I can still remember my first time like it was yesterday. I was giddy, but also a bit anxious. It was something I’d dreamed of forever and finally it was happening!

It took me 23 years before I finally set foot in New York City. A small-town girl from South Dakota making her way in the big city. I didn’t know what to do, but I knew I wanted to experience the neighborhoods, the culture, the people.  And experience it I did! In the city that never sleeps, I had self-induced insomnia. It was perfect.

The Big City

Fifteen years have passed since my first trip, and I’ve visited that amazing city countless times. For work or pleasure, it’s always a new experience and I love every moment. But this Saturday, I’m headed back and those old anxious feelings have returned – but not for the same reasons. This time, I’m taking my two girls – ages 2 and 4 – with me. And once again, I don’t know what to do… about car seats, potty stops, subway rides, strollers, entertainment, nap time, shopping, dinners out, temper tantrums, museums…the list grows and so does the anxiety.

But I try not to let it show. My two little carry-ons are just as giddy as I was years ago. They’ve packed their Disney suitcases on three separate occasions and before bed ask how many more sleeps before we fly to New York City. I play the cool mommy card pretty well while they’re awake, but once their heads hit the pillow, anxious mommy hits the internet, and in doing so, found my newest friend Romio. Who is that you ask? No dear readers, its not a who. It’s a what and let me tell you – it is amazing.

Romio.com

This cool site, which is currently being tested in beta, gives you a chance to ask questions to New Yorkers about the area where they live. Want some suggestions for a restaurant in Chelsea? Need some holiday gift ideas when shopping in Soho? Curious about the must-sees in Brooklyn? Simply pick your neighborhood of interest and hit submit. In a matter of minutes, you get real answers from real people who really live there. It’s like having a personal tour guide.

To test it out, I just entered a general question to the folks in the Financial District where we’re staying. Four people responded with some really cool ideas. And while my anxiety has subsided at least temporarily, I think I’ll turn to Romio in the future. I’m always up for an adventure. Especially in the big city.