scubish.com: Scuba diving Boulder - Colorado - USA

Understand

These days, Boulder wears several hats: as a university town, home of the University of Colorado at Boulder and others; as a hi-tech town that is rapidly spawning bedroom communities in outlying farm towns; and as a center of alternate culture, with various new age institutions, Naropa University, meditation centers, Buddhist centers, and the like. What perhaps distinguishes it most from other cities of similar size in the United States, however, is its status as a mecca for serious athletes, many of whom have made their home here for the conditioning advantages of high altitude, combined with businesses, facilities, and a community that provide opportunities for serious training and competition. Even the average nine-to-fiver Boulderite is much more likely than the average American to be a serious cyclist, runner, skier, etc., and you will see the difference as you're about town.

Boulder is placed in the Front Range region of Colorado here, even though it is virtually contiguous with Denver. This reflects the reality that it's the "front door" to the mountainous country to the west, with many outdoor attractions, and also the fact that there are all manner of cultural differences between Boulder and Denver.

Eat

Rhumba, . (CLOSED as of early 2007) Located on the west end of Pearl St. (near Pearl and 10th), Rhumba features great Caribbean food, drinks, and music on certain nights. Don't leave witout trying a Mojito--a blend of rum, soda water, sugar, mint, and lime. For bold types, the famous Brazilian cocktail known as the caiparinia is a must and worth the money.

Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse, . A great place to enjoy a cup of tea and enjoy architecture from half way around the world. The food is moderately portioned and deliciously prepared. In the summers, outside dining is available, and when the rose garden is in bloom it is amazing.

Illegal Pete's, . A favorite for students of CU-Boulder, there is a location on "The Hill," close to Jones Drugs, across the street from the CU Economics Building, and one on the far east side of the Pearl Street Mall. Economically priced, very generously proportioned Mexican food and beer.

West End Tavern, . The classic American tavern is reborn! The rooftop deck is open (weather permitting), affording remarkable views of the Flatirons beneath 300 days of sunshine a year. Visit the Boulder locals' favorite for a cold brew and some good eats.

Brasserie 1010, . For a more expensive meal, visit Brasserie 1010, on Walnut Street downtown, where french-inspired cuisine is served in an elegant setting with delicious daily specials.

Hapa Sushi, . Located on the Pearl Street Mall, Hapa is a cosmoptolitan sushi house with japanese influences. Reasonably priced, watch as sushi chefs prepare your meal at the sushi bar. For the best deals, go to Hapa Hour, from 10 p.m. and later on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, when house drinks are $3 and many of the simpler rolls are 2/$5.50. Also, be sure...