We love freebies, but sometimes you have to spend a little money to have a great time – emphasis on a little. Once you’ve made the rounds of New York City’s finest freebies, pull out the piggy bank and pamper yourself with these cheap treats.

1. Get a massage in Chinatown.

Don’t expect scented candles and aromatherapy, but you can get an hour-long massage for $30 at places like the Relax Foot Spa. I recommend waiting until your feet have swollen to twice their normal size from all the urban hiking to really get your money’s worth.

2. Eat dumplings in Chinatown.

OK, it doesn’t have to be dumplings, but if you’re local Chinese takeout joint doesn’t offer these deliciously inappropriate-looking yummies, take this opportunity to try them out. Anything you eat in Chinatown is going to be cheap and (most likely) the best Chinese food you’ve ever tasted. Joe’s Shanghai is a tasty experience and a great place to try dumplings for the first time.  Read More »

Four Peaks Mountain at high noon.

Four Peaks, part of the Mazatzal Mountains and located in the Tonto National Forest of Arizona, is a friendly and familiar sight to those of us living in the Phoenix valley. On clear days the peaks can be seen for miles, and they shine like a beacon after a snow fall (its highest point is at 7657 feet). They’re also the source for some mighty fine off-road recreation, if one is fortunate enough to have access to the appropriate four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Generally, my husband and I do not have access to such a vehicle. But last weekend we had to drop off our truck (a low-slung Trailblazer SS NOT fit for rough roads) at the dealership for repair, and the only rental vehicle available at the time was a four-wheel-drive Jeep Wrangler.

BINGO.

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Queens Baths

Baths represent an oasis of soothing relaxation and nothing beats the benefits of warm natural baths.  This is what I was thinking as I approached Queens Baths on the Bahamian out island of Eleuthera.  As I gazed at the miles of uneven coral and limestone that surrounded the baths, I realized that I was in for a workout as well as relaxation. Read More »

Golden foliage at the Chicago Botanic Garden

It might have just officially turned to the fall season but Chicago is already ablaze with lovely red and orange leaves and cool temperatures.  Walks along the lakefront will get you a glimpse of autumn color but if you really want to experience the total glory of Chicago’s fall, grab a bike and ride through the North Branch Trail System to the Chicago Botanic Garden. Read More »