Top Cities To Visit (Part 2)

5. New York, New York

You either love New York City or you hate everything about it. I've tried many times to find another city that is similar to NYC and the closest comparison may be London, England. Their public transportation, food and cultural diversity mimics NYC.  However, since I've been living here for the past 4 ½ years; I realize that New York City is truly its own little world. A city that never sleeps is an understatement. There is something to do EVERY single day of the week. If you are looking for a fast paced environment, eclectic food and culture or just sheer adventure, then you must make your way here…I’m not just saying that because I live here.

Disclaimer: Don’t visit during the month of February it’s so cold you’re bound to turn into a hibernating bear. Don’t say I didn't warn you.

Top of the Empire State Building

4. Vancouver of British Columbia, Canada

Talk about a city that is under the radar. Vancouver is a nature lover’s dream! Living in NYC or any other metropolis reminds an urbanite to appreciate a fresh breath of air. You are surrounded beautiful mountains. I walked across the Capilano Suspension Bridge which is 230 ft above a river. I indulged in some amazing Japanese food and danced the night away with the rest of the bridal party in Yaletown. When I travel, I like to try at least one new thing. I went hiking through Stanley Park and wore open toe flat sandals that day, talk about the ultimate fail. Lol

On the Capilano Suspension Bridge

3. Washington, District of Columbia

The nation’s capital! Where you really feel like a true American once you step foot into this city. I was 13 years old on a college tour when I first visited. During my sophomore year in college, I was in D.C. practically every 2 months because of a long distance relationship. When I finally moved to New York, it became my home away from home. Washington, D.C. is where New Yorkers go so we don’t become so crazy. It’s where we go to remember what trees looks like. My favorite thing about this city is everything seems to be FREE…well at least when it comes to the touristy things such as visiting the Washington Monument or taking a tour of the White House.

The Washington Monument

2. New Orleans, LA

You haven’t experienced living if you haven’t been to New Orleans. This city is infinitely filled with flavorful food, jazz music and fabulous artwork. I heard that prior to Hurricane Katrina this city was a force to be reckoned with. I traveled here for a Post-Hurricane Katrina volunteer service trip, the Essence Music Festival and a random week in summer 2012. One thing to look forward to if nothing else is the food! If you’re afraid to try new foods this is not the city for you. The food here is filled with Cajun and Creole spices. Some of my favorite foods in New Orleans include the shrimp Po-boys, jambalaya, crawfish e’touffee, chargrilled oysters and alligator (yes! I said alligator). For dessert I had both pralines and these little pieces of Heaven called Beignets. In a later post I’ll go into more details about what else this city has to offer including  the nightlife, casinos, jazz club and of course their famous hurricanes and grenades drinks on Bourbon Street. I am infatuated with New Orleans!

Jackson Square in the French Quarter

  

 Drum Roll please…… My Number 1 Favorite City Is:

1. Paris, France

I can’t even lie. I was not ecstatic to make my way to “The City of Love”. When planning a weekend trip with friends, I actually wanted to avoid Paris and make my way to Dublin, Ireland instead. I thought Paris was overrated. I mean why did people talk about this city so much? Then, it happened…I was placed under a spell and it encompassed all things French. Going up the Eiffel Tower, through the massive garden at Chateau de Versailles and indulging in the local cuisine made me appreciate travelling to another level. Every building had a story and I captured as many pictures my little digital camera could handle. Simply put, walking through Paris feels like you are walking through history.

Jumping in front on the Eiffel Tower

Most memorable moment: I snuck a picture of Mona Lisa at the Louvre even though pictures were forbidden (I’m so glad those guards didn't catch me…whew)

What's your most memorable moment?