DJs, Bands & Art at Lit Lounge

One part H.R. Geiger-esque gallery (the Alien designer’s art graced the walls at the opening), one part understated DJ bar and one part hype, Lit is smoking hot. Offering local artists a place to play, the lounge goes against mainstream ideals and is definitely not your average nightspot. The main attraction is the alternative glam crowd with the occasional B artists, actors and indie film stars. The gallery, frequently baring grim, nightmarish images, has limited hours, but can be seen anytime through its locked glass doors. Downstairs, in the dungeon, notable-named DJs do their thing. Created as an experimental punk music venue, this lounge is perfect for those who are tired of the typical chic bars.

One & Only Square Sushi at Zento

Satisfy sushi cravings at this breakthrough contemporary Japanese restaurant. Home to the famous square sushi, Chefs Gunawan Wibisono and Sam Ho are masters of flavorful and innovative fare and Zagat swears by its roll specials and bento boxes. The intimate setting makes this eating enclave one of downtown Philadelphia’s foodie destinations.

Hotspot Spice Market Heats Up Atlanta

The same Spice Market that made a name for itself in the trendy meatpacking district in NYC has come to Atlanta. The exotic curry inspired dishes are now enticing a new set of eager taste buds. Frequent patrons have dreams of the samosa appetizer and red curry duck entree that keep this restaurant spicy every night of the week. The food, just as in the name, is composed of bold flavors taken from Southeast Asian inspirations. Enjoy the intriguing food and cultural experience at the Jean-Georges Vongerichten hotspot at the W Atlanta.

Recreation at Piedmont Park

Since the city officially purchased it in 1904, Piedmont Park has been Atlanta’s most popular park retreat. This historic stretch of green located northeast of downtown Atlanta is known for its lush treetops and scenic grounds. Paved pathways throughout the park are perfect for ambling along, and scattered benches beckon strollers. The sprawling 186 acre park encompasses the 11.5 Clara Meer Lake, where wildlife has taken up residence and also includes a dog park. This is the ultimate repose from the city’s quotidian hustle and bustle.

Melting Pot

For over 3 decades, The Melting Pot has offered patrons a decadently different dining experience. This fondue restaurant follows its “Dip Into Something Different” slogan. A stately décor appeals to diners with a fondness for fondue, and tables are equipped with individual burners to keep the pot hot. Asian and French Quarter style fondue are also served here, and there’s a substantial selection of fruit, bread, and vegetables for your dipping pleasure. These vibrant dishes are almost too beautiful to eat, including the chocolate fondue. The Melting Pot promises a truly memorable meal time.

Sophisticated Jazz Club at Classy Cafe Carlyle

Picture 6Cafe Carlyle offers an oh-so-elegant change of pace from all the downtown jazz joints. This upper east side venue was made famous by Bobby Short and his decades of Cole Porter and Duke Ellington interpretations. On any given night the coolest of the cool slip into the ritzy Carlyle Hotel to hear the tunes in the subtle light of table lamps.

Woody Allen and the Eddy Davis New Orleans Jazz Band play Monday nights ’til June. Come here dressed to impress, jackets are required and so is the pocketbook- prices can start at $100 a person. But the performances and luxurious setting are well worth the price tag.

The Conservatory of Flowers’ Flying Flowers

From potted plants to those that live in water to those suspended in the air, The Conservatory of Flowers houses almost 2,000 different species of tropical and colorful plants and flowers.

In the Aquatic Plants gallery, a giant art installation of glass and metal can be viewed, but that’s not what draws in the crowds. An authentic and rare Victoria Amazonic water lily hangs suspended in the air! Its leaves can support the weight of a small child!

Picture 5The Highland Tropics gallery of the Conservatory is world-renowned for its collection of delicate high-altitude orchids, which grow on the bark of gnarled trees. You may want to bring a cardigan, since the gallery’s temperature mimics that of misty cloudy forests of tropical mountaintops.

Step into the Lowland Tropics gallery and notice its steamy, humid, rainforest-esque atmosphere. This gallery is home to Phil, the 100-year-old giant Imperial Philodendron, and Cycads that pre-date the dinosaurs.

It’s not all plants and flowers at the Conservatory. Be sure to visit the Butterfly Zone where you can see these colorful insects at work in a picture perfect surrounding of beautiful blossoms.

Sunda provides an atypical twist on Asian fare

Executive chef Rodelio Aglibot brings a tasty twist to traditional dishes from Japan, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and other Southeast Asian islands. Sunda is a creation of Billy Dec, Brad Young, and Arturo Gomez: the trio behind Chicago hot spots Rockit Bar & Grill and The Underground. And Executive Chef Rodelio Aglibot brings an extensive background in Asian cuisine and culture, recognized by several media outlets as the “Food Buddha.” With cuisine that is accessible, comfortable and fresh, you’re bound to rub your belly after a meal at Sunda.

Georgeous Gowns & Bridal Beauty at Reem Acra

Known for stunning bridal creations and dazzling gowns, Reem Acra carries everything you need to look your most glamorous. Reem Acra has a design aesthetique that will get you noticed no matter what part of the world you’re in. The designer was born in Lebanon and studied fashion in Paris and New York, giving her clothes a European style for the American woman. Reem Acra is known for luxurious clothing with rich colors that are traditional classic, yet modern at the same time. The designs are spectacular now and most definitely will be far in into the future.

John Paul Getty Museum of Art

LA’s newest museum is no ordinary experience. It starts with a 5 minute tram ride up to one of the mPicture 11ost valuable pieces of land in Los Angeles, a ridge in the Santa Monica Mountains, just above Brentwood. There your greeted with 16,000 tons of limestone, which make up the stunning facade of the John Paul Getty Museum of Art.
Designed by architect Richard Myer, the Getty is a source of pride for LA today, but it is surprising in exists at all. Surrounding communities put the architect through a 13 year fight over the design. The Getty specialty is 17th and 18th century decorative art, but you’ll also find sculptures, paintings, and illuminating manuscripts. Admission is free and the museum is open everyday, except Monday.

Chanel Fine Jewelry Boutique

If any name is synonymous with luxury, it’s Chanel. Here at their jewelry and watch boutique, you’ll find some of the most opulent pieces you can imagine. And when you visit this store, you’ll feel elegantly transported back in time as the salon is modeled after Coco Chanel’s own apartment!