Tag Archives: Kids

The NYC Rock’n’Roll World Of The Wanderlust Girls

Curiosities Insider Interviews Wanderlust Girls Pop Art

Come explore the NYC rock’n’roll world of Emily and Abigail, creators of Wanderlust Girls! Enjoy their 9 best behind the scenes spots in New York City!

Curiosities Insider Interviews Wanderlust Girls Manhattan Bridge

Emily and Abigail (the Wanderlust Girls) met in middle school many eons ago (18 years to be exact), in a small town just outside of Boston.

They grew up sharing a love for fashion, rock’n’roll and adventure. These shared interested morphed into a blog, WanderLust Girls back in 2010, which has since grown into the fashion, lifestyle, travel brand they run today.

The girls recently expanded their business down in Nashville, which you will be seeing more of on their social media soon.

If they are not in Nashville hanging with rock stars or repping their black clad closets on the New York City streets, they are likely in the air jetting to a new location for their next travel piece.

Take a look below to see their 9 best behind the scenes spots in New York City:


I NEED MORE

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“I NEED MORE is a clothing store with all the spikes and studs you can dream of. (Yes, we dream about spikes and studs.) The owner, Jimmy Webb is a rock’n’roll legend in the city who we are lucky enough to call a friend. Every piece in the shop is unique, bold, and badass.”

As they say, this is literally a “A Rock’N’Roll clothing store for everybody”! The store is true a labor of love and dedication. You’ll certainly love it all: from the goo goo muck chandelier to the hand pained zebra stripe dressing rooms and painting on the walls!

They are a multi-label store in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, and always have big names coming by! A few famous friends in their list are: the one and only Ewan McGregor, Slash, Alice Cooper and Duff McKagan!

Pass by to see what they are up to!

Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 12pm – 8pm
Friday & Saturday: 12pm – 9pm
Sunday: 1pm – 7pm

Location: 75A Orchard Street

http://ixneedxmore.com


Duff’s Brooklyn

Curiosities Insider Interviews Wanderlust Girls Duffs Brooklyn

“If you ever wanted to sit in an electric chair, look no further! Duff’s Brooklyn has its very own, as well as some of the creepiest, yet amazing decor we’ve ever seen. Enjoy some metal music and don’t forget to spin the wheel to win various prizes. Keep spinning until you get the Jesus juice.”

Founded in 1999 back in the neighborhood of Hell’s Kitchen, in Manhattan, this metal mecca finally moved into Brooklyn in 2004 and is the place to go if you a heavy metal lover. If you’re not part of this lifestyle, it’s still a fantastic place to go explore and broaden your horizons.

The spot, now located in South Williamsburg, is certainly a true metal place. Names like Pantera, Iron Maiden, Kerry King of Slayer, Exodus, Machine Head, The Sword, and many others have visited it.

Let’s rock!

Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6pm – 4am

Location: 168 Marcy Avenue

www.duffsbrooklyn.com


Jane Motorcycles

“Jane Motorcycles is our favorite place to go scope for beautiful bearded motorcycle riding men… I mean they have great coffee, that’s why we go. This beautifully curated moto gear shop surrounds the actually really great coffee shop. It’s amazing in the nice weather when they open the garage style door and you can enjoy your latté will gazing at all the motorcycles lined up outside.”

This is the ultimate NYC’s custom motorcycles, apparel, gear, art, books, and espresso shop, and we love it too! Alexander DiMattio and Adam Kallen started Jane with the objective of putting a new take on a motorcycle shop. And…they did it flawlessly!

These guys are from Brooklyn and everything in their store translates the vibe of the neighborhood and the lifestyle they personally enjoy.

They literally created this store out of scratch – actually it’s not their original location, since they were forced to move out of their other place. But, a blessing in disguise, for sure. At this spot, they were able to transform into reality all their dreams of what their store should looks like, such as the huge coffee counter and the garage door roll-up.

We are also huge coffee lovers, and their coffee partner is delicious, with ethically source coffee from all over the world – totally up our alley, since we work with and support sustainable traveling!

Definitely a must-go spot!

Hours:
Monday – Friday: 7am – 7pm
Saturday: 8am – 7pm
Sunday: 9am – 7pm

Location: 396 Wythe Avenue

https://janemotorcycles.com


Pinks

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“Pinks a fun hot rod style bar with motorcycle chain chandeliers and random car parts throughout the watering hole. Make sure you stop by for rock n’ roll bingo. Lots of fun prizes and great tunes!”

This is also a place we enjoy a lot!

Pink, in the Lower East Side, is a great spot to go for drinks, good music, a great crowd and even to celebrate your birthday.

They have a pretty cool private room in the back, if you prefer having your guests all together and more comfortable.

As they explain: “Pinks is what happens when a musician & a motorcycle enthusiast come together & build a bar around their love of Kustom Kulture.”

Hours:
Monday – Wednesday: 5pm – 2am
Thursday – Friday: 5pm – 4am
Saturday: 12pm – 4am
Sunday: 12pm – 2am

Location: 242 East 10th Street

http://pinks.nyc


Grit N Glory

Curiosities Insider Interviews Wanderlust Girls Grit N Glory

“Grit N Glory is a rock’n’roll one-stop-shop, located in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Whether you are looking for a shirt with a satanic cat on it, some new ink (they have their own tattoo shop) or a tea cup for your vodka, they have it!”

The store offers a full collection for men, women and even a collection for the cool kids, besides accessories and housewares!

You’ll also be able to see some pretty crazy shots signed by Mark Weiss where he featured Alice Cooper, Boy George, Metallica, Guns’N’Roses, Mick Jagger and Ozzy in the 1980’s.

Hours: Daily from 12pm – 8pm

Location: 186 Orchard Street

www.gritnglory.com


Three of Cups

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UNFORTUNATELY THIS RESTAURANT IS PERMANENTLY CLOSED!

“Three of Cups, if you’re are in the mood for a delicious Italian meal and some light death metal you are in the right spot. On street level Three of Cups is a beautiful restaurant with drool-worthy pizzas and pasta dishes. Meanwhile, the basement has pretty heavy metal music playing, leopard print poles, and a badass crowd.”

Who doesn’t love Italian food made from these old family recipes and pizzas, right?

Located in the East Village, Three of Cups was founded back in 1992 and they really know the essence in making good pizza.

If you’re not that into pizza – if this even exists, lol – their food menu comes from recipes from the Southern Italian regions like Sicily, Naples and Bari.

And still, if you’re into pizza and pasta but keep track of all the calories you eat, don’t worry…they have delicious gluten-free options on the menu.

Location: 83 1st Avenue


Gutter Bar

Curiosities Insider Interviews Wanderlust Girls The Gutter
Our Founder, Fê, with her friends at The Gutter, in Williamsburg.

“Gutter Bar Brooklyn, has great cheap whiskey and a retro style bowling alley in the back. Equipped with 8 lanes to show off your skills. They also have a pool table. It’s a really great place to go with a group of friends on a cold winter day.”

We were so excited to see the Gutter Bar as part of Emily’s and Abigail’s list! This is a spot that we go a lot to and always have a great time!

Now, don’t expect a super fancy bowling alley because, as the girls mentioned, it’s a retro style one. But, then again, who need fancy to have fun, right?

They have a full bar, a pool table (be sure to place your Quarter on the table to get in line) and the bowling alley. Oh! And after passing by the restrooms, you’ll see another room! Walk in! They have a stage with live music and a dance floor!

It can be a while – a few hours – until you play, so you can arrive early, or just get your number and enjoy the bar until your time comes.

Hours Williamsburg:
Monday – Thursday: 5pm – 4am
Friday: 2pm – 4am
Saturday & Sunday: 12pm – 4am

Hours Long Island City:
Monday – Thursday: 5pm – 2am
Friday: 2pm – 2am
Saturday & Sunday: 12pm – 2am

Locations:
200 North 14th Street, Williamsburg
10-22 46th Avenue, Long Island City

www.thegutterbrooklyn.com/williamsburg


Enchantments

Curiosities Insider Interviews Wanderlust Girls Enchantment Store

“Enchantments is the oldest occult store in NYC. This space is filled with wonderfully witchy items from candles to bring love into your life, herbs and oils to rid yourself of ex boyfriends, books like ‘The Witches Bible’ and of course, tarot cards. Literally all you could ever need.”

The store is located in the East Village and opened back in 1982! Their mission is: Our mission is to help people empower themselves, heal and grow through spiritual practice. We believe in the principle “harm none,” and do not endorse items that hurt others.

Their Apothecary has over 100 recipes and can be mixed and matched according to what you are looking for.

Their incenses, oils, baths and other products are hand-made. They still have numerous other products like hand-carved candles, holders, statues, books, jewelry, talismans, cards and so many other super cool magical tools!

Be sure to go with time, since you’ll certainly be drawn to many different products!

Hours:
Wednesday – Monday: 1pm – 8:45pm
Closed Tuesday

Location: 424 East 9th Street

www.enchantmentsincnyc.com


Obscura Antiques

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“Obscura Antiques, a small antique and oddities shop located in the East Village. We once got a bat skeleton there! So, if you’re in the market for bones, taxidermy, or even a Romanian AK-47 Bayonet, you hit the jackpot! Give yourself at least an hour to look through everything. You’ll find some gems for sure.”

Looking through these old antiques and oddities is certainly a journey into the past and can be quite amusing if you let your mind fly.

They are the oldest shop in this category in NYC and they ‘carry medical, scientific, natural history, fraternal, circus/sideshow, and all things unusual’.

Plus, as they mentioned, we also believe it’s a great place to find a unique gift. Well, it will certainly be a gift your loved one will remember forever!

Enjoy your exploration!

Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 12pm – 8pm
Sunday: 12pm – 7pm

Location: 207 Avenue A

http://www.obscuraantiques.com


Thank you Emily and Abigail (the Wanderlust Girls), for sharing with us your 9 best behind the scenes spots in New York City!

If you enjoy rock’n’roll, you will also enjoy Saint Vitus Bar in Greenpoint. They’ve already hosted small, unexpected gigs with Nirvana!

Also, take a look at this interview with Andre Vasconcellos, one of the most amazing NY-based guitarists we know!


Photo Credits: Courtesy of all the venues
*Last Update on April/2020.*

Garrison: A Peaceful Weekend Getaway In New York

Day Trips and Travels Garrison Hudson Valley By Jake Rajs

Garrison is located only 50 miles North of Manhattan and has some of the most spectacular sceneries close by. So, if you’re the adventurous type, this is the place to go for a peaceful weekend getaway in New York!

Day Trips and Travels Garrison Hudson Valley By Jake Rajs
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Jake Rajs

Garrison has become one of the most popular hideaways of the super successful New Yorkers that look for peace and quiet. Why? Most of the houses are totally isolated from “civilization” giving them down time after a stressful week.

The city center is super tiny. There, you will find an art center that offers classes for kids and adults and a charming local library.

It’s a great place for canoeing in the Hudson River. Many adventurer enthusiasts head up there to explore New York’s nature and wildlife.

If you enjoy golf,  there are two golf courses to play around. One is the 9-hole Highland Country Club, and the 18-hole Garrison Golf Club.

A few other places to visit while you’re in town:

  • Manitoga / The Russel Wright Design Center – A home, studio, and woodland garden created by the industrial designer, Russel Wright, between 1942 and 1976.
  • Boscobel House & Gardens – They are one of the leading historic house museums in the Unites States. The mansion holds the finest collection of New York Neoclassical furniture and it’s location offers a breathtaking view of the Hudson Valley.
  • Garrison Art Center – They are focused on promoting the creation, exhibition and enjoyment of art!
  • Constitution Marsh Audubon Center & Sanctuary – Comprised of 270 acres of tidal marsh in the Hudson Highlands, Constitution Marsh serves as critical natural habitat for birds and other wildlife of the Hudson River Estuary.

*Places are in same order of appearance in gallery below.*

Day Trips and Travels Garrison Hudson Valley Manitoga The Russel Wright Design Center
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There are beautiful houses around town and it’s a great place for weddings too!

Also, Garrison is just 10 minutes away is Cold Spring, where you can have a nice dinner with wine and buy groceries. We simply love this small and super charming village!

And still, only 15-20min car ride, you can check out the renowned contemporary art museum called Dia:Beacon.

Enjoy this a peaceful weekend getaway in New York!


Photo Credit: Courtesy of Jake Rajs
*Last Update on March/2020.*

We Love Uncovering The NYC Subway Secrets

Curiosities City Secrets NYC Secret Subway FDR Tracks Waldorf Astoria

One of the things we love the most in New York City, is uncovering the NYC subway secrets. We compiled a few of what we most enjoyed!

Curiosities City Secrets NYC Secret Subway FDR Tracks Waldorf Astoria
Secret FDR Tracks beneath the Waldorf Astoria Hotel – ©Behind the Scenes NYC

There is just so much to talk about when the subject is: NYC subway secrets. It’s hard even to know where to start from.

To start, maybe we should go back and see how it all began:


“At 2:35 on the afternoon of October 27, 1904, New York City Mayor George McClellan takes the controls on the inaugural run of the city’s innovative new rapid transit system: the subway.

At 7 p.m. that evening, the subway opened to the general public, and more than 100,000 people paid a nickel each to take their first ride under Manhattan.

IRT service expanded to the Bronx in 1905, to Brooklyn in 1908 and to Queens in 1915.

Since 1968, the subway has been controlled by the Metropolitan Transport Authority (MTA). The system now has 26 lines and 468 stations in operation; the longest line, the 8th Avenue “A” Express train, stretches more than 32 miles, from the northern tip of Manhattan to the far southeast corner of Queens.

Every day, some 4.5 million passengers take the subway in New York.”

~ via History.com


That said, we can still list some other peculiarities that we love about the NYC subway secrets:

1. Did you know that there are many abandoned platforms, like the one underneath 42nd street on the A/C/E line?

2.  The FDR Subway Track – Track 61 (picture above!), beneath the Waldorf Astoria Hotel is one of the most protected sites. FDR, stands for Franklin Delano Roosevelt and was used exclusively by him during his Presidency, due to his physical impairment, after contracting Polio. Even though we had to luck of going down there, today Track 61 is completely out of bounds for the public.

3. Wanderlust Projects, know for their illegal parties, that trespasses authorized areas, has organized an illegal party in an abandoned Subway Station. We love these guys!

4. Up through 2006, the New York City transit system operated an armored Money Train that took all money collected from fairs to a safe place at 370 Jay Street, Brooklyn. (You can see more at the New York Transit Museum).

5.  Joralemon Street, in Brooklyn Heights, has a fake townhouse, in the middle of several others colored ones, that hides a ventilation shaft for the Subway.

6. MTA Arts for Transit invited the sculpture Tom Otterness, in 2004, to create those beautiful little bronze creature spread through out the 14th Station and 8th Avenue. See more about his project below:

…and still:

7. The Knickerbocker Hotel was once a very acclaimed hotel, where names like F.Scott Fitzgerald and John D. Rockefeller used to “hang”. The forgotten white door at Track 1 on Times Square/42nd Street station.

8. When you get the Q Line from Dekalb into Manhattan (the abandoned Myrtle Ave station), you will be able to witness the Masstransiscope artwork by Bill Brand, installed in the year of 1980. This was once the is located in the abandoned Myrtle Ave station. Facing the front of the train, you need to sit on the left side seats.

9. We love the Underbelly Project, dating back a few years to 2009. See below where some of the most amazing works of art are secretly hidden.

10. Decommissioned in 1945, the famous City Hall Subway Station has maybe the most amazing architectural designs of all. How to see it? Stay on the 6 train after its last stop, at Brooklyn Bridge. It will continue running, and you’ll be able to see a bit from this station, when you pass by. Beware: it might get a little dark, since lights might go out at some point. Just, stay cool.

11. The Woolworth Building had an exclusive and direct access into the subway, for all the tenants. For an exclusive tour into the building, contact our experts!

12. The weird “finger-pointing” moment that every conductor does before opening the train’s doors, is simply for safety reasons, indicating that the train is completely stopped.

…finally:

13. Famous people have done fantastic works of “art” in the subway. Take a look at what Aaron from Underground_NYC has created through the dance moves of the famous Brazilian ballerina, Ingrid Silva:

Curiosities City Secrets NYC Secret Subway Ingrid Silva by Underground NYC
Ingrid Silva by Underground_NYC.

…there is just so much more, but we’ll leave it for a second article about the NYC subway secrets!

So, with all this, there are a few books and gadgets we’d like to recommend, if you’re into these secret subway stories and adventures like us:

1. Beneath the Streets: The Hidden Relics of New York’s Subway System
2. The City Beneath Us: Building the New York Subway
3. Lost in NYC: A Subway Adventure: A TOON Graphic (Toon Graphics) (for Kids)
4. Helvetica and the New York City Subway System: The True (Maybe) Story
5. The New York City Subway: The History of America’s Largest and Most Famous Subway System
6. My Subway Ride (for Kids)
7. The Race Underground: Boston, New York, and the Incredible Rivalry That Built America’s First Subway
8. Sterling Industries 138-094 Double Sided Wall Clock with Map of New York Subway
9. New York Puzzle Company – New York City Transit MTA Subway Kids – 36 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle (for Kids)
10. Glossy Paper Subway Gift Bags
11. and still, a New York City Subway Map Poster Print

And last, we hope you enjoyed this post, as much as we enjoyed doing it!

Yup, we are fascinated with uncovering the NYC subway secrets!


Text Excerpts: History.com
Photo Credits: ©Behind the Scenes NYC and Courtesy of Underground_NYC
*Last Update on March/2020.*

We have infinite reasons why NYC is great for Kids

Curiosities City Secrets NYC for Kids by Polina Bulman

There are so many reasons why NYC is great for kids! We are tired of telling people that it’s an excellent city to raise their little ones. See below why we think so!

Curiosities City Secrets NYC for Kids by Polina Bulman
Photo Credit: Polina Bulman

We are literally exhausted of telling friends and other people that NYC is great for kids!

There are so many countless reasons why and kids that are born here do have that special “extra thing” in them. It eventually makes them different and highlights them in the middle of other kids.

So, see below, just a few reasons why New York City is great for Kids:

1. We have the best pizzas! Ok, we could stop here actually! Ha!

2. We live in a multi-cultural city!

3. Oh, and we are able to try food from all over the world with only a few steps here and there!

4. Our toddlers and kids wear the cutest clothes and are super stylish!

5. Our museums have exhibitions and attractions for kids all year long!

6. Plus, we have theaters with amazing plays too!

7. We have one the most amazing carrousels in the world, for example Jane’s Carrousel at the Brooklyn Bridge Park!

8. Our summer time is full of free family events!

9. The kids’ menus are awesome — even adults want to try it!

10. The city is tough and helps shape strong individuals for the future! The eventually exceed within their groups.

11. The subway lines take us everywhere and they are free for the tiny ones – below 44 inches!

12. But, we can walk to almost any place!

13. Everyone is super connected to art, design, culture, etc, giving them the opportunity of engaging with this ludic universe.

14. We are called The City that Never Sleeps…and that can come in handy with kids, if you know what I mean!

15. The lighting of the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center is breathtaking! Kid’s jaws always drop and it’s so cute to observe them staring up.

16. Lastly, we have the best sights in the world to look at…every…single…day!

So, do you still need more? We could continue…but we could have stopped at #1 too! Ha!


Photo Credit: Courtesy of Polina Bulman
*Last Update on March/2020.*

Dziupla, Our Special Polish Restaurant In Williamsburg

Dining Dziupla Restaurant Counter Table

If you read the full story about our Founder’s journey to NYC, you will remember about the huge role and historic moment she had at this traditional Polish restaurant in Williamsburg, called Dziupla.

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Making a long story short and putting into perspective for those who haven’t yet read our Founder,’s Fê Paronetto, story, this Polish restaurant in Williamsburg has a fundamental significance in her life. It was the place she was having lunch on April 20th, 2014 and actually had the 1st strong insight saying to her sister that she’d be living in NYC in 1 year.

(The last two pictures in the gallery above were taken on this exact day, back in 2014!)

So…exactly 365 days after this lunch, on April 20th, 2015 she arrived in NYC! It wasn’t till 2016, through Facebook memories that she say the entire date “coincidences”.

Anyway,  this Polish restaurant in Williamsburg, called Dziupla (pronounced jou-pla), opened mid March of 2014. It was just a few weeks before Fê discovered it and decided to sit down for a lunch that would change the course of her life.

That day, Fê ordered Duck Crepe with caramelized apples, smoked polish cheese, cranberry chipotle relish, made out of gluten-free flour and a side salad. OBS: She had still not gone Vegetarian!

Her sister had the the Grass Fed Beef Burger with tomatoes, grilled onion, lettuce, spicy mayo, fries and salsa, served with hand cut french fries and greens.

For dessert they did not spare calories! Hahaha! They ordered the classic Polish Pychotka with chocolate ice cream! Yum!

A few of the dishes you should also try are:

  • Potato pancake with goulash stuffed with grass feed beef goulash and sauerkraut
  • Stuffed cabbage lunch with tomato sauce, mashed potatoes and beets salad
  • Hunter stew and mashed potatoes
  • Any of the Pierogies – a super typical Polish dish

Yup, as we said, they really are a traditional Polish restaurant in Williamsburg!

The interesting part their menu is that the hanger steak is grass fed, the boar is wild and the chicken is “Amish farm raised.”

They have a great outdoor seating area right on the famous Bedford Street, so try and sit outside and experience a bit of “people-watching”. Certainly interesting in this neighborhood!

They serve breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, so you’ll surely find the right occasion to go there!

We’ve organized extraordinary tours and experiences around the Williamsburg, so if you want to experience the hood in style, be sure to take a look at our Concierge Services.

On the other hand, we’ve hosted huge groups of executives organizing fantastic weekend itineraries and interesting study tours. See our different Corporate Services and how we can enhance your team’s experience in New York City.

Hours:
Monday – Wednesday: 7:30am – 11pm
Thursday – Friday: 7:30am – 12am
Saturday: 9am – 12am
Sunday: 9am – 11pm

Location: 194 Bedford Avenue

www.dziuplabrooklyn.com


Photo Credit: ©Behind the Scenes NYC and Courtesy of Dziupla 
*Last Update on Feb/2020.*

Bear Mountain: For the Adventure Seekers in New York

Day Trips and Travels Bear Mountain by Virtual Tourist

If you’re part of the adventure seekers in New York that loves outdoor sports, Bear Mountain is the place to go! Plan a day trip up there, or enjoy weekend hideout.

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Bear Mountain State Park. Photo Credit: Virtual Tourist

Located only 1.5 hours from Manhattan, Bear Mountain State Park is located on the west side of the Hudson River. It’s actually divided into two different New York counties: Orange and Rockland county.

The park has over 5,200 acres and countless things to do!

You’ll find outdoor adventure activities from biking and swimming, to hiking, boating and even snowmobiling in the winter!

The park also features a zoo, trailside museums and the Perkins Memorial Tower with an amazing view of the park. You will also find picnic areas, playgrounds, nature trails and several other amazing amenities and activities.

We know that golf is a national passion and if you’re a pro, or an enthusiast, you can book a game at the Bear Mountain Golf Course. It’s located right at the base of the mountain.

You can get season passes, sign up for leagues & tournaments, book classes and play in their driving range. They also have a shop, in case you forgot any equipment or accessory.

Are you the radical sports person? Well, they also offer cross country skiing during the winter season!

Plus, if you decide to stay for the whole weekend, a good option is the Bear Mountain Inn built in 1915. It passed through a massive renovation and is now up and running!

It’s surely a perfect place for the adventure seekers in New York!

For other experience upstate, you might want to check out Storm King and Dia:Beacon for an artsy day trip! Or, explore the abandoned Bannerman Castle for an exciting exploration!

Lastly, for those that look for adventure with out leaving New York City, you might want to try the Brooklyn Boulders and their new technology.

If you’re coming to New York and need a hand booking a trip to Bear Mountain, our experts can find you the best options that suites your budget. For corporate groups in search of annual retreat locations, team building experiences and other activities, let our team assist you.

Location: Palisades Parkway or Route 9W, North Bear Mountain, NY

https://parks.ny.gov/bearmountain

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Bear Mountain Inn, after reconstruction. Photo Credit: Wikipedia

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Wikipedia and Virtual Tourist
*Last Update on March/2020.*

Brooklyn Boulders: Mixing Adventure With Technology

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Have you heard of Brooklyn Boulders? If you haven’t, it’s time to learn more about them! If you are hungry and restless to try some adventure with technology, this is a great place to go!

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Brooklyn Boulders is one of the greatest workouts to have a bit of downtime from the city. They offer a great 22,000 sqft space for rock climbing since 2009.

Located in the neighborhood of Gowanus, in Brooklyn, every year their team bring novelties to the experience they create.

“It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.” ~ Edmund Hillary

This time, they’ve added Augmented Reality to their menu of classes!

How it works? There are projections on the walls that create a video game experience for the climbers. The objective is to touch each projection – or target – as fast as possible. At every touch,  a sound is ignited to confirm the target was reached. Pretty cool, right? Fantastic mix of adventure with technology.

Being fit definitely became more entertaining at Brooklyn Boulders!

Oh! They also offer yoga, acroyoga, capoeira classes, and a variety of fitness workshops. Plus, these guys love to party making everything fun.

If you are a bit lazy and need and extra push to exercise, they have fantastic personal trainers that can help you out and keep you disciplined.

Also, their free wifi will let you document your experience to share with your friends!

You might want to see a short YouTube video where our Founder, Fê Paronetto, does some bouldering!

Lastly, after a fantastic class at Brooklyn Boulders, you might want to walk a few blocks to a neighborhood we love called Fort Greene. For lunch or dinner, go to Colonia Verde, one of our favorite spots!

If you want our expert’s help to organize a private party or gathering, let us know. This is also the perfect spot for a company outing or a team building day. Our team is also able to assist you in organizing it all.

Contact us for further information!

Hours:
Monday – Friday: 7am – Midnight
Saturday & Sunday: 8am – 10pm
Holiday hours may vary.

Location: 575 Degraw Street, Brooklyn

https://brooklynboulders.com


Photo Credits: Courtesy of Brooklyn Boulders
*Last Update on March/2020.*

Lavender By The Bay: A Unique Long Island Spot To Visit

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This week, our Contributor Laura Peruchi talks about a great getaway called Lavender by the Bay in Long Island. Not many people know about and it’s a great place to visit over the weekends at this time of year!

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New York State hides several of places that are great getaways from the City. Long Island is a good choice if you want to spend a day away from New York City’s craziness.

The region is famous for its vineyards and also for the beaches. But, did you know there is a lavender farm in Long Island too? Yup! You don’t need to catch a flight to Provence to see some gorgeous lavender fields.

Lavender by the Bay is a lavender farm which is located in Long Island, specifically in East Marion. It’s a premier lavender farm and one of the largest in the Country. The farm is owned and run by a family that have been growing the highest quality lavender in Long Island for over 15 years.

The fields have twenty varieties of lavender, growing across seventeen acres, which offers in over 50,000 plants. The best part? Lavender by the Bay is opened to the public and you can visit the fields during the blooming seasons. The aroma of the place, we guarantee, is irresistible!

Before to plan your visit, you need to keep in mind that there are just three blooming periods during the year. Lavender by the Bay has lavenders from France and from England, and that’s why the blooming happens in different times.

The first English Bloom typically takes place mid to late June and sometimes into early July.

The main French Bloom usually begins in early July and lasts about 2 weeks. According to the farm, this is the best time to visit the place, because this bloom is the most impressive.

Do you still want a chance to see the lavenders?

Well, you can check out the second English Bloom, that typically starts late Summer/early Fall. But, it’s good to remember that we are dealing with mother nature. So, you can’t predict the exact time – these are approximations. See their website to check the updates about the blooming.

There is a $5 per person (ages 12 and up) field entry Fee. Once you visit the place, don’t forget to check out their store – it sells lavender cosmetics, lavender honey and, of course, lavender.

Lavender by the Bay in Long Island is definitely a great experience!

If you enjoy the region, you might enjoy visiting Sag Harbor on another weekend!

In addition, for assistance to organize a family trip or an experience with friends, contact our experts. For company gatherings and tours, contact us to learn more.

Hours:
May: Friday -Sunday, from 9am – 5pm
June to September: 7 days a week, from 9am – 5pm
October: Friday – Sunday, from 9am – 5pm

Location: 7540 Main Road, East Marion, Long Island

https://lavenderbythebay.com


Text Credit: Written by our contributor Laura Peruchi
Photo Credits: Courtesy of Laura Peruchi
*Last Update on March/2020.*

Burrow: French And Japanese Inspired Pastry Shop In DUMBO

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DUMBO is a great neighborhood to explore after you’ve walked over the Brooklyn Bridge! Burrow, a French pastry shop in DUMBO with Japanese influences owned by Ayako Kurokawa, is a delicious place to recharge.

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Our Contributor, Helenita Salom, shared with us a delightful place to visit in DUMBO, that we love! We’ve written about it in the past and this is a fresh update!

DUMBO, which stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, is a wonderful, constantly evolving neighborhood in Brooklyn. Very easily accessible by the “F” train if you are coming from Manhattan, it is one of my favorite neighborhood for its charm, unique stores, beautiful views of Lower Manhattan, and extremely friendly walkable streets.

It has also been, for a number of years now, a growing tech start-up scene — but more about this, as well as the other charms of DUMBO, in another post perhaps!

What drew me to DUMBO for this visit was none other than Burrow, a French pastry shop with Japanese influences owned by Ayako Kurokawa.

“Ayako Kurokawa is a patissier, a pastry sculptor, and a food stylist in NYC. She picks her inspirations from her restaurant experiences, Brooklyn life, and day dreaming in the subway.

Her pastry recipes are based on classic French recipes, but are developed with the Japanese and American influences she had growing up. She developed the portrait and sculpture cakes from her love for stone carving and clay sculpting.”

I first came across Burrow on Instagram about one year ago. I saw a picture Burrow had posted of a Mer-man. That’s right, a fully iced sugar cookie shaped and decorated like a male mermaid. Immediately I knew I had to make a trip out to DUMBO and visit this bakery for myself and check out this superbly made portrait cookie of a mer-man.

Located on Jay Street inside the lobby of an old standard industrial looking building, is Burrow. I almost completely missed it on my first visit down there.

Once inside Burrow though, you immediately feast your eyes on beautiful seasonal cakes, cookies and many more treats. It all spans far beyond just the portrait cookies which, from what I understand, you order in bulk in advance and aren’t sold in the store. I must say the charm of Burrow did not disappoint.

I have been numerous times since my first visit last year, and among my favorite is the strawberry short cake. Light, creamy and just enough sugar to leave you satisfied, yet not in a food coma, this is a must have if it’s available.

If you are a fan of different textures in your dessert you will enjoy this too, as it has a few different layers to it which all complement each other perfectly.

I will most definitely be returning soon.

DUMBO is a fantastic and super cool neighborhood to explore and even stay, if you’re in NYC for a few days.

The 1Hotel opened its first location in Manhattan and is surely one of the best additions to Brooklyn! This hotel is one of our top picks if you’re more a Brooklyn-style traveller.

If you’re looking for a off-the-beaten track spot to go at night, St. Ann’s Warehouse is the place to go! They not only showcase the most unique concerts and theater performances, but the place is breathtaking. It’s located right by the East River and was a former Church in the 1980’s.

Be sure to save some time to just talk around the place and be sure to take that perfect picture of the Manhattan Skyline.

Oh! And even though quite touristy, be sure to see Jane’s Carrousel, just a few steps from the warehouse.

Hours:
Monday – Friday: 9am – 6pm
Saturday 1pm – 5pm

Location: 68 Jay Street, #119

http://burrow.nyc


Photo and Text Credit: Courtesy of Helenita Salom and Burrow NYC
*Last Update on Feb/2020.*

Pug Squad: An NGO Helping Pugs In Need

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If you are a Pug lover, you need to read about Pug Squad, their Pug Camp and everything they do for the need pups out there. This NGO is a blessing to our little friends.

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Founded by a a group of 9 brilliant people, Pug Squad is a non profit organization that helps needy pugs by providing financial assistance to pug rescues.

Their Mission Statement?

“We help pugs in need by providing financial assistance to pug rescues nationwide and support to families who cannot afford to care for their senior and special needs pugs. Our network of volunteers is on call to help pug rescues in the northeast with shelter pulls, transport, and emergency foster homes.”

Learn more about the Founders, Directors and team, read their Bios.

Here are a few projects they are organizing this year:

  • Pug-A-Palooza – May 5-7 in Asbury Park, NJ
  • Pug Camp – August 25-27 – “A dream vacation for pugs, and the humans who love them!”

Plus, don’t hesitate to go to their website to donate! Or, even adopt a little one to be the newest member of your family!

If you are one of the fanatic pug lovers, take a look at all the products for sale at their store. You’ll literally want to buy 1 of each, since they are the cutest things ever.

If you’d just like to foster a pet, take a look at what Animal Haven is all about!

We’ve just updated this post with a great video about the 1st Pug Camp that happened in August.

So, take a look and see what it was all about. Plus, take a look at all the activities and programs of this first year. This is a yearly Camp, so be sure to sign up for next year!

www.pugsquad.org


Photo Credits: Courtesy of @PugSquadsOS, @_Puglulu, @Pugs 
*Last  Update on March/2020.*

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