Spare Me One

So if you follow me on twitter you will see I am no longer Living the Life...on a budget in New York City. I've taken the mantra to a new extreme as a poor grad student down in Nashville, TN. However, when I was up in NYC trying to live that life I always wanted to get together with friends and hit up the bowling alley. Like everything in NYC bowling was redonkulously expensive, as in $24 for one round. No thanks.  Take a trip off the island and head to Astoria for some king pin action at Astoria Bowl.  They have some amazing specials that go on throughout the whole week.  On Sundays from ten in the morning to one in the afternoon, you can bowl for just a buck.  That is less than a subway ride, a dirty water dog, or a pack of gum.  Then at night $1 games resume from nine until midnight.  Looking for midweek action?  Tuesday and Thursday nights, the Astoria Bowl has the same buck special from 9 until 12.  There is also a practice special, which you need to all ahead before showing up.  You can get 2 hours of bowling for $10 based on availability.  Celebrate your birthday at Astoria Bowl and if you are with a group of 10 or more, those fun bowling shoes are on the house.  Bowling is a great alternative when you do not want to participate in your standard evening fare.  Change it up and send one down the alley.  Also on your way back pick up a gyro at BZ Grill, you won't be disappointed.

Image via Jonathan Keelty

Let's Go Skiing, on the Grass

Yes!  It is finally getting warmer.  Here is to open toed shoes, sun dresses and picnics in the park.  I can stand proud and say I will not miss winter at all.  I may even be getting ahead of myself.  Then there are some of you who will actually miss this weather. Ice skating, snowball fights and skiing.  Well come spring, you do not have to fly to the southern hemishpere to enjoy summer skiing.  In Basye, Virgina winter sports enthusiasts can keep up at their favorite activities throughout the year by Grass Skiing or Boarding.  A very athletic activity where you will burn some major calories.  From June on Bryse Resort offers this unique and eccentric activity.  Wearing just a helmet and some other protective gear first time riders will meet with a instructor to get a understanding of the sport.  It takes a little time to get adjusted from snow skis to grass skis or boards.  They are basically oversized skateboards.  Up the chair lift you go, then down.  Repeat.  Your first time down the mountain requirees a mandatory boarding or skiing package which includes lesson, lift ticket, skis or boards, pads & helmet.  Then once you get the hang of it a lift ticket is only $12 and rentals are $13.  What a great way to stay cool while doing winters greatest activities without the biting cold.

Give My Regards to Broadway

Theater in NYC is everything.  Its why people move to this city, its why people visit this city, its why time square is lit up.  Do not let those millions of bulbs fool you; it is the Broadway theater.  Then you go up to the box office for a single ticket and the agent asks you to hand them over one hundred plus dollars.  Expensive is right.  Going on since the 24th Broadway theaters are celebrating Broadway Week.  Right now until Feburary 10th you and a friend, lover (of theater) or a date can enjoy 2-for-1 tickets.  These are not the shows where they are desperate for ticket sales, these are shows that have won Tony Awards, have crowds singing soundtracks and in development for big screne debuts. From family friendly shows like Billy Elliot and the Lion King to the sports heavy Lombardi there is a show for everyone.    From the list I have seen four of the shows and do not have anything bad to say about them.  This deal is not to be missed.  Live theater is nothing like any other forum and the spirit a broaway theater brings to the audience can never be matched by other forms of entertainment.  Hail a cab and go straight to 42nd St.
Image via BWChicago

Play It Out

My senior year of college, I spent a good amount of my Thursday nights at the new piano bar in town.  it wasn't your average one, it was dueling.  Now what seems like the eternity since I bid adieue to Nashville which in actually is only 2 and a half years it seems like this concept has taken a strong hold across the country.  In Dallas, The Penguin Piano Bar has recently opened its doors.  So there are two pianos facing each other, usually with a fish bowl resting nicely atop it.  Take the napkin intended to be your ice cold drinks coaster and find a pen, write down what song you just can't live without hearing.  Is it Gaga?  Is it Elton John?  Who cares, just write it down.  Bring your pretty little self up to the Piano man (or woman) and give them your napkin, preferably with a dollar or two if you want to hear the song before the sun comes up.  Then sit back as the national touring piano players jam out your song.  Don't be disappointed if a mash up occurs, or a dual. You never know how Teenage Dream will sound with Thunderstruck.  They are currently open Thursday through Saturday and have a small cover charge.  Go with your friends, its a greater way to hear the music you want to hear, dance to the songs you want.  Its an all around good time.
Image via  HenryStradford

Adding a Pill of Flavor to Your Day

Before the skies decided to open on Tuesday with a summer thunder storm, I was supposed to be in downward dog participating the the record breaking yoga class on Central Park's Great Lawn. This great, huge event was organized by the people of Flavor Pill. Delivered daily, Flavor Pill will fill you in on all the cultural events happening around your city. They facilitate bringing the culturally savvy together. Their editors scour and comb through what your city is offering and tells you which ones you should participate in. This means everything from the obscure, to the underground, and your in the face main stream. Currently broadcasting events in New York, Chicago, LA, San Fran and across the pond in London, you can find the flavor in your city. Obviously they are expanding. There are free events, ones that cost pennies, and ones that should be for special occasions. However, there is no reason why you should not participate. For those like me trying to be more well rounded a little culture in our life is a good thing. Sometimes we meet people who want to talk about things other than which celeb is in rehab and where to find a maxi dress for under 50 bucks.

image via Laura Skwarek

Hillbilly Heaven

Nashville! What is the first thing that popped into your head? Country Music. So when visiting put on your cowboy boots (not with a dress) and head down to 2nd Avenue to hit up the great Honky Tonks. This is your chance to embrace your country bumpkin side and enjoy all that Music City has to offer. Holding onto its stake as one of the city's last authentic bar's is Robert's Western World. Home of traditional Country music, this is where original artists come to get their start. You will be hard pressed to find a cover band strumming along on the ole guitar. When you come to spend your evenings or afternoons, you will be ahead of the trends. Next year that band or artist may just be up on stage accepting their first CMA award. Check the schedule to see when they will be playing live. If you work up an appetite order up the Recession Special from the Honky Tonk Grill inside. The no frills menu will do just the job, satisfy your hunger. Its not fancy, but that should be expected. They have your southern standards like fried Bolonga and fried pickles; something you must try at least once in your life time. Next time you are cruising down 2nd Ave and are fixin to find a place to enjoy the evening, Robert's should be at the top of your list.

image via Robert's Western World

Bitter Rewards

So this past St. Patrick's Day I decided to venture outside my apartment. With the amount of people who descend upon the city, hibernation is what most partake in to avoid the drunken crowds. I was invited to a show down at the Bitter End. Knowing this would be a bit more mellow than the shenanigans on 2nd Ave, I got a group of friends to head downtown for the show. The Bitter End is New York City's oldest rock club and a place one must check off their bucket list. The likes of Lady Gaga and Bob Dylan got their start there, so you know the place has street cred. There is usually a cover to get in anywhere from $5-10. There are seats for you to sit at which are front and center. Just as a warning if you pop down center stage there is a 2-drink requirement. A small price to pay to listen to tomorrow's hit makers. Don't feel like drinking, stay by the bar and enjoy the show. When I was there I saw Ryan Jay and Emergency Service bring the house down. Ryan's music is a mix of Jason Marz and John Mayer. His music will put you in the mood for the warming weather and may just become your summer anthem. The group I was with judged Emergency Service by the cover, but once they started playing the club was on their feet. Unlike the bands on the radio, Emergency Service brought energy which is hard to come by thanks to their stellar trumpet player and free-style raps. So next time you want to get out, head to the Bitter End and next time you turn on the radio Ryan Jay or Emergency Service may be playing for everyone to hear. Price of admission is a fraction of what it will be when they headline at the Garden and sell out in 5 minitues. I am talking to you Gaga.

Image via Flickr

Go And Grab It

I know you want it; we all know you want it. Everyone one wants their fifteen minutes of fame. Some of us are willing to take it even if it is bad. You have the Youtube video of you displaying your hidden, untapped talent. The problem is the video has only received four hits. Those hits came from your computer. What if you could gain a wider audience and make that break. Now is your chance to sign up for your fifteen minutes to become that break out star. 15toFame is the platform for your star to burn much brighter, for 15 minutes exactly. How it works, the potential star picks the time slot for when they want the world to see their talents. If you feel 6:00 to 6:15 is the best time for the world to see your live act, sign up for that slot. Link and direct your subjects to your online video. The last simple steps is advertise via twitter, facebook, postings on the sides of telephone polls. If you want more than an actual 15 get the world talking about you.

Image via Flickr

Belt It Out on the Stage

So there is a film festival everyday of the week celebrating every type of videographer that covers the face of the earth. Last week you went to the technology film festival, that only showcased movies made entirely on computers. Enough already. What if there was a festival celebrating the art of live entertainment? Well I am sure like me, you have been humming, singing, belting out show tunes since you spit your first word out. Starting tomorrow, in New York City, The New York Musical Theater Festival (NYMTF), starts its three week run. As stated by their mission this festival exists to revitalize one of the greatest art forms by introducing a diverse audience to the vibrancy of contemporary musical theater, and by discovering, supporting and promoting new There are tons of options for you to choose from for your entertainment pleasure from dance productions to full scale productions. Take your man to see Fantasy Football: The Musical. All events are $20. Jump on the chance to see hot tickets before they explode. When Gay Bride of Frankenstein explodes, and you can only get tickets from a scalper, you can stand up proud to proclaim: "Been there, Done that!"

Tickle The Ivories

So my time at piano bars in the past have been a little bit more wild, and had more fight in them. Big Bang do you miss me? But now that I am mature, I am ready for an evening out, that I do not regret the morning after. If I were over on the left coast I would hit up Angel's in Santa Monica. Brought to you by Temple Bar Concepts, this is their latest, newest, most novel venture to bring hip places to LA residents. Finding influence in decades past Angel is a nostalgic, dim Piano Bar and Supper Club for you to unwind at. Step back in time to the 30s and 40s where you will find absinthe decanters, vintage spirit recipies, tunes from yesteryear, and plush seating. You get some old, and some new--like the gourmet, tapas style menu accompanied by premium wines and other beverages. While you are transporting back to a better era, you may even get to listen to contemporary artists that you have actually heard of. This place is both great for the single set (i.e. me) and those romantically involved (i.e. someone I am jealous of). Sit at the bar and mingle with those who are looking for a change in the traditional bar scene. Reserve a cozy booth for you and your significant other and forget you are at a piano bar. Take a break from your usual "going out" routine and introduce some change. You will thank me later that you are throwing back to a better time.

Doodle While You Drink

I went to my fair share of Hi-lighter parties in college, but never could really appreciate my artwork unless I was under a black light. I am a want to be struggling artist at heart, and when I found out about Doodle Bar in London, I was about to book my flight for this Friday's party, End of Week's Doodles. My London friends and followers should mark their calendar for this Friday, and upcoming Friday's to head down to 33 Parkgate Road, SW11 4NP. When you step into this place, get ready to embrace your inner Monet and doodle on the walls, tables, waiters, fellow patrons. If it is there, you can doodle on it. Together with other doodlers you will create a unique piece of artwork and share an experience that is different to the standard bars. Interested in a more serious drawing experience? On Tuesday's the Bar holds drawing classes for you to perfect your figures. At only 10 pounds a session, you are on your way to getting your work on the walls of the Tate Modern. Charcoal and paper are available for a small price, or bring your own materials that inspire you. Head to the Doodle Bar, and let your mind wander, your teacher is not there to yell at you.

From River to Shinning River

Summer is synonymous with outdoor concerts. Do you even know what happened at Bonnaroo? I actually didn't think that was your scene, but I know you enjoy tunes on a hot summer night. If you are in NYC this summer, you should check out the River to River festival that has crept into the FiDi since 2002. This annual festival is happening now, and lasts until August. Each summer the schedule offers a wide array of programming, which are all free of charge to the public. In a response to September 11th, the purpose is to revive the downtown health through cultural programming. Tomorrow night you can go check out the NYC Opera's Magic Flute. You don't have to deal with Lincoln Center, and you don't have to get all dressed up. Most events are outside, so you can soak up the nature, and feel cultured while doing it. If you work down there get out of the office and check out a lunchtime concert. It will revitalize and motivate you to finish that huge report you have due at the end of the week. Drive in movies are not exactly an option in this city, but check out a movie downtown. For example, Monday July 6th, The Seven Year Itch is playing for your viewing pleasure. No use coming full, check out the restaurant showcase from the local dining establishments in the area. So no excuses that there is nothing to do this summer, with programming every day, maybe you should get a tent for Battery City Park so you don't miss any of the action.

Let's Go To The Movies

So this Tuesday has passed, but clear your calendar to get over to your local multiplex next week. National Amusements have this great program that all movies, IMAX included are only $6 on Tuesdays. Bargain Tuesdays is a limited time program that offers great deals on movie tickets. With a deal like this I can wait for the weekend to pass and head over to the theater for a fraction of the price. Check out the blockbusters that made bank this past weekend. Or sneak into that movie you are dying to see, but got horrible reviews. This is only happening at select locations. So make sure you check out the site before heading over to your local National Amusements theaters. This is a great Tuesday activity, its not like there is anything on TV to stay home for.