Tahoe Heat

Winter is almost here and the question is where to ski this year? In January 2007 I went out west to Lake Tahoe, California. Flying into Sacramento is the easiest way to get there, then rent a car—4-wheel drive a must—and watch as the terrain transforms from temperate weather with views of the Pacific into a complete winter wonderland of snow-covered evergreens. Ask about Homewood, its not as vast as Alpine Meadow or the site of the 1960 Olympics, Squaw Valley, but it’s the local favorite with superior lake views as you’re heading downhill. I’m a big fan of all sorts of yoga but be sure to stop at Bikram Yoga Tahoe—even if you’re not into the heat, you can still get one of the greatest massages of your life—particularly important for me after being pummeled by a snowboarder. If you happen to be around Lake Tahoe in the warm season, note that the bikram students cool off by taking a dip in the lake right outside the studio.

Dining in Paradiso

About an hour drive from Palermo is the stunning mountain top town of Cefalù. Extremely narrow streets are lined with porcelain shops and trattorie. A single car pins all promenaders to the storefronts. This city, thought to have been first settled by the ancient Greeks, projects out into the bright blue Tyrrhenian Sea. There are numerous restaurants along Via Carlo Ortolani di Bordonaro that seat customers along the water. I dined at ristorante Al Porticciolo; it is a safe bet for anyone hungry for outandingly fresh fish, a nice wine, and a heavenly view.

Charming Williamsburg

It's been no secret that Williamsburg, Brooklyn has been a hotbed for young thinkers, designers, and café go-ers. My most recent trip on the L train resulted in a lovely, but chilly day of strolling through great boutiques-- including organic and vintage. If you're looking for clothes that are highly fashionable without falling into a trap of trendy multiplicity and passing the items in your closet on passersby-- shop here. Williamsburg is also a great source for furniture for everything from upscale to those who are finally moving out of the dorm. Adorable pre-Starbucks cafés are everywhere. And in this approaching winter season stop at New York Muffin for great hot chocolate or warm up with afternoon cocktails at Sea. Even as Williamsburg becomes more and more famed, it's still cheaper than NYC. I look forward to going back for the nightlife...