Page 34 - AAA Every Day – AAA Hudson Valley – October/November 2020

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Become
a Tourist
In Your Own City
Like many others this year, I found myself dreaming of and some fish and chips with a beautiful and spacious
travel instead of actually getting to do it. I spent lots of time looking at virtual tours of famous landmarks and cities across the world. Through the screens of my computer and my smartphone, I experienced exciting destinations that I’ve never been to. This left me wanting. In a time when things are so unsure, why do we still long to explore?
This answer is easy: to escape. Travel is directly associated with your overall well-being.
Relaxing can be as simple as mentally
breaking away from your everyday routine
and taking time to reset and refresh. Why did Hollywood do so well during the 1930s and 1940s? It provided people with a form of escapism. There are so many examples of this throughout history. The spirit of travel continues to provide us with adventure and affords us a promise for tomorrow and a thirst for life.
So, how do we satisfy this craving while
we are staying at home? That’s easy too. Take a closer look at the place you live. Think about the places you frequent, and then think of places off the beaten path. What cities are around and what are they known for? Consider getting a private tour or creating an itinerary
to be your own guide. Be general or be specific. A city’s backstory can surprise you. For example, did you know that the Olde English Pub is located in one of the oldest buildings still standing in Albany? The structure was built in the 1730s and served as the home to the Quackenbush family for generations, best known for Revolutionary War officer, Hendrick Quackenbush. The building is rumored to be haunted. Today, it is an adorable pub to enjoy a drink
patio for outdoor dining.
Speaking of grabbing a bite, have you been to every
restaurant in a 30-mile radius of your home? Probably not. In a day and age where there are so many different cultures represented through the food industry, one can be transported to far off places by tasting what’s on
the menu. One recommendation I would give is a café tucked away in the heart of Troy, Carmen’s
Bistro. The owner and namesake of this restaurant is of Cuban and Puerto Rican descent and the food they serve up brings in elements of those cultures. Every dish is unique and every bite bursts with flavor.
If you’re into cultural travel, how about checking out a local museum? Even if you’ve visited a particular site before, remember that while some exhibits are permanent, there also are many that rotate. Both history and art galleries get in new exhibitions throughout
the year. Never heard of Art Omi? You’re missing out. This is a not-for-profit arts center with an outdoor Sculpture & Architecture Park that spans 120 acres. Located in Ghent, Art Omi has featured thousands of artists over the years from over 100 countries. This spot is a can’t miss with great photo ops.
Sometimes we are so focused on the few things we know about in the places we live, that we never stop and take in all they have to offer. In all of my “armchair traveling,” I visited places I would have never imagined I’d go otherwise. Now, it’s time to apply that same principle and spend some more time actually exploring my home. I suggest you try it, too!
Emily Gnacik is the Editor of AAA Every Day Magazine.
34 I OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020