This is the first time I've managed to get off my lazy butt and actually review a book I've read. But I really would like to see other New Yorkers get the same sort of enjoyment out of this book that I have -- and I've only had it for one summer so far!

I've lived in NYC for a total of 13 years if you count my time at college here in town. And I've always felt that, as great as the city is, it's hard not to feel a little stuck here. Who can afford a car, not to mention the parking and the gas and the constant worry about it being broken into?

This book changed the way I live in and interact with New York City. And I realize now that I love New York even more now that I have an easy way to leave it! There are a ridiculous number and variety of things to do in this little book, most of which seem pretty cool, and all of which seem fairly easy to access. I'm doing stuff I never thought I'd do -- in fact, I thought I couldn't do some of this stuff while living here. All seasons, all budgets, and all tastes will find plenty of recreational options. Become the vacation planning hero in your relationship or in your group of friends -- that's what I did. Watch as friends and family marvel at your ability to organize incredible weekend getaways, when all you are doing is thumbing through a few pages. Score! Not to mention the fact that you always get to leave the driving to someone else...

Oh, and a note about the affordability of the getaways, which I saw was mentioned in a previous review. I've found trips in this book that were very affordable, and trips that were a little more upscale. There's something for everybody. That said, I don't think that a couple hundred bucks is unreasonable for a weekend out of the city, when you add up transportation, food, accommodations, and entertainment. I feel like most of the time I'd be spending the same amount of money here. But then I wouldn't be horseback riding, or wine tasting, or skydiving, or hiking. I'd just be sitting in my little apartment, unaware of the possibilities.

GET THIS BOOK.

I bought this book, thinking it would be of great advice for my boyfriend and I. We live in the city and thus, don't have a car.
But... Wait!!! We are not rich!!
All the 'escapes' proposed seemed to be for more than $300 per week end.
At this price, I'd rather rent a car...
This book, since, stays on the shelf where it is covering with dust... until we get rich?

This is a great guide for New Yorkers who want to get out-of-town for the weekend or for visitors who want to go beyond the standard tourist attractions. Detailed and engaging, the book conveniently groups destinations according to type (i.e.--romantic weekends, outdoor activities, kid-friendly escapes). So it's easy to find a spot to match whatever you're in the mood for. Plus, there's a section on fun festivals and special events even lifelong New Yorkers might not know about.



Even if you own a car, this book might make you think twice about using it (especially with currently high gas prices). The author demystifies mass transit and gives all the information you need to feel confident about being "without wheels."



The perfect book for ideas on where to take guests or where to go when you need a breather from the city. Great to have on hand next time you're trying to figure out what to do for the weekend.

This is a great guide for New Yorkers who want to get out-of-town for the weekend or for visitors who want to go beyond the standard tourist attractions. Detailed and engaging, the book conveniently groups destinations according to type (i.e.--romantic weekends, outdoor activities, kid-friendly escapes). So it's easy to find a spot to match whatever you're in the mood for. Plus, there's a section on fun festivals and special events even lifelong New Yorkers might not know about.

Even if you own a car, this book might make you think twice about using it (especially with currently high gas prices). The author demystifies mass transit and gives all the information you need to feel confident about being "without wheels."

The perfect book for ideas on where to take guests or where to go when you need a breather from the city. Great to have on hand next time you're trying to figure out what to do for the weekend.

It's okay to know about a place, but it is much better to hear details about it, and getting there, from someone who just made the trip. In the past year author Rovito has done everything described in her book. That was the main reason I bought the book last night (and went through it cover to cover). For instance, I've driven past the castle-like hotel in Tarrytown. Now I know what it is, what it's like and definitely want to spend a weekend there.

As Ms. Rovito points out, it is simple enough for a New Yorker to rent a car and hit the road. But that can be a hassle, easily relieved if you know how to get there by train or bus. The city and the region have terrific public transportation infrastructures that some of us tend to ignore for casual use. For instance, I've heard of and taken for granted the Adirondack Trailways bus line. But Ms. Rovito describes the line as a jewel, above the others, sort of a magic carpet for New Yorkers. And she explains why that is so. With Great Escapes from NYC Without Wheels it is a cinch to get to some pretty cool and elusive places.