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Greater Philadelphia is one of those rare places where one can find an easy harmony between work, play, enlightenment, culture, history and family. From Center City to the suburbs, South Jersey to Delaware, this region houses a marketplace for every industry, lifestyle and group. For starters, one of the most attractive amenities is the easy access to variety. Whether taking advantage of the vast local attractions or the proximity of surrounding cities, this is definitely not a place for idleness. Looking for an escape from the urban frenzy? Summer weekends at the New Jersey Shore are always refreshing. Or, take refuge for a cozy winter weekend in the Pocono's. In just two hours, you could be in Times Square or on Capitol Hill.

But, don't go packing your bags too soon; the Greater Philadelphia region has plenty to make you feel like a tourist at home. On the cultural front, there are more than 60 producing theatres and related organizations performing on- and off-Broadway hits, original presentations, and timeless classics in the city, on campus and in the suburbs. And, with the opening of the new, state of the art Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, artistic enthusiasts can expect superior events to come from residents like the renowned Philadelphia Orchestra, the Pennsylvania Ballet and Philly Pops, just to name a few.

Or, brush up on your art history as you browse Museum Row in downtown Philadelphia: home to some of the world's finest museums. Remember the steps in Rocky? Well, they lead to the entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, now celebrating its 125th Anniversary. Other attractions include the Museum of Natural Sciences and the Franklin Institute featuring works from an array of world-renowned artisans, wonderfully enhanced by breathtaking exhibits and showcases.

For your children ages two to seven, the Please Touch Museum is a hands-on, playtime and educational experience. Philadelphia also has some of the best ethnic museums to open your horizons. Visit the African-American Historical and Cultural Museum; Polish American Cultural Center; National Museum of American-Jewish History; and the Swedish Museum. In addition there are a number of regional theater companies in the area, renowned for their quality and innovation, and dozens of venues both grandiose and intimate, featuring an assortment of music and special performances.

You say you like to eat? Well, we can't begin to talk about eating in Philly without mentioning our world-famous cheesesteaks! While other cities don't quite cut the mustard, many arguments have ended in a stalemate over who makes the best Cheesesteak here. Of course, you'll have to judge for yourself, but South Street is a good place to start. If you're looking for a little more atmosphere and selection in the summer months, you may savor tantalizing cuisine at our wonderful new outdoor cafes on Rittenhouse Square, or in Old City along the cobblestone streets.

The food choices here will meet the approval of the most discerning critic. Want Italian — South Philly, Oriental — Chinatown, Soul Food — West Philly, anything you crave — Center City. And, did you know that Philadelphia has seven of the top 50 restaurants in the country — the most of any city, including two of the top: Le Bec-Fin on Rittenhouse Row and the Fountain Restaurant at the Four Seasons.

Moving along, we all know how to work off those tantalizing treats. Shopping. And, for the determined shopaholic, this region is a goldmine. Let's see, there's the Cherry Hill Mall, Deptford Mall, Peddler's Village, Liberty Place, the Gallery, etc. From outlet malls like Franklin Mills to the Plaza and the Court at King of Prussia (2nd largest shopping complex in the country), we may just have your cureŠin the bag. If malls aren't you're style, there are plenty destination shopping neighborhoods like Manayunk, Chestnut Hill and Haddonfield with boutiques and specialty shops for every taste and style as well.

And, if your taste lies neither in a mall, museum, recital hall or playhouse, the Greater Philadelphia region is well known for outstanding sports and the great outdoors. The Eagles, the Phillies, the 76ers, the Flyers, the Phantoms, the Kixx, and the Wings all deliver proud and exciting moments for our region. Only few cities get the chance to experience the glory of sports icons and their history-making moves, but Greater Philadelphia has witnessed both. For the outdoorsman or woman an abundance of activity awaits you. Fairmount Park, located in the heart of the city, is the nation's largest landscaped city park.

Many choose biking, jogging, fishing, cross-country skiing, leisurely strolls, picnicking and a myriad of other personal and engaging activities. Plus, there are many other places to visit in less than a day's drive... the Valley Forge National Historic Park, a variety of State Game Lands, picnic sites, camping, fishing, boating, amusement parks and countless other adventures.

Perhaps, one of the most important distinctions betweens cities, yet often overlooked, is the public transportation system. The buses, trains and trolleys of SEPTA, PATCO and NJ Transit provide invaluable relief to the daily commuter congestion. Having the option of riding public transportation from almost anywhere in the region gives you peace of mind.

Believe it or not, this is still only the tip of the iceberg for what waits for you in the Philadelphia region. The sky is the limit truly, and the pursuit of happiness, yours. Welcome!