and tagging, which are both illegal here. Street art in Melbourne primarily consists of elaborate wall murals and stencil work but is equally impressive.

Popular locations to spot new and existing work is on Hosier and Rutledge Lane across from Federation Square and on Caledonian Lane where it intersects Bourke Street. Hosier Lane is a pedestrian laneway in central Melbourne where artists paint the walls with often-times political artwork. Up until 2011 when it was painted over, a main attraction on Hosier Lane a mural called “Our Lady Hosier”.

Newton – Johannesburg, South Africa

Although the street art scene in Johannesburg is relatively new compared to New York and London, the city is showing definite signs of promise. The recent “I Art Joburg” project invited five international artists to create murals on prominent buildings like the MAMA. Many tourists head to Braamfontein, specifically Juta Street, to browse through street art but there are lesser-known areas that also offer colorful street art.

Newtown is one of several Johannesburg neighborhoods where emerging talent practice their craft. The best time to visit is on Sunday mornings when many of the local artists are working on their latest projects. The environment creates an atmosphere reminiscent of an open-air gallery.

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Unusual Museums In New York City

New York City

Let’s face it: You’re never going to be bored when you visit New York City. With the some of the world’s best restaurants, museums, galleries and other cultural institutions, your biggest question isn’t going to be “what is there to do?” but “what should we do?” And while museums like the Guggenheim, the Met and the Whitney house inspiring collections and work by world renowned artists, they can be a little one note. Instead, we’ve curated the below list of collections and museums that will help you explore a different side of New York City not found in your guidebook.

Louis Armstrong Museum

Louis Armstrong Museum. Photo courtesy of Paul Lowry via Flickr.

The Louis Armstrong House Museum, the largest publicly held archival collection devoted to a jazz musician, is one of those “off-the-beaten track gems” guidebooks often pass over. The modest home in Corona, Queens, offers a look into one of the world’s most acclaimed musicians, giving visitors a glimpse into his life and legacy. Throughout the home–which was inhabited by Armstrong and his wife Lucille from 1943 for the remainder of their lives–visitors will hear Armstrong practicing his trumpet or clips from his homemade recordings. The collection also features the artist’s personal collection of scrapbooks, photographs, recordings, trumpets and manuscripts, amongst the furniture, appliances and paraphernalia left behind after the Armstrongs’ death. It’s a truly intimate collection worth viewing for any fans of jazz and Louis Armstrong. (Admission $10, http://www.louisarmstronghouse.org)

City Reliquary

City Reliquary. Photo by Joseph Hernandez

The City Reliquary started as a 2002 project in an apartment window before moving to a storefront in 2006. The eclectic collection “celebrate[s] the community of New York’s present.” Visitors will find everything from postcards to subway paint chips, jelly molds to terracotta fragments of landmark buildings. While collecting bits, pieces, odds and ends that highlight New York as it is now, the museum also has a vibrant programming calendar filled with parties, concerts and film events held throughout the year. In addition, it works with local students to create exhibitions and to foster future generations of collectors and creators. (http://www.cityreliquary.org/)

Museum at FIT

Museum at FIT. Photo courtesy of Tennis-Bargains.com via Flickr.

Because New York is the brightest star in the fashion firmament, it only makes sense that a museum dedicated to exploring fashion was built. The Museum at FIT is dedicated to exhibiting historically significant accessories, textiles, sketches and, of course, clothing. Housing 50,000 pieces of fashion-related material dating as far back as the 18th century and featuring rotating exhibits year-round, the Museum’s major highlights include work by Balenciaga, Dior and Chanel. Open to FIT students and the public alike, the Museum at FIT is a continued source of inspiration in fashion’s capital city. (Admission is free, http://www.fitnyc.edu/13666.asp)

Morbid Anatomy Library

Morbid Anatomy Library. Photo by Joseph Hernandez

Joanna Eberstein, founder and director of Brooklyn’s Morbid Anatomy Library, has amassed a collection of books, catalogs, photographs, taxidermy, ephemera, and artifacts relating to medical museums, anatomical art, the history of medicine, death and society, natural history, and arcane media. Open to the public, the private collection is a macabre look at “the interstices of art and medicine, death and culture.” The space is housed within the walls of Proteus Gowanus, an interdisciplinary arts organization dedicated to creating an alternative arts environment “designed to stimulate the creative process.” The real value of Morbid Anatomy are the various series of workshops held throughout the month, contextualizing bits of the collection or otherwise bringing to light rituals, traditions, and practices of cultures as they pertain to the library’s mission. (Free to the public. http://morbidanatomy.blogspot.com/)

The Tenement Museum

Tenement Museum. Photo courtesy of Shelley Panzarella via Flickr.

The Lower East Side Tenement Museum has fast grown into a cultural mainstay for the Manhattan neighborhood. Over the last 24 years, the museum has served as a five-story time capsule, preserving and interpreting the stories of New York City’s immigrant population. The building was previously shuttered for 50 years before the museum was founded. What was left after researchers combed through the apartments and archives of tenants was a collection that dives straight into the stories of over 7,000 tenants between the years of 1863 and 1935. Besides the long-standing collection, the museum also offers both tenement tours and walking tours, showing how the Lower East Side has changed over time. (Adult tickets are $22, students/seniors $20) (http://www.tenement.org/)

The Cloisters

The Cloisters. Photo by Joseph Hernandez.

It may be something of a trek to get to the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Cloister Museum in upper Manhattan’s Fort Tryon Park, but it is worth it. Get off the 190th Street A Train and you wouldn’t know that you were still in NYC. The park is lush and green, situated in the hills above Washington Heights. With views overlooking the Hudson and parts of New Jersey, it’s a wonder how so much green exists in this corner of the city. The Cloisters themselves are in the center of it all, dedicated to exploring the art and architecture of medieval Europe. You’ll find galleries filled religious art, bejeweled reliquaries and architectural elements dating from the twelfth through the fifteenth century, all while walking through rooms constructed from buildings and structured dating from the same time period. During warmer months, the Cloister’s various gardens are stunning with new growths, buds and flowering plants, making it a great short-term escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. (Admission is a recommended donation of $25 for adults. http://www.metmuseum.org/visit/visit-the-cloisters/hours-and-admission)

The Museum of Sex

Museum of Sex. Photo by Joseph Hernandez.

Though much of the advertising put out by the Museum of Sex is cheeky and subversive, don’t just think it’s one big porn sesh when you walk through the door. True, there’s plenty of discussion about “blue films,” but what museum about sex wouldn’t dive into the history of those particular productions? No, the Museum of Sex is much more than that, seeking to “preserve the history, evolution and cultural significance of human sexuality.” The three exhibition floors take you through the history of sex in America, dissecting it all through photography, art, comic books and commerce. Some galleries will have more embarrassed titters and giggles than others, but that’s to be expected. Part of the permanent collection is a room which explores sexual behavior in animals, while some exhibitions spotlight those pioneers and characters who’ve brought sex into mainstream conversation. If you’re feeling a little woozy from the subject matter, head down to the basement Aphrodisiac Bar and enjoy a titillating tipple. (Guests must be 18 or older to enjoy the Museum of Sex. Admission is $17.50. (www.museumofsex.com)

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Best TV & Film Tours Around the World

Taking a vacation can be all about escape – and the same can be said about losing ourselves in the movies and TV shows we love. It’s only natural, then, for film and TV buffs to combine the two when we travel by visiting famous filming locations around the world.

Sometimes you’ll find out that a story set in one place is actually filmed in another place entirely (or, worse yet, on a soundstage or studio with a green screen!) – but in some cases, the location is so important that it almost becomes a character in the story. Here are some of the best film and TV tours around the world that will let you get up close and personal with the destinations behind your favorite shows.

Downton Abbey

We’ve fallen in love with the beleaguered Crawley family over three seasons, but it’s hard to say whether we would be as enthralled if the spectacular Highclere Castle wasn’t the setting for the fictitious Downton Abbey. Highclere has been a family home for hundreds of years, and even today there’s a real-life Earl and his family living in the castle. This private tour of Downton Abbey film locations includes a private chauffeur and guide, and you’ll see both Highclere Castle and the Oxfordshire village of Bampton where other scenes from “Downton Abbey” are filmed.

Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit

Visit Hobbiton! Photo credit: Bobbi Lee Hichton.

Peter Jackson brought the fantasy world of Middle Earth to beautiful reality in his home country of New Zealand. Although some of the fanciful elements were created in studios and computers, New Zealand’s stunning natural landscapes made it instantly obvious why Jackson was the right man to bring Tolkien’s visions to life. In many cases, the structures built for the films have been removed, but the set of Hobbiton still exists – and LOTR fans will recognize the backdrops for famous scenes from Edoras, Rivendell, Helm’s Deep, Minas Tirith, and Isengard. There are several options for Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton Tours in New Zealand, depending on which locations you want to check out.

Ice Road Truckers

It’s unlikely that anyone watching Ice Road Truckers would think that doing that job full-time would be better than watching the show from the comfort of a warm living room, but visitors to Anchorage can at least get an inside look at what the task is actually like with the Ice Road Trucker Big Rig Experience. During the 2-3 hour tour you’ll go on a guided tour of a real transportation yard at the port of Anchorage, peek inside a modern sleeper truck, and actually get ten minutes behind the wheel of a big rig simulator to find out what driving on the ice road is really like.

New York TV & Movie Sites

Find the fire station used in Ghostbusters in New York

The Big Apple has served as the backdrop for more films and TV shows than you can probably count, but sometimes the scenery is particularly memorable or important to the story. Grab your gal pals for a Sex and the City Hotspots Tour of filming locations such as Charlotte’s art gallery, Miranda’s cupcake bakery, and a bar the ladies frequented. Take a day trip to New Jersey on The Sopranos Sites Tour during which you’ll see the Bada Bing bar, the place where Chris was shot, and the diner booth where Tony sat in the final scene of the series.

See how the other half lives with a Gossip Girl Sites Tour of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, with stops at the hotel where the Bass and Van der Woodsen families live, the swanky building Blair calls home, the Henri Bendel shop, and Humphrey’s favorite bakery. Head for an NBC Studio Tour to see where they film The Today Show, NBC Nightly News, Dateline, and Saturday Night Live. You can also go on a New York TV and Movie Sites Tour to see more than 60 film locations for shows like Friends, Will and Grace, The Devil Wears Prada, I Am Legend, How I Met Your Mother, and Seinfeld or a Central Park Movie Sites Walking Tour to see filming locations for When Harry Met Sally, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Ghostbusters, and Love Story.

Harry Potter

Leadenhall Market, featured in Harry Potter films

Who among us hasn’t watched the Harry Potter films and wished we could be transported to that magical world? Well, even if you can’t conjure up any spells when you wave a magic wand, you can visit some of the places where the Harry Potter films were created. From the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour and Harry Potter walking tours in London to multi-day tours of Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland, you can satisfy aspiring witches and wizards of all ages with these Harry Potter tours.

Hawaii TV & Movie Sites

50 First Dates film location

You’ll probably have plenty of reasons to do nothing more than lie on the beach during a Hawaii vacation, but visiting the many Hawaii locations featured in movies and TV shows actually means you’ll see some of the most beautiful spots on the islands. On Kauai, you can take a 6-hour Kauai Movie Sites Tour that includes 13 filming locations for shows like Jurassic Park, Pirates of the Caribbean, Gilligan’s Island, The Amazing Race, and Tropic Thunder. You’ll also get lunch at Tahiti Nui, where part of The Descendants was filmed.

On Oahu, you can take a 5-hour Hummer tour of Oahu TV and Movie Locations, with stops at filming locations for Lost, Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates, Karate Kid II, Godzilla, and Hawaii Five-0. If you prefer a little more physical activity, you can take a mountain biking tour of Kaaawa Valley that gets you up close and personal with filming locations for Lost, Jurassic Park and Godzilla.

Pawn Stars

Rick’s Restorations

Las Vegas sometimes feels like one big film set, but it’s the recent success of a reality show that’s drawing fans in droves to a real-life pawn shop in Sin City. Pawn Stars is filmed on location at the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop, and the guys you’ve come to love on the show – Rick Harrison, his family, and employees – are often in the shop themselves whether filming is going on or not. In addition to seeing the pawn shop, a Pawn Stars Tour of Las Vegas also includes a stop at Rick’s Restorations, where retro appliances are refurbished, and the Toy Shack, a vintage toy appraiser.

The Walking Dead

It seems that these days we’re all joking about (or preparing for!) the zombie apocalypse. What better place to get some first-hand zombie knowledge than in Atlanta, where they film the hit series The Walking Dead and where the movie Zombieland was made? During an Atlanta Zombie Film Locations Tour you’ll not only visit filming locations for both zombie shows, you’ll also get instruction from your guide – a veteran onscreen “zombie walker” – in how to walk like a zombie. You never know when that sort of information will come in very handy, indeed.

Chicago Movie Tour

Chicago’s famous Marina City and Towers

Chicago’s unique architecture has featured in many popular movies, whether the stories were meant to take place in Chicago or not. During a 2-hour Chicago Movie Tour you’ll visit more than 75 filming locations – which also happen to be some of the city’s main attractions. You’ll see filming locations for movies like The Dark Knight, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Blues Brothers, The Untouchables, My Best Friend’s Wedding, and Transformers 3, covering more than 30 miles through Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods.

Doctor Who

Whether you grew up watching Doctor Who or you’re a recent convert, there’s no denying the appeal of a London tour of Doctor Who filming locations from its introduction in 1963 right up through the newest BBC incarnation of the series. You’ll ride around the city in one of London’s famous black cabs and see where the “Dalek Invasion of Earth” and scenes with the Time Lord (among many others) were filmed, and you’ll see major London landmarks along the way. You’ll even see a remarkably TARDIS-looking police box.

Boston TV & Movie Sites

Enjoy a beer at Cheers

The city of Boston has served as the location for so many stories over the years that during a 2-hour tour of Boston TV and movie sites you’ll visit more than 30 distinct filming locations. Among the places you’ll visit is the brownstone house featured in Parent Trap, the famous park bench in Good Will Hunting, a mob hangout for Jack Nicholson in The Departed, and the park featured prominently in Ally McBeal. And of course no tour of film sites in Boston would be complete without a stop at the original Cheers bar, where you’ll get a chance to have a drink. It’s up to you whether you want to count the number of people who yell “Norm!” as they walk in.

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I Heart My City: Kids Edition

It’s time for another special edition of I Heart My City!

This time we’re serving up recommendations for the world’s best educational experiences for kids (and kids at heart) in 15 cities around the world from the people who know them best: our ever-inspirational I Heart My City community. They also happen to be fun.

Ewelina’s Krakow (Poland): The Stanislaw Lem Garden of Experiences, an open-air education exhibition that allows kids to explore the natural world and the laws of physics.

Kids get a grip on geography at the
Te Papa museum. (Photograph by Chris Zielecki, Flickr)

Larisa and Michael’s Philadelphia (United States): Franklin Square Park, a neighborhood park just off Independence Mall, has a playground and carousel, plus a mini-golf course featuring small-scale models of Philly’s historic buildings. It’s a great place to work off some youthful energy after seeing the Liberty Bell.

Katherine’s Athens (Greece): The Hellenic Children’s Museum or the free zoo in the National Gardens.

Charlotte’s Wellington (New Zealand): The city’s elaborate playgrounds, the kids areas at the Te Papa, or bird spotting in Zealandia, the bird sanctuary in Karori.

Natalie’s Toronto (Canada): Riverdale Farm: There are animals, it’s a great spot to picnic, and it’s free! It’s also a great way to see Cabbagetown, filled with historic Victorian homes. 

Christine’s Melbourne (Australia): Take a day trip to see the penguins on Phillip Island.

Kristina’s Santiago de Chile (Chile): The city zoo, located on a slope of the Cerro San Cristobal, which has a seemingly incongruous urban backdrop.

Annie Fitzsimmons’s New York City (United States): The Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre, which is in a model schoolhouse brought to Central Park in 1877. Shows are staged year round.

Kids learn by doing at the touch pool in Two Oceans Aquarium. (Photograph by Flowcomm, Flickr)

Yamina’s Brussels (Belgium): The Children’s Museum, where kids are allowed to touch everything, climb walls, listen to stories, and attend workshops.

Lea’s Vienna (Austria): The Haus der Musik museum, an interactive sound museum which provides a new approach to music on a playful and scientific level.

Luci’s Brisbane (Australia): Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. It’s also home to dingos, wombats, and platypus.

Jo’s Cape Town (South Africa): Don’t miss the Two Oceans Aquarium, aptly named for the Atlantic and Indian oceans, which converge in the area.

Nat Geo’s Washington, D.C. (United States): The National Air and Space Museum (for the rockets and the gift shop’s freeze-dried astronaut ice cream) and the Newseum, for the First Dogs exhibit, a tribute to presidential fidos.

Yvonne’s Berlin (Germany): The Berlin Zoo (the famous polar bear Knut’s birthplace), where you can see cute baby animals. It’s also the oldest zoo in Germany.

Megan and Natalie’s Seoul (South Korea): Lotte World. Thrills aren’t the only thing to seek at this South Korean theme park. The adjacent Lotte Folk Museum boasts a miniature village that displays life in the Joseon Dynasty on a 1/8th scale.

I Heart My City: Kids Edition Air and Space Museum , athens , Berlin Zoo , brisbane , brussels , Cabbagetown , Cape Town , Cerro San Cristobal , Franklin Square Park , Haus der Musik , Hellenic Children’s Museum , I Heart My City , Independence Mall , Joseon Dynasty , Karori , krakow , Liberty Bell , Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary , Lotte World , Melbourne , National Gardens , National Geographic , new york city , Newseum , philadelphia , Phillip Island , Riverdale Farm , Santiago , Seoul , Smithsonian , Stanislaw Lem Garden of Experiences , Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre , Te Papa , toronto , Two Oceans Aquarium , vienna , Wellington , Zealandia

Best US Cities for Foodies

Ask any farmer, ask any city-slicker, ask really anybody – they’ll all tell you the same: it’s the small things in life that matter. From appreciating place settings in your friend’s home, to spending time with the family, there is little else that seems worthwhile when we take time to signify the small stuff. And from these appreciations the hallowed culture class that is the ‘Foodie’ is born.

The Foodie, with an insatiable appetite for the finer things, knows what the finer things are all about. The nuance of flavor in a generations-old mole sauce, the unbearable lightness of crème fraiche, the pacifying subtleties of a well-made brick roux – these are the things worth living for, am I right? They can take a trip from being sort of “meh” to “remember that time when?” If you’re in the market to see some of the best cities in the US and prefer to eat and drink your way through town, then this is the article for you.

So enough with the amuse bouche – let’s dive in, shall we?

New Orleans

Acme Oyster House. Photo credit: Kimberly Vardeman via Flickr.

A long time runner in most people’s repertoire’s of cities “I would love to visit if I had time,” the truth of the matter is that visit you must, especially if you’re a food lover. New Orleans is a vibrant and perpetually fun city that has an astoundingly rich history and a diverse culinary tradition. Regis Philbin, famously understated this well-known fact by saying, “You get a taste here in New Orleans that you don’t get anywhere else in the country.”

From gumbo to po-boys to crawfish etouffee to jambalaya to boiled crawfish and blackened catfish, the list of interesting and unique tastes goes on for miles and is truly unlike any other in the world, let alone the country. Add to this a history of Spanish, French, and Afro-Caribbean culture and historical influence, the architecture and ambiance of New Orleans are enough to create an entirely different experience for those who come. Chefs like Emril Lagasse, Paul Prudhomme, John Besh, and Susan Spicer all call the area home, and have gone into the workforce spreading the word of New Orleans’ great cuisine.

If you go, head down to the French Quarter to check out some local favorites like Café du Monde (800 Decatur Street) for a beignet breakfast alongside chicory coffee, Acme Oyster House for some oysters and seafood gumbo, or Galatoire’s for some signature southern soul and French cuisine. Uptown has its own selection of fabulous restaurants (Jacques-Imo’s, Ninja, and the Columns Hotel come to mind), easily accessible via the famous Street Car. Also consider taking some time to learn how to cook like a New Orleanian yourself in a cooking class.

San Francisco

Chorizo burrito from La Taqueria. Photo credit: rick via Flickr.

You’ve heard it: “Oh, I left my heart in San Francisco!” Check again – you left your stomach there too. The Huffington Post recently reported that, according to real estate giant Trulia, San Francisco, moreso than any other city in the nation, has the highest number of restaurants per capita. While New Orleans had the most bars per capita (God bless ‘em), San Francisco takes the cake when it comes to eating. Not that eating and drinking are separate – far from it – but in this instance we’re looking at the best places to appreciate the delicacies that make a place great – and San Francisco has plenty of them.

So San Francisco has plenty of restaurants, but does it have good restaurants? Yep. You guessed it. But San Francisco makes the list not because it has numerous restaurants that are also good restaurants, but because of the absolute fascination bred into seemingly every San Franciscan to actively hunt some of these delicious edibles. The resident food-truck craze being a perfect example. From burrito joints down in the Mission, to Michelin-rated fine dining at places like Kokkari, to the food-truck Mecca of sorts (Off the Grid), San Francisco has got to be on any food-lovers Greats list.

Stock Island, Florida

Hogfish Bar and Grill. Photo credit: Cayobo via Flickr.

Florida? Yep. Though often regarded as something of a culinary enigma, Florida’s proximity to the sea and Cuban influence makes for a tantalizing mix of ethnic foods and more traditional seafood fare. Head South to the Keys for some sleepy beach-town ambiance, beautiful sunsets, and always electric Key Lime Pie.

And while Key West has the majority of good eats in the Keys, Stock Island is just next-door and can be seen as Key West’s less rowdy neighbor, also boasting some doggone-good hogfish and pinks (pink shrimp, that is). Add to this a mix of southern soul food and beachside living and you’ve got dining, relaxation, and dreamy delectability all rolled into one southern shore. For seafood, head to the Hogfish Bar & Grill and try the Killer – fresh hogfish, a pastry crust, melted Swiss cheese, and Lord, I think there are mushrooms in there.

Next door there’s the iconic Key West itself, and for the best view in this entire tiny island, head to Louie’s Backyard where this Zagat-rated restaurant boasts arguably the best hand-picked locally sourced food on the island. For a Cuban treat, head to Havana 1 on 1101 Truman Ave in Key West, where portraits hang on pastel walls and the air is filled with a fun and lively ambiance.

Portland, Oregon

Le Pigeon’s beet salad. Photo credit: Enobytes Wine Online via Flickr.

Portland, for all it downplays it, is really a refined city. A young, funky, nature-loving and hip town tucked away in the rainy Northwest, Portland is the diamond in the glistening, mossy rough you’ve been looking for. Given just one visit to this town and armed with adequate know-how, you’ll see a foodie paradise – really, there is no praise high enough for this wonderful gourmand gush of a town. While Chicago and San Francisco are pumping out chefs with verve and fervor, the list of available real-estate in big cities with a penchant for good food was dwindling – until, that is, that chefs turned their hungry eyes on Portland.

While the word spreads, population densities remain relatively low and potential real-estate readily available, and some of the best chefs in the nation are heading to Portland. And some of the best deals can also be found here as well. A walk downtown will garner all sorts of tucked-away treasures touting true deals wrought from hand crafted excellence at amazing prices, like, for example, $4 happy hour martinis and hand-shaved ice in your Manhattans.

While here consider heading down to Le Pigeon where chef Gabriel Rucker was recently awarded a James Beard award, Brasserie Montmartre for some French cuisine, and the Veritable Quandary is a great brunch spot full of history. Also, Bamboo is a great sushi spot and certified sustainable.

Charleston, SC

Hominy Grill. Photo credit: Dennis Yang via Flickr.

This southern city of plantations, charm, hospitality and soul makes for some good ambiance and darn fine eatin’. Charleston residents are particular about their food, and like any good southerner, demand only the best when it comes down to chow-time. Head down to East Bay Street to find a promenade of fun shops and a bevy of nice restaurants, but be on the lookout for Slightly North of Broad (aka SNOB) on 192 East Bay Street, rapidly gaining fame for local organic ingredients and cozy intimate ambiance. The Hominy Grill is another great spot, and for dessert and maybe a drink, head to City Lights coffee shop (141 Market St) where wine is offered alongside carrot-cake.

Chicago

Chicago pizza. Photo credit: Marit & Toomas Hinnosaar via Flickr.

What makes Chicago a food-lover’s paradise? Plenty. Aside from the famous Chicago-style pizza we have all loved from birth, there’s a plethora of great restaurants, world-class chefs, original ideas, and the fast-becoming-famous hash phenomenon that makes this city appetizing. That’s what a city of three-million (the third largest city in the U.S.) food-lovers will do for you.

Any Best-Of list can offer you a selection of restaurants that do something special and that make the city a nice stop to visit, but what continually makes Chicago a great city for food lovers is the innovation and the creative use of traditional ingredients which lend themselves to something truly unique. Though the aforementioned hash might be a traditional staple, you’ll find creative applications all over town, like, for instance, the Duck-Heart Hash at Au Cheval, or some of the area’s barrel-made beers.

Manhattan

Mamoun’s Falafel. Photo credit: MattHurst via Flickr.

This is sort-of a “no-duh,” if I can put that into print, because it’s the financial center of the world, as well as the hub of, well, a lot. Manhattan is where the big cats come out to play and, of course, this world-class city has some world-class dining. You needn’t bother wondering. If you’ve got a hankering, check this town out for its eclectic variety of five-star foods – just don’t expect the servers to be, y’know, polite.

For rocking Chinese, head to Prosperity Dumpling where the dumplings and Dim Sum will make you a believer. On 119 MacDougal you’ve got Mamoun’s Falafel, which, let’s be honest, anyone who knows what a great falafel tastes like, knows the trip is well worth it. Then there’s the Gastro Bar which is famous for its Mediterranean twist on Tapas, and makes for a fun city atmosphere.

Houston

One of Houston’s food trucks. Photo credit: femme run via Flickr.

Everything’s bigger in Texas. Or so they say anyway. What they really mean is that despite the Texas heat, these tenacious Texans have, through will power and business prowess, made mountains out of cattle ranches and oilfields. And lo, the culinary tradition comes to Houston. From food trucks to celebrity chefs, Houston has made a name for itself as a foodie town, particularly if you love BBQ (and who doesn’t). If you’re headed to Houston, consider taking part in the local food-truck craze and find your favorite eats at RoamingHunger.com, where you can spot your food truck on a map any time of the day. Popular favorites are Bernie’s Burger Bus and Oh My Gogi! BBQ.

More traditional sit-down and dine establishments to rave about are Reef for Vietnamese, and Lankford Grocery for old-fashioned Americana and tasty burgers. Be sure to bring an appetite… and a napkin.

Santa Fe, NM

Coyote Cafe. Photo credit: Richard Swearinger via Flickr.

Santa Fe’s been on the map for quite a while as something of a cool escape town, but Santa Fe gets the respect it deserves for being a foodie haven for basically redefining Tex-Mex. If it’s iron skillet fried, peppered, spicy and served with a side of maize or tortillas, chances are you’re in Santa Fe enjoying some of the region’s local flavors. Listen for the “red or green?” question often – it’s a popular way to inquire as to your desired choice of chili relleno sauce. Also worthy of note is the blossoming tequila scene here. Long gone are the days of Jose Cuervo Gold being the be all and end all of this agave gold. If you get the chance, try some specialty tequilas while you’re in the area – many places even offer tastings.

Try the Coyote Café with its cool adobe architecture and its repeatedly celebrated menu and wine pairing options for a fun night out. Restaurant Martin is also quite worthy of a meal, where the Progressive American Cuisine is as award-winning and the eponymous chef (semi-finalist for the 2011 James Beard Award).

Denver, CO

This mile-high city is also a young city dedicated to dining well. Though some may claim that all a place really needs to be a foodie town is good restaurants, this isn’t so. What makes a city a great foodie city is a dedicated following of those that appreciate the chefs’ efforts. You’ll find that here in Denver. Known for its lack of pretension and an easy, friendly ambiance, Denver is fast becoming a hotbed of great restaurants. Try, for example, Fruition Restaurant where the new American cuisine is matched only by the small and cozy ambiance. It’s a bit pricey, but the potato-wrapped oysters are worth it. ChoLon Asian Bistro puts a new spin on classically tasty food with a great reputation for excellent service. What could be better?

Chapel Hill, NC

Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen. Photo credit: Ivy Dawned via Flickr.

Wrapping up the Best US Cities for Foodies list is North Carolina’s Chapel Hill. This city has developed quite a following as a foodie hotspot. Known for its locally sourced food and a near-fanatical “locavore” population, Chapel Hill has foodies who know not just what they’re eating, but what chef made it and what farmer grew it – now that’s loving your food. To see what this charming southern town has to offer your taste buds, head to Front Street, where all the activity is happening, then head over to The Lantern, which is a popular local spot. Talullas offers tantalizing Mediterranean, and Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen (1305 E Franklin Street) is doing their bit to keep biscuits and gravy firmly on the repertoire as a southern breakfast favorite.

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The Best of the West Village

The West Village is a labyrinth of shady brownstone-lined streets, hidden gardens, corner shops, and a mix of sophisticated culinary temples and casual downhome joints. It’s also a place I’m proud to call home.

I often find myself thinking I feel like I’m on the set of a movie while wandering this charming Manhattan neighborhood. Only, in this corner of New York, I actually often do find myself stumbling onto film sets. In fact, some of the movies and TV shows filmed here have become worldwide cultural phenomena, drawing millions of visitors each year to spots like the Friends building and Carrie’s apartment from Sex & The City.

Despite all the rubbernecking, I love my neighborhood and have spent a great deal of time exploring its offerings. I should say getting lost. The West Village’s haphazard streets were laid out before the Commissioners’ Plan of 1811 cemented the city’s much-celebrated grid, so it’s very easy to lose your way. It took me years to understand why W. Fourth and W. Tenth streets intersect, and how Seventh Avenue cuts through the streets. But that just adds to the neighborhood’s charm.

Here’s my guide to getting lost in the West Village:

Get Oriented:

Murray’s Cheese Shop is a West Village classic. (Photograph by Robyn Lee, Flickr)

Take a walking tour to get acquainted with the West Village’s unique history (I recommend one led by Context Travel), including its rich Native American heritage, the impact Dutch settlers had on the neighborhood’s character, and the Bohemian poets and artists who have called it home over the years.

Bleecker Street has always been the Village’s buzzing main street. If you start at Sixth Avenue and work your way west, you’ll find Amy’s Bread and the famous Murray’s Cheese Shop (they offer classes). Bypassing frozen yogurt and souvenir stores brings you to more sophisticated shops like Reiss London, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Mulberry, Michael Kors, and Ralph Lauren.

Greenwich Avenue, which runs northwest from Sixth Avenue to Eighth Avenue, is rife with vintage shops, casual eateries, and design stores like Jonathan Adler. It’s also a traveler’s dream. Pick up a cool passport cover and luggage tag at Flight 001, then stop by neighborhood staple Per Tutti to peruse the delightful assortment of luggage and umbrellas on offer. Looking for gifts? Myxplyzyk is a gold mine.

Hudson Street is another main thoroughfare that’s fun to wander. Here you’ll find Myers of Keswick for all things British, Beasty Feast for great finds for the furry friends in your life, and some of the West Village’s most popular restaurants and bars.

Other quintessential West Village streets: Grove, W. Tenth Street, Charles, Perry, W. 11th, Bank Street, W. 4th Street, and Christopher Street.

Get Cultured:

Duck in to Greenwich Letterpress for the best stationery in town. (Photograph by Premshree Pillai, Flickr)

The IFC Center shows the best documentaries and independent films around, but it also resurfaces movies we’ve loved for decades. Last weekend, they screened Fight Club at midnight, and soon to come is Jaws and Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Hudson River Park is a neighborhood gem. On beautiful days, there is nothing better. Pick up a sandwich or salad at Better Being Underground or San Panino, claim a bench, and settle in for some great people watching in this lovely green space.

Jefferson Market was once a courthouse that faced demolition. Public outcry took the 19th-century icon off the chopping block and led to its designation as a national historic landmark. The truly unique building is now a branch of the New York Public Library and opens up its incredible urban garden to visitors in the warmer months of the year.

Shop Smart. Peruse the shelves at Three Lives & Company, a bookstore that teems with soul and creativity, make the short walk around the corner to Greenwich Letterpress for the most appealing greeting cards and invitations in the city, then head to Bonnie Slotnick Cookbooks for rare and out-of-print volumes as well as vintage copies of magazines like Gourmet and Cook’s Illustrated. After all that thinking, treat yourself to some sea-salt caramels at Varsano’s.

Get Fed:

For Date Night: Try Barbuto for al fresco dining, dell’anima for killer housemade pasta (just make your reservation well in advance), The Little Owl for a classic, cozy West Village experience (try the meatball sliders based on a recipe passed down by chef Joey Campanaro’s grandmother), or L’Artusi, where every single thing looks and tastes fantastic. Wash it all down with a faux-illicit cocktail at Little Branch, an above-board speakeasy that only lets new people in when others leave.

Try Cafe ‘ino for a taste of local flavor. (Photograph by Annie Fitzsimmons)

For Ethnic Elan: Hit up Buvette, a French “gastroteque” that serves small plates (try the croque madame and fresh-squeezed OJ), Cafe Condesa for delicious, affordable dishes with Mexican flair in an under-the-radar setting, Karahi for an impressive array of Indian cuisine served up in a shoebox-sized space, Kin Shop for a truly unique take on Thai from Chef Harold Dieterle, who took home top honors in Top Chef‘s first season, Tertulia for Spanish tapas that rival the best on offer in Spain, or pick up some falafel at Taim Falafel (it’s the best I’ve ever had).

For Quick Bites: Waste no time getting to
Cafe ‘ino‘ for inexpensive comfort food (try the much-loved truffled egg toast), Joe’s Pizza for one of the best slices in Manhattan,
Patisserie Claude for flaky fare (the pain au chocolate is a neighborhood favorite), then enjoy a mid-afternoon cappuccino, croissant, and great people watching at Sant Ambroeus.

For Neighborhood Favorites: Impersonate a West Village local at Cafe Cluny, a French country bistro that serves a mean mid-week breakfast, Morandi, a spacious, family-friendly Italian trattoria, Pearl Street Oyster Bar for New York’s version of a Maine mainstay (the lobster roll), The Spotted Pig, an ever-popular British/Italian gastropub, or Tavern on Jane, a casual corner place with seriously good food.

What’s your favorite thing about the West Village? Tell me by leaving a comment.

The Best of the West Village Amy’s Bread , Annie Fitzsimmons , Barbuto , Beasty Feast , Better Being Underground , Bleecker Street , Bonnie Slotnick Cookbooks , Buvette , Cafe ‘ino , Cafe Cluny , Cafe Condesa , context travel , dell’anima , Greenwich Avenue , Greenwich Letterpress , Hudson Street , IFC Center , Jefferson Market , Joe’s Pizza , Karahi Indian Cuisine , Kin Shop , L’Artusi , Little Branch , Morandi , Murray’s Cheese , Myers of Keswick , new york city , Patisserie Claude , Pearl Street Oyster Bar , Piccolo Angolo , Rosemary’s , San Panino , Sant Ambroeus , Taim Falafel , Tavern on Jane , Tertulia , The Spotted Pig , Three Lives

Love is in the Air

When you see something interesting happen once, you think, well that’s interesting. Twice, its a coincidence. More than that, well, that’s a trend. Recently we’ve begun to notice a delightful trend on Viator – a fair number of people are proposing to their partners while on a Viator excursion.

We look forward to seeing a picture of the happy event!

Todd hopped a helicopter to the Grand Canyon:

Which is grander: Todd’s proposal or the Grand Canyon?

Tam proposed while on a scenic helicopter flight over Los Angeles:

Bringing new meaning to “Love is in the Air” Tam proposed while flying over LA

Rob asked on a Romantic Horse and Carriage Ride through Paris:

“He asked, I said yes ! IN PARIS !!”

As well as Lisa’s mate:

She says, “For anyone thinking of popping the question what a way to do it!”

Benjamin popped the question at the Empire State Building while using their New York CityPass:

Benjamin and Lauren in NYC

Eric came down on one knee while on a tour of Neuschwanstein Castle. Says Stacey, “Once at the gorge, we got a closer look at the waterfall that started at the top of the gorge. This is when Eric got down on one knee and proposed to me. I said YES! And here is a photo to commemorate our moment.”

Stacey and Eric had a fairy-tale engagement at Neuschwanstein Castle

Congratulations to the happy couples!

We’re nothing but thrilled that these travelers trust us to share in their special day, and we hope that we’ll be there when they take their honeymoons, second honeymoons, and the many more trips they’ll have ahead together.

If you’re thinking about popping the question, check out some of the romantic travel ideas on our blog and on Viator.com. A private gondola ride in Venice, a night flight over the Las Vegas Strip, or a creative romance package in Paris, while no guarantees of a “yes”, certainly can’t hurt your chances. We’ll do our best to help you pop the question, have an amazing honeymoon, and maybe someday, keep the kids entertained with family-friendly activities.

Love is in the Air Grand Canyon National Park , los angeles , new york city , Paris , romantic travel

Top 12 Places to Enjoy Dinner with a View

Whether you’re picnicking in the park or indulging in gourmet cuisine, the location is just as important as the food itself – after all, who could forget toasting champagne at the pinnacle of the Eiffel Tower or sharing dessert with a window-view over the thundering Niagara Falls? From a personal-butler service atop the world’s highest Ferris wheel to an authentic Aussie barbecue under the outback stars, here are 12 of the world’s best locations for dinner with a view.

1. Dinner on the Melbourne Colonial Tramcar

See Melbourne pass by while enjoying a meal aboard the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant

Eating on the move isn’t normally recommended, but relaxing on-board a luxury restaurant-on-wheels as you chug through the historic streets of Melbourne is a clear exception. Hop on the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant where you’ll not only get to experience the old-world ambiance of the 1948 vintage tramcar itself – decked out with lavish velvet and brass fittings – but you’ll get a tour of Melbourne’s landmark sights as you eat. Silver-service waiters dish up a decadent 5 courses, as you wind through the city streets, the verdant Albert Park and the bustling suburb of St Kilda.

2. A barbecue under the stars at Uluru/Ayers Rock

Sounds of Silence Restaurant

You can’t visit Australia without taking part in the country’s most famous tradition, a barbecue, but forget flipping burgers in the backyard – a real outback BBQ needs to be set under twinkling stars. Explore the vast red desert of central Australia and dine with a view of the country’s most iconic natural landmark – Ayers Rock. Known as Uluru to the Aboriginals, the giant sandstone mass – the world’s second-largest monolith – is located on a major planetary grid point and revered as a sacred place among the Aboriginal tribes. Opt for the Sounds of Silence Restaurant or an Uluru (Ayers Rock) Outback Barbecue Dinner and Star Tour where you’ll get to discover the UNESCO World Heritage listed natural wonder up close (climbing the mountain is forbidden out of respect to the aboriginal communities) and sample a true Aussie-style barbecue with a backdrop of the mount. Throw a ‘shrimp (or a kangaroo sausage) on the barbie’ as the sun sets over the desert plains, then lay back for a natural cosmic light show as you spot star constellations in the clear desert skies.

3. Dining in the revolving Sydney Tower

Catch a view of the city from the Sydney Tower Restaurant

Once you’ve tackled the outback wilderness and dined on the rails, finish off your tour of Australia with a view of the cosmopolitan cultural capital from above. Towering 300 meters over Sydney city center, the Sydney Tower Restaurant is the highest revolving restaurant in the Southern Hemisphere, with panoramic views stretching all the way to the distant Blue Mountains. Join an all-you-can-eat dinner buffet at the top of the city’s tallest building and eat to a backdrop of the glittering Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera house and the golden sands of Bondi Beach. The adventurous can even brave the Skywalk – a glass-floor viewing platform running around the iconic golden turret at a dizzying 268 meters. Better try it on an empty stomach first!

4. Eating at a Paris icon in the Eiffel Tower

Few counties offer such a winning combination of incredible cuisine and undeniably romantic surroundings as Paris and where better to experience the magic of the City of Lights than from the top of the magnificent Eiffel Tower? Climbing the 1,710 steps to the top floor of Gustave Eiffel’s 19th-century masterpiece (or at least riding the elevator) is a must, but for the ultimate experience, enjoy an Eiffel Tower Dinner and Seine River Cruise. The Eiffel Tower’s Restaurant 58 is one of the most fashionable brassieres in town, where you’ll get to tuck into aperitifs and sip wine with a birds-eye view over the surrounding Trocadéro gardens and the Paris skyline.

5. Hawaii dinner cruises

 

If you prefer your vistas with white sand and rippling ocean, take your dinner date to America’s most tropical state, Hawaii, where you can add Hawaiian dancers, swaying palm trees and rainbow-colored lei (garlands) to the occasion. Sail along the idyllic Kohala coast on an Oahu Sunset Dinner Cruise, where you’ll soon be enraptured with the views – cobalt-blue waves, sculpted coastal cliffs and a molten sunset setting the beaches alight. You’ll even travel out past the landmark Diamond Head to discover the deserted bays and hidden coves of Oahu, and keep your eyes on the waters too, as whales can often be seen peeking out of the waves.

6. Breaking records on the Singapore Flyer

Singapore Flyer Sky Dining

Forget the iconic London Eye and the dazzling Texas Star; the Singapore Flyer  takes the prize for the world’s highest observation wheel, soaring an vertigo-inducing 541 feet in the air. Best of all, you can even dine on board with your own luxury butler service serving up a four course spread as the wheel completes two rotations. The expansive panoramas not only offer fantastic bird’s eye views over Marina Bay, Singapore River and the Raffles Place financial district, but on clear days you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of foreign shores, with neighboring countries Malaysia and Indonesia lying within view. Better get there quick though – Beijing’s 682-foot Great Observation Wheel and the 550-foot Las Vegas High Roller are both under construction, so it looks like Singapore won’t be holding its title for much longer.

7. Dinner on Victoria Peak in Hong Kong

Enjoy dinner atop Victoria Peak

There’s no better place to marvel over Hong Kong’s dazzling neon lights and imposing skyscrapers than from the famous Victoria Peak, the city’s highest and most popular observation point. Reached by the Peak Tram, a 120-year-old funicular railway, the mountain offers expansive vistas over the lively harbor below, as well as 360-degree panoramas from the Peak Tower viewing terrace. Take a Hong Kong Harbor Night Cruise and Dinner at Victoria Peak tour, where you’ll get to soak up the city lights from the Bubba Gump Shrimp restaurant (Bubba Gump’s) at the top of The Peak Tower and follow it with a romantic night cruise along the Victoria Harbor in a traditional Chinese boat.

8. 360-degree views at KL Tower, Kuala Lumpur

Dine in style at the KL Tower

Built in 1995, the iconic Kuala Lumpur (KL) Tower is the city’s tallest building, boasting the highest public viewpoint in the Malaysian capital. High-speed elevators whisk visitors to the top floor of the futuristic telecommunications tower where the observation deck offers mind-blowing city views at over 900 feet above street level. At the top, the Seri Angkasa Revolving Restaurant serves up a buffet of local cuisine where you’ll get 360-degree city views without having to move from your chair. Of course, you could always just grab a Big Mac a few floors down, at allegedly the world’s highest McDonald’s.

9. London’s highest meal at The Shard

Opening its highly anticipated 72ndfloor rooftop observation deck – London’s highest lookout point at 800 feet above street level – in February 2013, The Shard’s spectacular architecture, fashioned from glass panels that change colors in the light like a gigantic ‘shard of glass’, presents magnificent views even from ground level. Diners can choose from a range of world-renowned restaurants spread over 3 floors of the futuristic skyscraper, designed by legendary architectural visionary Renzo Piano and now the E.U’s tallest building measuring in at 1,016 feet. Housed in a glistening glass atrium on the 31st to 33rd floors, this is dining with a view at its most spectacular, with 360-degree views taking in Big Ben, the houses of Parliament, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and a host of other key sights. The only downside is you’ll have to wait – the restaurants aren’t set to open until later in 2013, so keep an eye on the website for details.

10. The View Restaurant, NYC

Watch the sun set on a New York Dinner Cruise

The most iconic lookout points might be from the Statue of Liberty and the Top of the Rock observation deck, but for dinner with a view, New York’s highest restaurant is a worthy rival. The aptly named The View is New York’s only revolving restaurant, located on the 48th floor of the Marriot Marquis hotel, where you can indulge in a varied menu of international cuisine, or just sip a cocktail in the lounge bar while taking in the spectacular views over Times Square and the Broadway Theater District below. If vertigo-inducing heights aren’t your thing, explore the glittering Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building from street level, with a New York Dinner Cruise along the famous Hudson River, instead.

11. Watching Niagara Falls at Skylon Tower

For a waterfront view you can’t get more dramatic than looking out over the colossal Niagara Falls from the area’s highest viewing point. The landmark Skylon Tower presides over the Canadian Horseshoe Falls – the largest of the Niagara’s three falls stretching an awe-inspiring 2,600 feet wide and reaching heights of 173 feet. Take to the sky-high revolving dining room for a view that changes with each course, spanning the American Falls, Niagara Falls, the Great Gorge, the Niagara wine district and, on clear days, as far as the city skylines of Buffalo, New York and Toronto. For the ultimate experience, enjoy an atmospheric evening dinner set to an explosive backdrop of fireworks over the floodlit Horseshoe Falls.

12. Eating at the Top of Europe at the Eiger Glacier Mountain Restaurant in Switzerland

The train to the Top of Europe

If dining on the brink of a vast glacier sounds like the perfect adventure, you’ll find few views more wondrous than those from the famous Eiger Glacier Mountain Restaurant. Teetering on the icy foothills between the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains, the terrace restaurant lies at 7,618 feet (2322 meters), surrounded by a wintry wilderness of snowy peaks, glistening glacial passes and icy streams. Reached by train on the famously picturesque Jungfrau railway, you can make a day of it and carry on to Jungfraujoch – the Top of Europe at the end of the line. The highest railway station in Europe is a destination in itself, towering an incredible 11,333 feet (3,454 meters) above sea level, but most famous is the Sphinx Observation Terrace, overlooking Europe’s longest glacier, the Aletsch Glacier.

 

Top 12 Places to Enjoy Dinner with a View Ayers Rock , Food and Drink , food tours , hawaii , hong kong , Kuala Lumpur , London , Melbourne , new york city , Niagara Falls , Paris , Singapore , Switzerland , sydney