Jan 26, 2002 04:52 AM
3859 Views
(Updated Jan 26, 2002 04:58 AM)
Many people, myself included (at times though), criticize New Jersey for its large and obvious 'desi' population. But the reality is, New Jersey, is a blend of culture, truly cosmopolitan. Its like New York city spread across a larger area. Though some cultures are more overtly visible on the way the shops and streets are named, the others, in small numbers have their own existence.
One of the most industrialized states in the US, it has some good travel destinations, many outside or around NJ but easily accessible. NYC is almost a part of NJ. Atlantic City, Vegas of the east is a favorite weekend spot. Mount Poconos, in Pennsylvania is a great weekend getaway. Philadelphia(Pa) and Baltimore(Md) are both within the 3hr driving radius. Jersey shore is another good getaway, especially Belmar. You got to have a shore house is summer to really enjoy your time!
Talking about food, considering the international flavor that exists in NJ, you can find anything your stomach can digest. From Mongolian barbecues to Ethiopian cuisines, you name it! If you want to enjoy some good Portuguese, Spanish or Brazilian food, Newark is the place to be. My favorite is Iberia on Portugues Avenue in Newark. There are some excellent international food outlets in the New Brunswick area, near Rutgers University. Ethiopian, Vietnamese and even Turkish food is available. For Mexican food, the place I frequent is Jose Tejas in Woodbridge (US 1N). You have to wait atleast an hour outside on weekends to get in. Last but not the least, Oaktree Road in Iselin/Edison has the most number of Indian restaurants I have ever seen in a 1 sq. mile radius.
So how's the party/pub scene? I'd say almost comparable to NYC. The place to be is Hoboken in North Jersey, close to NYC. I think Hoboken has more pubs then rest of New Jersey put together. I have seen atleast 5 pubs in a block in Hoboken. NYC, as mentioned earlier is easily accessible too. There are some good joints in New Brunswick, considering it hosts Rutgers, so lots of students who want to party! Champps in Menlo Park Mall (Edison) is the one most frequented by my friends and me. Poor Billy's in Woodbridge is another favorite of mine.
So if you have the right friends and time on your hands, NJ can be as fun as any other place on this planet.
