Asheville, North Carolina

I picked this place as a way point between Petersburg, VA and Atlanta. It appeared to have more hotels. I didn't expect this fascinating gem of a town. I was a little tired out when we arrived so everything had an added touch of the surreal. Immediately we saw and heard what appeared to be a bar with bicycle pedals under each stool - lo and behold, the pubcycle! Then a bit later a comedy bus and also a cafe in a double decker bus.  Also, a bike shop called Beer City Bikes. I really like this hotel but it's also strange in a good way. They really cater to dogs at the Aloft Hotel. They brought up a dog bed, a bowl, a fancy hot pink poop bag, a squeeky ball and a dog treat. Everything beautifully wrapped and presented. There is an enclosed section of astro turf with fake hydrants and a hose to keep things clean. It's the special dog run area. It took Stella quite a lot of confused sniffing before she felt comfortable peeing on the astro turf. Then she was alarmed by the mandatory hosing of her pee.

We had the most delicious dinner at Salsa, a Mexican Caribbean restaurant. I thought they had rocks in the food but alas it was just my tooth shattering.

Petersburg, VA

I really love this part of Petersburg, VA with all the historic buildings and industrial brick buildings in transition to cool loft spaces and movie sets.  We had delicious BBQ at Saucy's BBQ. Then we walked around after dark and saw a lot of cool antique shots and historical remnants. In the morning we ate breakfast at Demolition Cafe. We stayed at the Days Inn about 15 minutes away in a different and uninteresting part of Petersburg near what looked like it used to be cool "Pumpkin Restaurant." Our friend Bryant said in fact it WAS cool. The hotel was completely adequate and we were glad to have our guard dog along for added insurance. Upon unpacking our old Volvo 240 of our dearest clothes and possessions, a weathered Dad and 19 month old son, regaled us with stories of his chain saw business, how we must be rich since Rob is a professor, how his baby mama was in prison as he was awhile back... and how he wasn't so sure about Atlanta and lastly did we know black people lived there. After his winning elevator pitch, I can't figure out what it is about black people that might be less appealing than what he has to offer. Nevertheless, in his own stumbling way, he was kind - offered to fix OUR chain saw and gave us the priceless tip to take out the waffles at 2 minutes rather than 3.

The best Mozzerella & Pastries

Get fresh mozzerella made on site at Russo's. The smoked isn't as fresh.

The very best pastries in NYC!

The New Whitney

MOMA