Albuquerque is My City 

Marble Brewery takes its name from Marble Avenue in Albuquerque’s warehouse district. (Photograph by Alejandro De La Cruz, Flickr)

When someone comes to visit me, the first place I take them is to Marble Brewery for beers, Duke City Donuts for donuts (of course), and Barelas Coffee House for chicharrones and red chile and other New Mexican food delights.

Fall is the best time to visit my city because the weather is perfect, the trees all change colors, the International Balloon Fiesta takes place and all the local breweries start churning out pumpkin-flavored offerings.

You can see my city best from the Sandia Mountains after taking the La Luz Trail to the top.

Locals know to skip Sadie’s and check out Cervantes, Barelas Coffee Shop, and Cafe Azul instead. I feel the same could be said for Frontier, but some locals love the place.

A University of New Mexico Lobos or Albuquerque Isotopes game is the place to buy authentic, local souvenirs. That or head an hour north to Santa Fe to visit the historic plaza and Indian Market.

In the past, notable people like Bill Gates, rapper Xzibit, author Rudolfo Anaya and Freddie Prinze, Jr. have called my city home.

Nothing can quite match the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. (Photograph by Traci Wildenstein, My Shot)

My city’s best museum is the New Mexico Museum of Natural History because it reflects the great climatological changes that have taken place in the state over millions of years and teaches us about all the fascinating prehistoric creatures that once called New Mexico home (well, they lived here at least).

If there’s one thing you should know about getting around my city, it’s that Albuquerque’s not a place you’d want to rely on public transportation. But there are wonderful bike paths and trails.

The best place to spend time outdoors in my city is at one of the city’s many golf courses, including the high-end Sandia Resort course. Or at Tiguex Park downtown on a summer night when live music is being played next door at the Albuquerque Museum.

My city really knows how to celebrate beer at our awesome Beer Week festival.

You can tell if someone is from my city if they finish sentences with “eh” and everything they say sounds like a question.

Take in a minor league Albuquerque Isotopes game with the locals. (Photograph by OpenThreads, Flickr)

For a fancy night out, I prefer the Bien Shur restaurant at the Sandia Casino for drinks and food, followed by a concert at the casino’s spectacular outdoor amphitheater.

Just outside my city, you can visit Santa Fe for the art and quirky downtown. Or you can go just east of town and visit Wildlife West Nature Park, which is a refuge/zoo for injured wildlife.

My city is known for being the city in Breaking Bad and thus meth-riddled, but it’s really a diverse city both as far as income and education and race and ethnicity. We have scientists and professors alongside cholos and blue-collar everyday folks. We also have — beyond New Mexican cuisine — some outstanding Thai and Vietnamese restaurants, and many great pizza joints.

Barelas Coffee House or Duke City Donuts are my favorite places to grab breakfast, and Frontier is the spot for late-night eats (mostly by default, because places close pretty early).

To find out what’s going on at night and on the weekends, read the Weekly Alibi or Local IQ.

My city’s biggest sports event is a Lobos basketball game. Watch it at The Pit, one of the coolest venues in all of sports.

When I’m feeling cash-strapped, I eat at Banh Mi Coda for a cheap banh mi, Taqueria Mexico for cheap shrimp tacos, or Bricklight Dive for cheap sandwiches and beer.

To escape the crowds, I stay home and sip beer from a growler I’ve filled at La Cumbre Brewing for all of $8-9.

If my city were a celebrity it’d be Charlie Sheen because while it’s kind of wacky and unpredictable, and likes its drugs and drink a little bit too much, there’s plenty of intelligence and logic wrapped up in our troubled soul.

Sandia Peak with the Rio Grande valley in the distance. (Photograph by John Fowler, Flickr)

The dish that represents my city best is carne adovada, and a palate-wrecking IPA (La Cumbre’s Elevated IPA is the best example) is my city’s signature drink.

The Wells Fargo building is my favorite building in town because it lights up green at night.

The most random thing about my city is its neighborhoods. One block can be nice and then you head down another and it looks like a scene from Mad Max.

Launchpad and the Sunshine Theater are popular, but I say the Sandia Casino amphitheater is the best place to see live music. If you’re in the mood to dance, check out the Library Bar and Grill downtown (but beware some of the dancing is either appalling or downright hilarious).

In the spring you should check out an Isotopes game and enjoy Albuquerque Beer Week.

In the summer you should enjoy the concert series at the Bio Park or at the Albuquerque Museum.

In the fall you should drive up north and see the leaves turn in the Sangre de Cristo mountains.

In the winter you should hit the slopes at Ski Sandia, Ski Santa Fe, or Ski Taos. Or check out the River of Lights at the Bio Park.

If you have kids (or are a kid at heart), you won’t want to miss the Explora! Museum.

The best book about my city is a really tough question to answer. A lot of people will want my head on a stake for this, but I’m going to go with the Tony Hillerman novels which don’t necessarily take place in Albuquerque, but often have a scene or two there.

When I think about my city, the song that comes to mind is ”Mi Pueblo” by Grupo Niche. It’s a beautiful song about getting teary-eyed every time you return home and see the beauty of the place where you were raised. I get that feeling every time I touch down at the Sunport.

In 140 characters or less, the world should heart my city because it’s got four seasons, great cuisine, world-class beer and breweries, outdoors and urban activities, and wonderful people!

Glasgow Is My City

The stairs inside the Glasgow lighthouse. (Photograph by Martin Burns, Flickr)

When someone comes to visit me, the first place I take them is the vibrant West End area. With large sprawling parks, international eateries, boutiques, and museums, there’s something for everyone.

Summer is the best time to visit my city because even though you’ll likely experience all four seasons in one day, it stays light until almost midnight.

You can see my city best from the viewing deck at the lighthouse. On a clear day it’s worth braving the spiral staircase for a spectacular, panoramic view of Glasgow.

Locals know to skip the tourist-trap Willow Tea Rooms and check out the Hidden Lane Tearoom instead. Tucked down a cobbled street in Finnieston, which serves the best High Tea in Glasgow.

If you are looking for a good bottle of whisky to take back home, The Good Spirits Co. is the place to buy the best Scotland has to offer.

In the past, notable people such as Gerard Butler, James McAvoy, and Gordon Ramsay have called my city home.

The Hunterian Museum is located in five buildings on the University of Glasgow campus. (Photograph by Jordanhill School D&T Dept, Flickr)

My city’s best museum is the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, which hosts a large collection of Charles Rennie Mackintosh work. It’s one of the smallest and most low-key of Glasgow’s 20 museums, but it’s packed full of archaeological finds, art, and some freaky specimens in the anatomy wing.

If there’s one thing you should know about getting around my city, it’s the Glasgow Underground. Handy if you are wanting to get around quickly and ideal for a trip from town to the West End. Turn the journey into a drinking game, or a “sub crawl,” by stopping at one pub at each of the 15 stops. Not for the faint of heart!

The best place to spend time outdoors in my city (when the sun is out) is the beer gardens. Us pale Glaswegians love nothing more than grabbing a pint and heading outdoors. From Jinty McGinty’s in Ashton Lane to West Brewery at Glasgow Green, everyone wants to be out during these short spells. Taps aff!

My city really knows how to celebrate Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) because the party always ends up lasting two days!

You can tell if someone is from Glasgow if they call you “pal” regardless of whether you’re a friend, stranger, lover, mother, or boss!

For a fancy night out, I have a delicious dinner at Chardon d’Or, followed by some cocktails at Blythswood Hotel. If I wanted to keep the night going, I’ll  hop in a cab to the Corinthian Club for more drinks, dancing, and a flutter at the casino.

Just outside my city, you can visit Scotland’s west coast to spend time at the beach or head north to reach the Arrochar Alps.

For some quiet, head to Tchai Ovna. (Photograph by Robert and Talbot Trudeau, Flickr)

My city is known for being dangerous and rough but it’s really transformed over the past 10 years. The second best shopping street in the U.K. after London, the West End is the place to go for unique shopping and restaurants — and Merchant City has some of the best nightlife in the U.K. There’s a huge amount of diversity, drawn from the international population who call Glasgow home.

The best outdoor market in my city is the bi-monthly farmers market in Mansfield Park for yummy food. But if you’re a flea-market junkie, head east to the Barras weekend market. You might just find a bargain.

Trans-Europe Cafe, Cafezique, Brookyln Cafe, and the Left Bank are my favorite places to grab breakfast, and Little Italy is the spot for late-night eats.

To find out what’s going on at night and weekends, read The Skinny and The List.

My city’s biggest sports event is the Old Firm derby. Watch it at the Ibrox or Celtic Park stadiums. Glasgow will host the Commonwealth Games in 2014, and new arenas such as the Velodrome will be the place to watch all the action.

When I’m feeling cash-strapped, I wander down to Dumbarton Road to find some bargains in the many charity shops.

To escape the crowds, I head to Tchai Ovna, a tiny tea and shisha (hookah) house tucked above the River Kelvin off Gibson Street. A cozy place to while away a lazy afternoon playing Scrabble, chatting with friends, or listening to music on weeknights.

Julia’s favorite building in town: Mitchell Library. (Photograph by Shaun Killen, Flickr)

If my city were a celebrity it’d be the Big Yin, Billy Connolly, because it has a great sense of humor.

The dish that represents my city best is curry (Indian food is an essential part of the Glaswegian diet) and the fizzy orange juice called Irn-Bru is my city’s signature drink.

The Mitchell Library is my favorite building in town because it’s the most beautiful in Glasgow and looks stunning when lit up at night.

The most random thing about my city is that anything and everything can happen.

King Tut’s Wah-Wah Hut and the Barrowland Ballroom are the best places to see live music, but if you’re in the mood to dance, check out Boteco de Brasil for authentic Brazilian dancing.

A spontaneous sing-along in the taxi queue could only happen in my city.

In the spring you should hire a bicycle from the Bike Station and cycle along the River Kelvin up to the Botanic Gardens.

In the summer you should get dancing at the Mardi Gras parade in June.

Botanic Gardens. (Photograph by <p&p>, Flickr)

In the fall you should head to one of Glasgow’s many parks — such as Kelvingrove Park, Queen’s Park, and Pollok Country Park – to see the stunning range of autumn colors on display. Afterwards, head indoors for some tea and a slice of cake.

In the winter you should check out a gig at the Celtic Connections annual festival in January.

If you have kids (or are a kid at heart), you won’t want to miss the Science Centre. It has plenty of interactive exhibits for kids to enjoy and an IMAX.

The best book about my city is Lanark by Alasdair Gray.

In 140 characters of less, the world should heart my city because it’s friendly, funny, warm, cosmopolitan, exciting, irreverent, and unique.

Love where you live? Fill out our I Heart My City questionnaire for a chance to share your insider intel with the Intelligent Travel community.

When travel blogger Kate Voyage isn’t scouring the globe for adventure (and sharing her findings on her personal website and on Twitter @30Traveler), this Kiwi turns her attention to the home front. “Christchurch has all the big city conveniences,” she says, “but with fewer traffic jams.” She also celebrates her city’s status as a gateway to all New Zealand’s South Island has to offer. After suffering devastating earthquakes over the past few years, Christchurch is finally on the rebound and it’s easy to see why. Here are a few of Kate’s favorite things about her home town. Add your two cents by leaving a comment.

Christchurch is My City

When someone comes to visit me, the first place I take them is the Christchurch Farmers’ Market (Saturdays from 9am-1pm). It’s a local favorite and you’ll find lots of small local food producers all in one place.

February is the best time to visit my city because the weather is consistently warm (though it’s never excessively hot here ) and New Zealand school children have gone back to school. Although December and January are technically part of the summer here, the weather can still be spotty. We can get four seasons in one day, so bring a jacket!

The view from Port Hills. (Photograph by Ian Munnings, Flickr)

You can see my city best from the Sign of the Kiwi at the top of the Port Hills. Take a drive up the long steep road, then do the walk at the top. In one direction you’ll see the city, and in the other you’ll be able to see the iconic deep blue water and golden hills of Banks Peninsula.

Locals know to skip Starbucks and check out local coffee scene instead. If you’re desperate for a Starbucks, there is one in Christchurch. However, visitors are often surprised by how good the coffee is in New Zealand. Try New Zealand’s signature coffee – the flat white.

The Riccarton Rotary Sunday Market is the place to buy authentic, local souvenirs. However, my best tip is to skip the souvenir market and spend your money filling your tummy at the Saturday food market instead.

In the past, notable people like Ernest Rutherford have called my city home. Kate Winslet and Peter Jackson briefly called Christchurch home too, while filming Heavenly Creatures.

My city’s best museum is the Christchurch Art Gallery. However like many buildings in the CBD, it’s still closed more than two years after the first big quake. The building and artwork are both glorious. It’s scheduled to re-open in mid 2013.

If there’s one thing you should know about getting around my city it’s that it’s almost entirely flat, except for the Port Hills, which makes it perfect for cycling. Rent a bike, or if two wheels aren’t your thing, rent a car or use the bus since taxis can be quite expensive.

The best place to spend time outdoors in my city is in the Port Hills.  With its magical view of the city and the harbor, the area is great for walking and mountain biking.

You can tell if someone is from my city if they are wearing red and black, which are the colors of our famous rugby team, the Canterbury Crusaders.

Cheer for the Canterbury Crusaders along with the rest of the city. (Photograph by Geof Wilson, Flickr)

My city really knows how to celebrate rugby games! When Canterbury wins, fans often fly Canterbury flags out of their car windows and toot their horns to celebrate.

For a fancy meal out I would go to Rotherhams of Riccarton, an award winning restaurant that serves classic European and New Zealand cuisine.

Just outside my city, you can visit beautiful Akaroa Harbour, which was first settled by the French in the 19th century. The Akaroa township still has French street names, boutique shops, and good eateries. A popular tourist activity is to take a harbor cruise and go dolphin watching. This makes for an excellent day trip from Christchurch. If you only have half a day to spare, then I recommend hopping over the Port Hills to Lyttelton. Lyttelton lost many of its iconic buildings in the February 2011 earthquake, so it has unfortunately lost some of it’s character. Be sure not to miss the market on Saturdays though.

My city was known for being like a old English city, but its image will change forever because of the recent earthquakes. Most of the beautiful, stone English buildings are gone and are being replaced by low rise, modern buildings with a new style.

To find out what’s going on at night and on the weekends read Eventfinda Christchurch. 

My city’s biggest sports event is the Coast to Coast, a race held each year in February. Hundreds of competitors train for months to compete in this iconic multi-sport race, which involves running, kayaking, and cycling. The race course traverses the South Island of New Zealand from Kumara Beach on the Tasman Sea to Sumner Beach on the Pacific Ocean. Competitors can choose to do the 243 km race over the course of one or two days.

In the spring you should visit the fields of beautiful daffodil flowers in North Hagley Park, in the heart of Christchurch.

Go mountain biking at Bottle Lake Forest Park just outside the city. (Photograph by Trailsource.com, Flickr)

In the summer you should visit Sumner and Taylors Mistake beach. Taylors Mistake is popular with surfers and boogie-borders, and is famous for it’s baches (pronounced “batches”) which are small and simple holiday beach homes.

In the fall you should go leaf-peeping in and around Hagley Park and Christchurch’s tree-lined streets.

In the winter you should go skiing at Mount Hutt or Porters, only an hour and a half drive from Christchurch.

If you have kids (or are a kid at heart), you won’t want to miss  Orana Wildlife Park, the International Antarctic Centre, or the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve for the wee ones.

The best book about my city is Earthquake: Christchurch, New Zealand, 22 Feb 2011 by The Press. The Press is Christchurch’s main newspaper and the book gives an excellent account of the events of that fateful day, including survivor testimony and high-quality photographs.

In 140 characters or less, the world should heart my city because despite recent trials, Christchurch has stayed resilient and positive. The rebuild is underway and the city has a bright, exciting future.

As vice chair of the Cambridge Historical Commission, Bruce Irving sees his city as both a hotbed of innovation and a repository of three centuries of history. But after Marathon Monday everything was put in a new light:

“Most of the endgame went down behind my favorite pizza shop, Stella’s. The Town Diner, where I’ve taken my children to breakfast so often, glowed in the background of every newscast. Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was known and loved at my daughter’s high school; he hung out in my neighbor’s living room.

It was too close to home.

We pride ourselves on our city’s diversity and inclusiveness, and many of us are having a hard time comprehending what went wrong. But when it all comes down to it, I think the dark side of this tragedy has only made the bright side of where it happened more brilliant.

I love my city because it will always rise again.”

Cambridge, Massachusetts is My City

A marimba ensemble entertaining the crowds in Harvard Square. (Photograph by Thomas Beauchamp-Arnold, Flickr)

When someone comes to visit me, the first place I take them is Harvard Square.

Fall is the best time to visit my city because of great foliage, crisp air, and the Head of the Charles Regatta.

You can see my city best from Washington Tower in the middle of Mount Auburn Cemetery.

Locals know to skip Boston’s Cheers bar and check out The Plough & Stars instead.

The Harvard Coop  is the place to buy authentic, local souvenirs.

In the past, notable people like Vladimir Nabokov, Peter Wolf, and David Mamet have called my city home.

My city’s best museum is Harvard’s Fogg Museum of Art because it’s being transformed into a glass-topped masterpiece by architect Renzo Piano.

If there’s one thing you should know about getting around my city, it’s that the Red Line T is good when it’s raining and Hubway bikes are great when it’s not.

The Head of the Charles Regatta. (Photograph by Steven Isaacson, Flickr)

The best place to spend time outdoors in my city is along the beautiful Charles River.

My city really knows how to celebrate World Peace Day because it’s that kind of place.

You can tell if someone is from my city if they are not wearing a Harvard sweatshirt.

For a fancy night out, I go to Harvest.

Just outside my city, you can visit picturesque Cape Ann and the windswept rocks of Halibut Point.

My city is known for being socialistic, but it’s really dedicated to keeping a place at the table for everyone who lives here.

The best outdoor market in my city is the Charles Square Farmers Market, next to Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

Sofra  is my favorite place to grab breakfast, and Tasty Burger is the spot for late-night eats.

To find out what’s going on at night and on the weekends, read Boston.com.

My city’s biggest sports event is the Head of the Charles. Watch it at Eliot Bridge.

People strolling through Mt. Auburn Cemetery in the fall. (Photograph by Julie Farago, Flickr)

When I’m feeling cash-strapped, I see a classic film and drink a beer at the Brattle Theatre.

To escape the crowds, I walk through Mount Auburn Cemetery.

If my city were a celebrity it’d be Ben Affleck or Matt Damon because they’re cool, they’re talented, they’re modest, and they’re Cambridge homies.

The dish that represents my city best is a veggie burger, and a good pint is my city’s signature drink.

The Ruggles-Fayerweather House  is my favorite building in town because it’s quintessentially New England and was used as a hospital after the Battle of Bunker Hill.

The most random thing about my city is that it’s shaped like a bowtie.

Toad is the best place to see live music, but if you’re in the mood to dance, check out the Cantab Lounge.

Love Story could only happen in my city.

An exhibit on electricity at the Museum of Science. (Photograph by Just Us 3, Flickr)

In the spring you should have a beer outside at Shays Pub on JFK Street.

In the summer you should walk around Fresh Pond, a glacially formed lake that’s part of the city’s water supply.

In the fall you should take a riverboat ride on the Charles.

In the winter you should have oysters by the fire inside the Red House Restaurant, a circa 1802 building in Harvard Square.

If you have kids (or are a kid at heart), you won’t want to miss the Museum of Science.

The best book about my city is Harvard Square: An Illustrated History Since 1950, by Mo Lotman.

When I think about my city, the song that comes to mind is “New England,” by Jonathan Richman and the Modern Lovers.

In 140 characters or less, the world should heart my city because it’s brimming with history, art, great food, folks from around the world, and the scientific and intellectual innovation they bring to town.

Follow Tim’s travels on Twitter @weedlit, on his personal website, or join us on our next trip to Cuba!

Havana is My City

The first place I take a friend in Havana is the roof of the Plaza Hotel.

Local boys pal around at Havana Bay, with the Morro fortress in the background. (Photograph by Jixue Yang, My Shot)

Early spring is the best time to visit my city because the weather is perfect and you might be tired of the northern winter.

You can see my city best from the Morro fortress.

Locals know to skip the Tropicana cabaret club and check out the bars along Obispo instead.

The used book market in the Plaza de Armas is the place to buy authentic, local souvenirs.

In the past, notable people like Ernest Hemingway, Meyer Lansky, and Che Guevara have called my city home.

My city’s best museum is the Museo de Bellas Artes because it has an amazing collection of Cuban art and a surprisingly great international art collection as well.

If there’s one thing you should know about getting around my city, it’s you don’t need an air-conditioned bus.

Check out the used book sale at the Plaza de Armas. (Photograph by Vaisens, Flickr)

The best place to spend time outdoors in my city is the Malecón – or on a fishing boat from the Marina Tarará.

My city really knows how to celebrate the important things in life — art, music, and the unassailable dignity of the human spirit – because its people understand that luxuries are hard to come by, and the future is impossible to predict.

You can tell if someone is from my city if they know that the best food isn’t in state-run restaurants and the best nightlife doesn’t come with a cover charge.

For a fancy night out, I avoid the places meant exclusively for tourists.

Just outside my city, you can visit the Finca Vigia, Ernest Hemingway’s writing haven for nearly three decades, and Cojímar, the setting for The Old Man and the Sea.

My city is known for being frozen in time, but it’s really changing pretty quickly.

Any casa particular is my favorite place to grab breakfast, and the Copelia has good ice cream.

A bartender prepares mojitos where the iconic cocktail got its start — at La Bodeguita del Medio. (Photograph by Svet Ivantchev, Flickr)

To find out what’s going on at night and on the weekends, ask a local.

My city’s biggest sports event is the pelota. Watch it at Estadio Latinoamericano.

When I’m feeling cash-strapped, I walk down Obispo or take a stroll on the Malecón.

To escape the crowds, I head east for the beaches or into the interior for the Parques Naturales.

The dish that represents my city best is ropa vieja, and the mojito is my city’s signature drink.

The Bacardi is my favorite building in town because it’s beautifully art deco and I love the bat statue on top.

The most random thing about my city is the Colón Necropolis and the U.S. Interests Section.

Plaza Vieja (Old Square) in Old Havana. (Photograph by Stefano Liboni, Flickr)

Obispo is the best place to see live music, but if you’re in the mood to dance, check out la Casa del Son.

So many things could only happen in my city. Where do I begin?

The best book about my city is probably Our Man in Havana by Graham Greene.

When I think about my city, the song that comes to mind is ”Compositor Confundido“ by Ibrahim Ferrer.

In 140 characters or less, the world should heart my city because it’s glorious and simultaneously joyous and sad. It’s also one of the few world capitals I know where you can see the stars at night.

Zagreb is My City

When someone comes to visit me, the first place I take them is the city center. It’s rather small and filled with historic sites and attractions that are all easily accessible by foot. The area is also full of cafés, restaurants, and patisseries where you can relax, have a cup of coffee or a pint of beer, and watch the world go by. Afterwards we’ll head to the Upper Town, another quaint neighborhood laden with history.

Gornji Grad (Upper Town. (Photograph by Robert Arno, Flickr)

Late spring is the best time to visit my city because the days are mostly sunny and the temperature isn’t too hot. The whole city center comes to life, with people all about. During the summer, Zagreb can seem empty because a lot of locals spend the months by the seaside.

You can see my city best from Kula Lotrščak in Upper Town. Climb to the top to enjoy the view, or ride the funicular. Every day at noon a ceremonial cannon is fired from the tower, so don’t be alarmed if you hear a loud boom!

Locals know to skip the fruit and vegetable sections at grocery stores and check out the city’s outdoor markets instead. The food comes directly from local farmers, but be warned that it might be a tad bit more expensive.

Dolac Market is the place to buy authentic, local souvenirs. Traditional craftsmen regularly display their work here. If you’re looking for antique souvenirs, try British Square (on Saturdays or Sundays). Visit Natura Croatica for good home-grown products like wine, oil, or rakija.

In the past, notable people like  Orson Welles (though briefly) and renowned inventor Slavoljub Eduard Penkala have called my city home. 

The scene at Dolac market. (Photograph by Monroet21, Flickr)

My city’s best museums are Klovićevi Dvori, Lauba Gallery, and MSU – for art — and the Museum of Broken Relationships for a unique commentary on love.

If there’s one thing you should know about getting around my city, it’s that you should do so by foot. Trams and taxis are a fine alternative, but prices are higher here than elsewhere in southeastern Europe. Expect to hit traffic during rush hour. Renting a bike is also a good option. Though Zagreb is not yet a truly bike-friendly city, there are now more bike routes than ever.

The best place to spend time outdoors in my city is in one of the city’s parks. Maksimi Park, where you can rent a rowboat in the spring or summer, is a beautiful place. Cmrok Park is another calming green space (and especially fun for sledding in the winter). There’s also the Zagreb Botanical Garden, a serene oasis in midst of the bustling city center. If there’s one park you shouldn’t miss though, it’s Zrinjevac.

My city really knows how to celebrate anything to do with sports, probably because Croatia is a small country with a fair amount of successful athletes.

You can tell if someone is from my city if they don’t take full advantage of the city’s green space. We’re definitely more of a café culture than a picnic culture. Locals are more inclined to use a bench than to sprawl out on the grass! Luckily, tourists have shown Zagrebians that every inch of green space should and can be used. You can also tell if someone is from Zagreb if they are passionate fans of Dinamo football.

For a fancy night out, I recommend the seafood at Dubravkin Put or Hotel As. Try the Japanese fare at Takenoko or the Mediterranean cuisine at Apetit if you have time.

Samobor, Croatia. (Photograph by Jaime Silva, Flickr)

Just outside my city, you can visit stunning Medvednica Nature Park, the picturesque town of Samobor, or the region of Zagorje, which is best known for its hillsides and white wine. My personal favorite spot outside Zagreb though is Moja Kućic, a countryside cottage.

My city is known for being a bit boring and conservative, but it’s really not like that at all. Zagreb is also known for its sophisticated, fashionable, and attractive women. But I must admit that the appearance of men in Zagreb is rarely a topic of conversation!

The best outdoor markets in my city are the aforementioned Dolac market and weekend market at British Square.

Unfortunately a good breakfast is still a work in progress in Zagreb. Definitely try a smoothie at the Cyber Funk Café. The spot for late-night eats is definitely Pingvin. They serve up different kinds of sandwiches 24/7.

To find out what’s going on at night and on the weekends, read Never2Much or Tulumarka.

The outer wall of Mirogoj Cemetery. (Photograph by Kimberley Lovato, My Shot)

My city’s biggest sports event is the Snow Queen Trophy, a slalom race held in the winter as apart of the Ski World Cup. Watch it at Medvednica Mountain each January.

When I’m feeling cash-strapped, I usually hang out in one of the city’s parks. If I’m hungry, I’ll go to budget-friendly restaurants like Nokturno near Dolac, Bistro MZ near Maksimir Park, Tomislav Pub near King Tomislav Square, or Kod Šime near Kvaternik Square.  For bargain hunting, check out the dusty treasures at the Hrelić Flea Market.

To escape the crowds, I avoid the city center and seek fun in the quieter neighborhoods.

If my city were a celebrity it’d be Heather Locklear because like her, Zagreb is pretty, somewhat posh, and has been around for awhile.

The dish that represents my city best is sarma, peka, zagrebački odrezak, or strukli. Don’t forget to try the sweets at Kraš, Zagreb’s famous confectionery, either. My city’s signature drink is Ožujsko beer, although I’d say that locals like to drink Karlovačko beer as well. Different kinds of rakija or pelinkovac are also typical of Zagreb.

I’d say that the outer wall of Mirogoj Cemetery  is my favorite building in town because it possesses an eye-catching combination of a brick facade and a turquoise roof. It was designed by the architect Hermann Bollé at the turn of the 20th century.

The most random thing about my city is that it’s home to a proportional model of the solar system. You can find nine model planets and the sun scattered about the city (Pluto was still a planet when the exhibit debuted in 2004). Each piece is hard to find, especially the outer ones. Try to find them all!

Traditional peka and cheese strudel. (Photograph by Damir Žižić)

Bacchus Jazz Bar is the best place to see live  music, but if you’re in the mood to dance, check out Jabuka, Masters, or Klub Kino Grič.

In the spring you should enjoy sunny days and warmer temperatures. Hike to the top of Sljeme or walk along the Sava between old and new Zagreb. Spring is also a terrific time to experience the cinematic arts at the Subversive Film Festival or at the World Festival of Animated Film, known as Animafest. Or, if you’re more into literature, don’t skip out on the Festival of The European Short Story.

In the summer you should try to cool off by spending time outside of Zagreb. Take a dip in the Mrežnica river. Go to a bathhouse near Zagorje. If you’re in Zagreb, try to grab s scoop of ice cream at Vincek or Orijent, or at one of the Ledo stands. Music lovers, take note of the  INmusic Festival, which kicks off summer on a high note.

In the fall you should get ready for excellent film and music festivals. Film festivals include the Zagreb Film Festival, 25 FPS, and One Take Film Festival. VIP Zagreb Jazz Festival offers premium jazz music, while Rujan Fest is a giant lakeside celebration in September. Fall is also chestnut season in Croatia, so seek some chestnut purées or cakes in the local patisseries.

In the winter you should find a cozy place, whether it’s a café, patisserie or a restaurant, and stay warm by eating some of Zagreb’s traditional cuisine. For outdoor types, there’s plenty of skiing on Medvednica hill above Zagreb. And because Zagreb seems to have a festival for every season, winter brings about ZagrebDox, a celebration of international documentary filmmaking.

If you have kids (or are a kid at heart), you won’t want to miss the playgrounds by the lake at Jarun or Bundek, or Zagreb’s Astronomical Observatory.

The best book about my city is O Zagrebu by Gjuro Szabo.

When I think about my city, the song that comes to mind is ”Zagreb, Zagreb,“ performed by Ivo Robić.

Hanoi is My City

Hoan Kiem Lake. (Photograph by Isriya Paireepairit, Flickr)

When someone comes to visit me, the first place I take them is Hoan Kiem Lake, a beautiful lake in the heart of Hanoi.

Autumn is the best time to visit my city because the rains have passed, the city sparkles, and you can experience the wonder of the season through all your senses.

You can see my city best from the terrace at Café Pho Co. You’ll have to climb an old, narrow staircase to make it to the top, but it’s worth it. It’s the ideal way to see Hanoi (unless it’s raining). At night, the scene turns especially fancy.

Locals know to skip the small shops in the Old Quarter and check out the boutiques in outlying areas like Vincom, Doi Can, and Parkson instead.

Streets in the Old Quarter are the place to buy authentic, local souvenirs.

In the past, notable people like Trinh Cong Son, My Linh, and Tran Thu Ha have called my city home.

My city’s best museum is the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology because, aside from the main exhibits, the museum contains an array of culture and history, like Dong Ho art.

One of the traditional houses on display outside the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. (Photograph by Mindy McAdams, Flickr)

If there’s one thing you should know about getting around my city, it’s that you can rent a motorbike. Ride around Hanoi and see it like a true local. The city is, after all, abuzz with them.

The best places to spend time outdoors in my city are Bach Thao Park, the botanical garden, or at the fishing spots near Gia Lam (which are the perfect places to have a picnic with friends).

My city really knows how to celebrate spring. May Day, Liberation Day , and Ho Chi Minh‘s birthday are an important part of the season.

You can tell someone is from my city if they are romantic, humorous, radical, and love all things antique. And if they consider dried fruit to be Vietnam’s specialty, you know they’re from Hanoi too.

For a fancy night out, I head to Dao Duy Tu Street for the pubs, the bars, and the karaoke. Don’t forget to buy tra chanh lemon tea from a vendor and sip on it while socializing with some friends, just like the locals do.

Just outside my city, you can visit Ha Long Bay, Sapa, and Ha Giang.

My city is known for being rough, but it’s really an effervescent place, full of culture and open-hearted people.

The best outdoor market in my city is Hang Be Market.

Hanoi’s signature dish: bun cha. (Photograph by Stu_Spivack, Flickr)

The restaurants along Doi Can are my favorite places to grab breakfast, and the areas around Dong Xuan Market  and Hang Bong are the spots for late-night eats.

To find out what’s going on at night and on the weekends, read Vietnam News.

When I’m feeling cash-strapped, I ride around West Lake and soak up the sights.

To escape the crowds, I find a quiet café around West Lake, too.

The dish that represents my city best is bun cha, and tra chanh lemon tea is my city’s signature drink.

Keangnam Tower is my favorite building in town because it’s the symbol of Hanoi’s progress.

The Hanoi Opera House is the best place to see live music, but if you’re in the mood to dance, check out the New Square nightclub.

In the spring you should visit the Temple of Literature, the various flower markets, and the vendors selling goods for the Lunar New Year.

The Temple of Literature. (Photograph by Deep Goswami, Flickr)

In the summer you should jog around West Lake, enjoy Vietnamese noodles and seafood, savor ice cream at Trang Tien, and feel the night breeze as you whisk through Hanoi on a motorbike.

In the fall you should take photos on Hoang Dieu street. The picturesque Thang Long Imperial Citadel sits here. Or, if you’re in the mood for some entertainment, see a show at the Hanoi Opera House.

In the winter you should take advantage of December shopping sales and indulge in the season with some fried corn or sweet potatoes.

If you have kids (or are a kid at heart), you won’t want to miss the game center inside the Keangnam Tower.

The best book about my city is Thuong Nho Muoi Hai for those who understand Vietnamese.

When I think about my city, the song that comes to mind is ”60 Nam Cuoc Doi.” 

In 140 characters or less, the world should heart my city because it’s the center of Vietnamese charm, it’s incredibly welcoming, and tourists will be greeted by friendly service no matter where they go.

Love where you live? Fill out our I Heart My City questionnaire for a chance to share your insider intel with the Intelligent Travel community.

Mumbai is My City

When someone comes to visit me, the first place I take them is Juhu Beach.

The view from Marine Drive. (Photograph by Nicolas Mirguet, Flickr)

Winter is the best time to visit my city because the weather’s not too humid and Diwali, Christmas, and Holi celebrations take over town.

You can see my city best from the street. Whether you’re walking or in a vehicle, every lane is buzzing with life.

Locals know to skip Bombay Bazaar and check out roadside markets instead.

Colaba Causeway is the place to buy authentic, local souvenirs.

In the past, notable people like Dadasaheb Phalke, J.R.D. Tata, and Mukesh Ambani have called my city home.

My city’s best museum is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India) because it recently showcased Egyptian mummies.

If there’s one thing you should know about getting around my city, it’s that street names here change very often. Always double check the addresses before heading out.

The best places to spend time outdoors in my city are the seaside coffee shops and eateries in Bandra or on Marine Drive.

A vegetable vendor at Crawford Market. (Photograph by B Furnari, Flickr)

My city really knows how to celebrate life because even after a riot or a terrorist attack, the next day you’ll find people going about their lives in a normal way.

You can tell if someone is from my city if they know why Bombay changed its name to Mumbai.

For a fancy night out, I go to the Palladium.

Just outside my city, you can visit the Khandala, Lonavala, or Matheran hill stations.

My city is known for being glamorous but it’s really honest.

The best outdoor market in my city is Crawford Market.

Shiv Sagar is my favorite place to grab breakfast, and Venky’s is the spot for late-night eats.

To find out what’s going on at night and on the weekends, read Time Out Mumbai.

My city’s biggest sports event is ODI cricket. Watch it at Wankhede Stadium. The Mumbai Marathon is also not to miss.

Dabbawalas deliver hundreds of thousands of meals to workers around Mumbai each day. (Photograph by Phip_s, Flickr)

When I’m feeling cash-strapped, I go shopping on Hill Road in Bandra. Or, if I’m hungry, I might stop by one of the many roadside stalls selling chaat.

To escape the crowds, I go to Mount Mary Church or Crossword Bookstores.

If my city were a celebrity it’d be Madhuri Dixit because her dazzling and open smile pretty much reflects the attitude of Mumbai.

The dish that represents my city best is vada pav, and chai is my city’s signature drink.

The legendary Taj Mahal Palace hotel is my favorite building in town because it’s symbolic to Mumbai.

The most random thing about my city are the dabbawalas and vendors who hawk on board local trains. They sell absolutely everything — even cookware!

Chai: Mumbia’s signature drink. (Photograph by Garrett Ziegler, Flickr)

Hard Rock Cafe is the best place to see live music, but if you’re in the mood to dance, check out Zenzi Mills.

Bollywood could only happen in my city.

There are only three seasons in Mumbai:

In the summer, you should wear lots of sunscreen and eat anything flavored with fresh mango.

In the rainy season, you should walk on flooded roads and sip hot chai.

In the winter, you should be ready to celebrate weddings, Diwali, and a plethora of other festivals, like Kala Ghoda.

If you have kids (or are a kid at heart), you won’t want to miss Essel World.

When I think about my city, the song that comes to mind is Ae Dil Hai Mushkil Jeena Yahan.

In 140 characters or less, the world should heart my city because it’s a city with random stories at every turn. It changes every minute.

From ice cream to air shows, palaces to train rides, here are 20 ways to make the most of the next few months in 20 cities around the globe:

Shelly’s Oxford (United Kingdom): Head to nearby Wytham Woods to see the bluebells at their finest.

The Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, on the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace. (Photograph by Ncburton, Flickr)

Megan + Natalie’s Seoul (South Korea): Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace’s gardens to experience a piece of paradise you’d swear couldn’t exist in Seoul (make sure to watch the changing of the guards).

Ewelina’s Krakow (Poland): Take a walk to Krakus Mound at Podgórze; a nice, green hill where you can take a blanket and relax.

Annie Fitzsimmon’s NYC (United States): Celebrate the bounty of post-winter produce and eat anything with ramps on it because they’re only in season for a few weeks! Motorino has a great ramp pizza, and ABC Kitchen never fails with its in-season menu.

Keith Bellow’s Montreal (Canada): Hang around near McGill and Prince Arthur, soaking up the sun and the street life.

Anya’s Istanbul (Turkey): Visit Topkapi Palace. The flowers are in bloom and it’s positively stunning.

Katherine’s Athens (Greece): Take a bus to Cape Sounion, the ancient ruins of Poseidon’s temple. On the short bus ride from Athens, you’ll wind along the coast and enjoy some of my favorite views.

Berlin’s Boxhagener Platz flea market is open on Sundays. (Photograph by La Citta Vita, Flickr)

Madeleine’s Annapolis (U.S.): Check out the Blue Angels air show at the United States Naval Academy commencement.

Maja’s Belgrade (Serbia): Go to Zemun in Old Town and have lunch at one of the fish restaurants on the Danube.

Colleen’s Beijing (China): Fly kites by Houhai Lake.

Zain’s Amman (Jordan): Pack a picnic and visit the Hellenistic site known as Iraq Al Amir.

Shannon Switzer’s San Diego (U.S.): Check out the wildflowers in Anza Borrego Desert State Park.

Yvonne’s Berlin (Germany): Explore Berlin’s many flea markets to find great vintage clothes, furniture, books, and local art.

Sylvia’s Tokyo (Japan): Go for hanami (cherry-blossom-viewing parties) in a park with a big group of Japanese friends, some beer, and some sushi.

Jessica’s Barcelona (Spain): Experience a traditional Catalan calçotada which consists of getting together and eating large quantities of local green onions known as calçots along with romenesco sauce, regional wine, and good company.

Hang out outside Vienna’s MuseumsQuartier. (Photograph by Photongatherer, Flickr)

Jennifer’s Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates): See Abu Dhabi from the water. Hire a dhow (traditional wooden boat) for a tour, charter a speedboat to take you to one of the 200 islands off the main island, or kayak amongst the mangroves.

Karen’s St. John’s, Newfoundland (Canada): Watch the last ice depart from the Atlantic from atop Signal Hill National Historic Site. Check out the on-site gift shop where local music, books, and culinary delights make excellent gifts.

Isabel Eva’s Madrid (Spain): Take a trip on the Tren de la Fresa to Aranjuez. During the 50-minute ride, you will be served fresh strawberries. Once in Aranjuez, you can take a tour of the Museo del Ferrocarril (the railway museum) and the Palacio Real (the royal palace).

Lea’s Vienna (Austria): Do as the locals do and head to the MuseumsQuartier to hang out on one of the over-sized flexible furniture elements called Enzis.

Nat Geo’s Washington, D.C. (U.S.): Check out the National Arboretum and Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens, two of D.C.’s hidden gems.

Wherever you are, what’s your favorite thing about your city in the springtime? Tell us about it in the comment section below.

When someone comes to visit me, the first place I take them is Bull Street Gourmet for what can only be described as the best thing on sliced bread — the chicken salad sandwich.

The Battery area (Fort Sumter is off to the left in the harbor). (Photograph by Alan Romanczuk, Flickr)

April is the best time to visit my city because spring is in full effect. There’s the Cooper River Bridge Run, the Blessing of the Fleet seafood showcase, Wine Stroll Wednesdays, and world-class tennis at the Family Circle Cup.

You can see my city best from the bow of a boat or when crossing the Cooper River Bridge.

Locals know to skip the pains of sitting in traffic with tourists and check out the taking cross-town shortcuts through alleys on bicycles instead.

The Historic Charleston City Market, which has stood the test of time since 1788, is still the place to buy authentic, local souvenirs. This Lowcountry legend is tucked between Meeting and East Bay streets, in the center of all the action.

In the past, notable people like satirist Stephen Colbert, musician Darius Rucker, artisan Philip Simmons, and several Founding Fathers have called my city home.

My city’s best museum is a battle of historic proportions because the Hunley Museum pits the world’s first attack submarine (from the Civil War era) against the World War II vessels harbored at Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum. You decide!

If there’s one thing you should know about getting around my city, it’s that it’s a maze of one-way streets and impossibly narrow alleys — and that the low-lying historic district floods during periods of heavy rain. You’ve been warned!

The best place to spend time outdoors in my city is amongst the historical homes and neighborhoods known to residents as The Battery.

My city really knows how to celebrate July 4th because the outlying barrier islands play host to massive boat parties.

You can tell if someone is from my city if they speak Gullah or are overly hospitable.

For a fancy night out, I wander down cobblestone streets and lantern-lit alleys, grab drinks at The Gin Joint, reserve a table overlooking the harbor at Fleet Landing, and close out the night with a cozy view of the city from the rooftop deck at Pavilion Bar.

Fresh flowers on offer at the Charleston Farmers Market. (Photograph by Charleston’s TheDigitel, Flickr)

Just outside my city, you can visit the beaches and historical plantations scattered throughout South Carolina’s Lowcountry.

My city is known for being historic, beautiful, and world-class, but it’s really flat out better-than-expected when you experience it firsthand.

The best outdoor market in my city is the Charleston Farmers Market on Marion Square, which is held from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. every Saturday from April through December.

Charleston’s Café in Mt. Pleasant is my favorite place to grab breakfast, and the Butcher & Bee is the spot for late-night eats.

To find out what’s going on at night and on the weekends in “Chucktown,” read the Charleston City Paper. ‘

My city’s biggest sports event is Charleston RiverDogs baseball. Spend the 7th-inning stretch overlooking the Ashley River at The Joe.

When I’m feeling cash-strapped, I set out on foot and read the landmark plaques to get a glimpse of Charleston’s rich past.

To escape the crowds, I lay low on Sullivan’s Island. Shhh, it’s one of my best-kept secrets!

The dish that represents my city best is shrimp and grits and Firefly Vodka mixed with lemonade is my city’s signature drink.

The Four Corners of the Law –  four landmarks devoted to protecting federal, state, local, and church laws intersect at the corners of Meeting and Broad streets – are my favorite buildings in town.

Awendaw Green, 15 miles north of Charleston, is the best place to see live music, but if you’re in the mood to dance, Moonlight Mixer is as local as it gets.

Charleston’s signature dish: Shrimp and grits. (Photograph by Annieseats, Flickr)

A day’s worth of storming a fort, touring a dungeon, hunting ghosts, and riding in a horse-drawn carriage at sunset could only happen in my city.

In the spring you should tie the knot at RiverOaks Charleston since my city lays claim to the title of the South’s premiere destination wedding locale.

In the summer you should try to stay in the shade, because we have temperatures that can drain even the most seasoned Charlestonians. If you can’t find shade, that nice sea breeze on the beach will suffice.

In the fall you should catch a parade on the grounds of South Carolina’s military college, The Citadel, when the evenings turn crisp.

In the winter you should make the most of cool nights and tourist-free streets by shuckin’ oysters at lively roasts with locals.

If you have kids (or are a kid at heart), you won’t want to miss rowing through the swamps in search of alligators at Cypress Gardens or floating down the lazy river at Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark.

When I think about my city, the song that comes to mind is ”Hold My Hand” by local favorites, Hootie & The Blowfish.

In 140 characters or less, the world should heart my city because it’s quintessentially southern. It has hospitality, class, and character and hasn’t forgotten its past.

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