New York City

First let me explain - I LOVE to travel - from the in depth research, to the satisfaction of being there after the planning is complete. If I could have any job in the world it would be Samantha Brown's.

One of the places we love to go is New York City. Before we had children, we actually talked about finding jobs so we could live there. One of our favorite times to visit is at Christmas. The whole city is transformed, from the gorgeous store windows, the beautifully decorated trees throughout the city, to the vendors selling chestnuts. It is almost magical.

I am not going to share all the first time "must sees" (NYC tourism), but I want to share some of our favorite places.

American Girl - Oh, if I had a daughter!! On the other hand, it is probably better that I do not have one, because you could spend some serious cash in there!

Books of Wonder - Reminds me of Kathleen Kelly's book store in You've got Mail. Since I love that movie, of course I would love this store.

Burger Joint - I could probably eat this at least once a day, yes it is that good! Located in the Le Parker Meridien hotel, it can be a little hard to find - look behind registration for the long brown curtain. Try to go when they open or after the lunch crowd, because a table can be hard to find. Best case scenario (not at Christmas), get a burger and fries to go for a picnic in Sheep's Meadow in Central Park.

Bloomingdales - I love to take my time and slowly browse around. I never go with Jeremy- this is just for me.

Chelsea's Market - a foodies paradise, I could spend hours in this place. So much to check out and taste, but make sure you stop at Amy's Bread (great sandwiches).

Colony Records - If you love music, you will not believe the selection. Also a great on-line store as well.

Dale and Thomas Popcorn - yummy flavors of popcorn

Dylan's Candy Bar - fun place - not just for kids. Downstairs they have the nostalgic candies of my childhood - it is fun to look around.

NYC World of Disney - You can meet characters, get NYC related items and even if you are not there to buy, there is so much to look at!

Pasta Lover's (142 West 49th Street) - good food and reasonably priced. On every trip to the city, Jeremy always has a meal there.

Plaza Hotel - We do not stay here, but we stop by to visit Eloise and go to the gift shop. We have three ornaments - somehow it did not end up on my favorites list. I have always wanted to have tea at the Palm Court, but I do not think that is Jeremy's idea of fun. Maybe someday I can take a trip with a friend - anyone interested?

Saint Patrick's Cathedral - So beautiful.

Sarabeth's - great food for breakfast or lunch. I love her preserves - my sweet husband always brings me a jar (apricot/pineapple in my favorite) from his business trips.

Staten Island Ferry - This is free! Jeremy and I rode the ferry on our last trip, it was so relaxing and a great way to see the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

Tiffany's - Okay, this is just a place I browse in, but oh is it fun. I know there are locations all over the country, but there is just something about walking into the 5th Avenue location. I can not go in here without thinking of two movies Breakfast at Tiffany's and Sweet Home Alabama. Ah -great movies.

TKTS Discount Booths - We try to see at least two shows when we are in the city. This is a great place to get cheaper tickets. If I had to recommend one show -- see Wicked - I could see this over and over and never tire of it.

World Trade Site - We always visit and reflect on that horrible day. Here is a cool site that is chronicling the rebirth of the Trade center. The film that is being created will be placed in a museum in the new Freedom tower.

Zabar's - The culinary obsessed could live here (including myself) - they also have a cafe.

One of my regrets is that I have not been to any of the museums. We are hoping to take a trip soon, and at that time Mr. Monet and I will have a date at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Maybe you will try some of the places on my list the next time you are in the city. If you frequent New York, I would love to know some of your favorite places - so please share!