A bustling city nestled within a valley, surrounded by majestic mountains, Mexico City is a city of sound, sights and smells. I am always overwhelmed by the amount of people, homes, and buildings when I first come into the city, but among the constant chaos, a calm feeling seems to lull over me as my senses take in the constant roar of cars and people, and the smells and sights of the city.

With over thirty million people living within the city’s borders, Mexico City offers beautiful views with the entertainment and culture of a major international city. My favorite place to visit has always been The Reforma, a street known for its plethora of museums and culture. With cultural points of interests such as the Modern Art Museum, the Tamayo Contemporary Art Museum, the Chapultepec Zoo, and the world renowned Nationa Museum of Anthropology, there’s plenty to see and do in the city.

I went to Mexico City for FITA, a trade show for Mexican and Latin American suppliers, hotels, tour operators and Government tourist boards. FITA and Teresa Villarreal of Newlink Communications sponsored my trip and showed me the many things to do in the city. During my stay, I stayed at The Westin Santa Fe. The Westin is a new hotel. Recently opened on August 5, 2010, the hotel is rated at four stars, featuring modern architecture and décor and offers a great bar and pool deck on top of the building. The ride from the airport to the hotel took about two hours. It really should have been a one hour drive, however, like any big city, the traffic was crazy. Although transportation was provided for me throughout the whole trip, I just want to say that getting around in the city would not be hard since there are many taxis and buses available if you decide to not rent a car.

As far as restaurants and entertainment is concerned, there’s definitely a lot to do in Mexico City. The restaurants are numerous and many feature authentic Mexican cuisine. My first night in the city I went to The Fishery, which was within walking distance from the hotel, where I had amazing fish tacos. The fun doesn’t have to stop after dinner though, Mexico City offers a variety of shows and clubs for late evening entertainment. After our amazing meal at The Fishery I had the pleasure of visiting a club called RAGGA in the Antara shopping center in Polanco.

I’ve always enjoyed my stays in Mexico City. In a city made home by many international companies, and where business men and the financial elite reside next to extreme poverty, Mexico City offers the benefits of a major city with a laid back small town mentality. The people are relaxed and show no concept of strict timelines and schedules. They are there to enjoy life and accept whatever comes their way whenever it may come. Honestly, who couldn’t stop and take at least a few minutes to relax and enjoy the day, when the city they’re in rests in a valley surrounded by all those gorgeous mountains?

Hilton Head Island, nestled somewhere between Savannah, Georgia and Charleston South Carolina, offers its visitors sandy beaches and lush forests.  The island goes above and beyond your typical beach vacation by offering both seaside and wooded views.  The island’s trees are a huge point of pride to the residents.  In fact, the trees are so treasured on the island that a person must first get permission to even cut down a tree in their own yard.

The town itself has a variety of activities including kayaking, boating, beaches, and even your pick of any of the island’s twenty four golf courses.  Those yearning for quieter moments of self reflection, or just plain getting away, Daufuskie Island is highly recommended as a calmer, quieter offshoot of the resort town and only requires a short ferry ride over.  If you hear people talking funny in Daufuskie, don’t be afraid.  That’s just the local language formed by the Gullah people who were among the first freed African slaves.  You can see their influence everywhere in the island’s food, music, and basket weaving.  By the way, did I mention that there are no cars on Daufuski?

You needn’t worry about transportation throughout Hilton Head Island though.  Its easy to rent a car, or for the more green or health conscious, bike rentals are a huge hit in the area.

I went to Hilton Head where I stayed at the Hilton Head Marriot Resort and Spa.  I also visited Hilton Oceanfront Resort, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, and The Sea Pines Resort.  While on the island, I participated in the Hilton Head Island Difference Event where I helped clean the Shelter Cove Marina from the comfort and adventure of a kayak.  I also had a chance to attend the Seafood Jazz and Brew Festival at Shelter Cove Harbour.  At the festival I tasted the culinary treasures of the island’s chefs along with a variety of beer samples.  For a night out on the town, I highly recommend The Jazz Corner, featuring live jazz music and a flavorful menu at casual dining prices.

There was so much more I could have done and would have liked to do.  Hilton Head has been a frequent vacation spot for many families.  I was visiting the island for the first time and I’d definitely like to come back.  When I do, I’m going right back to The Jazz Corner for another amazing burger.