Retrospective Nicaragua: Managua

I didn't have many expectations for my trip to Nicaragua--I've found it to be a lost cause to wish and dream for things beyond your control. There is so much to love about travel and it's the unexpected moments that bring the most joy. The good things are magical in their purest form, and the not so good things, well they at the very least make for some really good stories. :)

Managua

The largest city in Nicaragua, Managua is also the capital. Like many other cities in Central America and the Caribbean, Managua's central business/tourist area is scattered with high rise hotels, shopping centers and industrial/corporate parks and surrounded by middle class to low income housing developments. I was not overly impressed by the city itself (what I saw of it) and truthfully did not feel compelled to stray very far from the hotel. 

The Intercontinental Real Metrocentro was my home base for 2 days, and provided a welcoming relaxed environment to acclimate to a slower pace of life. It should be no surprise that outside the Empire State, and in some cases the US--time takes on a whole other persona,  stepping back into its own natural rhythm.

The hotel was centrally located in the heart of the business district, conveniently attached to one of the local shopping centers. The staff were most charming and accommodating, arranging a driver to tour the city of Granada and acting as my go-between translator. The hotel amenities included access to the gym (and the resident massage therapist), (2) restaurants on-site--one of which featured live music during the evening hours, comfortable modern-style accommodations complete with wi-fi (if you had a laptop or tablet with you, of which I did not), and a beautiful courtyard with a freshwater swimming pool where I spent most of my time.

Intercontinental Real Metrocentro - MGA
View from my hotel room

Note: for anyone considering visiting Nicaragua, you should have a working/basic knowledge of Spanish (or at the very least a dictionary--it would have made my trip somewhat easier) to make the most of your visit. I was truly lucky that in all my interactions there was at least one person who was bi-lingual.

For when you visit Roma....

One of my favorite cities in Italy is Rome...and it seems as if it's very popular this year. Here is a of recommendations and tips I used to plan my vacation. Hoping they can be useful to you as well.

• Buy Roma Pass:  (25 -27 €) -  The Cards that offers you Transport and 2 Museums free of charge as well as Reductions for all other museums and major events.
• Free admission to the first two sites and/or museums visited at your own choice
• Reduced price for any other following sites
• Reduced price for exhibitions and events that are part of the network
• How to use it:
• The overleaf form must be filled in with name, surname and validation date
• It is validated when the first site/museum is visited
• Direct access for the first 2 sites. From the 3rd site onwards please apply to the ticket office for discount
• It must be produced along with your identity papers when required by the staff in charge
• It will be valid for 3 days from the first entrance
• Also includes free admission to ATAC urban buses and trans, Underground lines A and B, Metro trains: Roma - Lido, Roma - Viterbo (in the Roma - Sacrofano section), Roma - Pantano railways lines.
• How to use it:
• It comes only with Roma Pass
• It is validated on the first trip by filling out the overleaf form with your name, surname and validation date
• It must be produced on public transport along with Roma Pass and your identity papers when required by the staff in charge
• It expires at midnight of the third day, from the first day of validation inclusive
• The Kit includes:
• Roma MAP: a map of the city illustrating the location of Local Tourist Offices, Underground stations, museums/sites of interest (address, phone number, buses and underground stations, timetables)
• Roma Pass Guide: the complete list of museums/sites of interest that have joined the initiative
• Roma News: the programme of events and tourist services that are eligible for discounts divided by area of interest: art, music, theatre, dance, entertainment and sightseeing tour 

Autumn Antiques Fair (Weekends Only) - A magnificent Renaissance street leading from Piazza Navona to the Tiber; it repeats the line of the Via Recta, which in the imperial epoch linked ancient Via Lata and the Ponte di Nerone bridge. 

Rome's Via dei Coronari is the venue for a fantastic antique fair that takes place every weekend in October. Situated in the heart of the Centro Storico in the oldest, narrowest streets in Rome, the fair is a Mecca for antique hunters from Italy and beyond. The atmosphere along the Via dei Coronari is superb - shops stay open late into the evening and you can wander and chat with experts or gaze in wonder at the profusion of extraordinary objects on show. From the Sun King's dressing table to furs, jewellery and ceramics, you're bound to find something that intrigues you. 

Coronari actually means "rosary-makers" and Romans have lived off the visitors to the Caput Mundi for several centuries. First the visitors were pilgrims, now they are tourists. So although you'll find some fantastic antiques here during the fair, beware of buying souvenirs. The shopkeepers here have had generations of practice in selling knick-knacks to people who certainly never thought they'd want them!

By District

Campo de Fiori

A rectangular piazza near Piazza Navona in Rome, Italy, on the border of rione Parione and rione Regola. Campo dei Fiori, translated literally from Italian, means "field of flowers." The name was first given during the Middle Ages when the area was a meadow.

"Go hang in Campo de Fiori! (Tuesday nights special) It’s a must, house wine out in the piazza...La carbonara...der pallaro...Hosteria Costanza...I could go on...ENJOY!!!"

Trastevere

• Botanical Garden Largo Cristina di Svezia 24 (daily 9-1hr before sunset). 
• Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Piazza Santa Cecilia (daily 9-12.30 & 3-6). There are 9th century mosaics behind altar and there is an underground archeological site below. If you get there before noon, ring at the convent to the left of the church portico and ask to see Cavallini’s Last Judgement. Also if you time it right, you may hear the nuns practice their singing, absolutely angelic in sound.
• Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere (daily 8am-8pm). Maybe this one is not so hidden, but it certainly doesn’t get the attention it deserves, considering its amazing decoration. Look for the spectacular mosaics in the apse, including some by Cavallini c. 1300. 
• Villa Farnesina, Via della Lungara (Mon-Sat 9am-1pm; e5). Originally built for Agostino Chigi, Europe’s richest man in 1500, the villa was purchased by the Farnese family and renamed. The interior is decorated with frescoes by Raphael, in the Loggia of Amore and Psyche, look out for the playful phallic imagery employing corn cobs (the first time they appear in art work after arriving in Europe from the New World). 
• If it’s not too hot, head up to the Janiculum Hill—follow Via Garibaldi. There are great views from the Fontana Paola (aka Fontanone) and from Piazza Garibaldi. Beyond Porta San Pancrazio sprawls the Villa Pamphilj, Rome’s largest park and a nice place to sprawl out with a book.

Jewish Ghetto

Walk from Via Del Teatro di Marcello, or from Via Arenula. . Connecting the Ghetto with the island is Rome's oldest bridge that is still in use, Ponte Fabricio. It was built in 62 BC and is now only a footbridge.

Piazza Navona

In the piazza of the same name stands the Sant’Eustachio Basilica, a church more than one thousand years old. On the top of the basilica, instead of the traditional cross, there is a white stag with a cross between its horns.

Esquiline

The Basilica of S. Croce is situated at the foot of the hill called Esquilino, in an area full of history and of artistic and cultural aspects.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Raphael painted restroom...Directions to find it, located above the courtyard with the Angel Sculpture that used to be on top of the Castle - ask Castel staff to direct you.

i libri

The Lion Bookshop & Cafe

Via dei Greci, 33/36

The oldest English bookshop in Rome has a vast selection of books.

vintage

Dress Agency Donna

Used designer clothes, bags, shoes jewelry and accessories can be found in excellent condition at this shop. Located at Via del Vantaggio, 1/b, Rome

mangia 

Valzani Pasticceria

Via del Moro 37B  - Bus 23, 280, 780 - Tram H/8

La Focaccia  (Pizza e Café)

Via della Pace, 11, 00186 Roma, Rom (Lazio), Italy

Sant’Eustachio Il Caffé – Best Cappuccino Ever!

Piazza Sant’Eustachio 82

Baciamo le Mani


Via Cardinale Marmaggi 12 (Trastevere)

A Sicilian rosticceria serving panelle, pane ca’ meusa and sfincione, all for under €5 each.

Caffe Camerino
 

Largo Arenula, 30
 

This landmark espresso bar also serves prepared food cafeteria style at lunchtime. Cold pastas, salads, fish, and meat dishes are made with high quality ingredients. A full lunch will cost €8-10. Don’t miss the coffee!

Mizzica


Via Catanzaro, 30/36 (Piazza Bologna)


This cafe serves typical Sicilian snacks and desserts. The arancine (fried rice balls) are to die for. For €5 you can eat a pizzetta or arancina and a cannolo siciliano.

Mondo Arancina


Via Flaminia, 42 (Piazza del Popolo)


Via Marcantonio Colonna, 38 (Prati)


“Arancina World” serves a huge array of arancine, ranging from the traditional ragu’ filled to the creative squid stuffed (ink and all). Grab a savory Sicilian bite followed by a typical sweet for under €5.

Ristorante Alla Rampa - Pasta Fagioli

Piazza Mignanelli 18 

My mom and dad discovered this place on a tour of Rome in the early '90s. Very close to the Spanish Steps.

Sora Margherita   

30 Piazza delle Cinque Scole, Jewish Ghetto -  Accepts cash only

Pizzeria Ai Marmi

Viale Trastevere, 53-59

**NB addresses on viale trastevere can be confusing. Pizzeria Ai Marmi is just north of Piazza Mastai, near the cinema and the McDonald's. It is NOT at the corner of Viale Trastevere and San Francesco a Ripa (which is 52-56 Viale Trastevere)!

gelato

Giolitti

Via degli Uffici del Viccario, 40.

Yes, gelato in Rome is quite the experience at Giolitti's. Giolitti's has been there for almost the entire century (the last one, the 20th) and will be there for the rest of this one, too. It's north of the Pantheon and west of Piazza Colonna (the piazza that has Marcus Aurelius' column in it). Look for the green sign on the building. Try the riso or the champagne flavors. The bacio is nice, too. Giolitti. Don't eat gelato without him.

della Palma

Via della Maddalena 20

Near Giolitti is a contender for the crown of "best gelato in Roma". Della Palma doesn't have those ubiquitous sign cards telling you the flavors; they simply put a sample of the flavor item on top of the tin. For example the orange is topped with orange slices, the frutti di bosco with blueberries, wild strawberries and raspberries. Just figuring out what some of the items are is fun.

San Crispino

Via della Panetteria, 42 

The New York Times declared San Crispino's the best gelato in Rome. You can decide for yourself. Their specialty is a honey vanilla flavor. Very sweet, quite heavenly. Near the Trevi Fountain.

Petrini Mauro - Gelato, 40 years in the making

Piazza dell'Alberone 16/A - Tel. + 39.6.786307

Gelateria del Teatro

Via di San Simone, 70

cioccolato

SAID Chocolate Lab & Cafe

Via Tiburtina

This gem is tucked away off a shopping street just south of the train station. The walk there is as urban as Rome gets, but it's most definitely worth the scavenger hunt to find. The cafe serves sweet and savory meals prepared with chocolate. The lab includes every iteration of baking and eating chocolate imaginable; splurge for the drinking cocoa to savor at the cafe, and then buy a bag of coco negro to take home. 

wine bars

La Vineria - Campo Dei Fiori

Del Frate Wine Bar - Near Vatican

118 Via Degli Scipioni, Rome, 00192

Casa Bleve

Via del Teatro Valle 48-49

Transportation Bus: 8   

wine tasting

 

International Wine Academy of Rome
Classes are taught by world-reknowned chefs and sommeliers bi-lingually. Great way to meet expatriates. 

live music

Circolo degli Artisti

Via Casilina Vecchia 42 (Pigneto)

Getting there: Bus 81, 105, 412, 810/tram 5, 14, 19 .

Circolo degli Artisti is probably one of the best places in the city to catch original, quality live music. For example, you won’t see any cover bands haunting the rooms here where the emphasis is on an eclectic mix of original sounds—from hip hop to light pop—by up-and-coming bands. Cover charges for gigs run between 6 to 12€.  The bar stays open from 9:30 PM to 3:30 AM Tuesday through Thursday; 9 PM to 4:30 AM on weekends. 

"I especially like this place for its huge open area outside, replete with bars; it’s the prefect chill out spot."

Scholars Lounge Irish Pub

Via del Plebiscito, 101b (near Piazza Venezia)

Bus #60,#70,#80,#40,#64 from termini, ………

The cosy and charming Scholars Lounge is host to live music almost every night from 10:30 PM. If it’s not a cover band doing the Chili Peppers, Springsteen, or Oasis, it’s traditional Irish music, Reggae or karaoke (come on, you know you love it!). For the cost of whatever you want to drink, you can kick back with a congenial mix of locals and travelers and enjoy the vibe.

Goa

Via Libetta, 13          

In trendy Ostiense, this is one of the best of Rome's fashionable clubs. Goa marries iron and steel with curvy, 1960s-style whites. The quality of its Italian and international DJs is generally above the competition. Ultrabeat on Thursdays, organised by top Italian DJ Claudio Coccoluto, brings the cream of Europe's electronic music DJs to Rome.

transportation

 I walked almost every where, and treated myself to a Scooter Tour (highly recommend it if you can splurge; tell Annie I sent you!) but if you need to know about public transport: 

The Metro is the fastest way to get around Rome's clogged streets. Trains run daily from 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance from tabacchi (tobacco shops, most of which display a sign with a white T on a brown background). They are also sold at many newsstands and in vending machines at all stations. Considering the expense of getting around by taxi, the transit system is an excellent value. You can purchase single ride tickets for 1€ ($1.20), an unlimited day pass for 4€ ($4.85), a 3 day pass for 11€ ($13.30), or a weekly pass for 16€ ($19.40) (www.metroroma.it).

The same tickets are valid for Rome's network of buses and trams. You can obtain a complete transit map with all the routes at the office of ATAC (Azienda Tramvie e Autobus del Comune di Roma, 6 4695 2087, www.atac.roma.it), next to the Stazione Termini at 59 Via Volturno (800 431 784 for information).

Less is more, or is it?

New York in the summertime is far from easy and in many ways is both a blessing and a curse. These last few days since I've been back have been bittersweet, and suffocating in a whole other way--partly because of the heat but mostly because of the economic climate that is New York. I had forgotten how fast money goes in this city! I know that may sound absurd to some but when you're in the groove of your every day you don't necessarily notice the subtle changes, like the extra $.10 tacked onto your cup of coffee or the increase in milk prices (unless of course you have a family with kids)...and the biggest groan most people can relate to is the unexpected rent hike. 

City living is all about making compromises, and I find that one of the biggest ones is convenience over money... whether that's about living spaces (walk-up or doorman, outdoor space or extra closet space) or something else and ultimately as we enter the rat race, it's hard not to get settled into a rhythm that may or may not be good for you.

It's been quite sometime since I vacationed in a location where the cost of living is significantly lower than it is here in the Big Apple. And I nearly had a cow when I realized how much I've spent on food (aka lunch and dinner) since my return from Nicaragua.I can't stress enough that living in NYC is brutally expensive. Nothing new I realize, but after 10 days in Nicaragua watching people manage on next to nothing (sometimes by choice, sometimes by circumstance), I was reminded about the minimalist philosophy of less is more.

 

Less is more, and progress is another thing entirely. The concept of believing that the world can better itself in terms of science, technology, modernization, liberty, democracy, quality of life. The debate of its purpose is not something that comes up in common conversations, or even in heated debates after one too many Jack'n Gingers. And had I not been under duress before this trip, I'm not sure if I would have been as affected by progress and its present effect on modern society. Or absence in modern day Nicaragua.

In fact, I find myself caught in a careful reflection wondering not what progress has taught us but rather what it's stolen from us.What have we sacrificed for this thing called progress?

Karmic disposition? Rock steady.

I am so excited still high off a fantastic holiday in Nicaragua, I came home to find out an article I submitted to the Huffington Post had been selected for publishing. I'm happy to share it with you here, this anecdotal post is a follow-up to my participation in a company-wide Monster Help Day. The story is about hope and the treasures a piano brings to children at the Ronald McDonald House. Check it out on HP Impact.

Resolution Red....

because of its equal parts of boldness and warmth.

because these last few weeks of Brooklyn blood boiling over, have taught me how strong I can be with words written passionately and with conviction.

Brand New - 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe

for prosperity and joy, happiness

for hearts healed behind closed doors

because its the color of extroverts (which in this case resonates in more ways than one) 

for courage and fire,

an adventurous spirit

Red, not quite candy apple or fire engine, warmer than a pin-up S.W.A.K.

Sonoran like the mesas in a desert landscape.

Balancing act

I should be excited for my trip but instead I'm completely freaked out and filled with trepidation and dare I say it, fear. I began planning this yoga/surf/volunteer retreat in early March--and short of a day tacked onto a long weekend, have not had a real vacation since Christmas. After the brow beaten winter we had (I've never shoveled so much in my entire life!) and the nonstop flow of projects at work, this has been my beacon. I've held onto the challenge of surfing, the daily yoga and give back to the community like a talisman, to replenish my soul. The uncertainties of the last few weeks mainly sparked from the debacle with the car, has left me raw. And now I need this retreat more than ever.

The retreat is hosted by Holly Beck at an ecolodge on the Western Coast of Nicaragua. Nicaragua is a Central American nation located south of Honduras and just north of Costa Rica, and the mere mention of the country as a destination raises eyebrows from family, friends and strangers. It's not a country on my bucket list, nor is it one I ever thought to even consider visiting. I'm by no means an adventure-seeker of extremes, but there was something about Holly's program, Suave Dulce that appealed to me. (Check out the video that sold me here.)  I'd like to think it was the mix of soul searching and exercise--you spend mornings learning to surf, afternoons in yoga practice and volunteering within the local community--the practice of giving back to others, restoring balance to yourself, readjusting the karmic nature of things. I've been swimming in preparation, my own self-induced training circuit, with a yoga class or two in between; I'm ready as I'll ever be and am looking forward to where this journey will lead me.

Happy Birthday America!

Saturday drive to Greenwich was refreshing, the road clear and free of traffic. I made it to Claudia & George's with time for a beverage and reintroduction to the felines. By 6pm we were picnicking in Binney Park in Old Greenwich, to the right of the pond and far enough away from the bandstand to carry a conversation and have an unobstructed view of the town's firework display. As I've always spent Independence Day in and around the city, watching the fireworks on the East River, this enclave of celebration was a pleasant change, and relaxing way to enjoy the holiday. Of course, the celebrity sighting of famed photographer, Nigel Barker (even more handsome in person) and his family certainly lent to the mystique.

Hyundai, there are ANTS in my car!

      June 2011

• 6/11: Purchased vehicle from Towne Hyundai in Denville, NJ – note, lot is surrounded by trees and grass. Returned late in the evening and parked car in driveway. Went to bed.
• 6/12: Went outside to check out my new purchase, took photos posted to Facebook. I noticed then there were 1-2 ants on the exterior of the vehicle. I dismissed this occurrence to the heat and the car being white, and the ants more noticeable.  Over the course of the next week I notice the ever presence of ants on the exterior.
• 6/17: Return from work, air out the car and notice ant on dashboard.
• 6/18: Driving to Staten Island I see 1-2 ants in the interior of the vehicle, and like anyone with an aversion to insects freak out and attempt to kill them (smack down on the dash). Not the smartest thing to do while driving on the bridge but I pulled over when I could to inspect the Santa Fe. More ants, not your garden variety type, but large sized carpenter ants (see below).

Carpenter Ants

Similar to those found in my car.

• 6/19: Email sent to dealer first thing (they are closed on Sundays, and no redirection on VM). Went to Home Depot to get ant killing supplies, returned home to spray driveway and surrounding areas as a precaution—but no ants are apparent in the garden or surrounding areas.  This leads me to believe that the nest was in the vehicle when I purchased it; I can’t imagine that the ants nested and reproduced a colony in the 24 hours it was in my driveway.
• 6/19: Received email response from my sales contact instructing me to contact him on Monday afternoon. I took photos and sent a link ahead of time: https://picasaweb.google.com/apreziotti/Ants?authkey=Gv1sRgCMP2lePSrb6Bbw&feat=directlink
• 6/20: Spoke with Sean Cullen/Towne Hyundai in early afternoon and inquired about my options and how the dealership would assist with the insect problem. I definitely did not have his undivided attention, Sean said he asked his service manager and neither of them had heard of such a thing. They suggested fumigation but did not recommend it b/c of the odor effect: “if the car smells afterward you’re going to want to trade it in, and then it’s officially used and the trade in value is way less than what you paid…”. I asked Sean if there were any other options to consider, and he said he would get back to me. That was at 1:20pm EST 6/20.
• 6/20 - Reached out to AOL Autos /Autoblog editors for assistance; direct messaged @EdmundLive for advice
• 6/21 @1:30PM: (24 hours later) I call the dealership to follow-up: 
• Mr. Cullen is not available, he has the day off. 
• Marybeth Andrikinich is not available, she has the day off. 
• I ask to speak with the General Manager of the Dealership: Soloman Faizi, he is on vacation. 
• I ask for someone, whoever it is that might be covering for him while he is out, the head of sales etcetera. The receptionist connects me to another person (Jessica) who listens to my story, takes down my name and # and assures me that “Christopher” the sales manager in question will return my phone call upon his return. 
• It is now 3pm and I’ve received no response. 
• 6/22 - Posted complaint/query to Facebook: Hyundai/Discover Hyundai pages :
• https://www.facebook.com/Hyundai?sk=wall&filter=1
• https://www.facebook.com/discoverhyundai?sk=wall&filter=1
• 6/22 - Tweeted to @Hyundai; @OrlandoHyundai
• 6/22, 9AM - Sent email to Mr. Cullen/Mary Beth requesting an update of the situation
• 6/22, 9:30AM - Submitted complaint to PR dept of HyundaiUSA through website: http://www.hyundaiusa.com/contact-us-thanks.aspx
• 6/22, 9:30AM - Submitted direct email to consumeraffairs@hmausa.com ||
  (800) 633-5151 ||  Mon - Fri, 5:00 am - 6:00 pm PST
• 6/22,10:30AM - Received immediate response from Consumer Affairs via emai:
• "Thank you for contacting Hyundai Motor America. We are sorry to learn of the ant concern you are experiencing in your brand new 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe and that you have not received contact from Towne Hyundai.
  
  We have contacted Towne Hyundai and have spoken with Eddy Pagan, the Sales Manager, to address your concern. Eddy confirmed that the dealership will be more than happy to resolve this matter to your satisfaction. Eddy advised that the Service Department will be attempting to contact you today, June 22, 2011, to schedule an appointment for you to bring your Santa Fe to the dealership. Additionally, Towne Hyundai will be providing you with a loaner vehicle until this matter has been resolved.
  
  We continually work with our dealerships to promote positive customer experiences in all aspects of dealership interactions. Again, we apologize that you did not receive contact from Towne Hyundai. We appreciate your feedback; the information you provided helps us to better understand our customers’ experiences and serves in the development of future dealership guidelines. We will be sure to bring this concern to the attention of Towne Hyundai's General Manager.
  
  We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the compliments you have shared with us about your Santa Fe. We are committed to producing quality vehicles with our customers in mind. Your satisfaction is our priority. We are confident that once this matter is resolved, you will enjoy your Santa Fe for many miles to come.
  
  We have documented your complaint as Case # 4443349. Please reference your Case # if we can be of any additional assistance.
  
  Thank you for contacting Hyundai Motor America."
• 6/22, 1PM - First correspondence, 48 hours later from Towne Hyundai dealership, response received from Mr. Cullen (4) hours after my email that day: "I appologize Andrea I was off yesterday so that is why you havn't heard back from me. I am waiting for my service manager to give me an update on a loaner vehicle for you. As of right now the next available loaner car that we have is July 7 or 8th... I'm trying to get you one sooner though. I appreciate your patience while I do what I can to help you. How are the traps working?"
• 6/23 - Submitted follow-up email to Consumer Affairs re: inconsistency in proposed timing.
• 6/23 - Received voicemail from Chris Short, service manager alerting of coordination to accommodate.
• 6/23 - Received direct response call from internet sales manager, Mr. Cullen; spoke in-person re: next steps to be taken by Towne Hyundai to resolve issue including removal of seats and sweep of carpet area.
• 6/23 - Called Towne Hyundai in response to Chris Short's message, left a VM
• 6/24 - Received correspondence from Consumer Affairs re: missed connection.
• 6/24, 3:15PM - Left 2nd VM message for Chris Short
• 6/24, 3:50PM - Received call back from Chris Short
• (new development)There was a White Hyundai Santa Fe on the lot with ants on it that was supposed to have been sent to another dealer for inspection; unfortunately the person who identified it as such was not in the office the day they (may have) sold the car to me.  
• Chris/Hyundai has arranged for a Loaner Vehicle for the duration of the de-infestation, may take 2 days make take a few weeks.
• The car will be gutted down to the frame and treated to remove the nest and any sign of the ants. Note: Ants do not come out of hiding when it is wet/humid, so they may have not appeared in recent days.
• If the situation cannot be rectified they (Sales & Service) will work to locate another vehicle without any penalty to me.
• instructions to drop-off Hyundai Santa Fe after 8AM on Saturday 6/25. Key to loaner will be located in Chris Short’s drawer.
• 6/24, 4:25PM - Posted grievance to my personal Facebook page. 
• https://www.facebook.com/preziotti1/posts/10150218939873853 
• 6/25, 8AM - Drafted and sent follow-up email to Hyundai USA re: updated correspondence and new development/information as pertains to my case. 
• (new development)There was a White Hyundai Santa Fe on the lot with ants on it that was supposed to have been sent to another dealer for inspection; unfortunately the person who identified it as such was not in the office the day they (may have) sold the car to me.  
• Reasonable request made of Hyundai to provision me with a replacement vehicle.
• 6/25, 10AM - Dropped off Hyundai Santa Fe to Towne Hyundai; picked up loaner vehicle from CSR Brian Drake.
• Requested that no installations/additional services be performed until ant infestation has been corrected.
• 6/25, 3PM - Received acknowledgement from Hyundai USA; assigned regional representative to investigate further.
• “We have assigned your case to our regional office, which works closely with our dealerships. Our regional personnel will work with Towne Hyundai in order to address your concerns and request for a new vehicle. You can expect to be contacted by the Hyundai Customer Connect Center or the dealership within 3 business days with an update to your case.”
• Andrea to reach out if no contact received by Wednesday, June 29th.
• 6/27, Monday - No contact from Towne Hyundai or Hyundai USA
• 6/28, Tuesday - No contact from Towne Hyundai or Hyundai USA
• 6/29, Wednesday - Received contact from Hyundai USA that request for a new car/trade-in has been denied, interesting that they told me they were "unable to buy back your 2011 Hyundai Sonata" that would be the make of the loaner not the car I own.  
• Responded with dissatisfaction and intent to submit complaint with the Better Business Bureau of NJ and consumer news outlets re: unimpressive Customer Service and vague refusal/updates to correct the situation.
• 6/29, PM - Submitted query for legal advice
• 6/30, AM - Submitted online query to Tom and Ray Magliozzi of Car Talk
• 6/30, 8AM - Submitted similar query to Quentin’s Friends
• 6/30, 8AM - Called Towne Hyundai, no answer and no way to access VM
• 6/30, 11:35AM - Called Towne Hyundai, asked to be transferred to Service Dept., disconnected
• 6/30, 11:38AM - Called Towne Hyundai again, all service managers were busy assisting other clients; transferred to VM for Chris Short to leave a message inquiring of a status update for my vehicle. Also requested that 7/2 service appointment for LoJack installation be cancelled until ant infestation resolved.
• 6/30, 12:07PM - Spoke with Chris Short of Service Center, Towne Hyundai:
• Underneath the carpet and seats were a ton of ants all dead, we vaccumed and inspected the interior trim, vents, dashboard; a/c and heating system; filter and intake, found leaves, no foods, bound wood, evidence of creating a nest, trails of wood throughout the interior. nothing in the door panels, engine bay, a divet in the floor panel had a whole pile of ants. did not use spray and/or poison. We’ve inspected the car today and yesterday, and have not seen a live insect since.
• When asked about other vehicle that exhibited ants did not write the VIN # down and the car has since disappeared, off to another dealership for inspection.
• Even the mechanics had to be convinced, as they are “skiivy about insects/ants”
• Recommendation to the sales team to not park their car on the hills, right now there are 20 or so trucks parked there, and its possible they parked on top of an ant hill.
• Lojack and other has already been installed
• 6/30, 12:32PM - Called Towne Hyundai 
• Requested to speak with Mr. Cullen, he was unavailable
• Asked to speak with another manager, transferred to Hector Colon. Explained that I would not be accepting the returned vehicle, and that the only acceptable response would be a brand new vehicle or a return for a full refund. He informed me that there was nothing that he could do and suggested I speak with the head of sales, Rob Mariana or Eddy Pagan.
• I agreed that he should have either one return my call; I also instructed him to put this request in dispute.
• 6/30, 12:38PM - Called American Express to put a stop payment on my $3k deposit, opened case for investigation re: dissatisfied purchase due to ant infestation. 
• 6/30, 1:02PM - Received call from Eddy Pagan to discuss current status of the situation. He suggests my SUV now clear of dead ants is in "perfect condition" and they have done all that they can to correct this matter. 
• I informed him that I honestly would not feel comfortable driving a car that had been infested with ants and did not find his answer acceptable. After all he had the easy job of removing all the dead ants because I killed them while the dealership neglected to return my phone calls. I informed that I had purchased a a new car b/c I wanted a clear and free driving experience, with no stress. This whole experience has been beyond stressful.
• Mr. Pagan then responded with "I don't mean to be insympathetic to your needs, I've bought cars before working at a dealership and I totally understand your discomfort. The Santa Fe as far as I can tell is in excellent condition for use." 
• I reminded him of the lack of customer service provided during the incident and he "doesn't dispute" my feelings but that it was irrelevant now that the ants were dead and gone. 
• I then reiterated that I found all of this unacceptable, that I would not be accepting the returned vehicle, and that the only acceptable response would be a brand new vehicle or a return for a full refund. 
• I also mentioned that I would be reporting the dealership to the BBB and had consulted a lawyer on next steps; at which point he recommended that I speak to the GM of the dealership, and to which I gladly accepted to do so. 
• Eddy Pagan confirmed my contact information and then said that he would be in touch with the GM, Solomon Faizi and have him get back to me promptly. 
• 6/30, 2:03PM - Received email from Chris Short with current "clean" images of the vehicle and an informal assessment of vehicle status.
• Responded at 4:46PM with an email and VM request for a full written assessment of the work performed with your findings, documented by Towne Hyundai. If you would please send them via post (Mr. Cullen should have my information on file) as well as attached in an email. It would be most appreciated. 
• 6/30, 2:05PM - Received VM from Chris Short alerting me that the "car has been put back together, complete with all accessories and the anti-theft installation module". 
• Note all of which I asked not be installed in the vehicle until a resolution had been reached. 
• 6/30, 4:53PM - 4 hours later still no word from Solomon Faizi, GM. 
• 6/30, 5:07PM - Received email from Chris Short alerting me that the vehicle was ready for pick up and that the invoice with detailed information about the service and installation would be available at that time: "When you pick up your car tonight there will be an invoice on our letter head noting what wasdone. the technicians and all the add on items we installed. It's probably what your looking for. If there is more we can do just let me know."
•  Responded with follow up email alerting him that I would not be picking up the said vehicle and reiterated request to send the file via/email and/or fax and post. 
• 6/30, 5:27 - Received phone call from Eddy Pagan, he had spoken to the GM (funny I thought I was getting a personal phone call from Mr. Faizi not a relayed message) and that there was nothing left for them to do, that unfortunately "no car was available for me on the lot"(AP: so does that mean they considered giving me a new car and then realized they could not do so without available inventory?) 
• He then told me that my car had been reassembled and was ready for pick-up; that I would need to return the loaner car and retrieve my car in the morning (Friday 7/1). I said that was not possible and it was unacceptable to assume that I would be retrieving an imperfect car. He reiterated that the car was in perfect condition; and there was nothing more they could do. 
• I reminded him that the only reason there was nothing more to do was because I cured the car without their assistance, and now with no proof of "live ants" the vehicle in your eye is now "in perfect condition".
• He told me that "I could not return a car because of unsatisfactory customer service" and I responded that in fact it was the unsatisfactory customer service that has placed us in this very predicament. If his team had followed up in a timely manner and had kept me abreast of the situation, had pushed harder to make my dissatisfaction a priority, I would not have had to do all the legwork that in fact was Towne Hyundai's responsibility. In all likelihood the ants occupied the car while on YOUR (THEIR) lot, and your  service manager is in agreement.  Mr. Pagan even then refused to take any responsibility that the ant infestation occurred on their premises.
• At that moment I made a point of reminding Mr. Pagan that no one responded to my inquiry within the first 48 hours and that it took a formal complaint with Hyundai HQ to incite any kind of reaction; and more pointedly when I reported to Hyundai that I had not yet been contacted by Towne Hyundai they informed me that you, Mr. Pagan had been contacted (AP: I have proof of this in an email thread from Hyundai directly) and assured them of expediting contact. Contact of which took another 24 hours. 
• Mr. Pagan feigned knowing anything and then miraculously remembered Hyundai HQ reaching out, "then I got on it, and talked to Sean about the instance, and knew we had to take care of this ASAP."
• (AP: ASAP? This is now 4 days after my initial contact with sales manager, Mr. Cullen; 4 days in which I had already attempted to combat the situation on my own; 4 days of distress and worry of what to do next; 4 days of consulting every one and their mother for advice on how something like this could happen to a BRAND NEW CAR.)
• I hit the proverbial roof...I am not an angry person but I made a point to reiterate everything once more and state again that I would not be picking up the car, that there decision was unacceptable, that I would like to speak directly to the General Manager. Mr. Pagan hemmed and hawed, "Solomon is a busy man and runs 3 dealerships, I ran interference so that you would have an answer sooner rather than later"--(AP: Right so now that my situation is an inconvenience to you, because Chris Short in an email that came during this conversation stated "Please keep me informed as I have customers waiting for loaners and I need them urgently"; now you're choosing to expedite the situation.)
• That's when I interrupted him in mid-sentence and informed him that moving forward I would not talk to anyone except the general manager, Solomon Faizi.  

(AP: I won't lie, my temperature has exceeded its normal level and I'm taking a break from this saga today, right now as it were at 6:30PM on 6/30. And will pick it up again tomorrow, fair readers.) 

• 6/30, 7:30PM - Received call from service director, Michael Alston about my dissatisfaction with the service provided. (AP: I had finally left work at the point, and had treated myself to a gelato from Amorino, the bliss of which disappeared after this call.) 
• I calmly asked him if he had the authority to grant me a new car or a full refund, and he said no. To which I calmly replied with a request to speak with whoever it was at Towne Hyundai, most certainly the GM, Solomon Faizi, who could. 
• (AP: I'm really amazed that in the first 4 days I received hardly any feedback and/or call backs re: the ants issue, and NOW that I'm loudly voicing my dissatisfaction everyone at Towne seems to have my phone #.)

July 2011 

• 7/1, 7:00AM - Query submitted to FOX Shame on You! w/ Arnold Diaz
• 7/1, 7:05AM - Query submitted to Help Me Howard, WPIX
• 7/1, 7:10AM - Query submitted to 7 On Your Side
• 7/1, 8:30AM - News query submitted to Denville Reporter, Denville Rockaway This Week, Patch: Morris Township/Morris Plains
• 7/1, 9:15 AM - Check my VM at work, and wonder upon wonder Solomon Faizi, General Manager of Towne Hyundai  has actually called and left a message (@8:02PM, Thursday 6/30) and has asked that I call him back. (AP: Which I will do this morning, so stay tuned.)
• 7/1, 11:07AM - Received inquiry response from editor of Patch: Morris County.
• 7/1, 11:15AM - Received call from Solomon Faizi, General Manager of Towne Hyundai, and we discussed the current situation and lack of communication from his dealership with regard to my ant infestation problem. He said that this was the first time he had heard of the ant infestation problem, as he has been on vacation.  I told him that I have documented all communication or lack thereof on this blog; and he seemed unfazed by the "technicalities of documentation" that "dealing with a disgruntled client, in a civil manner" was his concern.
• He asked why I had come out to NJ to buy my car and I candidly told him that Ms. Andrikanich sounded so genuine and that seemed to correspond with all the positive feedback I had read on Edmunds, Yelp, Dealerrate, etc. that I didn't mind driving long distance to purchase a car.    
• Mr. Faizi then asked me what I wanted, and I said that I wanted a replacement vehicle, a brand new 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS AWD, which he has verbally agreed to give me 
• I asked for him to provide proof in writing to this agreement (AP: He was offended that I would not take him at his word, and would not agree to a written agreement. Given the current circumstances I don't know how he is more offended than I am.)
• We agreed that I would go to the Towne Hyundai dealership in the morning, Saturday July 2nd, (3) weeks to the day of my original purchase where Mr. Pagan and Mr. Cullen would work on providing me with a brand new 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS AWD, covering all necessary paperwork transitions, and fees with no penalty to me.

(AP: Truth be told, I am very nervous about not having a written commitment from Towne Hyundai--which as it were is an independently-owned dealer and does not fall under Hyundai Motor USA--or from Solomon Faizi. I am VERY HESITANT that this is an opportunity for a bait and switch--loaner vehicle for my existing vehicle--on their part and absolutely do not want to go by myself. Any volunteers?)

• 7/1, 11:34AM - Reached out to Towne Hyundai to speak with Mr. Pagan about coordinating for tomorrow's meeting to replace my ant infested vehicle. He was unavailable, I left a VM. 
• (AP: I will be calling back, every hour on the hour until I can get a written email confirmation from him about the verbal agreement to replace my vehicle tomorrow morning.)
• 7/1, 12:01 - Received DM from @EdmundsLive : "You can rate & write a review of Towne Hyundai on our site: http://ow.ly/5uTbX I'm passing this story to our editorial team"
• 7/1, 12:09 - Received call from Ms. Basso at "7 On Your Side" with interest in the story, was instructed to get a promise in writing, and reach out to her directly should Towne Hyundai refuse to uphold verbal agreement. 
• 7/1, 12:48PM -Reached out to Towne Hyundai to speak with Mr. Pagan about coordinating for tomorrow's meeting as per my conversation with Solomon Faizi earlier today. Mr. Pagan informed me that Towne Hyundai currently does not have an adequate replacement vehicle available on the lot. He said that he would call Solomon, to alert him and get back to me. 
• 7/1, 2:07PM - Followed up with Mr. Pagan of Towne Hyundai, he was not available; left a message.  
• 7/1, 5:05PM - Followed up with Mr. Pagan of Towne Hyundai. He told me that he spoke with Mr. Faizi and alerted him that the vehicle in question was not available in Towne Hyundai's current inventory. 
• Mr. Pagan then told me that he was calling around to other Hyundai dealerships to locate a 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS AWD to be brought to their dealership as a replacement vehicle.
• I then informed/confirmed with Mr. Pagan that I would not be coming to the dealership tomorrow morning, and in turn keeping the loaner vehicle until a replacement had been located. Mr. Pagan agreed: "I did not expect you to come into the dealership without a confirmed replacement available."
• Mr. Pagan assured me that he would continue to work on locating a replacement vehicle and that he would be in touch tomorrow by phone. 

(AP: Signing off tonight, will report back in the morning, and then some until this is resolved. Thank you as always for your support and encouragement.)

• 7/2, 1:29PM - Called Towne Hyundai to connect with Eddy Pagan on status of locating a replacement vehicle for my 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS AWD. He was not available, so I left a message asking him to call me back with any new information, and casually suggested my replacement vehicle not be white given recent luck. (AP: Silly perhaps, but I think we can all agree not entirely unreasonable given this whole situation.)
• 7/4, Submitted purchase experience survey to Hyundai 

(AP: The weekend was quiet, with little to no contact from Towne Hyundai since Eddie/Eddy and I spoke on Friday. Will try for a written agreement of some sort, even if just an email confirming the conversation--speaking with Joe about that today--and hoping for an immediate resolution.)

•  7/5, 10:50AM - Placed call to Towne Hyundai to inquire on the status of my replacement vehicle; left message for Eddie/Eddy Pagan. Receptionist did note that Mr. Pagan normally does not arrive until 12pm.
• 7/5, 1:12PM - Placed follow-up call with Towne Hyundai to speak with Eddie/Eddy Pagan, about my replacement vehicle. The receptionist informed me that Mr. Pagan is out today; Katie redirected me to Chris Talluk/Tulic Tulloch who did not pick up my call.
• 7/5, 1:15PM - Called Towne Hyundai again, Katie placed me on hold while checking on Mr. Tulloch's availability--he was with another customer, took down my work # and said that he would return my phone call. 
• 7/5, 1:24PM - Received VM from Christopher Tulloch, Internet Sales Manager with Towne Hyundai, who has been assigned to my case. Requested that I ring him back directly on his personal cell phone. (AP: I don't want to be too hopeful but a personal cell phone # is a good sign, no?)
• 7/5, 1:40PM - Returned call to Christopher Tulloch, Internet Sales Manager with Towne Hyundai:
• He confirmed that he had been assigned to my situation last week and that after working with the ownership and corporate office, I had been approved for a replacement vehicle. Towne Hyundai had been in the process of locating dealerships within the area; and was required to get the "green light" from me before officially moving forward with the fulfillment process (which according to him would take "a couple of days"). 
• He went so far as to assure that all legalities, including transfer of registration, and the installation of all optional accessories and anti-theft components would be taken care of at no cost to me. And then miraculously he even inquired if I had any color preferences. 
• Mr. Tulloch then said I should have received an email (text is excerpted below) from my original sales manager, Mr. Cullen, that would refer to this resolution. Mr. Tulloch then apologized for Mr. Cullen's previous lack of response as he had been directed by ownership to disengage until a resolution could be reached. 
• Dear Andrea XXX,
  
  Hello Andrea... sorry I've been a little bit of a stranger but my ownership asked me to stay out of the situation until we could come up with a resolution that would be serve you. So obviously since you are getting an email from me we have come up with one. Christopher Tulloch left you a message a few minutes ago and left his cell phone number for you to call him at your convenience. I hope you had a great 4th of July and look forward to talking with you soon.
  
  Respectfully, Sean Cullen
  Received 7/5 @ 1:39PM

(AP: This all still seems unreal and until I have the physical vehicle in my possession, I will absolutely question the reality of the situation. I'm still in a fuzzy hazy shock, though when that clears I should probably let them know of my vacation plans, no?)

• 7/5, 2:22PM -  Responded to Mr. Cullen's email reviewing what had transpired (excerpt below) and inquiring on next steps
• I received Christopher's voicemail, and just spoke with him directly. He confirmed that I have been approved for a replacement vehicle, and I have given him the green light as it were to move forward with the replacement transfer. 
• We also discussed that all transition paperwork (registration, etc.) as well as accessories and LoJack installation would be transferred to the new vehicle at no cost /penalty to me. 
• I offered to alert GEICO of the transfer.  
• I then inquired of an estimated date for when the vehicle would be available.
• (AP: Note that I did include Mr. Tulloch on the email string but his email bounced back.)
• 7/5, 2:43PM -  Received confirmation from Hyundai for submission of my purchase review survey. 
• (AP: My favorite line: "Because customer satisfaction is our top priority, we have forwarded your suggestion regarding additional sales training to the personnel responsible for product and dealership training.") 
• 7/5, 5:52PM - Received email from Mr. Cullen informing me that a replacement vehicle in my first choice configuration had been found: a brand new 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS AWD Sonoran Red w/Beige Interior.
• Mr. Cullen said that the car would be picked up on either Wednesday or Thursday, and he was still figuring out components and the LoJack installation.
• 7/5, 6:24PM - Responded to Mr. Cullen's email, inquired if personal effects in ant-infested car would be accessible to retrieve.
• Also inquired if delivery date would be sometime next week. 
• 7/5, 7:12PM - Received email from Mr. Cullen
• All changes can be made when you pick up the (ant free) vehicle. I'll keep you in the loop regarding the best day and time to pick it up after the lo jack has been installed. Feel free to call me with any questions in the mean time.
• 7/6, 10:18AM - Reached out to Mr. Cullen re: delivery date of replacement vehicle. 
• For full transparency, I alerted Mr. Cullen of my vacation departure date and time. 
• He is going to try and arrange for the replacement vehicle to be ready for pick up by tomorrow evening.  
• 7/7, 11:00PM - Success! I'm happy to report Towne Hyundai came through with a brand new Hyundai Santa Fe. The transition was quick and painless, I was able to retrieve my personal belongings from the previous model and with assistance from my dear friend Michael Fonte (who kindly joined me this evening) we inspected the car from top to bottom to ensure all things were on the up and up. So looking forward to driving it in style upon my return!

(AP: What this means, is that the Sonoran Red 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe FLS AWD pictured below is now in my driveway and will be there when I return.)

7/18 - I returned from holiday early Monday morning, absolutely relaxed from a week in Nicaragua and gleefully excited to find my clean and ant-free Sonoran Red Hyundai Santa Fe parked in my driveway. I thank my lucky stars that this story has had a happy ending. Thank you to everyone for all your support during this whole debacle, and to Towne Hyundai for finally coming through with acceptable customer service.