Travel and Shop- Our Top 12 - Milan, Itlay- The Design Capital of the World.

 Milan, is one of the most important stops on high fashion calender and  it is one of the most glamorous cities in the world.

 The history, the Duomo, the beauty, the glamour, the designer outlets are just some of the things Milan is famous for.

Milan is not just known for history and the past but for their focus on the future and the future of design.

You will be busy taking in the sights, so we decided to keep the list concise to maximize your shopping experience. I tried to do 10 but could not, so Top Twelve!

Be sure to stroll Via Gesu in  the  heart of  " The Golden Quadrangle"  where all the haute couture ateliers, and the famous haberdasherys including Brioni are located. Visit Spazio Rossana Orlandi on Via Mateo Bandello, boutique, restaurant and gallery run by the effevescent Rossana Orlandi

 10 Corso Como

First pick north of the city center has to be Corso Como, the most famous store in Milan. Corso Como is owned by Carla Sozzani sister of Franca Sozzani who is the editor in chief of Italian Vogue. The space has a café, boutique, art and fashion bookstore and gallery. You will find clothing from all of the greats, and more. One of the most beautifully curated shops in the world, loved by fashionistas everywhere.

10 Corso Como

Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle II, Milan - Shopping Mecca and a must visit when in Milan. it was opened in 1878 and was one of the world's first enclosed shopping spaces.

La Vetrina di Beryl

Loved by Milanese women, this boutique is a favorite place to buy sexy pumps, sandals and boots from top designers and local Italian brands.

4 Via Statuto, north of city center

AOC- African Oriental Art

A duo of stores sells jewelry, home and clothing from all over the world including India and Africa. You will find everything from tea glasses to crafts from Africa. Lose yourself in the world for a couple of hours.

One of the most famous shopping streets in Milan.

23 and 34 Via Confalonieri, north of the city center

Penelopi 3

Stocks mod accessories for the home and garden. Tons of choices.

1 Via Palermo, north of the city center

Fiorucci

The mega center consists of individual boutiques selling everything from clothing to shoes to home goods.

2 Galleria Passarella, City Center

Great shopping guide for Milan and other cities.

Limoni Best

Milan's version of Khiels’s, this profumerio sells Marvis Toothpaste and Labello Lip Balm along with other greats for less than we would pay in the US. Reserve an afternoon.

4 Galleria del Corso, City center

The Duomo, Milan

Geox-

The leather sneakers and shoes loved by Italians and cheaper than we would pay in the US. Check out the golf line, excellent.

26 Via Monte Napoleone, City Center

Prada and Miu Miu

You cannot visit Italy without a visit to Muiccia Prada’s stores, it would be a mistake.

Prada- 63 and 65 Galleria Vittorio Emanuele/ Miu Miu – 3 Corso Venezia, City Center

Gucci and Dolce and Gabanna - Gucci for a pair of the loafers and a watch, Dolce and Gabanna for a sexy dress.

D&G- 2 Via Della Spiga

Gucci- 5 and & Via Monte Napoleone , City Center

Napoleone - Excellent prices for fantastic vintage finds, you will love this stores.

5 Via Degli Arcimboldi, Porta Ticinese

One of the best travel series on the market

Outlet- Il Salvagente

Lots of finds with drastic reductions by top designer names. Definitely needs an afternoon.

16 Via Fratelli, Bronzetti

Park Sempione, Milan Italy

Flea Markets

Naviglio Grande and Viale Papiniano- Naviglo is every Sunday and Viale is every Tuesday and Saturday mornings.

Naviglo is along the bank of the Naviglo Grande and Viale runs the length of Viale Papiniano.

 

Read, The House of Gucci on the plane, you will be ready for Milan in a jiffy!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Happy Shopping!

It's Friday! Our Favorite Places for Drinks!

Our most popular pick- The Margarita

It’s Friday!


Where in the World do you have your favorite drink? Everyone has a favorite bar or restaurant they love to visit because they love the drinks, food and the atmosphere. Or that drink is sometimes best when served at home.

People from around the globe told us their favorite places to hang and drink.  We added links to all of the favorites.
Check them out!

Thank you to everyone who sent us their favorite places.

The Mojito, our second most popular pick.

“My favorite place to drink is at home and my favorite drink is Cranberry and Soda!”
AR


Where in the World - Barbados, West Indies





















“My favorite place is La Fonda Latina in Atlanta on a hot summer evening, outside seating of course and my drink is the Cuba Libre.” “I always feel I am on an island in the tropics even though I am in the middle of a city.” “Best place to be on Friday evening.”

And

I must give a special mention to HobNob for their Chocolate Stout.
What a drink!
FashionMom


Where in the World - Atlanta

La Fonda- Ponce De Leon Ave/Peachtree Rd
http://www.hobnobatlanta.com/

Beer

“La Bain at the Standard Hotel!” “Patron with lime on the rocks.”

0 Calories. "Great people watching and views of downtown!”
AV


Where in the World- New York City

The Standards Stairway to Heaven

another favorite
http://cipriani.com/locations/venice/restaurants/harrys-bar.php


“Long Island Tea at Chequers”
RTF


Where in the World- Atlanta, GA

http://www.chequersseafood.com/




















“Mojitos at Bahama Breeze, the best”
NV


Where in the World – Miami, FL

http://www.bahamabreeze.com/



“Prosecco in the afternoon, at any rooftop bar in the world”
SSM


Where in the World- California

The Best Rooftop Lounge in Toronto

St Germain and Sangria

“Crane Beach Resort in Barbados for the best Pina Coladas”
RC


Where in the World- Guyana, SA

http://www.thecrane.com/



“Margaritas at home made by my husband, the best!”
DG


Where in the World- Toronto, CA






















“Margaritas at Mimi’s in Manhattan.” “The finest!” “A Lovely Bar”
GST


Where in the World- Ft Lauderdale, FL


mimis-restaurant-new-york


“Any Champagne cocktail at So Bar, Richmond Upon Thames”
TG


Where in the World – London

So Bar



“Margarita on the rocks, usually any good Mexican restaurant, I love Oyamel in DC”
AL


Where in the World – Washington DC

http://www.oyamel.com/

Manhattan

“Lychee martini and Chocolate Martini at Day Break in Mississauga, Ontario”
SSA


Where in the World- Brampton, CA

Frozen Daiquiri

“Fruit Punch at Hotel Tower, Georgetown Guyana. Made with fresh fruit!”



















Mimosas at Four Seasons Georgetown, Washington DC
http://www.fourseasons.com/washington/?src=ppc_google_brand_renovation&s_kwcid=TC|18952|four%20seasons%20d.c.||S||5947461524

Tropical Martinis at Cheesecake Factory

http://www.thecheesecakefactory.com/menu/welcome/welcome
AM


Where in the World- Georgetown, Guyana


“Friday Nights at Palm Court in Georgetown, I have my usual El Dorado Rum and Coke, TGIF!”
AK


Where in the World- Guyana, South America



“Bailey’s on the rocks, anyplace, anytime, anywhere!”
PS


Where in the World- Toronto, CA

Chocolate Martini

“Chocolate Martini by Jamal Bowen at Monkey Bar at Sandy Lane, Barbados”
KJ


Where in the World – Barbados and London


http://www.sandylane.com/holetown-bars.php

“Mango Lassie at any Indian restaurant or a good virgin Mojito”
JS


Where in the World- New York

Wine

“I rarely drink but when I do it’s a small glass of wine at any restaurant with dinner”
FS


Where in the World – Edmonds, Washington






















"South Beach, Mango Bar….Mojitos” " it is a great mix of sexy dancers, sexy music and very tasty drinks"
SH


Where in the World- Toronto, CA

http://www.mangostropicalcafe.com/

“My favorite place to go is in my old hood (Ohio City on the near west side of Cleveland) is Momocho.” “You must try to Margarita Sampler, 3 margaritas in rocks glasses for $15.00. You can choose from cucumber with salt with everyone raves about, blood orange, hibiscus, pomegranate, yuzu (Japanese citrus fruit), cactus flower, pineapple, fig and mango.. And you must try to guacamole sampler!”
SK


Where in the World- Chagrin Falls, Ohio

http://www.momocho.com/

Sangria

"Mojitos, Sangrias anywhere preferably Cuban, home made Pimms"
  JL
 
Where in the World - London

My favorite place is Panorama Lounge Rooftop at the Manulife Center in Toronto, awesome view of the city and the drinks are not so bad either..
JR

Where in the World- Toronto, CA

http://www.eatertainment.net/restaurants/panorama/


"Dark and Stormy at Mandarin's Elbow Beach Resort, Bermuda.  "The Goslings Black Gold Rum portions are potent"
"A Frosty Banks Beer on any West or South Coast Beach or beach bar, Barbados"
"A Sweet Lassi (goat's milk yoghurt drink) at sunrise, or a COLD Everest Beer at Sunset, "on the windy hill" at Club Himalaya resort, Nagarkot Nepal
- a view of the Himalaya range at 8,167m"
CCM

Where in the World - Edmonton, CA


http://www.nepalshotel.com/ch/

Lassi and Everest Beer

http://www.mandarinoriental.com/bermuda/

Dark and Stormy

The best south coast beach in Barbados - Accra Beach Barbados

Banks Beer

 I would love to be on the "windy hill" very soon!

Enjoy! Happy Friday!

Have a fantastic weekend, we will be back next week.

Banks Beer/Lasi and Stormy photos courtesy CCM, all other pictures courtesy Istockphotos.com

Happy Monday! Travel and Shop Pick - San Francisco !

I left my heart in .......San Francisco. It took us some time to get around to covering this great city, but that time has arrived!
If you have any favorites in San Fran please let us know!
Going forward the shop list will be shorter so if you are visiting any of our destination picks you can at least get to some of the best shops out there.



Let's start with the ice crystals bib necklace from .....

Eden & Eden
560 Jackson St, 415-983-0490
http://www.edenandeden.com/
Great European pieces in apparel, accessories and home goods mainly from England and other countries make this well culled collection a real standout. Classics with a twist just the thing to set you apart from the others.

The Curiosity Shoppe
855 Valencia Street,415-671-5384
http://www.curiosityshoppe.com/
Throwback general store feel invites you to roam, view and I am sure buy some whimsical and beautifully designed items including push pins from Italy, A Rubik cube pepper mill and denim IPhone covers. You will leave with something in hand.

Candy Store Collective
3153 16th street, 415-863-8143
http://www.candystorecollective.com/
There is the wall of candy behind the register but if you can fight your  eyes and mouth to get past it, there is some serious shopping to be done with great labels like Cheap Monday and Rachael Comey. The looks are on trend but clean and well done, love this store!


Philanthropist
3571 Sacramento Street,415-441-1750
http://www.philanthropistboutique.com/
100% of the proceeds go to benefit Bay Area Charities, that should be enough for you to shop at this store which sells amazing clothing from designers like Rachel Roy,  Philip Lim, Paul and Joe, Jason Wu among others.
Go to it!


My Roomate's Closet
3044 Fillmore St, 415-447-7703
http://www.myroommatescloset.com/
A favorite with locals because of the great fashion at practically half the price! I love the boutique feel and the staff is fantastic. They carry everyone from Tory Burch to James Perse, this is a must stop in SF!

Jeremys Department Store
2 South Park, 415-882-4929
http://www.jeremys.com/
Jeremy Kidson opened his now legendary store just out of high school in the late 80's. They offer in season in home and top designer collections, there may be a hot or miss but go on the right day and you will love it.

Polanco
393 Hayes St, 415-252-5753
Fabulous jewelry from Latin American including earrings, pearls, art and pottery simply wonderful!

Azalea
411 Hayes St and 451 Hayes St, 415-861-9888
http://www.azaleasf.com/
Love this store and website. It has an in store spa and sells ton of denim and other lins including Vena Cava, Aiko Lita, Woolrich, Mike Gonzalez, La Mer watches, Comme de Garcons, Rogan, Toms Shoes and  Maison Martin Margiela wow what a selection!


Doe
629A Haight St, 415-558-8588
http://www.doe-sf.com/
This store is styled like a department store, they sell clothing, shoes, beauty and gifts all under one little roof. A must visit for the french influenced designs.

Park Life
http://www.parklifestore.com/
220 Clement St, 415-386-7275
Let's start with the Pantone Mug set and the Book Clock and take it from there. This store  sells art books and other wonderful gift items and the  and gallery in the back showcases SF artists. What a wonderful place! Reminds me of one of my favorite places to shop the MOMA.

Gimme Shoes
416 Hayes St, 415-864-0691
http://www.gimmeshoes.com/
All shoes, all the time, but the selection is unique and edgy and they have been doing this for over 20 years. Check out current fashion fave Dries Van Noten along with Repetto yum!


Clary Sage Organics
2241 Fillmore St, 877-272-4308
http://www.clarysageorganics.com/
 A wonderful store with Organic beauty products and a  progressively tailored sustainable clothing line. Ahhhhh Zen



Happy Shopping!!

.

It's Friday! Au Revoir ! French Week concludes with French Wines.

Burgundy, France


To conclude our "All Things French Week" we take you to the wonderful wine regions of France for a tour of French wines.
The last few years have been tough for French wine.
The online site France24  reports that 2010 was the first year that Champagne was outsold by Italian and English Sparkling wines.
We hope that French wines enjoy a rebound very soon.
These are some of the best picks we gathered from our sources.

The main grape regions in France are as follows

Bordeaux
Burgundy
Champagne
Alsace
The Loire Valley
The Rhone Valley
Jura and Savoire
Southwest France
Languedoc-Rousillon
Provence

A friend from France told us that her favorite is Sauternes (a blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc) a sweet white from the Bordeaux region which is eaten with Fois Gras during the holidays.
so the first wine on our list...

Chateau Haut Bergeron Sauternes,Bordeaux
Vanilla, coconut, dried apricots and subtle spices.

Remy Pannier Chinon 2006
Cabernet franc grape, great with seafood and a good substitute for a Pinot Noir.

Hugel Gewurztraminer Alsace 2005
Very tasty and great with spicy foods.

Mouton Cadet Blanc, Baron Phillipe de Rothschild, Bordeaux AC France
A blend of Savignon Blanc,Muscadelle and Semillon. Hints of citrus, peaches and slight minerality.

Cheateau Gruaud- La Rose Bordeaux,  France

Bouvet Brut- Loire Valley, France
Wilted blossoms, sweet hay, a crips apple- quince flavor and creamy texture.

Louis Jadot BeaujolaisVillages, AC Burgundy France
Starting with strawberries and candy floss then to raspberries and red apple flavors. A fun wine.

Trimbach Pinot Gris,Alsace France
Fruity, dry with a crisp acidity.

Dubonnet Rouge Grand Aperitif de France (dessert wine)
Sweet Cherries,homemade cranberry sauce lead to red cherry, lemon zest, cardamom, red pepper, coffee, almond and a int of spearmint ending in a long orange oil finish. wow!

Michel Redde Poilly Fume
smoky gunflints and herbal scents and clean acidity make this wine a winner!
Barton and Guestier Cabernet,Sauvignon France
Cherry and Spice aromas with a peppery but nice finish.

Jaboulet. Cotes du Rhone France
Red berry fruit and smoky black cherry scents.

Chateau Greysac Bordeaux,France
Cedar spice scent, plum fruit taste.

Lefalive (Domaine) Puligny-Montrachet, France.
Chardonnay with layers of baked apples and peach fruits, very consistent taste. A bit pricy but worth it.

Alsace, France


Trimbach Riesling, Alsace
Bone dry, a balance of  delicate and intense fruit flavors and mouthwatering acidity.

Le Vieille Ferme,Cotes du Ventoux,France
Raspberry ripe, lively red at a great price.

Thank you for supporting us during this wonderful "All Things French" week. We look forward to hearing from you.


Have a fantastic weekend!



Additional sources
Wine Guide
Wine Essentials
French Lessons
The Wine Lovers Cookbook


Images by istockphotos

All Things French Week- "Le temps de faire du shopping" Travel and Shop Pick- Montreal

I remember my first visit to the Ste Catherine area of Montreal. I was so dazzled and overwhelmed by the fabulous apparel and accessories choices, I did not make a  single purchase. The selections were exquisite, edgy, unique and had European flair. One of the best places in the world to shop and what a beautiful city to do it.


Les Ailes de la Mode
This gorgeous department store sells everything from Paper Denim and Cloth to Diesel.
677 rue Ste- Catherine W

Bella Pella
Edible ingredients in bath and body products. Edibles like olive oil and avocado are just a few of the ingredients. Try the chocolate massage bar.
3933 Rue St Denis

Blue Marine and Co
Great store with extensive inventory for hanging out,  from denim to knits.
977 rue Ste- Catherine W

Couleurs
Mid Century design,Scandinavin vases and vessels and 1960's Ouebecoise ceramics.
3901 rue St-Denis

Jacob
As my Canadian friends can attest, one my favorite stores anywhere in Canada. Jacob is a very similar to Zara, trendy work related clothing and fun clothes for going out.
1220 rue Ste Catherine

Eco Darling
Recycled and sustainable home accessories, clothing and beauty products.
69 rue Villeneuve Quest

Rugby North America
Wonderful leather goods like handbags and jackets.
3526 Blvd St Laurent

Mimi and Coco
Italian made tees and tanks and great prices.
4927 rue Sherbrooke

Dex
Sexy,sexy but classy clothing from this great store.
3651 Blvd St Laurent

 Friperies (Friperies is French for secondhand)

ERA
Just featured in NY Times article about Montreal this store sells top labels including Dior and Gucci.
1800 rue Notre Dame Quest

La Gaillarde- Friperies
Vintage picks at great prices. Lots of reworked pieces too.
4019 rue Notre Dame Quest

Preloved
Vintage clothing made from reclaimed vintage fabrics. Loved all across Canada.
4832 Blvd St- Laurent

Swing
Every era and at great prices.
151 Ave,des Pins Est

Browns

From Adidas to Manolos this family owned business established in 1940 carries venerable brands from all over the world.

1191 rue Ste -Catherine

Mona Moore

Best show store in Montreal, brands from top names including Mark Jacobs and Pierre Hardy. A must visit.

1446 rue- Sherbrooke W

Space FB

A favorite of many in Montreal, designed by Francois Beauregard, clean wonderful athletic clothes in beautiful colors.

Les Cours Mont Royal Shopping Center

Espace Pepin

Art and Fashion are always a wonderful combination. Artist Lysanne Pepin showcases her work along with a fashion line from local designers.

350 rue St Paul W

Jack's

Best selection of Mid Century modern furniture and housewares at great prices.

1023 and 1036 rue Ontario

James

A great store to visit, they are always a step ahead of the trends. They stock edgy labels before anyone else.

4910 rue Sherbrooke W

Abe and Mary's

We love shopping and giving to a good cause. This store is an apothecary, a cafe and lovely merchandise from Philip Lim among others. The best thing is that one percent of every sale goes to Alzheimer's research.

4175 rue Jean Talon Quest

Indianica

Beautiful Inuit art, jewelry and craft. The moccasins for children and infants are very cute!

79 rue St-Paul Est

Au Revoir!

Images courtesy istockphotos.

All Things French Week- " Le Temps De Lire" French Culture and Lifestyle Books.

These our French culture and lifestyle book choices. They help provide some insight into the French culture.



Debra Olliver
Entre Nous: A Womans' Guide to Finding her Inner French Girl.
What French Women Know: About Love,Sex and other Matters of the Heart and Mind.

Lavender

Carol Drinkwater
The Olive Farm
The Olive Tree
The Olive Harvest
The Olive Route- Audio
Memoir and travelogue, these stories tell journey of English writer Carol Drinkwater and her husband from thier purchase of a Olive farm in the south of France. At times poignant,Carol reveals her struggles to have a baby while juggling her new roles on the farm.

Olives at a Provencal Market

Helena Frith Powell

All You Need To Be Impossibly French- A Witty Investigation into the Lives, Lusts and Secret of French Women.

Mireille Guiliano

French Women Don't Get Fat

French Women for All Seasons- A Year of Secrets, Recipes and Pleasure.

Women,Work and the Art of Savoir Faire

French Women Don't Get Fat Cookbook

Ann Barry

At Home in France.

Betsy Draine

A Castle In The BackYard: The Dream Of A House in France.

Peter Mayle

A Year In Provence

Encore Provence-New Adventures In The South of France

Toujours Provence

French Lessons- Adventures in a Knife,Fork and Corkscrew

Provence A-Z, A Francophiles Essential Handbook

Aquired Tastes

Michael Sanders

From Here You Can't See Paris, Seasons of a French Village and its Restaurant

Pont de Alexandre Bridge

 

Michael Sadler

An Englishman In Paris: L" Education Continenale.

An Englishman A la Champagne

Mary Roblee Henry
A Farmhouse in Provence, An American finds old stones,new wine and love among the French.  

Yvone Lenard

The Magic of Provence- Pleasures of Southern France.

Love in Provence- Romantic Adventures In The South of France.

Patricia Wells

At Home in Provence- By Patricia Wells and Robert Freston

We've Always Had Paris..... and Provence:  A Scrapbook of Our Life in France.

Catherine Millet

The Sexual Life of Catherine M.

Marguerite Duras

The Lover

Simone De Beauvoir

The Second Sex

Au Revoir!

These books are available at online book retailers and book stores.

Thank you for joining us for day 3 of All Things French Week!


Images courtesy of istockphotos


 



Travel and Shop Pick- Washington DC

Archway to DC Chinatown


We do not discuss politics on this blog, this is the closest we will get.

DC has some great places for vintage shopping(lots of home and furniture stores, guess I was in that type of mood), travel and head to these stores, you will not be disappointed.
DC has some of the best malls with every brand name out there, lots of repetition,so my list is more small, boutique focused.

My personal favorite areas are Chinatown(great restaurants and shopping) and the Adams Morgan neighborhoods, here we go.

Bazaar Atlas- I spent hours in this store, just browsing, sniffing oils and checking out the bead bar. They sell imports from Africa and Asia(furniture,masks and more),rugs and leather items. Call ahead if you are not sure how of the area, you could miss the store.
2405 18th st, NW 9(Adams Morgan) - 202-332-4911

Rooms With A View- Cute little store with loads of unique finds including home accessories and wine bags. Great prices too.
1661 Wisconsin Ave NW( Georgetown) 202-625-0610


Blue Mercury-
Dermalogica,Ren,Remede,Darphin
and they carry the full line of Trish McEnvoy including perfumes. You get personalized service, you really cannot lose at BM.
3059 M St,NW

Betsy Fisher-
Wide assortment means there is something for everyone, from Lily Pulitzer to Citizens of Humanity. You will find something in this boutique.
224 Connecticut Ave,NW

Home Rule
Located in DC U street area this popular home goods store is a must visit on any visit to DC for it's cool, quirky pieces.
1807 14th Street,NW

Good Eye
Loved by many DC residents, this vintage furniture and home goods store is known for its unique one of a kind pieces.
4918 Wisconsin Ave,NW

Lunch in Georgetown


Meeps
One of the oldest and still going strong vintage stores in DC( Adams Morgan). Lots of my favorite era 70s and great prices too!
2104 18th st, NW

Monsoon and Accessorize
Two locations of the UK based store. Check them out for lots of great workwear basics and fabulous tunics for evening and nights out.
50 Massachusetts Avenue and
3222 M St NW(Georgetown)
Daisy Too
Two locations(Adams Morgan and Bethesda), but the one in Bathesda is worth the trip. Trendy pieces and an outstanding show selection. They also have great sales.
4940 St Elmo Ave/1814 Adams Mill Rd.


Millennium Decorative Furniture and Accessories
Specialize in mid century modern vintage furniture and accessories. Located on 2 floors.
1528 U St NW.

Dreamland(Baltimore)
Vintage Mad Men type dresses and other great cocktail dresses.
1013 N Charles St.

In Watermelon Sugar(Baltimore)
Amazing lotions in front and fantastic home decor in the back. Unique accessories and great gift items for you and your friends.
3555 Chestnut Ave

Apartment Zero
Furnishings store near Union Station has items from Alessi,Missoni and Kartell.
406 7th St NW
Relish
High end lines from Maria Zero Cornejo, Narcisco Rodriguez and fantastic jewelry from Pellini
3312 Cady's Alley NW


Plus, my favorite Malls DC,VA and Maryland

Crystal City
Tyson's Corner- both malls plus surrounding stores(Crate and Barrell). Stay at the Ritz Carlton across from the mall(if only we could all do that!) and take the walkway to some of the biggest brand names in the world! Stop for a great seafood meal and a Dark and Stormy at Legal Seafoods.  
Fair Oaks, VA
Landmark,VA
Pentagon
Montgomery Mall

Best Area Airport for Shopping- Dulles!


 Images courtesy of istockphotos

Travel For Kids- New York City!

New York City is one of the most amazing cities in the world.

It is the ultimate city vacation for children.

Listed below are some fantastic picks in and around NYC for your children.

Depending on your time this may cover about 10 to 12 days. Stamina and loads of patience will be needed. This is a tough list so you can edit it (take out a museum or two especially if you have small children) and still get a great feel for the city.

Start....

 in Lower Manhattan and then head uptown. Try a bike ride,or walk along the Hudson River. Go through Hudson River Park, enjoy the view across the Hudson and think about Sully Sullenburger and his magnificent landing in the Hudson not so long ago. Check out the Museum of Jewish Heritage at Wagner Park.

South Street Seaport
Cobblestone Streets lined with 18th and 19th century buildings. Visit the South Street Seaport Museum. Enjoy some shopping at the mall and eat at one of the restaurants overlooking the river. You can admire the Brooklyn Bridge and watch people go by in their boats. In the summer there is a great concert series every weekend. This is the best place to be  in the summer.

Chinatown- Visit the open air stalls, gaze at the ducks hanging in the windows.  Stop at any of the local bakeries for some of the best deserts and cakes this side of the Hudson. Mott Street is one of my favorites for Dim Sum and pastries. Something for everyone including great scarves for mom.
Canal Street

Children's Museum of the Arts- A great play place for the kids to relax after shopping. Tables are set up for play and creating anything that strikes the imagination. Exercise balls are ready to blow off some steam and there are lots of drums to bang.
182 La Fayette Street

Greenwich Village and Washington Square Park(5th ave/12th st))  - If you are in NY during the summer WSP is a treat, filled with artists, comics as well as two playgrounds for smaller kids. Wander the streets of the village and soak in the local atmosphere and fantastic shopping. Your teenagers will think this area is the coolest place on earth. It is a hotbed for creativity and style.

The Strand Bookstore and Forbidden Planet - One of last greats, Strand is an independent bookstore and still going strong. Children's section is on the second floor. Forbidden Planet specializes in all things science fiction(collectibles),novels,books,movies and toys.
828 and 840 Broadway

Chelsea Market- I heard about Fat Witch first. A dear friend introduced me to the brownies(amazing) and then I went to the market. The Chelsea Market houses the Wholesale Flower market,Amy's Bread among other first rate stores. It has the feel of an old world feel.
9th ave between 15th and 16th street.  

The Intrepid -Retired Aircraft Carrier in the Hudson River.
46th and 12 ave at Pier 86

Empire State Building-One of the most famous building in the world, King Kong was here right? Take a ride up the 86th floor observation deck and you will have the ultimate view of one of the best cities in the world. What a treat for a child.
5th ave and 34th Street( east).

Grand Central Terminal- A landmark building that is a must see from every angle. Visit the transit museum,The Children's General store,The Discovery Channel Store, Li Lac Chocolates.
Plus stand in the main Vanderbilt Hall during rush hour, there is nothing like it in the world, just watching people going by and wondering where they are off to. Great,great experience.
42nd Street Grand Central Station.

Times Square -If the kids can stay up, or I would make an exception, Times Square must be visited at night, to be more precise a summer night. Even at midnight it looks like day due to all of the lights. This is quintessential NY, the lights, people moving everywhere, leaving Broadway shows, going to dinner, having their portraits done, Madame Tussaud's,Toys R Us, MTV for goodness sake, The Hershey Store,ESPN Zone and a Forever 21 that is open 24 hours.What else can I say. Don't miss it, day and night.
42nd and Broadway

Sony Wonder Technology Lab - Interactive playground with hands on exhibits and games. Very cool, make reservations.
E 56th Street.

Lincoln Center- buy tickets for ballet, opera,theater.The great open spaces at LC also inspire children to run and have a great time.
Columbus Ave between 62nd and 65th Streets. Make sure they see the traffic swirl at the circle, just something else that I love about NYC.

Museum of Natural History- Dinosaurs,mammals and everything else. Go for the Dinosaurs, the Hall of African Mammals, Hall of Ocean Life, this museum is one of my favorite places to hang in the world.
Central Park West and 79th street.

Central Park - Wow so much to do and you need a lot of time...
Start at 59th st where the horse carriages are located, find my list below
Wollman Rink(southeastern corner)
Heckscher Playground
Carousel
Central Park Zoo- 65th st and 6th ave
Children's Zoo and check out the Delacorte Musical Clock(animals come to life every half hour)
Boat Pond(72nd st)
Loeb Boathouse( 74th and 75th)
Bethesda Fountain
Belvedere Castle and the Henry Luce Nature Observatory

Whew!

Metropolitan Museum of Art- I spent many days at this museum during my college days, it is a great place to visit for inspiration.
Some of my favorites the Egyptian Wing, European galleries, The Costume Institute. Check out the site online for all of the kids activities at the museum, there offer many great activities every day.
Kidsmet
1000 5th Ave at 82nd Street

Museum of the City Of New York- Learn about the city through photographs,paintings, artifacts and videos.
1220 5th Ave

Bronx Zoo-Bronx - This is a full day, this is one of the largest zoos I have ever visited and it would really require about 2 days. You must plan, plan and plan.
Check out the Children's zoo which has a petting zoo among other features.

 New York Botanical Garden - Bronx- One of the most beautiful places in New York. Head to the Children's Adventure Garden for the best time of their lives!
200 St and Kazimiroff Blvd

Brooklyn Museum of Art
One of the largest collections of Egyptian artifacts anywhere, truly a sight to behold. The Learning Center is a great place for kids with books, computer rooms and art work.
200 Eastern Parkway

Museum of Modern Art - Newly renovated, the museum has great programs for kids, check out the online site for information. A must visit to see Picasso,Warhol,Rauschenberg and Van Gogh. What an experience!
11 West 53rd Street.

Other possible stops , Chelsea Piers(West Side), NYC Fire Museum and The World Financial Center/Ground Zero area.
I know that we omitted many other picks please let us know what else you would like to your children to see in New York.

Happy Travels!

Photos courtesy Istockphotos.

Aloha! Travel and Shop Pick- Hawaii

Oahu - 2009

Aloha Rag- Big names like Marc Jacobs and Comme de Garcons, if you can't get there check out the on line site.
1221 Kapiolani Blvd

Neo Plaza Cosmetics- Entire lines including latest of OPI and Essie nail polish.  I have never seen polish lines that extensive on the mainland.  Plus lots of hard to find California lines for east coasters.
315 Seaside Ave

Billabong- Best Summer/Beach clothing/Bags/surfer chic/Great selection of Nixon watches. Shopping here really adds some excitement to a vacation, there is something for everyone at this store at reasonable prices. Love it!
Several locations Kalakaua Ave.

Le Sport Sac- Get the Hawaii only edition/DFS only editions of the cult bags.
Kalakua Ave,Waikiki ...( several locations)

Honolulu Cookie Company- delicious and indivually packed. Several locations all over Waikiki

Satura- great cakes and cheesecakes. Royal Hawaian Center.
Kalakua Center.

High Tea- Mouana Surfrider- make a reservation and soak up this experience.
Kalakua Ave

Island Sweetie - Forget the high end stores with the high end prices, this place has inventory direct from China, no middle man,prices are low. Best of all they are ahead of trend!! Fantastic accessories too. Who needs Prada?
2131 Kalakua Ave

88 Tees- Not loose and fancy free here, snug tees in a variety of cute graphics at a great price.
2168 Kalakula Ave

MataHari- Asian themed bohemian store with lots of saris and other Indian themed merchandise. (North Shore).
66-082 Kamehameha Hwy,Haleiwa

Le Lotus Bleu and Le Lotus Bleu Mens- Funky mix of tropical flavored apparel and custom made silver jewelry.
Ala Moana Mall- Ala Moana Blvd

Brontibay Paris- French line of handbags made with bright colored fabrics and ties.  Will help you to stand out from the rest. One of the few stores in the US.
Ala Mouana Mall, Ala Mouana Blvd.

The Slipper House- Offer the largest range of slippers in Hawaii. Great prices.
 Ala Moana Mall

Splash Kids- Surfing gear, board shorts and swim gear for kids up to 14. Boys and girls, all super cute!
Ala Moana Mall

Macy's and Nordstrom Shoe Departments at Ala Moana Mall- I have to admit, I spent at least 3 hours in the shoe department at Macy's. The department is the size of a football field, with a Coach shoe shop, something we do not encounter very often. They have shoes for every age and price range and sales associates to take care of your every need. And no wonder with Nordstrom Shoe Department to compete with they have to pull out the stops. I may have spent about 3 plus hours in Nordstrom and that was just taking it all in. I was so intimidated by both I ended up not buying a thing! A must visit if you love shoes.

Ala Moana Mall - This is an amazing mall with over 290 shops in Honolulu. The mall caters to every price range and then some. Check out Harry Winston, Bottega Venata, Tory Burch, J Crew On The Island along with Blue Hawaiian Surf, Gucci, Kate Spade, Thinker Toys and Thinker Tots are a must stop and........ the Asian Grocery with 3 floors. This is your one stop shop for everything including the post office and a Longs Drug store.

North Shore Swimwear- Head here first if you need a bikini. They sell over 20 different styles each of tops and bottoms in 40 different fabrics. You will find something here, you must!
66-250 Kamehameha Hwy
Haleiwa

Bailey's Antiques and Aloha Shirts Inc- They sell the largest election of Aloha shirts including vintage and used. They also sell a large variety of pez dispensers...go figure.
517 Kapahulu Ave.

Surf -N-Sea- Oldest and most extensively stocked surf shop in Hawaii. One stop shopping induding apparel from one of my favorites Billabong.

65-595 Kamehameha Hwy,Haleiwa.


Maui

You must stop at Island Sandals-
Amazing, georgeous sandals that will last forever made by Michael Mahensmith. Your foot is measured in the shop, do it as soon as you arrive. 658 Front Street. or order on line http://www.islandsandals.com/

Upcountry Bath and Body- Amazing scents ,lotions and potions many made in Hawaii. 
3619 Baldwin Ave,Makawao

Biasa Rose- Tees, forks, everything and some, great place to get everything you need.
104 Hana Hwy,Paia

The Mercantile- You will find top names, fantastic linens, tees and they are the only ones on the island to carry Kiehl's products.
3673 Baldwin Ave, Makawao

Nuage Bleu- Jeffrey Campbell shoes love those wedges, Trina Turk and Ella Moss. Great place to find unique pieces.
76 Hana Hwy-Paia

The Big Island

Hula Lamps of Hawaii- Ulitmate souvenir from your trip. Something you see at restaurants are the lamps with the hula girl bases and their hips actually sway.
This shop is where you can get the best of the best.
74-5599 Luhia St,Kailua-Kona

Eden- Boutique stocked with Lily Pulitzer dresses among others.
75-5599 Luhia St

It's All Good - You can find bikinis, jewelry, sandals and lingerie in this really cute store. Take some time hang out and browse. Great finds!
65-1158 Mamalahoa Hwy

Aloha!!!!