It's Christmas year-round at Panna II, as the walls and ceilings are completely covered with festive string lights. A great restaurant for a group dinner, Panna II offers small sharable plates in a fun and lively atmosphere. It's BYOB with no corkage fee so stop by the liquor store beforehand to pick up all the wine, beer and liquor you can carry.

This is a hot spot for plant enthusiasts. A recurring L.A. pop-up where the employees can tell you as much or as little as you want to know about cacti. Marco can tell you about the trees. Must visit, but only open April/May - September/October.

A spin around the park on a bike makes me feel good. One lap is about 6.13 miles. I've trained here for longer rides (including this London to Paris ride on a track bike that was 86 miles one day, rest on the second day, and 136 miles on the third day). I've sat there on a Sunday afternoon and have done as many as 10 laps (with rests in between). I switch in-between my carbon road bike and my steel track bike.

The best way to enjoy Manhattan is from Brooklyn. Transmitter Park offers views without the crowds, and you can pick up coffee-to-go and treats from nearby Ovenly. The India St/Greenpoint Ferry is a 5 minute walk and will take you all the way to the Rockaways in the Summertime.

This is my go-to spot in my neighborhood. The food is fantastic. They have an ever changing selection of beers and the staff is friendly, attentive and down to earth. Love this place.