Traveling with the Grossmans ...

Well, with the struggling U.S. economy and staggering gas prices we're laying low this summer opting for entertainment stateside and in our city. Thankfully, Chicago offers a lot of fun, especially during the summer. I'll work on compiling a list of worthwhile places to visit in the Second City. Until then, here is a tip: if you find yourself with some free time and a (somewhat) hungry stomach, drop in Vintage Wine Bar at 1942 division street, chicago, illinois, 773.772.3400. They have a live jazz night on Thursdays (our friend Allen worked the drums there last week) and awesome finger food (try the thin crust goat cheese and artichoke pizza, it is sensational!) and the wine is not to shabby either. Have fun!

We have just returned from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico where we celebrated my husband's birthday. The past 6 days were filled with many pleasant hours of basking in sunshine and cooling off in the refreshing waters of the Mayan Resorts. Puerto Vallarta is an ideal vacation spot (especially for those who want to take a break from the chilling winter of Chicago) where one can still discover the rich cultural and gastronomical heritage of Mexico. Unfortunately, with the influx of American cookie cutter fast food restaurants, chains, and huge ocean-front resorts Puerto Vallarta is beginning to lose some of its enchanting old world quality. So hurry up while you can still experience the authentic Puerto Vallarta (which is only a short airplane flight away from Guadalajara.)

1. Walking around town. Puerto Vallarta's center has, among other things, one of Mexico's best restaurants, one of its finer selections of Huichol Indian art, lovely restaurants (try to avoid the ones that strictly cater to mostly American tourists, such as Pipi's.) and other pleasant distractions of civilization that soothe and stimulate the senses of those with only a day or two to spend. Make your way down on the Malecon (the street that runs along with the ocean), which extends from the Hotel Rosita at its north end to the South Side’s La Palapa restaurant. As you saunter down the street, in and out of the tiny shops (occasionally you may want to duck in for a margarita), make sure you will not be charmed by one of the "helpful" salespersons who tries to offer you everything from free drinks to money if you go on one of their resort tours (that often last for hours). It is also worth going up and down on the cobble-stoned side streets that offer true gems of Mexico's culture: jewelry boutiques (Daniel Espinosa), great restaurants (Cafe Des Artistes, El Arrayan and Si Senor), and lovely buildings. If you are not too tired, walk down to Viejo Vallarta and to Zona Romantica, which are a few blocks south of the Malacon. 2. NDO Lozano's jewelry at Galeria Vallarta. If you like dramatic and original artwork in a jewelry, make sure you do not skip this gallery in Puerto Vallarta. NDO Lozano, son of famous Mexican sculptor, Armando Lozano, truly works magic with his hands by producing glorious jewelry designs in bronze. Juarez 265 Col. Centro, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. 3. Los Xitomates. The name means "tomatoes" in Aztec. The cuisine is high Mexican that constantly evolves by combining elements from the new world while maintaining its pre-Colombian roots. The chef, trained in Austria, masterfully combines the wonderfully fresh ingredients with herbs and spices cajoling the taste buds to have a true fiesta in one's mouth. The tuna appetizer is sashimi grade and the stuffed poblano pepper with onions, tomatoes, and goat cheese pleases even the non-vegetarians (Note: there are several vegetarian dishes available). The wine list is extensive but not inexpensive. Morelos 610 - Centro - C.P. 48300 - Puerto Vallarta - Jal.México - (322) 222 94 34

4. Guadalajara. It is the capital city of the Mexican state of Jalisco. The city is located in the central region of the state and in the western-Pacific area of Mexico. With a population of 1,600,940 it is Mexico's second most populous municipality after the Mexico City. The town of Guadalajara was founded in 1531 by Spanish explorer Cristóbal de Oñate. Today the city's cultural wealth has taken on an important role in the tourist sector; Guadalajara hosts many of the main cultural events in the country and is a main destination for people who visit Mexico. The city has a rich variety of architectural styles, ranging from the baroque to the modern. The city's colonial architecture is a product of French and Spanish trends that were current in Europe at the time of Guadalajara's initial settlement. The examples of many of these styles can be found in the old historic city center. The Cathedral on Avenida Alalda is a good place to start, which is located on a beautiful square with its Governmental Palace with the painted murals of Jose Clemente Orozco called "The People and Its Leaders." While exploring the historic center with its magnificent buildings, fountains and monuments make sure you pay a visit to the city's market(near Plaza Tapatia). Look for the elevated pedestrian walkway that leads to it. The mercado is a must for shoppers looking for something to take home. Finally, finish your tour of the old center with the Hospicio Cabañas, which houses Orozco's frescos and which are considered his masterpieces.

5. Tlaquepaque, Jalisco.It is a district that has attracted many artists and tourists alike and is located in Guadalajara. The main street is Independencia with its tiny shops selling everything from beautifully embroidered blouses to pottery. It is worth visiting the Museo Regional de la Ceramica (yes, the entrance fee is free) that is housed in a beautiful building with a lovely garden. Head down up and down from Independencia to Morelos and Constitucion where the colorful houses offer a feast to the eyes. Under 270 Morelos. close to the most emblematic buildings of the town you will find El Hotel Rosa Morada, which is an absolute gem that is owned by a lovely and talented woman, Rosy Cruz, who designs and sells her furnitures and artwork. This bed & breakfast is like a treasure chest with its rooms that are decorated in the same styles as the old haciendas. The hotel has a restaurant that offers traditional Mexican dishes and drinks.

The Cultural Center, El Refugio, built in 1890 as a convent and only a block away, is now where expositions of crafts and shows of mexican culture take place. Only steps away and in front of one another are two of the most beautifull and visited churches in Tlaquepaque, San Pedro Apostol and El Santurario de la Soledad. Both constructions are living examples of the typical architecture that reigned during the colonial times.