Shopping for bras...

Not all of us are a perfect size 34B and bra shopping can become a problem even in specialty shops that claim that they carry all sizes. In desperation I went online to do my shopping and learned of Linda the Bra Lady, owner of Linda's Bra Salon located at 828 Lexington Avenue (between 63rd and 64th) in Manhattan (best reached by bus or cab). Her shop is small but her inventory is huge (30AA to 48J). I was able to find three bras and they all fit perfectly. I can't recommend this place and this woman enough. Want to know more? Visit this site, watch a video, print their 10% off first visit coupon, get directions to the shop, or if you're not planning a trip to New York in the near future, shop online at: http://www.lindasonline.com/

P.S. Read Linda's rules for caring for your bra.

I love Madison Avenue...

If you want to know about the latest in fashion a stroll along Madison Avenue is the perfect thing to do. I did just that, people watching, window shopping and popping into boutiques that interested me. It was so relaxing and what an absolute pleasure. Some of my favorite stops included Eileen Fisher, 521 Madison Ave (Midtown) where there were such great basics on sale. I wasn't looking for a silk lavender jacket but I know that the one I picked up will make my heart sing for years to come. At The Walking Company (551 Madison Avenue) I had the good fortune to be served by Kenneth. He fitted me with the most comfortable bronze sandles that are perfectly stylish yet will allow me to walk for miles. If you're in the vicinity I suggest a stop at this shop. They had a wonderful inventory and offered excellent service.

A night at the theatre...

My daughter and I were in New York for just three nights. We were so close to the theatre district, how could we resist at least one night of entertainment? Our big splurge choice was the musical, In the Heights, a 2008 Tony Award winner. It was thoroughly enjoyable! Then we strolled along Broadway with all its razzle dazzle bright lights back to our hotel. A perfect ending to a New York evening.

P.S. If you love the theater but need a break from retail prices, visit Duffy Square, the center island of 47th Street between Broadway and 7th Avenue for TKTS (very close to the Courtyard Marriott). TKTS sells unsold tickets on the day of performance for all Broadway shows for up to 50% off the box office price plus a $4.00 service charge per ticket. The electronic signs in front display what shows are available for that day. It's recommended that you get there early. Remember, you're not alone. It's estimated that 47 million visitors come to New York City every year.

A little bit of Japan...

Quite by accident I came across Kinokuniya Bookstore (1073 Avenue of the Americas) located across from Bryant Park and very close to The Courtyard Marriott. This Japanese shop is called a bookstore but it is much more than that. It has three floors crammed to the hilt with Japanese merchandise -- funky T-shirts, magazines, games, stationery, gift wrap, toys and yes, books. The atmosphere is gentle, perfect for browsing. I bought several items that have already been tucked away in my gift closet for next Christmas. However, best of all I loved the small 3rd floor cafe serving Japanese treats. I will definitely visit this charming place again.

A new travel book store in New York...

This store is not really close to the Courtyard Marriott on 40th but it's well worth a visit the next time you're in New York. Idlewild Books is a beautiful new independent store near Union Square, specializing in travel and international literature. A bookstore organized by country, Idlewild carries fiction and non-fiction from all parts of the world, including new and classic works in translation, travel guides, books about politics and culture, graphic lit, language-learning books, maps and more. If you're a true Journeywoman, we think you'll love it. Address: 12 W. 19th Street near Fifth Avenue.

Street Food Vendors...

According to Wikipedia, although hot dogs and pretzels are still the main street fare, some 4,000 mobile street food vendors licensed by the city, many immigrant-owned, have made Middle Eastern foods such as falafals and kebabs standbys of contemporary New York street food. Eastern European and Italian immigrants have made the city famous for bagels, cheesecake and New York-style pizza.

City that Never Sleeps...

New York is notable among American cities for its high use and 24-hour availability of mass transit and for the overall density and diversity of its population. In 2005, nearly 170 languages were spoken in the city and 36% of its population was born outside of the United States. The city is sometimes referred to as "The City that Never Sleeps", while other nicknames include Gotham and the Big Apple.

(Source Wikipedia)