I don't get the hype...
Kapital supposedly boasts seven floors of non-stop partying‚ most people saying that it is a necessary addition to any to-do list when visiting Madrid.
The truth: a cover that not only breaks the bank but leaves you without the standard free drink‚ and an experience thats sure to be a let down: only two of the "seven" floors are geared towards dancing: the lower‚ larger dancefloor that bumps the usual mix of euro-techno and hyper-stylized dancers and the third floor‚ which plays a mix of R&B and hip-hop that leaves something to be desired.
The system for paying for drinks is completely rediculous: vending-machine-like kiosks where you insert money (7euros for a soda or beer‚ 12euros for a mixed drink‚ you get the picture) and recieve a ticket to be presented at the bar.
Positives: lounge seating is abound‚ especially in the uppermost level. Start your expensive night there as the lower dancehalls fill up around 3am. On the bottom floor‚ wait to be blasted with freezing cold air that fills the dancefloor as the music escalates. Envigorating‚ but worth it?? My recommendation: skip it and head to Pacha.
Staten Island Ferry
+1 718 8768441
Marginal Street (South Ferry Station)
saved by 35 people: there are 17 reviews
The cheapest way to see New York from the water
Perfect for those who want to see the buildings of New York without having to constantly be looking up. The best part: its free! The five-mile ride between Manhattan and Staten Island takes about 25 minutes‚ offering views of the Statue of Liberty and the quintessential NYC skyline.
WARNING:
Do NOT get off the ferry and start walking around Staten Island. There is nothing to see there‚ and as a Manhattanite and lover of all things New York‚ I wouldn't want people to take away their experience of Staten Island as their impression of New York City. I don't even go to that place.
A must-do for all visiters!
La Place is a magical place where the food is fresh and prepared for you right before your eyes. Feast your eyes (and mouths) on what seems like kilometer after kilometer of delicious fruits‚ veggies‚ breads‚ pastas‚ pizzas‚ and sandwiches. All reasonably priced.
Tip to travellers who already know they're going to hell:
La Place is set up in a way that doesn't exactly require its patrons to pay. Don't be shy to order its freshly prepared sandwiches‚ pasta‚ or quiches either-- everything is paid for before sitting down. So‚ build up your appetite in the crowded shopping streets surrounding this Mecca and fill up your tray! If anyone asks‚ just play the age-old "stupid tourist who doesn't know any better" card. Bon appetit!
Where real New Yorkers buy books
In New York, bookseller chains like Barnes & Noble are a dime a dozen. The Strand is a diamond in the rough, a shining beacon of hope for those not interested in spending $20 for a paperback. Located within sight of (my beloved) Union Square, the Strand boasts "over 8 miles of books" on 4 floors. You could spend hours just browsing the endless shelves of this godsend. Before entering, browse the large selection of $1 books outside.
Workers are infinitely helpful and knowledgable. Have old books you don't want lying around anymore? The Strand will buy them. Don't forget to buy a trendy canvas Strand tote bag on your way to the registers.
My perfect afternoon: find a cheap used book at Strand, buy a coffee from the trusty vendor outside, and stroll up to Union Square to enjoy your new purchase and people-watch.
A classic!! Open late, served up quick, and fun to watch! Choose between a myriad of selections: rice/noodles; shrimp/steak/chicken; and more sauces than you could hope to ask for. Don't be deterred by the price.. its more than reasonable for the amount of food you get. Americans and Spaniards: keep in mind that Holland is expensive!
Look out for this chain when stumbling home after a night (and morning?) of partying Dutch-style.
Other locations:
Amsterdam
* Kolksteeg 8
* Leidsestraat 96
* Reguliersbreestraat 45
* Warmoesstraat 85
Utrecht
* Steenweg 7
Time is running out...
Highly regarded by native Amsterdammers and tourists alike, the infamous Club 11 is a sure bet in planning a night out. Sadly, this must-visit disco is closing its doors this January. Enjoy it while you still can!
