north california

Love it or hate it, you can’t deny that New York City is impressive. Often referred to as the “Big Apple,” the “City That Never Sleeps” or the “Capital of the World,” New York is one of the most vibrant urban centers on the planet, and also one of the largest.

When people talk about New York, they typically mean Manhattan, which is but one of five boroughs that make up the city proper, the others being Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island. The full metropolitan area, which includes nearby Long Island, Westchester County, and parts of New Jersey and Connecticut, has a population upwards of 18 million.

New York draws tourists from around the globe, not only for its rich cultural and historical attractions, but also because it is a major center for media, theater, food, fashion, art, research, finance, trade and nightlife. It also has one of the most famous skylines on earth, dominated by the iconic Empire State Building.

First-time visitors can’t go wrong by hitting the traditional tourist spots: the top of the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Wall Street, Greenwich Village and SoHo, Rockefeller Center, Lincoln Center, Central Park, even Times Square. But those looking for more local, authentic experiences, plan a trip to Brooklyn to check out the Brooklyn Museum, Prospect Park and the Botanical Gardens; Manhattan’s Lower East Side for a taste of old-world immigrant history meets modern-day hipsters and nascent art scene; or Jackson Heights in Queens, for the best Indian and Thai food outside of Asia.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, a beach town in Northern California, maintains much of the natural beauty that inspired its founding. Thanks to roads that bypassed, rather than bulldozed, trees, the seaside city has been an inspiration for artists and architects alike, from Jack London and Upton Sinclair to actor/director Clint Eastwood, who was the city’s mayor at one point.

Sample a variety of cuisines, some of which include ingredients from both nearby Monterey Bay and the Salinas Valley. Check out the local arts scene—the small town has more than 90 galleries and annual events such as the Carmel Art Festival—or attend a performance at the historic Forest Theater, the first outdoor theater west of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.

Nestled in the forest just across from Carmel's premier shopping plaza, the newly remodeled Wayside Inn reflects the charm of the quintessential Carmel cottage. Offering 22 guest rooms and suites, special amenities may include spa tubs, full kitchens, fireplaces, and large balconies overlooking the quaint village of Carmel. Complimentary continental breakfast is delivered to your door each morning with the daily newspaper and freshly baked cookies are always available in the lobby.

Located in a quaint courtyard on Lincoln Ave, this restaurant creates a warm atmosphere with just the right lighting and comfort food to sooth the soul. Owner and Chef, Christopher Caul's menu has a definite Californian influence with a large selection of fresh produce and seafood. Try a Roasted Asparagus Salad to start, or the mouthwatering Tequila-Cured Salmon as your main course. For those who are looking for a different flavor, the Cornmeal-Crusted Chile Rellenos will transport you farther south with its mild spices and blanket of cheese. Choose from a varied dessert menu, which includes a White Peach-and-Blueberry Cobbler. In this homey establishment that prides itself for its friendly service and warm feel, you will remember why you came to Carmel.

Also known as Mission Carmel Basilica and more formally, as Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Rio Carmelo, this was the second of the nine missions founded by Father Junipero Serra. The area was originally chosen for its agricultural possibilities in 1771, but the temperate climate and exquisite landscape soon made it Father Serra's favorite. Indeed, he is buried, as per his wishes, in front of the church's main altar. The building, which fell into ruins in the 19th century and has since been completely restored, exhibits classic Mission-style, fortress-like architecture, with thick, bougainvillea-covered adobe walls and a central courtyard. A Moorish-style bell tower contains nine bells and is open to the public. Though some may find the climb up the steep staircase taxing, the views from that vantage point are magnificent.

Here you will find watercolors and oil paintings by a number of contemporary European artists, from Nora Buzek to Anatoli Belokoni to Jacobus Bass to Hugo Helder. There is a wide variety of material here. If your preference is 18th- and 19th-century work, you will also find pieces by Geza Kovesdy, Herman Corrodi, Frans Van Severdonck, Fredinand Hart Nibbrig and many others. There is an excellent selection for those interested in European art, and the service is attentive and friendly.

Of all the modern art galleries in Carmel by the Sea, this is the oldest one. For more than three decades now, the owner has amassed a collection of sculpture by artists working in a variety of media. Bronze, glass, water, paper, stone and even kinetic sculptures are all on display here, with more than 25 artists represented. The staff is extremely knowledgeable, and the place has been deemed a must-see by many guidebooks. Anyone even slightly interested in sculpture will find something here to delight.

You cannot help but notice the bright blue tablecloths out in the garden patio of this immaculate European restaurant. Entrees like Veal San Domenico or Chilean Sea Bass are perfectly complemented by a huge array of California wines. The service is efficient. The Hungary-born owner has been in the business for decades. Housed in an old-style Comstock building, the restaurant caters to the discerning customer, one who truly appreciates the variety of aromas that pour out of the kitchen as he or she eats at the table. Bohemian in appearance, the eatery is a favorite among locals.

One of the most scenic drives anywhere in the world, this stretch of highway runs between Pacific Grove and Carmel. You will see incredible beaches, six golf courses and more mansions than you can count. You will drive by several epicurean restaurants, all of which will refund the USD8 toll fee that you pay to drive this road. Pedestrians and cyclists can enter for free. The road snakes its way like a serpent, along the California coast and then through the Del Monte Forest. This drive is an absolute must for anyone visiting the Monterey Peninsula. Bring lots of film. See website for visitor details.

This winery specializes in two distinct Cabernet Sauvignons, both of which are only available in limited quantities: Black Jack and Red Rose Hill. Both have received rave reviews from wine magazines and both are 100 percent Cabernet. The winery also offers a Cabernet Sauvignon Blanc as well as a Merlot. An Old West cowboy image is displayed with the names of the wines as well as the labels, which are replicas of handmade leather. The winery's Web site is also littered with cowboy quotes. Tasting is by appointment, and the 700-acre property is available for banquets and other events.

Spanning nearly 16 acres, this winery offers a breathtaking view. Step into the French chateau-style establishment and drink wine while seated at a huge antique table. Or, visit the conservatory, a glass building with handmade chandeliers and at night, a great view of the stars. The wines are Italian in style with a California flavor. The various whites, reds and varietals have won the winery quite a few awards. It's a must-see on any trip to the Monterey's wine-growing area. Give them a call and reserve a tour for yourself.

An old adobe house with beautiful gardens, houses one of Carmel's most romantic restaurants. Its Celebrity Room has photos of the celebrities who have dined there; the French Provencal Harvest Room has charm; the Milagro Room has a working fireplace; and, the outdoor patio has the shade of a Brazilian pepper tree. Try the Pan-seared Filet of Salmon served with pasta. The wine cellar holds more than 30,000 bottles of wine, some costing more than the average house. The restaurant regularly wins the Wine Spectator's Grand Award. With unparalleled service for tourists and locals, it is highly recommended.

While golfers may choose to spend a day at Pebble Beach on the greens, other people might want to splurge on a day of total relaxation at this luxury spa. Aching muscles? Soothe them with a personalized Aromatherapy massage or a Shiatsu Massage. Dry skin? Moisturize it with a Wild Rose Scrub or the Pebble Beach Signature Facial. Feeling under-appreciated? Spend a full day at the facilities, or if you have the funds, three or even five days. You will come out feeling like royalty. Call for more information. Book a time slot at least two weeks ahead of time.

Nestled in the forest just across from Carmel's premier shopping plaza, the newly remodeled Wayside Inn reflects the charm of the quintessential Carmel cottage. Offering 22 guest rooms and suites, special amenities may include spa tubs, full kitchens, fireplaces, and large balconies overlooking the quaint village of Carmel. Complimentary continental breakfast is delivered to your door each morning with the daily newspaper and freshly baked cookies are always available in the lobby.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, a beach town in Northern California, maintains much of the natural beauty that inspired its founding. Thanks to roads that bypassed, rather than bulldozed, trees, the seaside city has been an inspiration for artists and architects alike, from Jack London and Upton Sinclair to actor/director Clint Eastwood, who was the city’s mayor at one point.

Sample a variety of cuisines, some of which include ingredients from both nearby Monterey Bay and the Salinas Valley. Check out the local arts scene—the small town has more than 90 galleries and annual events such as the Carmel Art Festival—or attend a performance at the historic Forest Theater, the first outdoor theater west of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.

Love it or hate it, you can’t deny that New York City is impressive. Often referred to as the “Big Apple,” the “City That Never Sleeps” or the “Capital of the World,” New York is one of the most vibrant urban centers on the planet, and also one of the largest.

When people talk about New York, they typically mean Manhattan, which is but one of five boroughs that make up the city proper, the others being Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island. The full metropolitan area, which includes nearby Long Island, Westchester County, and parts of New Jersey and Connecticut, has a population upwards of 18 million.

New York draws tourists from around the globe, not only for its rich cultural and historical attractions, but also because it is a major center for media, theater, food, fashion, art, research, finance, trade and nightlife. It also has one of the most famous skylines on earth, dominated by the iconic Empire State Building.

First-time visitors can’t go wrong by hitting the traditional tourist spots: the top of the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Wall Street, Greenwich Village and SoHo, Rockefeller Center, Lincoln Center, Central Park, even Times Square. But those looking for more local, authentic experiences, plan a trip to Brooklyn to check out the Brooklyn Museum, Prospect Park and the Botanical Gardens; Manhattan’s Lower East Side for a taste of old-world immigrant history meets modern-day hipsters and nascent art scene; or Jackson Heights in Queens, for the best Indian and Thai food outside of Asia.