Make sure to pack your hiking boots, swim suit, whetted appetite and boundless curiosity, because there ain’t no mountain high enough or valley low enough for an adventurer to find an ancient civilization – or a delicious restaurant — in Turkey. And for those who like a little creature comfort at the end of the day, seaside resorts, mountain refuges and the luxurious hotels of Antalya are never very far away.

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Make sure to pack your hiking boots, swimsuit, whetted appetite and boundless curiosity, because there ain’t no mountain high enough or valley low enough to keep an adventurer from finding an ancient civilization – or a delicious restaurant — in Turkey. And for those who like a little creature comfort at the end of the day, seaside resorts, mountain refuges and the luxurious hotels of Antalya are never far away.

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  PHOTOS: Adventures in Turkey’s Mediterranean region

4×4 through the Tauros Mountains around Antalya: While the drive through narrow, winding roads is an adventure in itself, the true experience lies in what you’ll see along the way: ruins, snow-capped peaks, soft green meadows, cedar forests, nomadic huts and red-roofed valley villages that lie sleepy and half-forgotten in the shadow of the hills. Bring a picnic basket and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Arykanda: This ancient Lycian aerie, built on five terraces, is a well-excavated example of everything an ancient city should be. It’s also a little out of the way, making it the perfect place to avoid the maddening crowd and take a good look at history – and a haunting, mist-laden panoramic view — on your own terms.

Kekova: This sunken city might lack mermaids, but it makes up for it with the chance for a jaunt through a series of blue-green, mirror-clear bays. There are boat tours for the less adventurous, but a true explorer will want to grab a few friends, rent some kayaks and discover what time and earthquakes do to the best-laid foundations of man.

Whitewater rafting: The Eurymedon River, best known by fans of naval history, is regarded today as a good place to enjoy getting tossed about in roiling rapids. The river is the color of the turquoise jewelry your mother bought in New Mexico and presents challenges worthy of nervous first-timers and experienced rafters alike. Many lodges along its bank offer adventure packages for families and groups.

Koprulu Canyon National Park: The goats and sheep in the mountains of Turkey are free-range indeed — expect to see a bunch when you hike through this park. The ancient Pisidian city of Selge bears down from a tall height upon shepherd villages in the valley, and rock formations like an army of misshapen giants line the canyon floor and twist up to dizzying heights where all – from faraway mountains to the misty blue sea — is revealed. Never fear, stalwart traveler – you can hike among this stone-faced host.

Good eats

Turkish cuisine favors ingredients such as yogurt, eggplant, tomato and chickpeas, often presented in the appetizer-like meze course. For the main course, you would be hard-pressed indeed to find a place that doesn’t offer lamb in many forms. For those looking for lighter fare, the entire region is replete with trout farms and fisheries. During and after dinner, the locals also enjoy a glass of raki, a liquor that tastes like anise and gets diluted in water. For those who like a little less licorice with their dinner, try Efes, a national beer. Here are some of the best places to fill your stomach along the course of your journey:

When you fly into Istanbul: The Istanbul Culinary Institute offers a very modern touch amid a very old city. The offerings, while European in style, echo heavily of Turkish tastes. www.istanbulculinary.com

When in Kekova: The area, dotted with fishing boats and pleasure craft, is a great place to score some good seafood. Canopied outdoor restaurants are the norm. Sit back, order a bottle of Efes and get to eating some sea bream.

After viewing Arykanda: The mountains are a perfect place to score — again — some trout. We went to Ozcoban Trout Fish restaurant, where you can sit in the shade and watch the trout runs feed into a rushing brook below. Sick of seafood yet? Try their beef stew, which is less stew-ish and a lot more like particularly delicious fajita meat.

After 4×4 in the mountains: For lunch — seriously! — bring a picnic basket, pitch some chairs under a tree and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Should you find yourself returning to Antalya for the evening, however, for an elegant dining experience, try the establishment at the Tuvana Hotel – Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant. www.seraserrestaurant.com.

Should you find yourself in Islamlar, for any reason: Degirmen Trout Farm hosts a great view of the mountains, a friendly staff and great food. The town is situated about five miles northwest of Kas, and if you visit the famous ancient Lycian city of Xanthos, you’re not very far away at all.

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As weather warms, you might be itching to get out of city limits and somewhere where honking is replaced by the gurgling of a river or, simply, the silence of a sparkling lake. So set your GPS for the Finger Lakes, which Gov. Andrew Cuomo just this week called a state tourism “treasure.”  Whether you want a light hike or a great waterside wine, a few hours’ drive will deliver you into a weekend in the sun. Their warm weather is just beginning, so book your trip during their super-quick summer season.

Hike

For a quick hike you can wedge in between wine tastings, head to Grimes Glen in Naples, N.Y., where you hear water gurgling as you step outside the car. This is perfect for a packed itinerary — squeeze it in and get as close as time allows to a beautiful waterfall. Prepare to get shoes muddy or even wet – you may pick your way along large rocks in the creek. Relax after at the famed Monica’s Pies, where locals insist you must try a grape pie.

Ride

Take in the scenery by horseback in the 22-acre land around Painted Bar Stables in Burdett, N.Y., where the owner will select among dozens of horses for you, whether beginner or a practiced rider. The stable offers rides from 45 minutes to overnight, rain or shine, and by moonlight. Right now is the perfect time to swing by — a few horses are expecting foals, and you might glimpse a wobbling baby horse

Explore

Watkins Glen, N.Y., is a great town to use your walking shoes. Explore the quaint downtown and then head to the nearby Watkins Glen State Park to hike.

Watkins Glen State Park is a must-see in this area, boasting 19 waterfalls along trails that wind along the natural wonders and overlook a magnificent gorge. A stream in the glen descends 400 feet, passing 200-foot cliffs that park officials promise will leave you spellbound.

After the hike, stop by the Seneca Lake General Store downtown, which sells breakfast sandwiches in the morning, pastries and candy out of barrels. Nearby, the Village Variety Bookstore is a taste of the past: they have everything from old records to yellowed John Grisham novels and current DVDs, and the owners might share with you what is happening in the Jimmy Stewart movie they’re watching by the cash register.

Sip

Belhurst Castle in Geneva, N.Y., is a property fit for a king — or you, feeling like a queen or king as you sip wine in a chair on the back terrace. Like many wineries dotting Route 14, it overlooks serene Seneca Lake, the deepest of the Finger Lakes and which seems to change color with the clouds. Despite the lavish surroundings, wine tastings are only 50 cents a try, and the Castle is also one of the few wineries open later than 5 p.m. in case you arrive late in the day.

If you are more of a liquor fan, stop by Finger Lakes Distilling on the opposite side of the lake in Burdett, N.Y. The modern, window-paned building has views of the lake from the tasting room. The owners are often nearby for a tasting recommendation, like the rich, aged McKenzie bourbon whiskey or the maple jack liqueur.

To drink with locals, order a beer at Two Goats Brewing in Hector, N.Y. This brewery’s wraparound porch has nearly 360-degree views of the water. Inside, the pointed wooden roof is covered with dollar bills — customers compete to see who can send one sailing with a tack. Brews will only set you back a couple bucks, ranging from cream ales to what one bartender called an IPA “on steroids.” If you’re hungry, you have one option – they only sell roast beef sandwiches, with a verbal warning about the hot sauce.

Eat

After a long day outdoors, reward yourself with dinner.

In the Finger Lakes, farm-to-table isn’t a trend – it’s what has made sense for years already. Spots like Leaf Kitchen in Geneva, N.Y., get everything, and they mean everything, from local sources. You can taste it in the freshness of the pasta (from Flour City Pasta in nearby Pittsford, N.Y.) and the cilantro in the black bean dip. The manager is an East Harlem native, and she and her fiancée (the chef, who makes everything himself) have created a homey atmosphere, literally: the restaurant’s in a refurbished home.

For waterside dining, you can’t beat Seneca Harbor Station in Watkins Glen, N.Y., right alongside Seneca Lake. Tables are covered with white linen napkins, but the casual atmosphere leaves you comfortable enough to dig into your pulled pork sandwich. Another option? Meal cruises that leave out of the station.

For a local fine dining experience, try Stonecat, crafted out of a former farm market. Entrees feature pasture-raised chicken with chipotle-cider barbeque sauce, and local wines are suggested for each. Live music filters out of the different dining rooms, and on a recent weekend celebrating their spring reopening, the place was packed.

Where to stay

If you have your eye on wineries, the Ramada Geneva Lakefront in Geneva, N.Y., is just a quick drive from a string of wineries that flanks the west side of the lake. The hotel is right on the water, and many rooms showcase the views.

For a rich bed-and-breakfast experience, reserve at The Idlwilde Inn in Watkins Glen, N.Y., a gorgeous Victorian mansion. This bed-and-breakfast sits on a hill above Seneca Lake, and you can take in the impressive view from the wraparound porch. The owners retained as much of the original home as possible, and their loving restoration shows, literally, in staircase photos.

If you go

Finger Lakes Musical Theatre Festival
Begins May 29
Showcases musical theater throughout the summer, beginning with “Singin’ In The Rain”

GlassFest
May 23 through 26
Four-day celebration including glass sculptures at region’s Corning Museum of Glass

Finger Lakes Wine Festival
July 12 to 14
Boasts the largest showing of state wines with more than 90 wineries

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In the land of Disney, princess always reigned supreme. However, though Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and those ever-popular princesses may get a lot of the attention, Disneyland and California Adventure offer a pixie dust-less world for the guys in your life too — all in time for Father’s Day in June.

Cars Land
Route 66 comes to life for plain-old cars and animated Cars lovers alike. California Adventures’ newest attraction is set in the world of Radiator Springs, where characters from the animated movie motor down Main Street. Rides include Luigi’s Flying Tires, a modern floating-on-air version of bumper cars, and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, where tractors whip and spin you around. The highlight is Radiator Spring Racers, which takes you on a leisurely car ride through a wind-carved setting before drag racing your way to the finish line.
DON’T MISS: Characters from the animated film regularly park near the Cozy Cone Motel to have their photos taken.

Star Tours
Ask a 30- or 40-something father what his favorite movie was growing up — then ask their son the same questions — and the likelihood is they may have the same answer: Star Wars. With Disney taking over control of the series, there may be more themed rides in the future. Until then, Star Tours is still the place in Disneyland to enjoy a ride through the galaxy while using the force to avoid the black-gloved wrath of Darth Vader. The 3D ride takes you on a Starspeeder, cruising at light speed through George Lucas’ sci-fi universe.
DON’T MISS: A Jedi Training Academy takes place daily at the Tommorowland Terrace, where kids are shown how to use lightsabers.

Pirates of the Caribbean
This is one of the original rides at Disneyland — long before Johnny Deep swaggered his way through the films as Captain Jack Sparrow. And there’s a reason why Pirates has always been popular: it’s fun. The boat ride starts in the calm Louisiana Bayou but soon takes you deep into the dark world of hidden treasure, sea battles, and the town pirate terrorized town of Puerto Dorado. It may sound scary, but it has a number of light-hearted moments to tame the pirate terror.
DON’T MISS: Captain Jack Sparrow makes a number of appearances during the ride, so keep your eyes peeled for him.

Toy Story Midway Mania
Located in California Adventure’s Paradise Pier, this 4D ride features spinning vehicles that take you from one screen to another. At each stop you try to hit Toy-Story-related targets that pop up on the screens using everything from eggs to darts to rings and pies. Line-ups can be long, but are well worth the wait, with Mr. Potato Head greeting visitors and cracking a few jokes.
DON’T MISS: Tomorrowland’s Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters where you fire a laser gun at targets while riding through the attraction.

Pirate’s Lair on Tom’s Sawyer Island
Located in a man-made lake on the edge of Frontierland, the island is a giant playground for kids of all ages. A river raft ferries you from the main park across to the island, where dirt trails lead you to hidden caves, hilltop forts, wood and rope bridges and pirate’s treasures.
DON’T MISS: Take a boat ride around the island on the Mark Twain, a 1900s paddleboat, or aboard the pirate ship Columbia

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The ms River Splendor has many of the same perks, activities, and amenities that are usually found in larger cruise ships, but it’s small size it allows travelers to have a more intimate experience and not feel crammed next to thousands of other people.

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Ocean cruising has its perks. Tropical destinations, all-you-can-eat buffets, water slides, bowling, free booze — it’s a $30 billion dollar business meant to cater to every whim. But sometimes the excessiveness of ocean cruising can overwhelm. What if you want to experience the joys of traveling by sea without thousands of people crammed alongside you? Without paying extra for excursions, or having to adhere to a rigid schedule while visiting increasingly homogenized ports of call?

Riverboat cruising plucks the aspects that make ocean cruising so attractive — the ability to hit multiple destinations without unpacking, the collegial atmosphere on board, an international, knowledgeable staff, a cosmopolitan experience — while being more refined, smaller than their big-white-boat counterparts. As the name implies, riverboat cruising uses smaller vessels that stick mainly to rivers, mostly in Europe but also in Asia and the South Pacific, the Mediterranean and Northern Africa, and even Antarctica.

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  PHOTOS: Take a cruise on the ms River Splendor

“Most of our guests are seasoned world travelers for whom the destination is still the main attraction. For them, it’s not about all-night buffets or skating rinks or other novelties you find aboard big cruise ships — it’s about the discovery,” says Kevin Wallace, COO of Vantage Deluxe World Travel, a premiere riverboat cruising company based in Boston. “You unpack once, then sail right into the heart of ports great and small, where sightseeing and intercultural activities are always included.”

With riverboat cruising, you sacrifice water slides for accessibility and a more unique experience. Smaller boats mean you can slip into smaller ports of call — you usually just walk off the boat and into the center of town. But riverboat companies aren’t dumb, nor are they stuffy. They include the perks Americans know and love: full-service cocktail lounges with live entertainment, Internet cafes, excursions, and, yes, even all-you-can-eat breakfast and lunch buffets (as well as a formal sit-down dinner every night).

Wallace is celebrating the launch of their latest addition to their fleet, River Splendor. The new ship, part of a $120 million investment by Vantage, has a busy year ahead: After its March christening in Antwerp, Belgium, it will spend the spring, summer and fall cruising the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers between Amsterdam and the Black Sea as the lead ship on Vantage’s most popular package, the Majestic Rivers of Europe: Castles, Cathedrals and Fairytales (with stops in Vienna, Budapest and the Czech Republic), as well as the Gateway to the Black Sea trip that takes travelers from Budapest along the Danube all the way to the Black Sea resort of Constanta, Romania.

So, with these trips, instead of onboard bowling you’ll just have to enjoy a home-hosted lunch with a family in Croatia instead. In lieu of a Broadway musical at night, you’ll have to settle for an exclusive classical concert at the Kursalon in Vienna.

Sounds like a pretty good trade-off, no?

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Last week the Greek finance minister completed tortuous negotiations with the European Union to secure the latest $10billion tranche of bailout funding the country needs to stay afloat.

But the money has come at a massive, possibly irreversible, price in terms of culture and pride.

One of the main conditions that the European Union  – mainly driven by demands of its most powerful nation, Germany – has imposed on Greece in return for the cash is a huge program of privatization.

The Greek government is in the process of selling off 70,000 lots of state assets – everything from ancient palaces, to stretches of coastline, to the state gambling company to entire idyllic islands, are up for grabs to the highest bidder.

The gorgeous island of Rhodes is unusual in that more than a third of its land is government owned – and is now being sold.

The world famous Mandraki Marina in Rhodes town – the location legend has it, of the Colossus of Rhodes – is among the land for sale.

Other stretches of the Rhodes coast – mile after mile of pristine beach on the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea – are also up for grabs. They include a large tranche of land ear the resort at Afandou, popular with hundreds of thousands of tourists each year.

The peninsula of Prasinisi, one of the best wind surfing venues in Europe is also among the lots.

Elsewhere in Greece the royal palace where Prince Philip, the husband of Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain was born, will be sold. The billionaire emir of Qatar has just finalized the purchase of six Greek islands and a Russian oligarch bought the island of Skorpios for $100m, as a birthday present for his daughter.

The sell-off has caused fury among sections of the Greek public and its opposition parties, who say more private-public partnerships should have been entered in to, to prevent the loss of so much of Greece’s territory and ancient culture.

But in Rhodes, local politicians say the deal to sell off the land is inevitable, given the parlous state of Greek national finances. They said they’d be working to ensure the best possible economic and cultural outcome for the island.

Greece’s economy has been severely damaged by the financial crisis, the collapse of a property bubble, what northern European economists say is the country’s relaxed attitude towards paying and collecting taxes, and a bloated public sector.

Unemployment runs at more than 25 per cent and is double that among the under 25s in some parts of the country. Salaries have been slashed and the Greek government forced to deliver a package of austerity measures by the so-called Troika of the European Union.

In effect Greek national finances are being dictated by bankers from Brussels, with the influence of the German government detected and resented by many in Greece. Public demonstrations across the country recently have featured images of German Chancellor Angela Merkel portrayed as the new Adolf Hitler – a reference to the German occupation of parts of Greece during World War 2.

Factfile

The Greek government was forced, as part of the bailout conditions, to cut nearly $10bn from public spending in 2013

Another condition was a fire sale of assets worth $50 billion to reduce Greek’s debt pile

Greek public sector pay rose 50 per cent from 1997-2010

The government also ran up debts paying for the 2004 Olympics

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As the president and publishing director of Hearst Magazines, Michael Clinton does more than hop on flights for work. He’s a self-described “travelaholic.” And in his new book “The Globetrotter Diaries,” which he bills as hybrid travel guide and memoir, he shares his travel tips coupled with insider insights on his favorite destinations. With summer right around the corner, we asked Clinton to share some of his insider knowledge with the rest of us.

Fly early

“Take the earliest flight out to avoid delays in traffic, security and flight departures,” says Clinton. “That 6 a.m. flight might mean a brutal wake-up call in the middle of the night, but you’ll know that your airplane is there and it’ll be one of the first flights out before the airport gets too congested. You’ll have no traffic and you’ll get through security faster.”

Bring your family into planning

Make sure that there is something for everyone while planning your vacation. “An unhappy teenager can ruin any vacation,” he notes. “I’ve heard too many stories from parents who had a miserable trip because they were interested in visiting a place, but their kids didn’t want to go there.”

Go with the flow (but have a backup plan)

Embrace your inner globetrotter and see where your travels take you. “Half the fun of travel is the unexpected,” he notes. But some surprises aren’t always welcome: Be sure to “read the fine print for extra charges” as well as “always have a Plan B, as a plan can oftentimes fall apart.”

Get points

“Build on your favorite airline premium status for upgrades, faster boarding and special treatment.”

Pack light

“Carry on at all times, regardless of how long you will be away. Think black, think washables.”

Michael Clinton’s top spots to see before you dieParis, France
Santa Fe, N.M.
Antarctica

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The Hollywood sign, perched on the hills above, may guide tourists to the Sunset Strip and movie-making studios, but there is more to the Los Angeles area than star tours and celebrity sightings. Located south of La La Land is The O.C. — Orange County. Whether you have one, two or three days to spend, the communities hugging the scenic Pacific Coast Highway have their own stories to tell.

Sweat and sand
It’s easy to see why Huntington Beach is known as Surf City USA. Wet suit-clad pedestrians — surfboards tucked under their arms — are as common a site as shopping bags and Starbucks coffee cups. A four-block radius located on the PCH and Main Street sets the scene for this city, but there are 8.5 miles of sand to play in.  Start your day with breakfast at Michelle’s Sugar Shack Cafe on Main Street, before heading to the International Surfing Museum. It opens according to surf time. That’s 11 a.m. or noon, unless wave conditions are too good to ignore. If it’s closed, you can still check out the names of those honored along the Surfing Walk of Fame at Main and the PCH, including musician Dick Dale for adding to board culture.  Spend your afternoon playing beach volleyball or catching waves along the beach. Stroll along the historic Huntington Beach pier that juts into the Pacific. At its end is Ruby’s Diner, a 1950s-inspired local restaurant chain. Before nightfall, stake out one of the fire pits located on the beach for an evening spent sitting on the sand and listening to the surf break on the shore.

Shop and sip
Located south of Huntington along the PCH are tony Newport Beach and artsy Laguna Beach. While Fashion Island is home to big brand stores, Laguna’s downtown features a number of smaller shops, showcasing local artists and handcrafted goods, all set against a backdrop of green hills.  No afternoon is complete without sipping a cool cocktail at The Cliff . Offering a 180-degree view of the ocean, you can sit on the patio watch sunning locals on the beach below or scan the big blue for passing whales. You can also grab a treat at Gelato Paradiso  in Peppertree Lane and take a stroll in Heisler Park located high on the bluffs above the Pacific.  The popular Las Brisas, with its beckoning margaritas menu, offers a fusion of Californian and traditional Mexican cuisine, with fresh seafood offered each day. The building the restaurant is located in started life as the Victor Hugo Inn in the 1930s, before being converted in the late 1970s.

Sea and sanctuary
Located at the southern end of the O.C., Dana Point is a nature-lovers paradise. With a number of migration routes passing by, whale watching is in order. Dana Wharf has a fleet of 12 vessels that often encounter sea lions, blue and gray whales or even the occasional mega-pod of a few thousand dolphins swimming and playing in the wake of  boats.  Exhausted after a day at sea? Pamper yourself at The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel. The hotel is located 150 feet above Salt Creek Beach and offers stunning coastal views. You can take them in while sipping wine on the 180blu patio — a perfect sunset spot — or enjoying a yummy meal at Raya, with its Latin-inspired menu of sustainable seafood, local produce and organic meat created by chef Richard Sandoval. Spend an afternoon walking through the grounds of the hotel and feeding the rabbits that hop around the property. Use the Ritz’s beach butler service to be carted down in a buggy from the resort to the beach below. They will set up chairs and umbrellas, provide recreational equipment and even build you a sandcastle to enjoy.

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Newport’s super deluxe hotel Chanler at Cliff Walk and its restaurant, the Spiced Pear, celebrate their 10th anniversary this summer. By that time, you’ll risk long waits and crowded conditions as the vacationing hordes fill the destination overlooking Easton’s Beach. It would be smarter to plan a spring daytrip, or perhaps an Easter brunch fieldtrip.

The Spiced Pear is surprisingly small and inviting. You enter through a cozy mahogany-paneled bar and it’s edged by a large covered terrace, which opens April through October, weather permitting. A sweeping lawn with neatly lined up white Adirondack chairs and the vast and relentless Atlantic Ocean makes a perfect view that just doesn’t get old.

Through summer, the Spiced Pear opens for breakfast and then all-day lunch on the terrace. Then comes dinner, which isn’t as stuffy as you might expect as the restaurant’s initial regal image is softened by chef Thomas Duffy’s more playful approach. The Rhode Island native packs the menu with free range and organic meats and local often-organic produce, and spices it with a sense of fun.

Take his version of profiteroles. The unsweetened dough is cooked to a nice crispness and the bittersweet sauce has lots of natural spicy chocolate flavor. Both work perfectly for the super-sweet interior of, well, what is it? Dr. Pepper ice cream!

Then, there’s Duffy’s riff on surf and turf: a flakey, tender pork cheek with a sweet cherry vinegar reduction and big tasty shrimp as a garnish. A bed of creamy white corn grits softened and seasoned with Vermont cheddar makes it a comfort dish to be savored until next winter.

Specials for Sunday
The Spiced Pear’s three-course Easter Sunday brunch welcomes spring with an early heirloom tomato salad with organic baby lettuces and Moody Blue cheese. There are also Maine diver scallops with truffled leeks, chanterelles, and fiddlehead s; pistachio crusted Texan wild boar chops with morels, ramps, and a Madeira jus; and a simple, sweet chocolate Belgian waffle with bananas, berries, and the restaurant’s signature spiced pear compote.

Easter Sunday Brunch
$75 per person
Entrees: $32-$42
Spiced Pear
117 Memorial Blvd, Newport
401-847-1300
www.thechanler.com/dining

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For a flavor of the Caribbean, fused with all the different cultures sailing to and from this island enveloped in emerald waters, visit St. Maarten.

The 37-square-mile island has a beach for each square mile, most framed by mountains, and they utilize their many waterfronts with bars plopped on the water and multiple marinas. St. Maarten fulfills cubicle fantasies: crisp white sailboats against emerald waters, fresh and flavorful seafood and imaginative rum drinks. But the island, which is half Dutch and half French, also has a bonanza of different cultures, shown by more than 360 restaurants in surprising variety. So whether you’re stopping over before sailing on to nearby St. Barths or St. Kitts or staying for a while, here’s where to shop, sip and sun:

For filling your suitcase


Philipsburg, the capital on the Dutch side, is a must-visit for the island’s legendary duty-free shopping. Stroll along the winding narrow roads and pop into the numerous jewelry and watch stores. Also a must-see? The Guavaberry Emporium, built in an old cedar house, where you can sample not only the berry liqueur but also a guava colada. The fruit has a mild, unusual sweetness. This shop is also a great place to pick up gifts, like rum bottles with colorful hand-painted sunsets and parrots.

For practicing your French


Shop around the market at Marigot, the capital on the French side, browsing rows of wares like delicate seashell jewelry or bags of Caribbean spices. At night, it becomes a bustling spot to grab dinner with menus in French as boats bob in the marina, their masts glowing in neat rows.

For Caribbean blue skies and seas

Sailing aficionados should schedule their visit during the annual Heineken Regatta, where sailboats race around the island, creating picture-perfect views of colorful, billowing sails dotting royal-blue water. The event promises “serious fun” with parties every night, visitors and locals dancing the night away in flip flops on the sand. Even if you can’t sail, make sure to get out on the water – the ocean is so clear, if you jump in, you can see your toes. Even that doesn’t impress locals – clear to them means seeing the bottom.

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  St. Maarten

For Caribbean seafood and embarrassed Americans


Cheri’s Cafe promises to make patrons laugh, and whether yours is a belly laugh or out of awkward nervousness, it’s a promise they keep. The seafood spot has sequin-clad performers that try to get guests involved in saucy dancing contests — the restaurant hosts lots of kids, but unless you are up for a parental talk, don’t bring any old enough to understand the sexual insinuation of a banana.

For avoiding tan lines

Stop in at clothing-optional Orient Beach, filled mostly with tourists applying sunscreen in sensitive places. The nearby Pedro’s Bar boasts pictures of naked patrons and sells icy drinks like a $7 mudslide you can sip (clothed) while watching parasailers glide over the turquoise sea.

For an East Coast fix

For the surreal experience of a Manhattan-ambiance restaurant steps away from Caribbean waters, stop in at Bamboo Bernies, which could have been transplanted from Midtown with its sleek low-lit design and high-end sushi, like the Sexy Salmon Roll, with eel. After, pop in to the nearby Sky Beach bar for rooftop sand and beach chairs.

Where to stay


The Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino, undergoing a $3 million renovation, is ideal for travelers who want a sea breeze and tropical drink 10 minutes after landing. The hotel is within walking distance to multiple restaurants, although it is all-inclusive, covering all your meals and rum punches. The Sonesta has access to a small beach and plenty of spots to sit by the sea. Pack some patience, though – on a recent visit both power and water were out for a brief time. The hotel is offering 35 percent off for stays three nights or longer, plus $200 in resort credits for stays at least five nights, through Aug. 31. Book by April 30.

Don’t miss

Considered one of the most unique runways in the world, pilots landing at the Princess Juliana International Airport fly directly over Maho Beach, where the landing gear seems to just barely avoid grazing beachgoer’s floppy hats. Take in the view at Sunset Bar and Grill, where you can sit at the wooden bar and watch planes descend, framed by the sunset.

Follow Alison Bowen on Twitter @reporteralison

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The (white) smoke hadn’t even had a chance to clear before Twitter set forth on reacting to news that Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina had been elected pope, adopting the moniker Pope Francis.

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  PHOTOS: Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina elected Pope

Eager tweeters were on a mission to be the first to crack any and every pope joke — and they succeeded. From the hilarious to the educational, Twitter once again came through with lighting up a simple, yet historical hashtag: #newpope

Here are the best tweets about Pope Francis so far.

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Meet Vitaly Zelkovskiy, the tourist who never smiles. He’s from Belarus but lives in Antwerp, Belgium, and travels a lot, posting pics on Facebook. His self-portraits went viral, much to his surprise.

Metro: How did you realize that you were a hit online?

Zelkovskiy: I was going by train from Minsk, and the people who were in the same car asked to take a picture with me. I realized that something was not right. When I arrived home, I saw it and the whole evening laughing.

People do not realize where you live. Some call you a Russian tourist …

I have dual citizenship. One – the Belgian, the other – Belarusian.

You travel a lot?

I work as a design engineer in the field of industrial design. I was in transit in all the cities where I took photos. I like to rest in Russian-speaking countries.

How do you feel about all the attention?

For me, this is unexpected, things get very funny. One friend from Berlin advised me to become an actor.

Why do you always have a stony face?

In general, I took photos only for myself. My relatives don’t look at these pictures. It’s something silly—smile for yourself.

The post Vitaly Zelkovskiy: Photos of tourist who never smiles go viral appeared first on Metro.us.

New Rivers restaurant is in an 18th century river warehouse near Brown University. It is one of the city’s favorite foodie hangouts — and specializes in cured meats.

Take a weekend trip to experience the small city with big taste. Here’s a rundown of  the area’s hottest culinary spots.

As home to culinary school Johnson & Wales, Rhode Island’s capital city tends to snag its share of new graduates. For dining patrons, that means there is always a steady supply of talent in the city’s restaurant kitchens. Add to that, a rich cultural heritage from generations of Portuguese and Italian immigrants —and proximity to rich agriculture New England and the ocean — and the small city of Providence has become a big destination for foodies, especially those who appreciate the farm-to-table approach.

One of Providence’s most essential reservations is New Rivers (7 Steeple Street, 401-751-0350), located near Brown University in an 18th century river warehouse. Last year, the long-time chef Beau Vestal took over the restaurant as owner. His speciality? Cured meats including sweet and salty pork belly that melts like candy on the tongue, strips of succulent pastrami beef tongue and smoked fish. The menu leans into seasonal ingredients and showcases Rhode Island’s natural bounty of seafood with dishes like the maltagliati — a pasta dish served with local clams and tuscan kale.

Gracie’s (194 Washington Street, 401-272-7811) in downtown Providence is another stop for farm-fresh junkies: The best way to eat here is to leave it to the chef. After a few questions from the server — who are among the friendliest and most helpful in the city — the chef will send out a surprise five-course tasting menu ($75) — perhaps with things like a slow-poached farm egg or sea scallops served with a maple-glazed pork belly, all flavored with herbs grown in the restaurant’s rooftop garden.

Pork belly and brussel sprout hash at XO Cafe.

Sunday brunch is a sleepy affair in Providence but well worth rising for to down two things: Pork belly and brussel sprout hash and a Dirty Red Snapper, a house special bloody Mary mix with gin and olive juice at XO Café (125 N. Main Street, 401-273-9090). The restaurant defies the farm-to-table stereotype and instead rocks more of let’s-do-one-more-shot-of-whiskey atmosphere. Fittingly, the menu is has all kinds of hangover busters, like the XO Benedict, a local short rib served with chive potato pancake and chipotle Hollandaise.

Antonelli’s Poultry is one of the last live-chicken shops in Providence where shoppers can pick the chicken they want to eat for dinner. This is one of several stops on the Savoring Federal Hill culinary tour.

For the serious foodie — as in you like to pick out the chicken you kill for dinner — a visit to Antonelli Poultry Company in the city historic Italian Federal Hill district is another must do. The best way to navigate the area is to sign up for the Savoring Federal Hill culinary tour (401-934-2149, $50) with chef Cindy Salvato. Salvato, a former professor at J&W, escorts folks through local purveyors — like the live chicken shop and bakeries —to view and taste some of the most authentic just-like-your-noni-made-it Italian goodies. One word of advice: Reserve early, the popular tour has a months long waiting list.

Just like your noni used to make: Grandmas still hand-make raviolis at Costantino’s Venda Ravioli, a stop on the Savoring Federal Hill culinary tour.

Homemade torrone – a kind of Italian nougat – is a specialty at Scialo Brothers Bakery, another stop on the Savoring Federal Hill culinary tour.

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As the cold winds come down from the north, out come the wistful screensavers depicting golden sunsets, limpid waters, swaying hammocks and sweet drinks with little pink umbrellas. But when you get tired of holding your mouse really still to get a glimpse of digital paradise, think about cashing in those unused vacation days and heading down to Barbados. The warm Caribbean waters caress its western shores, the wild Atlantic is to the east, and rum takes care of everything in between.

Once a British colony and still part of the Commonwealth, English-speaking Barbados has long been a favorite retreat for the kind of people who like baked beans for breakfast. American tourists are a bit of a novelty on this unspoiled coral island, and you’re unlikely to get stuck with a raucous party of spring breakers in the room above you. There’s a thriving nightlife, but the island’s true siren song is one of tranquility and family-friendliness.

All-inclusive is the way to go for a stress-free vacation in the sun. Mango Bay resort (www.mango baybarbados.com) offers everything you could ask for: Rooms with a fantastic view, helpful staff, a good bar, breakfast (there will be beans), lunch and semiformal dinner, a Caribbean beach with watersports and a sigh-inducing sunset. The resort is literally just steps from a street bustling with nightlife and a European-style mall with high-end retailers.

The resort also offers wedding packages, nightly live entertainment and plenty for the kids to do.

There might be a secret competition on Barbados as to who can serve the best —and the most— rum punch. It’s all pretty delicious, so don’t pass up a taste. If you want a bit more history and a little less punch, visit Mount Gay distillery (mountgayrum.com). They’ve got lunch, a museum, an informative (and musically dramatic) film and a tasting. Rumor has it that Mount Gay was George Washington’s favorite rum.

Tip: If rum isn’t your thing, the resort’s bartenders do sweet, smooth justice to a mango martini.

If you’re the kind of person whose tan more closely resembles Santa’s rosy cheeks than the electric orange of Jersey Shore beach bums, don’t despair. Here’s a sample of activities that don’t require your own weight in SPF 9000:

• Take a submarine ride: Unlike most of its volcanic neighbors, Barbados is a coral reef topped with clay and dirt. Its spectacular origins are visible 140 feet below the azure waves. Get down with the periscope crowd at Atlantis submarine tours (www.barbados.
  atlantissubmarines .com) and view the best in teeming sea life. If you’ve ever wanted to see an actual shipwreck, complete with Titanic-style eeriness and barnacles, this is your chance.
• Cave in and take a cavern tour: Barbados has become a little easier on the casual, less adventurous traveler in recent years, and Harrison’s Cave is a good example (harrisons cave.com). The series of caverns, among the largest and best on the island, offer a sit-back-and-relax trolley tour for families and those who packed nothing but beer cozies and flip-flops in their luggage. It also offers a more hands-on and strenuous set of adventure tours for the more daring tourist. Also, mind the iPhones — the caves are alive, and thus very drippy.
• There’s something fishy in the state of Barbados: riday nights at Oistin’s Fish Fry are a crowded affair — just about everyone, their mother and their children, comes out for an evening of food, song and drink. It’s the perfect place for out-of-towners to mix with Bajans and try local fare.

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Mess up your Valentine’s Day with the wrong gift? There’s still some time to save face  (and your relationship) with a romantic trip for two. These specials are geared toward sprucing up your love life, and they aren’t just for Feb. 14.

Tuscany NYC
New York City, N.Y.
www.stgilesnewyork.com
For couples looking to go beyond flowers and chocolates, the Lofty Pleasures Romance package literally puts you “on cloud nine” with a helicopter ride over Manhattan. After taking in the view, couples return to find their room stocked with a surprise treasure chest and champagne. Since Tuscany NYC is a new property, you’ll take advantage of grand opening rates beginning at $239; the Lofty Pleasures Romance package is additional.

Schroon Lake Bed and Breakfast
Schroon Lake, N.Y.
www.schroonbb.com
The B&B, nestled high up in the Adirondack mountains, offers five well-appointed room choices. Make a memory worthy of a Currier and Ives postcard with a 45-minute sleigh ride through the Adirondacks, complete with blankets and hot cider.

Borgata Hotel, Casino and Spa, Atlantic City, N.J.
www.theborgata.com
This Atlantic City getaway has a plethora of packages for the discriminating romantic, such as Winecation, Wake Up Smiling or even the Up All Night special, which involves food, drink, entertainment, spa treatments and more.

Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort
Lake Placid, N.Y.
www.golden-arrow.com
Get mushy with a dogsled ride around Mirror Lake in the Adirondacks, complimentary with the resort’s (still running) Valentine’s Day package, which includes a host of romantic add-ons to make the experience cozy and complete. Is your sweetie green? The Golden Arrow became the first and only resort in the United States to achieve a 5 Green Leaf rating from the Audubon Society for its eco initiatives, which include guest recycling programs and alternative energy sources like solar panels.

The post Romance is alive in these snowy spa getaways appeared first on Metro.us.

Peller Estates

The sprawling family-run property is lavishly decorated in rustic yellows and gives you the feel that you’ve stepped into an old Tuscan mansion. In 2006, London’s International Wine & Spirit Competition named Peller the best Canadian winery of the year. During the Icewine festival in January, the site becomes home to flocks of visitors toasting marshmallows over fire pits and snacking on poutine, a decadent Quebec dish of French fries topped with gravy and cheese curds. There’s also an elegant on-site restaurant, to which Zagat gave an Extraordinary rating.

Coyote’s Run Estate Winery

Coyote’s Run is situated on 58 acres of two types of soil — one red, one black — which means that two pinots, chards or other varietal can taste remarkably different. Generally speaking, grapes grown in red soil have a fruitier taste, whereas the black soil produces wines that are more earthy. Because the property sits in a slightly warmer part of the region, the grapes here are often harvested one or two weeks earlier than those at other area wineries.
Reif Estate

“A winemaker is a caretaker,” head winemaker Klaus Reif says. He produces 16 varietals and approximately 30 products, and the winery has won about 400 awards. Reif grows its own grapes and ages its wines in Hungarian, French and Kentucky oak barrels before they make their debut in a homey wooden showroom. Ask Archie the sommelier for a tasting — he’s a pro at helping beginners learn and discern.

Stratus Vineyards

This isn’t your parents’ winery: The high ceilings, monochromatic palette and sleek finishes make Stratus a must-visit. The LEED-certified winery (the first in the world) is on 62 acres, and the mature vineyard grows 18 varieties of grapes, all of which are picked and sorted by hand. You’ll find your cab sauvs, your merlots and your chardonnays, but the winery also specializes in assemblage — the combination of several grape varieties to make a new wine.

Where to stay

The quaint Harbor House Hotel is a 31-room boutique property in Niagara-on-the-Lake. It was recently named a top hotel in Canada by TripAdvisor.

Come back for Icewine
Niagara heats up in January, when the annual Icewine festival brings locals and visitors together to celebrate the deliciously sweet and easily adaptable unofficial drink of the region. During the fest, wineries and restaurants do tastings and special pours, and the city comes together for a food-pairing festival and a cocktail competition. When the weather gets warmer, visit for the Shaw Festival, devoted to playwright George Bernard Shaw, and Canada Day celebrations (July 1). Visit www.niagaraonthelake.com to learn more.

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Andrew Drury’s awakening took place in a Congolese banana plantation as he ran for his life from a knife-wielding farmer. The British builder had wandered off from a tour of Uganda with his cousin Nigel Green, and unwittingly crossed a border into a war-torn nation.

“The chase went for a long time and the stress and danger made us realize there was more to the world than travel tours,” he told Metro. “Coming back from there we knew we wanted to do it more.”

In the following 22 years, Drury and his cousin have explored many of the world’s most dangerous conflict areas: Iraq, Afghanistan, Chechnya, Mogadishu, Burma. They have been under fire, captured and on the sharp end of a Taliban surge.

But Drury, 47, believes he is now “addicted” to such trips, although it is for the “living history” as much as the danger. Every night is spent searching the internet for opportunities to visit new danger zones through his global network of contacts.  “The only time we really feel at one is on these trips. This is our idea of a good time. I’m in a job I don’t want to do and this takes me away.”

He is not alone. The adventure tourism sector, encompassing everything from climbing Mount Everest to picnicking on a Syrian battlefield, is growing by 17% each year and is worth $89 billion. Current conflict areas such as Afghanistan and Libya are becoming popular options.

“We have more interest in coming to Libya from European countries since the [Libyan civil] war, particularly France and Germany,” said Lars Tisell of the Libya-based Sherwes Travel. “The clan-fighting makes security difficult but we can still help people to come in.”

The sector’s rapid growth has led to more lurid packages. The US-based War Zone Tours boasts of “unrivalled brutality” in trips guided by ex-military personnel. Tours of terror attack sites in Northern Ireland have been criticized as exploitative by local people.

But being a “moral arbiter” is irrelevant, suggests Dr. John Lennon, author of ‘Dark Tourism’, and professor of tourism at Glasgow Caledonian University: “Fascination with death and disaster has always been part of human nature – we  know that people watched the Battle of Waterloo from their carriages as a spectator sport.”

Lennon believes that deliberately pursuing danger is a more recent “micro-niche”. And the risk is real.

“If people don’t educate themselves they can put themselves in situations of deadly threat,” says Robin Ingle, CEO of Ingle International, which underwrites insurance for extreme tour companies such as ComeBackAlive.com. Ingle recalls one under-prepared tourist “sending a note that she was stuck at a UN mission in Congo, while UN staff were being killed in the area.”

Drury has had better luck so far, and has been welcomed by local people: “They generally don’t understand why we were there, but they wanted to tell their stories and they think tourism brings peace.” He has made close friends in the countries he visits: “The Chechens are incredible, I’ve been to Peshawar [in Afghanistan] three times just for the people.”

The trips have put strain on Drury’s family and almost killed him, but he would not have it any other way. “Yes I could get hurt and I wouldn’t recommend it to my children, but I want to go away again, now,” he said. “The storage freezer in Libya where Gaddafi’s body was put on display is my number one goal.”

Extreme travel agent. Pursuit of knowledge is main purpose of visit

Lifelong adventurer and co-founder of the Untamed Borders company James Willcox arranges trips to hotspots for a living, including Andrew Drury’s recent voyage to Somalia – the first commercial trip there in 20 years.

“We choose locations very carefully, and stay with locals in parts with no Western involvement,” he explained when asked about the difficulty of ensuring safety for his clients. “But we avoid having armed escorts – that makes it much more dangerous.”

Willcox believes that while people make these trips for many reasons, it is rarely voyeurism. “We don’t get people who just want a picture next to a burned-out tank,” he said. “In most cases they want to have an authentic experience and develop their understanding of a place that has been off-limits, and the dangerous places are always more interesting.”

“Thousands of people are now having a chance to visit places they have only seen on TV – and they are having experiences that are very different from the negative image.”

‘Alternative’ holiday hotspots worldwide

• Sri Lanka. High-end hotels on recent massacre sites have caused controversy, as has the skewed interpretation of history.

• Soham. British village was home to two murdered schoolgirls, and pleads with visitors to stay away.

• Cambodia Killing Fields. Luxury hotels and magic mushrooms are just part of the site experience.

• Swat Valley. Recently the Taliban stronghold has become a popular ski destination.

•  Shankill Road. Site of one of Northern Ireland’s deadliest bombings and remains a flashpoint.

Tips: How to make it back home alive from your conflict zone vacation

1. Read your travel insurance policy to make sure you will be covered for danger zones, war, or terrorist acts. If not, you’ll need special risk insurance.

2. Research where you are going: Has there been any civil unrest or major criminal activity? How are the medical facilities? Do you need vaccinations before you go?

3. Don’t be conspicuous about your wealth or act like a tacky tourist. Bear in mind that enormous maps, expensive cameras, and brand name clothes can make you a target of theft or kidnapping.

4. Follow the laws and customs of the country you are visiting – a small faux-pas could land you in jail (or worse!).

5. Stick to populated areas and avoid using unregulated transportation. Try sticking to official buses that use toll roads and call for taxis in advance.

“Realizing no place is safe reduces fear”  — Q&A with Jim McMurchy, 56, tourist from Brisbane, Australia

McMurchy has made numerous trips to conflict zones such as Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Metro: How did you get started?

McMurphy: It was from seeing a travel guide to Afghanistan in a bookshop. I hadn’t realized you could go there. I saw there were contact details for a tour operator, and through that I arranged to trip with two other people to Mazar-e-Sharif.

 What reaction did you get from the locals?

People were incredibly friendly. I never felt animosity, although in the countryside villages they thought I was from Mars. Sometimes crowds would gather but it was mainly curiosity and amusement, although I wouldn’t do it without a guide.

When were you in the most danger?

There were spooky incidents, mainly in Kabul. My first trip I was in a restaurant when militants took over the building next door. I was hearing explosions but luckily I’m a bit deaf. In Pakistan, the US consulate was bombed when I was heading there.

Why were you not scared?

I’m not blasé but s**t happens everywhere. After the London bombing and Barcelona you realize nowhere is safe. That reduces the fear factor. And I’m fascinated by politics and wanted a less shallow view than I get from news reports.

What do you feel you’ve gained from the experiences?

It was fascinating to able to debunk a few myths. Politicians say feel-good lines about how these countries are improving but I could see for myself that infrastructure in Afghanistan has gone backwards. And it touched me to see the kids going to school and people trying to live normally in that situation. I won’t do much more of this travel but I saw what I wanted and I’m happy I did it.

The post The new tourism: Holidaying in a warzone appeared first on Metro.us.

You’ve got plenty of time to stress about flowers, colors and dresses — first and foremost, let’s get the location of your wedding nailed down. If you’re torn between choosing a local venue to accommodate your guests and jetting off to someplace warmer and more exotic for your upcoming nuptials, it’s time to take a closer look at clear blue skies and waters of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

With year-round summer-like weather, quick and affordable access from the east coast and no need for a passport, this historic city could be the answer to your destination dreams. The island boasts sparkling beaches, tropical rainforests and vibrant nightlife — enough to get any bridesmaid or groomsman committed to making the trip. And with flights from $200, your guests will thank you for picking a venue that’s easy on the budget and perfect for extending their long weekend.

Bonus: Destination weddings are a great excuse for keeping the guest list tight to include only those guests you really want to invite, and not, for example, the work friends of certain relatives. (We’re looking at you, mom and dad.)

La Concha: Something new

Where else besides La Concha can you host a reception beneath a giant sea shell on the ocean?
Credit: La Concha

The ultimate in luxury, this chic hotel feels more like a Hollywood hangout — perfect for the bride who spares no details and wants to wow her guests. The AAA Four diamond property sits on the beach, but also boasts more than four pools and a stunning banquet room for up to 800 of your closest friends and family members. Easy indoor/outdoor access lets you plan without stressing over the weather. After your wedding party has danced the night away, they can retire upstairs to the property’s well-appointed guestrooms, while the newlyweds get cozy in a luxurious suite.

1077 Ashford Ave.
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00907
787-721-7500

El Convento: Something borrowed

Begin your marriage rooted in the history of this Old San Juan gem.
Credit: El Convento

Nestled in the heart of Old San Juan, this historic boutique hotel is ideal for an intimate, romantic wedding. Guests can enjoy strolling through this charming part of the city, paved with cobblestones and dotted with luxury shops. Appropriately named, the 58-room property was converted from a 360-year-old Carmelite convent. If you’ve always dreamed of exchanging vows in a vine-covered courtyard beneath twinkling lights and the nighttime sky, El Convento is the venue for you. But intimate doesn’t have to mean small — the hotel’s largest event space can accommodate a party of 250. Plus, the property’s certified wedding planner will help you get all the details just right.

100 Cll Del Cristo
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
1-800-468-2779

Condado Vanderbilt: Something old

Exchange vows at the glam Condado Vanderbilt.
Credit: Condado Vanderbilt

Since 1919, this grand hotel has been evoking the style and class of a more glamorous era. This location is for the bride who plans to wear a vintage-inspired gown and the groom who will gift his best man a box of hand-rolled cigars. Indulge your guests with first-class dining from the property’s Michelin-starred Executive Chef, Juan Jose Cuevas. With a perfect location along the ocean, it’s no wonder the hotel has attracted the likes of royalty, heads of state and Hollywood celebrities. It’s been newly renovated just in time for you to star in your own big day.

1055 Ashford Ave.
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00907
787-724-1919

Follow Cassandra Garrison on Twitter at @CassieAtMetro

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The ratio of single men to single women in Boston, along with the city’s walkability, unemployment rate and outing options helped the Hub score the top spot in a study of the nation’s best places for bachelors.

NerdWallet.com, a finance comparison website, on Monday ranked Boston as the best city because, according to the site, “Dates are a little pricier here, but the low unemployment rates makes it likely you’ll both be able to afford it. There are plenty of date options, including Red Sox games, walking the Freedom Trail and dinner in the North End.”

The notion that men seem to have their pick of single ladies sealed the deal. According to NerdWallet the ratio of single men to single women is 93 to 100.

Here’s a breakdown of why Boston is the proverbial playground for bachelors:

1. The odds are in your favor, boys:
There are more available women than men, which means less competition and higher odds of finding datable single women.

2. It’s apparently easy to meet people here:
The blog calculated the number of bars and gyms per 1,000 residents and looked at the Walk Score.  According to NerdWallet, bachelors who live in a city that is packed with shops, restaurants and bars – like Boston – find it easier to meet people.

3. You can afford to date here:
The site also examined the cost of a cheap Boston date, and considered the unemployment rate.

“I do agree with the ratio aspect, and I do hear the frustration in my female clients voices when they say ‘All the good ones are taken,’” said Susan Baxter, founder of Hire A Boston Wing Woman, a professional “ice-breaker” service.

But Baxter takes exception to the site claiming it’s easy to meet people in Boston.

“We’re pretty conservative as far as being outgoing. You can calculate the number of bars, gyms and restaurants, but it doesn’t mean much when Bostonians are anti-social. People here are known for being a little cold,” she said.

A Boston bachelor, who goes by John, said he has been “playing the field” here for about a decade, and as far as he can tell, the city deserves first place.

“It’s small, walkable and there are a lot of nice places indoors and outdoors,” he said. “I think being a guy you have a wider range of single women everywhere you go, and for the most part I find (dating) is pretty affordable.”

No love for bro favorites Las Vegas, Miami and New York City:

1. Boston
2. Baltimore
3. Washington, D.C.
4. Philadelphia
5. Denver
6. Fort Worth
7. Seattle
8. Chicago
9. San Francisco
10 Indianapolis

Breaking down Boston’s Bachelor-favorable stats:
According to NerdWallet.com

• Ratio of single men to single ladies: 93/100
• 1.3 bars and gyms per 1,000 residents
• “Walk score” of 79
• The average cost of a date is $27.79
• The unemployment rate is 7.1%

Follow Morgan Rousseau on Twitter: @MetroMorgan

The post Paging all bachelors: Boston named the best U.S. city for single men appeared first on Metro.us.

A national website that highlights more than 500 of the nation’s best places to live and visit named Cambridge as one of America’s top ten most romantic cities.

Livability.com announced today that Cambridge pulled in the eighth spot because of its “world famous universities, historic mansions, bookstores, and dynamic arts scene that make this river city so enchanting.”

The site also pointed to the city’s downtown scene, which offers a solid selection of music venues, theaters, bistros, and art galleries.

Somehow, despite all that romantic flair, Scottsdale managed to steal the number one spot.

Check out the full list of Livability.com’s Top 10 Romantic Cities:

1. Scottsdale, AZ
2. Napa, CA
3. Bend, OR
4. Charlottesville, VA
5. Santa Fe, NM
6. Kansas City, MO
7. Savannah, GA
8. Cambridge, MA
9. Coral Gables, FL
10. Hot Springs, AR

Follow Morgan Rousseau on Twitter: @MetroMorgan
Follow Metro Boston on Twitter: @MetroBOS

The post Cambridge named eighth most romantic city in America appeared first on Metro.us.

Do you love men in uniform? Is Fleet Week your favorite time of the year, but you prefer a boyfriend that’s not far away on a boat?

Well your search for handsome men with badges just got a little easier.

Meetsinglepoliceofficers.com (yes, it’s a real thing) is the spot to browse for your next police officer boyfriend.

The website boasts a “database that provides thousands of single good looking police officers who want to find someone to talk to, and who knows, maybe even start a relationship with.”

This is your chance, ladies. Thousands of police officers are waiting to talk to you. Maybe you’ll find a police officer so nice he gives away boots to a homeless man. We hope, for everyone’s sake, all cannibalistic cops have been screened out.

All single police officers “craving for some love, tenderness, or someone to start a relationship” have to do is sing up and “hundreds of gorgeous girls” will be waiting.

Dating websites have become oddly specific, it makes it hard to know where to search for potential soul mates. Can someone start a dating website called Cute Men In The Navy That Look Like Zac Efron.com?

The post Hey ladies, find your next police officer boyfriend appeared first on Metro.us.

1. Verify the cost of lift tickets ahead of time. Multi-day lift tickets tend to be cheaper than single-day tickets. Also, look for ski and stay packages, as they offer substantial savings when booking as a bundle.

2. Get an SUV. If you’re planning on renting a car to get to your destination, call ahead and reserve a vehicle with four-wheel drive or snow tires that can fit the entire family — and their gear. These can rent out quickly and you don’t want to get stuck in the snow without precautions.

3. Family fun can be found off the mountain. Many ski destinations have become increasingly known for their restaurants. If traveling with younger children who don’t ski, make sure to look into resorts that offer additional activities such as snowshoeing, tubing, ice skating, sledding and sleigh riding, to name a few.

4. Hotel rooms can add up. Renting a villa is an easy and cost-effective way to find accommodations for the whole family. When renting villas on resort properties, families can take on the slopes together, or parents may take advantage of “ski nannies” on property who can watch children in ski camps or indoors.

5. Rent ski gear for your kids. While it’s definitely more convenient to own your own gear, renting equipment for your children is definitely a smart option. With many kids as beginners, and still adjusting to the idea of skiing, a season-long rental, or even a single-day rental, is a benefit that many parents should take advantage of while their children are adjusting to the slopes.  metro

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AT&T said the licenses it is buying cover a population of 42 million people in 18 U.S. states.

It expects to close the deal, which is subject to regulatory approval, in the second half of 2013.

AT&T needs to boost its capacity for high speed wireless services to meet increasing demand for mobile internet services for smartphones, tablet computers and other devices.

To do this it has been busy buying wireless spectrum in the last year since the failure in late 2011 of its $39 billion bid to buy T-Mobile USA, a unit of Deutsche Telekom AG <DTEGn.DE>, due to regulatory opposition.

Earlier this week AT&T said it agreed to buy Atlantic Tele-Network Inc’s <ATNI.O> wireless business operating under the Alltel brand. In August it agreed to buy wireless company NextWave Wireless Inc for its spectrum holdings for $50 million and $550 million of debt.

Verizon Wireless, a venture of Verizon Communications <VZ.N> and Vodafone Group Plc <VOD.L>, committed to sell a chunk of spectrum last year while it was seeking approval for its agreement to buy spectrum from cable operators.

The post AT&T to buy Verizon spectrum to meet wireless demand appeared first on Metro.us.

‘Puzzle Craft’
Console: iOS
Maker: Chillingo
Grade: 4/5
What happens when you mix a match-three puzzle game with a village sim? You get one of the more addictive games on the iOS platform. The premise is simple: As you match items, you get more raw material to build your town with. “Puzzle Craft” will steal your sleep, however, and turn you into one of those people who stares at his or her phone all throughout dinner.

‘Kingdoms of Amalur:
Reckoning’
Console: Xbox 360
Maker: EA
Grade: 4/5
While everyone was still frolicking about in Skyrim, this game snuck into stores with minimal fanfare. It’s a shame too, as “Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning” takes the fantasy-themed open world of that title but mixes in fun, arcade-style combat. Speaking of, the fighting here feels great. You’d be hard-pressed to find an action RPG that plays better.

‘Knytt Underground’
Console: PS3/Vita/PC
Maker: Ripstone
Grade: 4/5
This beautiful and lonely sidescroller has you slowly exploring an interconnected world as either a little boy or an anthropomorphic bouncing ball. It draws heavily from classics like Metroid and Castlevania, as well as recent indie gems like VVVVV and Super Meat Boy. Prepare to do a lot of backtracking in order to fully explore the game’s 1,800 rooms.

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Sugar Beach, St. Lucia

A butler will pick you up at your room and drive you to the spa at this recently-rebranded luxury resort nestled between St. Lucia’s famous Piton mountains, so vast that its villas, restaurants and other amenities are spread across more than 100 acres. After checking in for your service, your therapist will lead you up to your own personal tree house treatment gazebo, suspended over running water so you can take in the elements around you. Opt for a peppermint chocolate massage with massage oil made from organic, locally produced cocoa oil, locally produced organic coconut oil and essential oil of peppermint, or the Sulphur Seduction, which utilizes the nearby Sulphur Springs and volcano to promote well-being, or an all-natural body scrub using fruits and herbs grown right at the resort. When you’re finished, take a few minutes in your private outdoor shower to further extend your bliss.
758-456-8000, www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/sugarbeach

Koro Sun Resort, Fiji

Before they wed, JP and Ashley from “The Bachelorette” had a very romantic rendezvous at this Fijian resort (and by the way, the date they had is also available for you to book, as the Passion Under Palms package). Every item incorporated into your treatment is homegrown when possible — from the banana leafs used in body wraps to the coconut shavings used in exfoliating body scrubs. The three wooden straw huts (called Bures) are candle- and lantern-lit, and you can hear trickling waters and bird callings during your service.
877-KOROSUN, www.korosunresort.com

MesaStila, Indonesia

MesaStila has been an active coffee plantation since Dutch Colonial times — you’ll see its heritage across its 55 acres, from the railway station to its owner’s residence. The property is situated within eight volcanoes, and it houses Southeast Asia’s sole authentic Hammam.
www.mesahotelsandresorts.com/mesastila

Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort, Costa Rica

Eight miles north of tourist-heavy town La Fortuna is this tropical oasis, where treatments take place in open-air bungalows in a private garden area of the rainforest. Taking a dip in the area’s famous hot springs is recommended for the health benefits they’re said to provide, and easing in should be no problem — the mineral waters have been warmed by the nearby Arenal Volcano, and one thermal pool boasts a swim-up bar and thermal water slide. Eco-friendly travelers will be happy to hear that the resort is 100 percent carbon-neutral and that the spa utilizes local ingredients like volcanic mud and thermal waters.
877-277-8291, www.tabacon.com

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Speaking to reporters at its Menlo Park, California headquarters, Zuckerberg described what he called “graph search,” which allows users to sort through content that has been shared with them.

Critics have long deemed the social network’s current search capabilities inadequate.

Available as a “beta” or early version now, the new feature – dubbed “graph search” because Facebook refers to its growing content, data and membership as the “social graph” – will initially let users sort through mainly photographs, people, places and members’ interests, he added.

“You need to be able to ask the query, like, who are my friends in San Francisco,” Zuckerberg said.

The world’s largest online social network, Facebook is moving to regain Wall Street’s confidence in the wake of a rocky IPO and concerns about its long-term money-making prospects.

Speculation had approached fever pitch over the past week about what Facebook planned to reveal in its highest-profile news briefing since its market debut. Guesses had ranged from a long-rumored smartphone to a full Web-search product.

That anticipation, as well as expectations of strong fourth-quarter financial results, have helped drive up Facebook’s stock. Its shares are up more than 15 percent since the start of the year.

On Tuesday, its stock was off 0.3 percent at $30.84.

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The study, conducted by the Universitat Berlin, focused on the Facebook posts of 100 student volunteers at the University of Arizona over the course of a week.

The students were asked to do two things: fill out forms assessing their mental health throughout the week, and post to Facebook more than they normally would. A control group wrote exactly their regular amount of updates.

Now if you’re expecting some sort of cathartic, joyful end to the experiment, you’re going to be disappointed. The students posting more Facebook updates were still as cheerful or as depressed at the end of the week as they were at the beginning.

But they did feel less lonely than the control group, experiencing a shift in their sense of connectedness. Whether those posts got any “likes” or comments didn’t seem to matter. Simply posting more frequently reduced the students’ alienation, regardless of how much real social interaction they’d had during the week.

Seeking to explain this phenomenon, the researchers compared posting quick Facebook updates to quick hits of food. “Similar to a snack temporarily reducing hunger until the next meal, social snacking may help tolerate the lack of ‘real’ social interaction for a certain amount of time,” the Berlin team wrote in the journal Social Psychological and Personality Science.

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Though Man-O-War and The Wizard are adjacent and The Witch is 10 minutes away, each course is a golf universe unto itself. The Witch is Myrtle Beach golf at its finest with many tricks up her devious sleeve as 500 acres of tranquil cypress groves and wetlands provide plenty of hazards due to Mother Nature. Strategy is rewarded as the par-71, 6,702-yard layout is an SAT test of the ancient game.
Muscular Man-O-War is soothed by a 100-acre lake on its edge. This is a study in water management as H2O touches every hole The par-72, 6,967-yard Man-O-War intrigues with its spectacular (and rare) back-to-back island greens on 13 and 14.

The Wizard is as Scottish as haggis with bumps, hollows, mounds, swales and sod-faced bunkers. The welcoming old-world, castle clubhouse is the most unique 19th hole you’ll find. Myrtle Beach is also second to none when it comes to post-round fun, with dining locales for every palate and pocketbook. Don’t miss Greg Norman’s Australian Grille, a popular fine-dining spot at Barefoot Landing. On the southern end of the Grand Strand, the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk — a half-mile stretch of seven fun dining and entertainment establishments located on the picturesque Murrells Inlet waterfront — is another “must.”

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