An Action-Packed Week

One of my favorite parts about life in New York is the virtually endless array of diversions available as soon as you walk out the door. This week was no exception.

From chatting up five men at the Anti-Defamation League’s fabulous Imagine Gala in Union Square to lunch with SingleEdition.com founder Sherri Langburt, I’ve done some fun hobnobbing over the last few days – including B-list celeb spotting at the red carpet premiere for “New York I Love You.”

Speaking of red carpet scenes, you can catch “Sex And The City 2” filming one tonight at NYC’s classic Ziegfeld Theater from 7pm on. I’ll be skipping the on-camera action this time because I’m hosting a little singles soiree at my place.

Watch this space for more about my eventful week. And if you’re interested in attending next week’s StyleFixx shopping party, I’ve got 9 free VIP tickets left! Email me at SingleGalInTheCity@gmail.com for info.

SATC2 At The Empire Hotel

After several days of shooting in studio, Sex And The City 2 was back on the streets of NYC today.

SATC2 took over the Empire Hotel on 63rd and Broadway. I saw some glammed up extras emerging from the hotel and caught a fleeting glimpse of Kim Cattrall. The ageless Samantha Jones looked fit and fabulous in slim fitting dark jeans, a beige jacket and matching boots.

Meanwhile, Sarah Jessica Parker delighted fans when she emerged from her trailer with smiles and a friendly wave.

SJP wowed the small crowd in front of her trailer

SJP even stopped briefly to wish one onlooker a happy birthday before returning to the set.

And in the best-kept-secret department, it seems there is more than just one sequel in the works. SATC2 extra Cayte Grieve told Blackbook magazine--

“There will be a Sex and the City 3. They are currently filming both SATC 2 and SATC 3, as told to me by a few other extras who overheard it from crew members.”

Looks like we’ll be enjoying the adventures of Carrie Bradshaw & Co. for years to come.

Single Gal Meets Neal B In NYC

Over the weekend, I had the pleasure of meeting fellow blogger and “Sex And The City” diehard fan Neal Bennington.

Bloggers and SATC Fans Unite: Neal and me in Central Park

Neal has attracted a big following for his fabulous photos and videos from the set of “Sex And The City 2.” He’s been profiled in the New York Daily News and recently appeared on “The Wendy Williams Show.”

We caught up at Lincoln Square on NYC’s Upper West Side, where we talked about the crazy crowds that SATC 2 is generating -- and our shared goal to score invites to the movie’s premiere next spring. Neal also interviewed me on-camera for his new blog, Neal B In NYC.

You can watch the video here or head on over to Neal’s blog to see his complete post about SGITC. His site is a fun read covering everything from celebrity dish and what’s happening in NYC to, of course, the latest about SATC 2. He’s definitely a rising star in the blogosphere.

Coming up…an appearance on “The Dr. Oz Show” and up close and personal with “The View” co-host Sherri Shepherd.

SGITC Perk: Sex And The City Tour

With excitement about SATC2 continuing to build, there couldn’t be a better time to check out the fabulous “Sex and the City” Hotspots tour. And I’m excited to report that On Location Tours is offering a 10% discount for Single Gal In The City readers on both SATC and “Gossip Girl” tour tickets!

On Carrie’s Stoop: (from right) Me, my dear friend Steve and his mom took this photo during the SATC Hotspots tour

I had the pleasure of doing the three-hour SATC tour a few years back. Led by actresses and stand-up comediennes who know the show inside and out, it covers more than 40 locations from the movie and the TV show -- including the bakery where Carrie and Miranda ate cupcakes, the shop where Charlotte bought her "Rabbit,” and the trendy Meatpacking District. The last stop – a round of cosmos at the bar owned by Aidan and Steve.

This week, SATC2 filmed on Fifth Avenue, near the Hotspots tour's departure point

The tour departs at 11am and 3pm daily in front of Pulitzer Fountain on Fifth Avenue. On Location Tours has also launched "Sex and the City" girlfriend getaways and bachelorette packages that include the tour of SATC Hotspots by limousine, dinner at a location used in the show, and admission to one of the nightclubs where scenes from the show were filmed.

To book your tickets for SATC Hotspots or the “Gossip Girl” tour, click here and enter discount code SINGLEGAL to receive a 10% discount.

Stay tuned for more SGITC perks…and the chance to win a pair of free SATC tour tickets!

Another Glimpse Of SATC2

Yesterday, I joined the throngs of onlookers in Midtown lined up to watch “Sex and the City 2” in action.

I managed to catch a glimpse of Sarah Jessica Parker and Kristin Davis filming a few takes of a breezy stroll in front of NYC’s legendary Plaza Hotel.

SJP and Kristin Davis on the set of SATC2

SJP rocked a semi-sheer white Halston dress that she also wore in scenes shot last week with Chris Noth. Kristin was at her Charlotte chic best in a bright pink Christian Dior skirt suit with a matching satchel and heels.

Primping between takes. Check out Kristin’s two-toned pumps!

After shooting wrapped for the day, Kristin flashed a smile and waved at fans. Despite being completely mobbed, SJP graciously did likewise and even stopped to sign autographs and pose for a few pictures.

SJP was all smiles for her adoring fans

Later, my SATC-themed fun continued when I had the chance to meet author Candace Bushnell at a book signing. More details about that coming up.

SATC2 continues filming today around 58th Street between 6th and 7th Avenue, and 59th Street between 5th Avenue and Madison. For the latest about SATC2, check out Cosmo Guy, the best source for “Sex and The City 2” news.

A New Season Begins

Now that Labor Day has come and gone and there’s a slight chill in the air, it feels like fall is officially here. And so far, the new season is shaping up to be an eventful one for Single Gal In The City.

Sex And The City 2: The Fab Four was reunited on set today. I’m hoping to catch them in action later this week.

This week, I’ll be stopping by the premiere party for Candace Bushnell’s new webisode series, "The Broadroom." Also on the calendar – going backstage at Fashion Week with the Dashing Diva crew, a second visit to the set of SATC 2 and a date with Ali, an adorable photographer that I met at my friend Cindy’s recent farewell to NYC party.

Ali has already managed to get me out of my comfort zone – a goal I’ve been pondering quite a bit since doing a radio interview last week on the subject. I took the initiative to ask him out. Technically, Ali made the first move by giving me his card as I left Cindy’s soiree. Though I figured it was a safe bet that he was interested, I still felt slightly daring in doing the asking.

Sometimes, it’s fun to break the rules.

A Visit To The Set of SATC2

Yesterday, I paid a visit to the set of “Sex And The City 2.”

Day two of the SATC2 shoot took place at a public school on NYC's Upper East Side. I caught a fleeting glimpse of Cynthia Nixon (Miranda) decked out in a sleeveless maroon dress and matching heels.

Also on set -- David Eigenberg (Steve) and young Joseph Pupo (Brady). David greeted his on-screen son, who's looking much more grown up now, with a big hug before heading inside for their scenes.

Back In Action: David Eigenberg (Steve) and Joseph Pupo (Brady)

Lynn Cohen (Magda) was as smiley and gracious as she was when I met her at the DVD launch party for “Sex And The City: The Movie.”

All Smiles: Lynn Cohen (Magda)

Later, I spotted SATC’s legendary costume designer Patricia Field in a funky bustier and hat ensemble.

Fashion Maven: Costume Designer Patricia Field

SATC2 is filming on 48th Street between Broadway and 8th Avenue today, and on Perry Street in NYC’s West Village tomorrow. For the latest about filming locations, check out my favorite go-to source, On Location Vacations.

Girls Night Out: Bounce Sports Bar

Friday night, I had the pleasure of catching up with my cousin Carla over drinks at Bounce, a lively sports bar and restaurant on NYC’s Upper East Side.

Bounce: A good place for happy hour and, on occasion, mingling with men who love sports

Bounce was serving up 2-for-1 happy hour specials, so I treated us to some flavorful frozen margaritas that tasted more like daiquiris (note: strawberry tops coconut here).

Carla and I hadn’t seen each other since the start of summer, so we had lots to talk about. Among the threads of conversation – moving on from no-good old flames, the inevitable expiration date of summer flings and the pleasures of a good meal.

Calories be damned, we indulged our gastronomic whims and headed over to nearby Cilantro for tasty Mexican fare. There’s no better way to start the weekend than over a shared plate of guacamole with one of your favorite people who just happens to also be family. Even if -- now that I’m in Single Gal slimdown mode -- it means spending more time at the gym.

Coming up…a long-awaited visit to the set of SATC2 and a trip to the US Open.

SATC2 Begins Filming

Break out the cosmos -- Carrie Bradshaw is back! Filming for the "Sex and the City" sequel officially kicked off today. Check out this fabulous photos of Sarah Jessica Parker wearing a semi-sheer white dress and gold Christian Louboutin heels.

In glancing at the background, it looks like SJP is standing in front of the location that served as Carrie and Big's dream penthouse in the first SATC movie.

The real-life address of their dream pad -- 1010 5th Avenue near 82nd Street. If you're in NYC and in that neck of the woods today, you might want to head over and maybe you'll spot SJP in action. If you do, be sure to let SGITC know!

Back In The Big Apple

Single Gal In The City is back! After a three-destination vacation, I’m happy to report that daily posts have resumed – and that the best of summer is yet to come.

From an exclusive look at “Project Runway: All-Star Challenge” and a visit to the set of SATC 2 to a glimpse inside one of NYC’s hottest spas, SGITC has plenty in store this month. And stay tuned for the chance to weigh in about recession dating and win an SGITC t-shirt!

Coming up…the singles vs. marrieds dilemma and a visit to the Buckeye State.

SGITC Takes A Break

I’m a big believer in the restorative power of travel. So far this year, I’ve been to Australia, Puerto Rico and, closer to home, Chicago, Kansas City and Norwich, Connecticut.

This week, I’m taking a vacation that will encompass three destinations -- Delaware, Ohio and The Hamptons -- and truly disconnecting. As part of my mission to unwind completely, Single Gal In The City will go on a slightly different schedule (temporarily), with new posts every other day.

During my downtime, I’ll be turning my attention to a little makeover for SGITC. Stay tuned for some fun new features -- including regular coverage of “Sex And The City 2” after filming in NYC begins August 19th.

In the meantime, Single Gal In The City wants to know: what would you like to see happen to Carrie & Co? I would love to join the fab four when they head across the pond to London for part of their on-screen adventures. A single gal can dream, can't she?

Drinks With A Celeb Mag Veteran

Wednesday night, I met up for drinks with Alex, deputy news editor for one of the top celebrity magazines, at Midtown bar and lounge Bogart’s.

Alex and I connected via phone a few weeks ago, after I submitted an email tip about the upcoming “Sex And The City” sequel. We discovered we had a few things in common -- a love of Australia and cynical take on celebrity journalism among them -- so it only seemed fitting to meet in person.

Bogart’s: This Midtown bar and restaurant on NYC's Park Avenue serves up a mixed crowd of suits and grizzled-looking types

Alex has seen it all in his 20+ years covering Hollywood’s bold-faced names. He admitted to work-induced Michael Jackson fatigue, but didn’t get a break from it since Bogart’s was playing a medley of MJ’s greatest hits while we imbibed.

We eventually moved on from the topics of the gloved one and TLC’s Jon and Kate divorce drama to Alex’s history as a musician and my ignorance when it comes to Led Zeppelin. We also talked briefly about the possibility of working together on some travel promotions with my clients. Synergy is a beautiful thing.

Happy Fourth, All!

SATC 2: The Countdown Begins

Ever since the big screen sequel to “Sex and The City” was confirmed, there’s been much speculation about what comes next for Carrie Bradshaw & Co.

While the guessing games continue, I’m excited to report some official news about when and where filming for SATC 2 will take place.

New Yorkers -- myself included -- excitedly watched as SATC: The Movie filmed in the Big Apple back in ‘07

I learned today that the two-month shoot kicks off in NYC on August 19th. And that cast and crew will also spend two weeks filming in the United Kingdom.

What will take the fabulous four across the pond? How will Carrie and the girls express their passions for labels and love during an era of mortgages instead of Manolos? I can’t wait to find out, and to be front and center when they take over the streets of NYC once again.

Flying Solo For A Night

For as much as I love an evening out with friends, sometimes it’s fun to fly solo and see where the night takes you. Last night, it took me down to NYC’s hip Meatpacking District.

After a quick bite at Chelsea Market, a vibrant arcade of food, wine and dessert shops, I went next door to Buddakan, the dazzling restaurant that hosted Carrie & Big’s rehearsal dinner in “Sex And The City.”

Carrie and Big: Like me, SATC’s star-crossed couple enjoyed a night out at Buddakan

As I sipped on a perfect cosmo at the bar, I found myself sitting next to a cute but frazzled-looking derivatives trader. He was anxiously checking his Blackberry and when seven of his clients appeared a few minutes later, I understood why. In this economy, if you’re lucky enough to have a job, it’s even more important to bring your A-game to it.

From Buddakan, I jumped on the subway and headed up to Midtown, where I strolled past a few women camped out (literally – with tents) in front of Barnes & Noble, hoping to secure admission to a Miley Cyrus book signing the following day. More power to them in this nippy weather. I would do the same to see my beloved Ricky Martin, though the longest I’ve lined up for him so far is 5 hours.

At home, following a 30-minute chat with the Match.com guy du jour, I continued watching the SATC movie with commentary from writer and exec producer Michael Patrick King. I smiled when the DVD cued up to none other than the aforementioned scenes at Buddakan. Filming for SATC 2 is scheduled to begin this fall – let the groupie activity begin!

Coming up…co-hosting happy hour at a hot Lower East Side nightspot and celebrating a friend’s birthday with a spa-dinner-karaoke trifecta.

Sex And The City: The Sequel

Last December, during a visit to the set of "Sex and The City," I overheard two security guards discussing plans for a sequel. This week, after months of rumors and speculation, Kim Cattrall (Samantha) confirmed that a sequel to the blockbuster film is indeed in the works.

For as much as this year’s big screen SATC installment had me smitten with Carrie & Co all over again, I can’t help thinking it will be a very tough act to follow. What could possibly come next for the fab four? Will they, as Cynthia Nixon (Miranda) hopes, embark on a madcap adventure? Is it possible Carrie, now that she’s finally Mrs. John James Preston, will follow in Miranda and Charlotte’s footsteps and take on motherhood?

As writer/producer Michael Patrick King ponders the next chapter for his beloved fictional females, I wonder if he’s caught TV Land’s hilarious take on SATC: the golden years (http://www.bestweekever.tv/2008/06/16/icymi-bea-arthur-is-carrie-bradshaw).

Golden Girl: Bea Arthur as Carrie Bradshaw in TV Land's hilarious SATC spoof

While it’s hard to imagine SATC crossing over into AARP territory, I’m excited for the summer of 2010, which is reportedly when the sequel will come out.

What storyline would you like to see in SATC 2? Post a comment and maybe we can give MPK some ideas. I don't know what he has in store for Carrie and the girls but, with girlfriends and cosmos in hand once again, I can’t wait to find out.