Welcome back to our weekly “Meet the Buzzhopper!” As per Agatha Bolla’s nomination last week, we’ll be featuring Ana Mackay-Sim from New York.
Let’s get right to it, shall we?
Hello Ana, tell us a bit about yourself! What makes you a Buzzhopper?
I live a fast-paced life in the big city, but I’m really focused on staying healthy, both at home and when I’m traveling. I seek out places to eat and socialize that will nourish my mind, body and soul. I’m a runner and triathlete and I’ve made NYC an athletic playground – New York is an amazing place to explore by bike and on foot! You can even swim in the Hudson if you dare!
You have “Buzzing but not Busy” as a Buzzhopper Vibe, what does that mean?
I’m a fan of bars and restaurants that have genuinely great food and drinks that aren’t full to bursting; places where you can have a real conversation. I like to be able to make a reservation too – nothing sets my nerves on edge more than those fateful words “one (or two!) hour wait.”
Amen to that!
Moving on, what kind of things makes you say “this is a Buzzhopper place?”
My restaurant picks always offer quality food with ample choices for those with allergies – I have issues with gluten and dairy, so I sympathise! My bar picks offer either inventive cocktails – interesting takes on ingredients you’d often see in a salad – or quintessentially New York experiences. I go for authenticity over pretension – I’m Aussie after all – so you’ll find an atmosphere that’s cool, but never cold.
What’s your favourite tip from another Buzzhopper so far? One perhaps that you’ve used yourself and wouldn’t have discovered otherwise?
The Nielsen Park tip in Sydney by fellow Aussie Heather Jacobs. I actually gave this tip to a colleague of mine who visited there recently. It’s a perfect ‘beach’ for those intimidated by Sydney’s gnarly surf and not-so-friendly marine life – and great for families with kids!
What would you say to people discovering/using the site for the first time?
Looking for Buzzhoppers that enjoy “Bubbles and Nibbles” and “Food you eat, not look at?” No probs! You can select as many Buzzhopper Vibes and Place Tags as you like from the matching menu on the left. Just remember Vibes refer to a Buzzhopper’s lifestyle, while Tags describe the specific tips – such as Brunch, Dinner or Drinks. By mixing and matching the two you can find great spots from Buzzhoppers that share your lifestyle.
Nominate a Buzzhopper you like for the next spotlight!
Let’s go across the pond to Gabriele Verzier in London town!
That’s all for this week’s Meet the Buzzhopper, thanks for tuning in! Check out Ana’s profile and tips here, and make sure to drop her a comment if you enjoyed one – or more! – of her tips.
We’re heading to London next week to meet Gabriele, so watch this space and happy buzzhopping!