Big City Moves: How to Prepare for an Urban Lifestyle Shift

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Relocating to a big city offers exciting opportunities, from career growth to vibrant cultural experiences, but it also comes with unique challenges. The fast-paced lifestyle, higher cost of living, and need for careful planning can feel overwhelming if you’re unprepared. Understanding the key factors to consider before making the move, such as housing, transportation, and community dynamics, can help you transition smoothly and make the most of your new urban environment.

Enhancing Your Urban Experience Through Recreation

When relocating to a vibrant city, it’s essential to consider the availability of recreational and fitness facilities that can enhance your social life and well-being. Urban parks and recreation centers offer diverse programs that help combat social isolation by fostering community engagement through low-cost or free activities. These spaces act as crucial ‘third places’ where you can connect with others, learn new skills, and relax, significantly benefiting your physical and mental health.

Evaluating Urban Emergency Preparedness

Assessing a city’s urban emergency preparedness is crucial for ensuring your safety and peace of mind. Look into factors like the availability of emergency services, disaster response plans, and the city’s infrastructure resilience to natural and man-made crises. Pay attention to community resources, such as evacuation routes, public shelters, and access to real-time alerts. A well-prepared city not only protects its residents but also fosters a sense of security during unexpected situations.

Boosting Your Nursing Career with an Online Master’s Degree

If you’re in the healthcare field, pursuing an online master’s degree in nursing can be a transformative step. This flexible option allows you to balance work and study, enabling you to specialize in roles such as nurse educator or administrator. By advancing your skills and knowledge, you not only improve patient outcomes but also enhance your leadership capabilities, ensuring you remain competitive in the field.

Embracing the City’s Art Scene

Exploring a new city’s art scene is an adventure that offers a deeper connection to its culture and creativity. While iconic museums and galleries provide a glimpse into its artistic heritage, seeking out the underground art scene can be especially rewarding. These hidden gems often showcase emerging talent, unconventional styles, and thought-provoking exhibits that reflect the city’s unique personality. From pop-up galleries to indie art shows, diving into this world adds an exciting, off-the-beaten-path dimension to your cultural journey.

Assessing Mental Health Support

Mental health is a crucial aspect of urban living. When planning a move to a bustling city, it’s essential to evaluate the availability of mental health services and support systems. As cities globally transition towards community-based mental health care, understanding how these services are integrated into primary care settings is crucial. Evaluating the effectiveness and accessibility of these services can greatly influence your well-being and quality of life in a new urban environment.

Factoring in the Impact of Green Spaces

Recognizing the significance of green spaces can greatly enhance your mental well-being. Green spaces help to absorb environmental noise, which in turn reduces stress and improves sleep quality. Prioritizing access to green spaces can be a crucial factor in adapting to the fast-paced urban lifestyle.

Leveraging Alumni Networks in Urban Relocation

Tapping into alumni networks and clubs can be a game-changer for both personal and professional growth. These organizations offer a platform to connect with fellow graduates and individuals who share similar interests. With a widespread presence, these clubs can help you rekindle old friendships and build new ones, enriching your cultural and professional life. By engaging with these communities, you not only expand your social circle but also access a network that supports your career and personal interests.

Exploring Urban Gems in Astoria and LIC

Shifting to an urban lifestyle in Astoria and Long Island City (LIC) offers a dynamic mix of culture, green spaces, and local resources that make city living both exciting and accessible. Here are a few hidden gems in these neighborhoods:

  • Astoria: The Noguchi Museum offers a peaceful space to explore unique sculptures, and the Astoria waterfront provides a scenic path for walking and biking. Rainey Park is a great spot for picnics and has a fantastic playground for kids. The Queens County Farm Museum, just a short drive away, offers seasonal events, farm animals, and a glimpse of rural life in the city. For a creative experience, The Art House Astoria provides art and music classes for kids and adults alike.
  • LIC: Hunters Point South Park features open green spaces, playgrounds, and stunning skyline views, perfect for a family outing. The Pepsi-Cola sign is an iconic riverside spot where kids can run around while parents take in the views. Culture Lab LIC hosts art exhibits, workshops and comedy shows, as well as live music outside in the summer, while the NYSCI (New York Hall of Science) in nearby Corona is a must-visit for hands-on learning experiences. Gantry Kids & Teens, a local play space, offers enrichment activities and open play sessions for young folks. For a bit of history, the Greater Astoria Historical Society provides exhibits and walking tours that highlight the area’s past.

With so many museums, parks, and family-friendly attractions, Astoria and LIC provide a perfect balance of urban energy and community-focused spaces. Whether you’re exploring local art, enjoying nature, or discovering interactive exhibits, these neighborhoods make city life exciting and enriching for all ages. Families can easily find engaging activities that foster learning, creativity, and outdoor fun, making Astoria and LIC great places to call home.

Moving to a big city is a major life decision that can open doors to countless opportunities while presenting its own set of challenges. By carefully evaluating your priorities, budgeting realistically, and exploring ways to adapt to your new surroundings, you can embrace city life with confidence.

Discover the vibrant heart of Astoria and LIC with BOAST, your go-to guide for the best local eats, drinks, and experiences that these dynamic neighborhoods have to offer!

—Amy Collett

BOAST: Best of Astoria & LIC Winter 2025 Party

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Come to Rivercrest (33-15 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria) on Sunday, March 2 at 3pm, where we’ll celebrate the current BOAST: Best of Astoria & LIC winners! Get your tickets here or at boast.nyc/party. We’ll provide some snacks, there will be a cash bar, and we’ll have a raffle for great prizes from local businesses, including Ayy Chihuahua, The Bonnie, The Brass Owl, Fado, Il Nonno Ristorante, Milkflower, Queen’s Room, Rivercrest and Sanfords. 

Early bird pricing by Sunday, February 16 is $20, and includes one raffle ticket. (You can buy more raffle tickets there, but there is a maximum of one prize per person.) After February 16, the price goes up to $25. Please RSVP no later than Monday, February 24 so we can keep the venue posted on attendance.

In 2024, Rivercrest was a BOAST: Best of Astoria & LIC winner for Best Bar for Sports, Best Bar for Trivia Night, and Best Bar Food.

If you have any questions or comments, you can email us at [email protected]. We hope to see you there!

From the survey, but no winners in these categories

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These categories did not have enough votes to have outright winners, so here they are listed alphabetically:

EAT
Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant
ASTORIA
Bareburger
Comfortland
Jack Jones Gastropub
Mom’s Kitchen & Bar
Rivercrest

DRINK
Best Coffee and Tea
ASTORIA
Balancero
Kinship Coffee
Mighty Oak Roasters
Queen’s Room
Under Pressure Coffee
LIC
Sweetleaf Coffee Roasters

DO & SEE
Best Club (social)
ASTORIA
Ladies First Astoria
NYC Footy
Wandering Jews of Astoria

Best Kid-Friendly Activity
ASTORIA
Astoria Park playground
The Honey House at Astor Apiaries
Socrates Sculpture Park

Best Local Organization
ASTORIA
The Astoria Choir
Astoria Food Pantry
BOAST
Dave’s Lesbian Bar
Destination Ditmars Merchants Association
Ladies First Astoria
Raising Astoria
Socrates Sculpture Park
Tikkun BBQ

Best Massage
ASTORIA
All Seasons
House of Wellness
Natura Spa
Oak Point Massage & Acupuncture
Unlimited Body
Young Health Spa

Best Place to Work or Study
ASTORIA
Coffee Cloud
Kinship Coffee
Mokafé

BOAST: Best of Astoria & LIC 2024 Winners – By the Numbers

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Categories per section
EAT: 26
DO & SEE: 16
DRINK: 16

Winners by location (subway stop in parentheses)
Astoria-Ditmars Blvd (N/W): 36
30th Ave (N/W): 33
Vernon-Jackson Ave (7): 33
Broadway (N/W): 24
31st Ave: 16
Astoria Blvd (N/W): 13
Court Square (E/G/M/7): 11
Steinway St (M/R): 10
Queensboro Plaza (N/W/7): 10
36th Ave (N/W): 5

Winners in multiple categories
ASTORIA
The Shillelagh Tavern: 8 (1st–6; 2nd–1; write-in–1)
The Bonnie: 6 (1st–4; 2nd–1; 3rd–1)
Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden: 5 (1st–2; 2nd–1; 3rd–2)
Bar Dalia: 5 (2nd–3; 3rd–2)
Sweet Afton: 4 (1st–1; 2nd–1; 3rd–2)
Tootles & French: 4 (2nd–3; 3rd–1)
Martha’s Country Bakery: 3 (1st–3)
Q.E.D.: 3 (1st–3)
Il Bambino: 3 (2nd–2; 3rd–1)
Rivercrest: 3 (2nd–1; 3rd–1; write-in–1)
Astoria Park: 2 (1st–2)
Create: 2 (1st–2)
Il Nonno Ristorante: 2 (1st–2)
Mosaic: 2 (1st–1; 2nd–1)
Museum of the Moving Image: 2 (1st–1; 2nd–1)
Nenes Taqueria Plus: 2 (1st–1; 2nd–1)
Queen’s Room: 2 (1st–1; 2nd–1)
Sala Astoria: 2 (1st–1; 2nd–1)
Seva Indian Cuisine: 2 (1st–1; 2nd–1)
The Bier & Cheese Collective: 2 (1st–1; 3rd–1)
FIGO il Gelato Italiano: 2 (1st–1; 3rd–1)
The Honey House at Astor Apiaries: 2 (1st–1; 3rd–1)
Sorriso: 2 (1st–1; 3rd–1)
Under Pressure Coffee: 2 (1st–1; 3rd–1)
The Noguchi Museum: 2 (2nd–1; 3rd–1)
Sal, Kris & Charlie’s Deli: 2 (2nd–2)
Vesta Trattoria & Wine Bar: 2 (2nd–2)
Judy & Punch: 2 (2nd–1; 3rd–1)
Ovelia: 2 (3rd–2)
Pig Beach Queens: 2 (3rd–2)

LIC
Focal Point Beer Co: 6
Dutch Kills: 5
American Brass: 3
Culture Lab LIC: 3
THE BARONESS: 2
Black Star Bakery & Cafe: 2
Cannelle Patisserie: 2
Casa Enrique: 2
Centro Pizza Bar & Italian Kitchen: 2
Cyclo: 2
Dominie’s Hoek: 2
Fifth Hammer Brewing Company: 2
Gantry Plaza State Park: 2
Karachi Kabab Boiz: 2
LIC Bar: 2
Maiella: 2
Prestige Marketplace: 2
Sweetleaf Coffee Roasters: 2
Takumen: 2
Tournesol: 2
Yumpling: 2

BOAST: Best of Astoria & LIC 2024 Winners

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Here is the full list of the BOAST: Best of Astoria & LIC 2024 winners! Thank you to everyone who filled out the survey, and congratuations to the winners. Since there were so many more survey responses for Astoria than LIC, in each category the Astoria winners are ranked first to third, and the LIC winners are listed alphabetically. You can see more information about each of the winners on the EAT, DRINK, DO & SEE and LOCATION pages.

EAT
Best American Restaurant
ASTORIA
1. The Bonnie
2. Queen’s Room
3. Sanfords
LIC
4747LIC
American Brass

Best Bagels
ASTORIA
1. Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company
2. New York City Bagel & Coffee House
3. Between the Bagel NY
LIC
Bricktown Bagels & Cafe
We Bagel

Best Bakery
ASTORIA
1. Martha’s Country Bakery
2. Somedays Bakery
3. Pastries by Anne
LIC
Black Star Bakery & Cafe
Cannelle Patisserie

Best Brunch
ASTORIA
1. Queen’s Room
2. Mom’s Kitchen & Bar
3. Astoria Provisions
3. Sweet Afton
LIC
Jackson’s Eatery | Bar

Best Budget Dining
ASTORIA
1. Mahmoud’s Corner Halal Food Cart
LIC
Centro Pizza Bar & Italian Kitchen
Han Dynasty
sLICe LIC Pizzeria

Best Burger
ASTORIA
1. Bareburger – Astoria
2. Burger Club
3. KX Burger & Beyond
LIC
Bareburger
THE BARONESS (more…)

BOAST: Best of Astoria & LIC 2024 Survey is LIVE

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The BOAST: Best of Astoria & LIC 2024 Survey is LIVE and the link is boast.nyc/survey! It will be open until Monday, Dec. 9. There are three pages (EAT, DRINK, and DO & SEE) and 62 categories total, including Best Ice Cream or Gelato, Best Healthy Food Option and Best Smoothie, which are new this year. As usual, the categories are all write-in. We want to hear from you, so please think about your favorite spots in Astoria and LIC and submit the survey before it closes. We always appreciate short write-ups, and there is a space for that in each category. You may even see it after we post the results. Enter your name and email at the end of the survey for a chance to win a prize!

New Restaurant: Il Nonno Ristorante

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The warmth of Fernando Pliego and Grissel Garcia, the father/daughter duo that opened Il Nonno Ristorante (25-17 Astoria Blvd), emanates through the vibe and food of this newly-opened (in May) spot.

The cozy Italian restaurant welcomed us with delicious thinly sliced garlic bread and the classic olive oil and vinegar duo. We were a hungry bunch, so we ordered two appetizers to share: Zuppa di Caroffi and Caprese di Bufala. Zuppa could have been eaten as a soup, but artichoke puree and shredded goat cheese sounded like it could have been a dip to share, so we ate it like that. The caprese sat on thinly sliced slightly-seasoned tomatoes. It was very refreshing on a warm June evening.

Our table looked out on a large open window and the bambino in our party enjoyed staring out of it, waving to passersby as she happily munched on some French fries.

The adults each ordered different main dishes from Penne Arrabbiata con Salmone (nice kick, not too spicy) to Pollo alla Martini, a chicken breast breaded with a white wine lemon sauce and mashed potatoes, to Pasta alla Sicilian, to the lightest fluffy Gnocchi this side of Queens! One of us balanced out the carbs with an Insalate Mista (a simple salad is one of her favorite palate cleansers, and the dressing was delightful).

Everything was great, but save room for dessert. With the exception of the gelato, all the desserts were homemade. We fell in love with the tiramisu! While we were all chocolate lovers, there’s something special about the tiramisu here. Perhaps it’s all the love and care that Grissel and Fernando put into creating a beautiful new restaurant in our neighborhood.

P.S. While this is written in the “we” voice, the person that penned this is a single straight woman in her early 40s who is eager to return on a date for tiramisu and wine. It’s a super cute date spot! But also great for family meals or a night out with friends. If that sounds like a fun date, slide into her DMs.

Text and photos by Emily (IG: @anecdotally.em)

Impactful Ways to Make a Difference in Your Community

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When the world around you calls for action, stepping forward to make a difference in your community can seem daunting, yet it is profoundly impactful. Whether it’s rallying support through petitions, using digital platforms to spread awareness, or joining hands in local initiatives, every action counts. In this article, courtesy of BOAST: Best of Astoria & LIC, we’ll go over some ways you can engage deeply with your causes and drive meaningful change.

Pursue Educational Influence

Entering a career in education by earning an Ed D is an excellent way to make a lasting impact in your community. This advanced degree equips you to influence curriculum development, policy, and to evaluate and enhance instructional methods for better learning outcomes. The flexibility of studying online at your own pace allows you to balance professional and personal commitments effectively. Pursuing this path can be a pivotal step toward implementing significant educational reforms while managing your daily responsibilities.

Harness the Power of Petitions

Initiating a petition is a strategic method to gather collective support and appeal for change. This approach not only brings together individuals who share your passion but also presents a unified front to policymakers. Draft a clear, compelling argument for why the change is necessary, and use both online platforms and physical venues to gather signatures. This not only amplifies your cause but also puts pressure on those in power to take notice and act.

Amplify Through Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool in the modern activist’s arsenal. Use these platforms to educate, engage, and expand your audience. Share videos, infographics, and thought-provoking posts to highlight the nuances of the issue. Engage actively with your followers, encourage them to share your content, and create hashtags to track the conversation’s reach and impact. This approach can create a ripple effect, bringing more attention and support to your cause.

Engage in Local Governance

Attending local government meetings is a direct way to influence change. These forums are where decisions about your community are made, and voicing your concerns here can shift perspectives. Prepare your statements or questions in advance, be respectful but assertive, and focus on how proposed changes can benefit the community. Such civic engagement ensures that leaders cannot ignore the voices of their constituents.

Show Strength in Solidarity

Participating in public demonstrations and marches can be a powerful display of solidarity. These events highlight the strength of collective voices and bring public attention to critical issues. Whether it’s a march for climate action or a rally for social justice, public demonstrations show commitment and can sway public opinion and policy alike.

Lead Community Service Projects

Implementing service projects that directly benefit your cause is both fulfilling and effective. Organize community clean-ups, set up free educational workshops, or distribute necessities to those in need. These activities not only address immediate community needs but also build a network of engaged and concerned citizens, fostering a deeper sense of community and shared responsibility.

Support and Sustain Local Enterprises

Supporting local businesses that practice social responsibility and environmental stewardship reinforces community bonds and promotes sustainable economic growth. Choose to spend where your values are respected and where your community benefits. This not only helps sustain local enterprises but also encourages others to adopt ethical practices.

Cultivate Inclusive Dialogues

Creating spaces for dialogue and collaboration is essential for comprehensive community change. Set up a site that offers a forum to facilitate discussions that allow diverse groups to voice their perspectives, share their experiences, and find common ground. These conversations can lead to innovative solutions and stronger, more inclusive community ties, laying the groundwork for sustained collective action.

Your journey of community engagement and activism is paved with numerous opportunities to make a difference. By stepping up, speaking out, and taking action, you not only champion the causes you believe in but also inspire others to join your efforts. Transform your passion into action, and witness how even small steps can lead to significant strides in shaping a better community for all.

—Amy Collett

BOAST: Best of Astoria & LIC offers the latest news and happenings in the area for both residents and visitors. Take a look around the site today to learn more!

Boosting Community Health Through Small Businesses

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Small businesses play a crucial role in shaping the health and wellness of local communities. From fostering partnerships with health initiatives to promoting environmental sustainability, these enterprises have the power to make a significant impact. Explore how small businesses can contribute to enhancing community well-being in multifaceted ways. This BOAST article will explore how these enterprises can support and improve the communities’ well-being.

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Strengthening Community Connections

Building solid ties between small businesses and local health initiatives enhances community cohesion. Collaborative efforts foster a supportive environment for promoting wellness initiatives. These partnerships can lead to developing programs that directly address local health concerns. Strengthening community bonds in this way contributes to residents’ overall health and well-being.

Fueling Economic Growth

Small businesses fuel community health services through vital tax revenue, ensuring local economic circulation and growth. This financial injection supports economic stability, laying the groundwork for addressing health disparities and wellness program rollouts. A robust local economy, therefore, plays a crucial role in elevating the quality and reach of health services. This cyclical investment pattern enhances both the economy and the accessibility of health initiatives, benefiting the entire community.

Innovation and Creativity

Innovation and creativity are the backbone for fostering a positive community impact, particularly in the health and wellness sectors. In establishing a unique brand identity that resonates with the community, it helps to use a text logo that’s both memorable and distinctive. Some online tools provide an array of professional templates that you can modify with your desired colors and fonts.

This approach draws attention and enhances the business’s visibility, making it easier for community members to engage with and support their initiatives. Consequently, nurturing this entrepreneurial spirit can lead to innovative solutions that benefit community health and wellness.

Nurturing Nutritional Health

Local food markets and businesses provide fresh, nutritious options supporting community health and environmental sustainability. These enterprises promote healthier dietary choices among community members by offering access to locally sourced produce. This not only supports individual health but also contributes to the sustainability of local agriculture. Moreover, adopting sustainable food practices helps reduce the environmental impact of food production and consumption.

Enhancing Accessibility to Health Services

Small businesses are often instrumental in making health services and products more accessible to underserved populations. Their proximity to community members means essential health resources are more readily available. These businesses can help bridge healthcare gaps and address disparities by tailoring their services to meet local needs. This approach ensures that all community members have the opportunity to achieve better health outcomes.

Promoting Green Spaces

Small businesses bolster environmental health and motivate community physical activity by embedding green spaces into their operations. Leading with eco-friendly practices, they champion the development of green spaces, serving as hubs for exercise and relaxation, thereby uplifting community environmental quality. These efforts showcase a dedication to sustainability, highlighting the dual benefits for Earth and its inhabitants. This strategy illustrates a profound commitment to fostering a greener, healthier community.

Supporting Mental Health Initiatives

Small businesses have a unique opportunity to support community mental health initiatives. By providing resources, safe spaces, and support for mental well-being, they can play a crucial role in addressing this critical aspect of health. Partnerships with mental health professionals and organizations can enhance the support network available to residents. This collective effort can lead to a more supportive and understanding community environment.

Cultivating a Culture of Wellness

Small businesses can drive a community wellness culture by focusing on employee health, thus inspiring other organizations. Their commitment to well-being through wellness programs and policies sets a powerful example. Such initiatives encourage a wider adoption of health-focused practices, fostering a community-wide shift toward better wellness. This united approach significantly enhances the community’s overall health landscape.

Through various initiatives and partnerships, small businesses are integral to improving community health and wellness. By nurturing economic growth, promoting accessibility to health services, and fostering environmental sustainability, these enterprises play a vital role in creating healthier, more resilient communities. Embracing the collective power of small businesses can lead to lasting positive impacts on community well-being.

Would you like to read more helpful content or learn about the best Astoria and LIC have to offer? Visit boast.nyc today!

—Amy Collett

BOAST: Best of Astoria & LIC 2023 Winners Posted!

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The BOAST: Best of Astoria & LIC 2023 Winners have been posted! They are now up on the EAT, DRINK, DO & SEE, and LOCATION pages. Congratulations to all the winners! Because there were much fewer responses for LIC on this year’s survey, those winners are listed alphabetically, while Astoria’s winners are ranked first to third. Thank you to everyone who filled out the survey, and for doing write-ups on the survey. You may see your writing on the site! Also, be sure to check out the new photos on top of the EAT, DRINK, and DO & SEE pages.

On the LOCATION page, if you click on a winner on the map, the description says the section (EAT, DRINK, or DO & SEE) and category it is a winner for. And on the HAPPENING page, you can see what’s going on in the neighborhoods. Let us know if you’d like to post events yourself!

On the homepage of the site, you can see recent posts of the full list of all the winners, as well as winners by the numbers (spoiler alert: The EAT section had the most categories, 30th Ave had the most winners of any area, and Maggie Hall’s, Heart of Gold, Burger Village, and Compton’s were winners in the most categories, so extra high fives to those places).

Winner stickers

Do you know a business that is a BOAST 2023 Winner? We are selling winner stickers! Just drop us a line at [email protected], or through any social channel, to get more info.

Advertising with BOAST

If businesses are interested in advertising as a Featured BOAST Location on the website, or partnering with us through social media, they can get in touch with us by email, [email protected] or through social.