Damascus has been a center for cultural achievement for decades and spans the most impressive historical developments to date. It is the oldest city in the world to be consistently inhabited and it is not hard to believe, as it only takes a brief walk down the city’s center to behold sculptures from antiquity to Medieval fortresses and distinctly Islamic mosques and courtyards. Situated at a crossroads of the three major religions, it reflects the immersion of these faiths over millennium and remains one of the few cities to offer such a peaceful coexistence. In fact the old town of the city is divided into districts which surround the important artifacts for Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Add in the fact that Syrian hospitality is a renowned spectacle in itself and it makes for a very rewarding journey. It is no wonder then, that Damascus is regaining a reputation among budget travelers eager to explore a new terrain and immerse themselves in a unique and extraordinary culture.

These are five things you must not miss on a short trip to Damascus:

1. Marvel at the Architectural Beauty of the Ummayad Mosque

The Ummayad mosque is undoubtedly the highlight of the sights in Damascus, an architectural feat for which people journey hundreds of miles merely to witness. It is the oldest and largest surviving mosque, with a striking courtyard and architectural simplicity and elegance. It not only bears significance to Muslims for the direct connection to the Prophet Muhammad and his kin, but also holds importance to Christianity as it was built on a basilica dedicated to John the Baptist, and still encompasses the shrine that contains his head. In addition, just behind the mosque can be found the tomb of Salah ah Din (Saladin), the famed conqueror of the Crusader era. (Just note that you may need to bring some covering clothing to enter – My tank top and tattoos were not permitted uncovered.)

(Image via Jamil Karim)

2. Gaze at the City from Atop Mount Qassioun

Jebel Qassioun offers a stunning view of the city from it’s elevated position, and this is a favorite spot for locals and families to relax and watch the sunset over Damascus. The city is illuminated at night, and the florescent green lighting is a sight to behold. There are a few cafes and restaurants at the viewpoint that serve food and alcohol, though at a slightly elevated price. It can be an entertaining and quite vigorous hike for those looking to attempt it in the daylight. For others, taxis are easily accessible. (For any risk takers out there, I suggest trying the infamous “Bear Beer” that is sold at cafes atop the mountain. Yes that is the name of the beer, and no it is not Syrian. But I have a hard time believing that a country that does celebrate alcohol publicly would actually purchase such a concoction willingly.)

(Image via Top7Guide )

3. Hone Your Haggling Skills at Souq al-Hamidiyya

This indoor street is fascinating spectacle on its own, and one can easily spend hours trying to navigate its nearly endless maze of stalls and shops. Specializing in everything from exotic spices to jewelry, clothing and sweets, this-bazaar like arena is a shopper’s paradise, and a sight that encapsulates the cultural undertones of an age old tradition. (You honestly will not know where one section ends and the next begins – I was browsing stalls laden with desserts and pastries when I suddenly found myself standing amidst a butcher’s paradise of hanging meats with no recollection of how.)

(Image via Damascus-Online)

4. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth with the Finest Exotic Chocolates from Ghraoui

The Ghraoui chocolatier, found at the far end of the Souq, is considered by many to be the finest source of chocolates in the world. With fine rich textured chocolate combined with exotic Middle Eastern fruits and nuts, it is uniquely Syrian, and uniquely delicious. According to the NY Times: “Ghraoui’s fawakeh mujaffafa come in octagonal silver gift boxes, and they look almost jewel-like: perfect miniature apricots, figs and even eggplants resting in individual paper nests. The fruits are picked while they are still tiny and carefully boiled in sugar syrup, then dried in the sun so they maintain their color and shape.” How can you resist? A personal favorite of mine was the pistachio and dark chocolate apricots.

(Image via Ghraoui)

5. Take a Night Out

While hardly the nightlife capital of the region like neighboring Beirut, Damascus has it’s share of places to grab a quick drink. While it is rare to see the locals engaging in such activity in public, the Christian Quarter of Old Town Damascus has a series of small bars to frequent, as do many of the newer upscale hotels and resorts. Or if one is in the mood for a nargileh (hookah) there is an abundance of restaurants and cafes which provide high quality flavored tobacco to smoke at a very reasonable price.

(Image via Luxique)

(Lead image via jemasmith)

Among the multitude of budget hostels and hospedajes, one destination reclaims it’s renown among young travelers- El Mono Barbe, or The Bearded Monkey.

Located just out of the main square in Granada, Bearded Monkey offers a few different options for travelers – possibilities ranging from a private room to renting a hammock in the courtyard. Unfortunately, none of these choices allow the option of actually sleeping. The hostel is so well known, that it has transformed from a sleeping/ eating quarters into a full blown bar, and the rowdy drunken tourists seem determined to make as much of a scene as is humanly possible. The tables at the bar and restaurant are constantly full, and you must book a bed a few days in advance to even be considered – that includes sleeping on an empty mattress or a hammock outside. The restaurant does supply some delicious food, but unfortunately the price is inflated beyond what it should be and the service is slow.

It is a great place to meet backpackers from all over the world over a beer or some Flor de Cana, but unfortunately that is about all you will see. Don’t expect to meet any local Nicaraguans or to hone your Spanish skills, as the drunken Americans, Australians, Israelis, and Europeans that frequent the place are not too interested.

A better alternative would be a hostel one street north, and the Monkey’s major competitor – La Libertad. This quaint hostel closely resembles the Bearded Monkey in appearance and structure, but at a reduced price and a much more hospitable environment, The owner offers a multitude of amenities, including a free breakfast, cleanly exterior, and endless entertainment – in the form of a family of friendly kittens chasing each other around the garden. That’s right, the garden. Built inside the hostel itself, it houses a series of exotic trees and fountains that give shelter to the kittens and hummingbirds.

The hammocks stretched from the rafters are in far better shape, and you don’t have to worry about stealing someone else’s bed, as there is always plenty of room in the dorms themselves. If that isn’t enough, the bar is significantly cheaper and hosts a nightly happy hour with the chance to score free drinks. In addition, they offer free internet, laundry service, tour information, and use of the kitchen – all assisted by a friendly and helpful staff.

After attempting both hostels, the choice was evident. Although I still frequented the Monkey occasionally for nightlife, I was far happier sleeping in a hostel that actually allowed me to sleep.

Try 40 years… Now imagine an island full of clubs such as these. Clubs that have continued to update and keep their appeal through countless generations of party-goers the world over. And there you have it – Ibiza.

Ibiza in the summer is synonymous with the word party.  No place on earth has more of a reputation for nightlife and the small island is now a fantasy for clubbers around the world. This legendary tourist spot has come a long way from its hippie roots to cement itself as the premier entertainment capital of the world and a haven for dance music.

One of the largest of the Balearic Islands, Ibiza lies off the coast of the Spain’s Iberian Peninsula in the Meditteranean Sea. Although the northeastern side of the island remains relatively isolated and surrounded by forest, the highlight is undoubtedly the Southern Coast – ringed with tourist resorts and a massive range of bars and clubs and aptly named Ibiza Town. While the beautiful beaches have the potential for a relaxing island getaway, this isn’t going to happen. Not in the summer anyways.  The island is so popular that it draws in young crowds from all over the world for one reason, and one reason alone. To party.

The island’s primary reputation is as the headquarters of electronic music. Ibiza is often attributed as the birthplace of the rave, and it was here that Dance music officially took off. To this day it still lives up to the hype, featuring the premier DJ’s in the world on a nightly basis over the summer, many of whom have regular guest spots and appearances at their own respective clubs. It is not uncommon to see performances by Tiesto, Deadmau5, Armin van Buuren, Axwell, and Gareth Emery, to name a few – all in a single visit. In fact, it is tough to find a DJ who has not spun in Ibiza, and the majority of live recordings that are released take place in one of these clubs. (Click Here to see a list of upcoming shows and events)

The most notable of the clubs are Pacha, Amnesia, Space, El Divino, and Privilege – all of whom compete with each other for title by drawing in the largest names in house and trance and consistently packing the dance floors with massive sound and light spectacles. Privilege was ranked as the world’s largest nightclub, with a capacity exceeding 10,000, where as Pacha is considered one of the most modern and impressive in existence. It has even become a franchise, with clubs in cities all over the world, including New York, London, and Munich, and its own line of magazines.

In addition to the expanse of musical performances and impressive displays, Ibiza is often celebrated for it’s laid back nature (though there have been some recent attempts to limit this). Clubs are open virtually all day and night, and there is never a shortage of places to party or scenes to try. Even within the top clubs, the attitude is often relaxed, with no dress code or requirements. (It is actually recommended to avoid dressing up if you plan to stay by the stage as the clubs are known for their nightly foam parties.) Clothing itself is optional.

The only real gripe is the price (well…and the gradually lowering average age of clubbers) – everything in Ibiza is expensive beyond belief, so plan accordingly.

It is rare that a travel spot is actually able to live up to the hype, but Ibiza just happens to be one of those places. Although it is an ideal spot for a brief getaway, it won’t be easy to stay too long – a shrinking wallet and a waning liver will see to it.

(Image via WayFaring)

Although Beirut has frequently been a site of conflict and casualty (the most recent conflict with Israel was just a few short years ago) the vibrant spirit of the city has yet to be extinguished.  In spite of all the turmoil, or more likely as a result of it, the unrestrained desire to enjoy one’self manifests itself in a variety of ways, and there is entertainment to cater to nearly any scene. Beirut hosts some of the most highly ranked nightclubs in the world and an endless walk of small bars, as well as large scale performances by top name DJ’s and bands, and even the occasional rave. Beirut still manages to evoke a sense of unity amongst the locals in that wherever you may prefer to party, you are living it up to the fulest.

The Adventure

In the short time I spent in the city, I grew determined to experience just what gave Beirut its acclaim and the status of of one of the nightlife capitals. Beirut is home to many of the highest rated clubs in the world, unfortunately the glamour and status of many of these clubs make them exclusive to the point of ridiculousness. One attempt to get into the highly reputable SkyBar ended in disappointment, as nothing would gain us entry, not the dinner reservations that had been booked, not the offer to purchase bottle service, not the friends within, not even the $100 notes offered to the bouncer. Then again, we were hardly surprised, given that this had been ranked the number One club in the world just last year and had a line of beautiful people stretching along the back- at about 10:00 P.M.

Our night continued, however, with a short walk to Gemmayzeh- the district best known for the long walk of shoulder to shoulder bars. We tried to take in as many as we could in a week in Beirut and barely even touched the surface. The range of bars catered to every style, every music, every attire, even every language. One could easily spend nights on end here- but we were on a mission.

In any case we ventured to an equally impressive nightclub, BO18, which in my mind would be nearly impossible to top. Designed by renowned architect Bernard Khoury, BO18 was situated in what looked like essentially just a large parking lot. Upon further inspection we could see that the line was located in a narrow passageway to some stairs, and that the club itself was a large bunker housed stories below the ground. This controversial new club is a large steel structure built on a site of a former refugee camp.  (To many, this conundrum epitomizes the collective attitudes of the city itself- that nothing can break the spirit of Beirut and it’s people though their memories are not forgotten.)

When we finally made it inside we were no less appreciative, as the decor was uniquely artistic and the live DJ spinning deep house beats had the entire floor jumping. And it was just getting started… The club is known as an after-hours spot that continues until 10A.M. Around four we got an unexpected surprise…The roof of the bunker begin to widen as mechanical gears pulled it apart. We were able to witness the light slowly creeping in from the ceiling as the sun began to rise overhead- all while still sipping a Vodka-RedBull ten feet underground.

Did It Live Up to the Hype?

ABSOLUTELY!

Beirut is a spectacle to behold, even if for nothing else than it’s nightlife (though it just so happens it is a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western cultures, languages, and history). Just to be forewarned, however, it is not cheap. I arrived directly after backpacking around Greece and Turkey and was accustomed to the lifestyle of being a bum (sleeping as cheap as possible, eating koftes from the grocery store, walking to avoid a cab – I was actually offered a job in Istanbul drawing in tourists to restaurants but I drew the line when i found they would only pay me in food). Needless to say, I was utterly unprepared for the expenses of Beirut nightlife. I adapted quick, however, and I’m glad I did for it to this day remains one of the most amazing cities to party in.

]]> http://www.adventureworthy.com/2010/07/08/nightlife-around-the-world-2-beirut/feed/ 2 http://www.adventureworthy.com/2010/07/02/nightlife-around-the-world-1-paradise-beach-mykonos/ http://www.adventureworthy.com/2010/07/02/nightlife-around-the-world-1-paradise-beach-mykonos/#comments Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:00:27 +0000 http://www.adventureworthy.com/?p=1884 Continue reading →]]> Mykonos has long been known for it’s relaxing beaches and beautiful sunsets, but there is a new reputation staking its claim among the Mediterranean islands- most decadent.

Every year the island gives way to a perpetual party spanning nearly three months in length and drawing top name trance and house DJs the world over. (Some even say this destination is poised on the verge of overtaking Ibiza.) Summers in the Cyclades Islands of Greece are laden with bronzed European vacationers packing the beaches by day, and the clubs by night. Paradise Beach lies at the Southern end of the island-  far enough away from the honeymooners and vacationers for the 24 hour shifts of pounding rhythms and alcohol-fueled frenzy to continue uninterrupted.

The beach during the day looks like a cross between a bikini model shoot and a Muscle and Fitness magazine, but I have yet to witness anyone complain about it. The beaches themselves are the source of the party- with the bars positioned twenty steps from the water. This meager distance is littered with sunbathers sprawled out on lawn chairs and sand alike; sunglasses on head, and drinks in hand. Each bar provides their own respective sound system to compete with the one next door, and top house anthems can be heard blasting on repeat at full volume to the crowds dancing around the speakers.

Just past the bars is the entrance to the campgrounds, with your choice of flat land to pitch a tent on or the option to rent a cabin (an overpriced tin box with a mattress stuffed inside). The sorry state of the sleeping quarters would be more of an issue if anyone was actually capable of sleeping here. (For those with a little extra cash, there’s a variety of more glamorous sleeping options a short ride into town.)

It took far too long to learn that this is only Paradise Beach during the day… At sunset it gives way to two gigantic nightclubs, each drawing some of the most massive names in electronic music. A single Saturday night in 2009 bore witness to live sets by house-music legends John Digweed and Eric Morillo until 8 A.M. The larger and more well known of the two clubs, Cavo Paradiso, is a multi-layered expanse with a massive exterior (and a pool) that makes it’s way to the very edge of the island, blocked only by a low gate at the cliffs descent to the sea below. Needless to say, the atmosphere is incredible as a floor packed full of  fans from every country begin to dance only harder once the sun rises over the cliffs and into the club inside.

Mykonos is an unforgettable place as much for the beautiful scenery as for the frenzied parties, and what few hours a day you do manage to sleep will seem even more refreshing as you wake up with the sun high in the sky and the waves crashing on the shore.

(Image via CavoParadiso.com)

Details and History of Los Angeles MOCA

MOCA in Los Angeles isn’t just an afterthought — it’s been on the cultural landscape, making an international impression since 1979. Though there are quite a few museums in LA, MOCA is the only one that can boast a complete dedication to exhibiting and collecting only contemporary art, which essentially means art that was produced after the middle of last century (1940 or so). If you want to see some of the most important painting, sculpture, collage, photography, video and installation art that is being produced by living artists (for the most part), then a trip to the museum will quench your thirst, and maybe leave you wanting more.

You can always head back for a second visit, which might actually be necessary considering the museum has two distinct downtown locations (Geffen Contemporary at MOCA as well as the original MOCA Grand Avenue), each with multiple exhibition rooms and often more than one show taking place. For those die-hard art lovers finding themselves in need of even more, MOCA also has a contemporary project exhibition space located behind the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood (MOCA Pacific Design Center). At last count, MOCA’s collection numbers over 5,000 individual works.

An interesting fact about the museum and its home — before the opening of MOCA, Los Angeles was the only major city in the States that did not feature an institution dedicated solely to contemporary art.

MOCA Grand Avenue
250 South Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA
152 North Central Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90013

MOCA at Pacific Design Center
8687 Melrose Avenue
West Hollywood, CA 90069

For full details on visiting hours and maps of each building, click on the MOCA Visitors Page.

Find out more at the official website of MOCA Los Angeles.
(Image Credit: MOCA.)

Currently run by a group know as the Cinefamily, these self-proclaimed movie lovers do their absolute best to get their hands dirty in the bins of old feature and cult films, and bring some of the most interesting and provocative programming anywhere. Some nights feature live scores from bands playing their music to the films on the screen, while others feature idiosyncratic cult films or even animation extravaganzas. Described as “wonderful and weird” the scope of films playing at the new Silent Movie Theater just about guarantees that on any given night, you can pop in and be treated to an evening filled with intrigue.

Rekindling the love of cinema, the Cinefamily hosts barbecues on the enclosed outdoor patio out back, and allows patrons to drink beer with their popcorn. Some nights feature special screenings of the “worst movies” available anywhere on the planet — theater goers are asked to vote on which appears to be the most entertaining of all, after seeing the first five minutes of each film. True audience participation, and certainly fun for all. The screen and sound system are both brand new and offer a state of the art experience, regardless of the films being shown.

The Cinefamily at the Silent Movie Theater
611 N Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles, 90036
Tel: 323-655-2510

Click for more information on Cinefamily at the Silent Movie Theater.
(Image Credit: New York Film Review)

1. Gaze at the Blue Mosque - The majestic minarets and domes can be seen miles off, glittering in the sunlight.One of the architectural/ historical wonders of the world, the Blue Mosque contains a stunning courtyard and interior with a breathtaking view of the sea. It also remains an important meeting place and a center of life for this part of the city.

   (Image via Jamil Karim)

2. Shop at the Grand Bazaar - A diverse array of shops and stalls with a huge selection of goods including jewelry, art, silk scarves, designer clothes, spices, hookahs, and tons of desserts, to name a few. The size of the bazaar itself is worthy of mention – it feels like it goes on forever. By contrast, the Spice Bazaar is far less glamorous, and still maintains the authenticity of an ancient bazaar, with vendors peddling goods like candies and spices from all over the Middle East at a fraction of the price.

   (Image via wikimedia.com )

3. Grab a Drink (or Five) at Taksim Square – The nightlife center of the city, Taksim is home to an uncountable number of small bars and cafes, as well as flashy nightclubs playing music of all kinds. Be sure and try the local raki, a potent anise flavored liquor, similar in taste and texture to ouzo and absinthe (it is customary to drink it over a glass of ice with equal parts water and raki)

   (Image via propertiesinbodrum.com)

4. Walk Across the Galata Bridge- The bridge spans the Golden Horn, connecting the regions of Beyoglu and Eminonu, and is a spectacle in itself. The bridge gives home to dozens of cheap eateries offering fresh caught fish (a glance up will confirm this as the walkway is swarmed with fishing lines all trying their luck) and cooked mussels in the shell, while the walkway under the bridge houses the more elegant restaurants from a choice location.

   (Image via flickr.com )

5. Explore the Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia- The Topkapi Palace is the former residence of the Ottoman Sultans turned museum. Although the palace itself is a work of art, the Ottoman relics housed inside are the real attraction. The palace contains numerous artifacts and artwork, centuries of weaponry, some of the largest and most valuable jewels in the world, and holy relics to both Islam and Christianity. The Hagia Sophia is directly across from Topkapi, and this church turned mosque turned museum gives home to a number of age-old mosaics.

   (Image via ee.bilkent.edu)

6. Relax With a Nargileh- Hookah has evolved to an art form in this part of the world, and the Turks are among the bests. A Hookah, or Nargileh, is the large water pipe filled with sweetened, flavored tobacco which produces large clouds of smoke, and is a highly fulfilling way to relax. The outdoor cafes are constantly full, and servers consistently come around cups of chai (tea) and desserts. The two most notable cafes are those directly across from the Blue Mosque, and both provide a nightly performance of a Whirling Dervish dancer (a Sufi mystic who spins himself into a trance like state) and live music, free of charge.

   (Image via seawayprevention.org)

7. Go for an Epic Run Along the Sea of Marmara- A short distance south of sultanahmet leads you to the edge of the city and across a grassy path to the sea. The road that follows this provides an incredible place to run, with the beautiful water to your right and the monuments and mosques rising out of the city to your left. A couple miles away brings you to the entrance to Gulhane Park, a beautiful garden full of fountains and rose garden pathways a- a great place to stop and rest and enjoy the view. (For those truly looking for a workout, the trail is lined with pseudo gyms- body weight exercise machines that appear every half a mile or so)

   (Image via Jamil Karim)

8. Traverse the Bosphorus Bridge- The mighty bridge connects Istanbul across the Bosphorus Strait, effectively  linking Europe and Asia. How many times will you be able to say you woke up in one continent and fell asleep in another on the same day?

   (Image via Istanbulscenes.com)

9. Splurge on a Dessert Binge- Turkey is internationally celebrated for its array of delicious desserts and nothing can compare to the fresh pastries to be discovered on every corner. Amongst the dozens of specific desserts, the most notable are the honey soaked pistachio filled Baklava and Kadayiff , the Sutlac rice pudding, and the famous Lokum, or Turkish Delights- jellylike candies topped with chopped walnuts or rosewater. All washed down with a surprisngly strong (and tiny) cup of Turkish Coffee.

   (Image via ecurry.com)

10. Let Yourself Unwind at a Hammam- Hammams, or turkish bathhouses are a true testament to relaxation. These sauna like rooms feature multiple chambers of progressively hotter water, ultimately culminating in a massage at the end. (Image via travelblog.com)

Most of the changes focus on food and language. Including common Chinese dishes at hotel restaurants and room services should help attract people who find vegetable dumplings more appealing than French toast at breakfast. Some hotels also plan to offer in-room tea kettles. Including Chinese language cards with foods also helps visitors order the options that they prefer.

Language-based changes could also include hiring staff members fluent in Mandarin and other Chinese tongues. Using these staff members as translators will help Chinese visitors receive improved services from the hotels.

The majority of travelers coming to the United States from China are businesspersons, not tourists. The number of those coming for vacation, however, is beginning to increase. As the Chinese middle class continues to grow, hotels in popular US destinations like New York City should receive more business from Chinese clients. The number of tourists coming from China to the US has also increased because of an agreement signed two years ago that made it easier for individuals to travel between the countries.

(Image via: Frugal Cuisine)

From the moment you set foot inside the door, La Descarga is anything but ordinary. Lets begin with the entrance itself- after crossing a massive unmarked door, you are greeted by a woman at a desk in a nearly empty room, causing you to wonder if you are even in the right place. That is until she opens the massive armoire at her elbow, clears the coats to the side, and leads you to a set of small winding steps. Steps that make their way down to a packed dance floor and an enormous bar. All  punctuated by a series of burlesque dancers moving in harmony with the salsa and mambo beats echoing all around, courtesy of the live band on stage.

Equally as notable are the minor details that encompass the bar. The furniture and decor is so spot on that it had me questioning if it had been lifted from Havana itself (or from the US in the 1950s, as most Cuban architecture represents)- everything from the chairs and tables to the cigar patio, and even the antique doors themselves.

Upon passing the first bar, a small corridoor leads to a glassed room with luxurious furniture and a billow of smoke contained within. This would be the cigar lounge. Although there is a notable collection of cigars available for purchase, many of the patrons appeared to prefer to bring their own and reserve a table to stretch out and enjoy a puff.

Given that this is a rum bar, lets discuss the rum. As an aficionado and aspiring connoisseur of rum, I was blown away by the enormity of their selection. Browsing over a menu of nearly 100 types of imported spirits, rums of varied age and origin, I was offered samples of my own choosing to try.  I did, however, decide to stick with a glass of my personal favorite, an 18 year reserve Flor De Cana; an aged Nicaraguan dark rum. (Unfortunately they are unable to offer Cuban rums and cigars due to legality issues – a shame for the native Havana Club is equally as delicious) The only flaw as I saw it was the failure to make a decent mojito, for after all that is the signature drink of Cuba, but this vast selection more than made up for it. If looking for a great cocktail, try the Cuba Libre (dark rum and coke with a twist of lime).

The crowd was equally as entertaining as the atmosphere, and a span of twenty minutes offered encounters with people from every region of the world; hailing from Argentina, the Phillipines, Columbia, Zimbabwe, the UK, and even one local from Havana (who attempted to give me salsa lessons). While the dance area, a small space behind the bar, does grow crowded, the cheery atmosphere is more than forgiving and people expand it to wherever available.

La Descarga attempts to promote this image of 1950′s Cuba, and as such the dress code is fairly strict. They require a nice shirt and closed shoes, while a suit for men and a fancy dress for women is preferred. While reservations are recommended, it is not absolutely necessary, as we were admitted with minimal wait, even though our reservations had not been recorded.

La Descarga is located at 1159 Western Ave, Hollywood, CA. 90029

(Image via: ThirstyInLA)

To this point, Jerram has placed up to 130 pianos in several world cities, including London, Sydney and Sao Paulo. They have been placed in locations as diverse as bus stations and city parks. New York is installing 60 pianos at some of the city’s most famous landmarks, as well as a few heavily trafficked areas.

No doubt the artistic hot-bed of Lincoln Center will enjoy a variety of virtuoso performances, but it would be the Staten Island Ferry terminal that I’d be most interested in hanging around–I just feel this is where you’d see the jaw-dropping talent in form of a raw, self-taught genius.

I love this on so many levels it honestly tempts me to catch the next flight to NYC. No doubt, budding documentary and narrative filmmakers will find inspiration in some of the characters working their mojo at the public pianos, as will painters, photograhers, writers and every child who catches the sound of the tickled ivories.

One would have to think that these pianos will give way to some all-out theatrical productions. Having lived in NYC, and done a fair amount of swimming in the talent pool, I believe in the realm of the arts, there is no more talented city in the world that we know.

This is precisely what creator Luke Jerram is hoping for: “There’s going to be a huge amount of talent here…The piano’s actually a blank canvas for everyone’s creativity, really, so I just hope that the city enjoys it.”

To protect the public displays of art, they will be covered and locked from approx. 10 p.m. until 9 a.m. daily.

I far prefer it to a A Little Night Music.

Hollywood’s Hotel Cafe is one of my favorite venues in all this grand Angelic city. When you think concerts, it’s grand to have the lights, the speaker-stacks rivaling the height of buildings in small-town America and thousands upon thousands of screaming fans…sure. Yet, when you want to hear the music–really–want to hear the music, it’s all about intimacy. That’s the Hotel Cafe.

Located on Cahuenga, just south of Hollywood Blvd., Hotel Cafe rests in the heart of Hollywood, and it offers a prominent and consistent beat. It is located a quick-walking-zip from the ArcLight complex, where you can park in the garage, though I’ve never had an issue finding something on the street nearby. I live over the hill, so it’s fun to have a walk around the eclectic show that the city offers nightly–you know, the good stuff of Hollywood street parking.

In terms of the venue itself, it is widely considered one of the best, and rightly so. The place lacks pretension. They book well-established artists, up-and-comers and with a quick look at the calendar, it seems the Crash Test Dummies will be hummin’ and strummin’ this Wednesday, June 9th, from 7 – 9pm. I know Frank Stallone was there last year, as well as musicians such as Joan as Policewoman and Kate Earl.

Sadly, I missed Frank, but any and every night that you might grace the Hotel Cafe, you’re probably going to score a mixed bag–from full ensembles to singer-songwriters accompanied with their guitar or sitting at the piano. I’ll even put myself out there in saying that you’re guaranteed some serious talent, regardless of when you might drop by. Tickets? Never over-priced, and well within what I consider a “bargain” for great live music.

If you’re visiting L.A., and are looking to take a slice of discovery home with you, one night at Hotel Cafe will do ya. If you live here and have never hit it up–there’s no night like tonight.

(Image via: Wikimedia)

The shocking decision by the city’s attorney comes just before Memorial Day. Considering that almost every oceanfront hotel north of the newly renovated Loews regularly sell alcohol through oceanfront concession stands, hotels are going to have to change their policies quickly before vacationers swoop in. The Miami Beach city attorney’s office is also considering tightening the rules on rooftop hotel lounges due to local residents’ complaints about noise. (Hmm…if you don’t want noise, maybe you shouldn’t live near beachfront hotels in Miami…)

Is there anywhere were you can drink on the beach in the United States? Legally, the answer is a sad no. Myrtle Beach, another party destination, prohibits both possession and consumption of alcohol on the beach. Daytona Beach too. In California, Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach both ban alcohol – and the same goes for the beaches in San Diego. If you want a drink, you’ll probably have to stay within the confines of a beachside resort – or head to Mexico or the Caribbean!

Living in southern California, I’m always bragging about the annual line-up at Coachella, but this year’s Austin City Limits is putting the desert celebration to shame. Legitimately. How many concerts have you been to that will boast a legendary name such as The Eagles, and in the same line-up push forth Sonic Youth, Muse, The Strokes, M.I.A., Flaming Lips, Norah Jones, White Rabbits. The list goes on…and on, and on.

The dates? October 8,9,10, 2010. Tickets? Went on sale today, so what the heck are you waiting for? The concert takes place at Austin’s famed Zilker Park. This event is bound to draw more than a few coastal residents to the great, American Southwest, for one of the most eclectic musical line-ups that has ever been assembled. Yeah, bands like Blues Traveler will be there, too. Jam bands, country bands, jazz, folk, probably some Bluegrass.

Several TV and film personalities/celebs are slated to be roaming the grounds, perhaps performing, perhaps introducing, perhaps promoting. Who’s to say? It will more than likely be a who’s who of Texas born and bred celebrities, so if you’re hoping to catch Matt McConaughey shirtless, hanging with Owen and Luke Wilson, this may be your best bet. Get your tickets at the official Austin City Limits Music Festival site.

(Image via: TomTomTom.com)