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If you love bird-watching, put Chesapeake, Virginia, on the top of your list of places to visit. From wetlands to forests, the area offers several natural habitats that are a haven for local bird life. To experience the best bird-watching in Chesapeake, make sure you check out these top spots. 1. Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge For some unbeatable bird-watching in the area, you must head out to Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. This 49,097-acre refuge is home to over 200 species of migratory and native birds, including waxwings, grebes, barred owls, and starlings. If you're looking to catch a glimpse of the secretive Wayne's Warbler and Swainson's Warbler, you're best chance is in the Great Dismal Swamp. These birds are more common here than in other coastal regions. The best birding spots in the refuge are the Jericho Ditch and Washington Ditch trails. more 2. Elizabeth River Park With numerous benches along the water, Elizabeth River Park is the perfect spot to sit down, relax, and watch the water birds. Enjoy the antics of the gulls, look up to see if you can spot an osprey circling above, and watch as herons and egrets move stealthily through the weeds in search of fiddler crabs and small fish. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a red-tailed hawk flying by. 3. Chesapeake Arboretum Recognized as one of Virginia's Treasures, Chesapeake Arboretum is a great place to bird-watch. Keep your eyes toward the trees along three miles of trails to see nesting birds like robins, blue birds, and tyrant flycatchers. You'll notice many of the trees have labels so you can learn their names as well. This beautiful area includes 48-acres of hardwood forest and grounds all surrounding an eighteenth century farmhouse with fragrant gardens. 4. Northwest River Park The Department of Game and Inland Fisheries has included Northwest River Park as part of the Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail. No matter what time of year you visit the park for bird-watching, you're in for a treat. In spring, look on the ground for the ovenbird. This small songbird actually makes its nest on the forest floor instead of in the trees. Head to the park in winter and you might spot a bald eagle soaring above. Walk along the riverbank for a chance to see osprey, wood ducks, mallards, and great blue herons. 5. Oak Grove Lake Park The South Chesapeake Loop is part of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail and a section of it winds its way through Oak Grove Lake Park. With a 65-acre lake, wetlands, and a hardwood forest, this park provides an opportunity to see a unique assortment of birds. Catch a nuthatch flying through the pines or watch a great blue heron wading along the shore. Whether you're looking for forest birds or water birds, these beautiful spots around Chesapeake are the perfect place to go for an afternoon of bird-watching. https://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsnortheast/11800012685/sizes/l Image via Flickr by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Northeast Region

You've decided to buy a Toyota truck, a smart choice thanks to Toyota's legendary value, dependability, and rugged curb appeal. Now the big question remains — should you choose the Tacoma or the Tundra? Both have their advantages, so your decision should depend on what your purposes and motivations are. Price If budgetary concerns are a major factor, consider the MSRPs of these two trucks. The 2017 Tacoma starts at $24,210 for base models but retails for over $40,000 for higher-end trims such as the TRD Pro. The 2017 Tundra, on the other hand, starts at $30,020, with upper trims such as the Platinum in the $50,000 range. Don't disregard other financial considerations, such as the cost of insurance, which is naturally higher for the Tundra since it's a more expensive vehicle. Fuel efficiency is a vital long-term factor as well. The Tacoma gets 19 miles per gallon in the city and 23 on the highway when equipped with the fuel-efficient 2.7-liter four-cylinder. The Tundra gets about 14 mpg in the city and 18 on the highway when sporting the base 4.6-liter engine. more Size A big truck is handy for hauling, but a bit more difficult to park and maneuver. If most of your driving takes place in the city, the Tacoma may be a better choice. It's about half a foot slimmer than the Tundra, and around 17 inches shorter. Tundra long beds are about 3 feet longer than the Tacoma's. The Tundra also has a turning radius that's a couple of feet longer than the Tacoma, making U-turns more challenging. If you intend on loading lots of stuff in the back, Tundra is the clear winner. The Tundra short bed is a foot-and-a-half longer, over two feet wider, and 3 inches deeper than the Tacoma's bed. Opting for a Tundra long bed gives you a 3-foot advantage over the Tacoma. Performance The Tacoma and Tundra differ vastly in terms of power and hauling capabilities. The base Tacoma gets 159 horsepower, with larger engines pushing out 278 horses. A basic Tundra starts off at 310 horses but can crank out up to 381. Both trucks are available in a TRD trim for off-roading purposes. Payload capacity may be a factor for you, especially if the truck will be used for construction or heavy-duty hauling. The Tacoma is no slouch, capable of payloads ranging from 1,120 to 1,620 pounds depending on trim, engine size, and features. The Tundra, however, can haul at least 1,440 pounds, with a whopping 2,080-pound payload capacity at the upper end. Both trucks are awesome for towing, with some trims offering tow packages and integrated trailer brake controllers as standard features. The Tacoma can pull up to 3,500 pounds. If you have serious towing, however, consider the Tundra. It can tow anywhere from 6,400 to 10,500 pounds. While it's tempting to decide by flipping a coin, there are better ways to choose between these two excellent trucks. It's all a matter of what you need from your new pickup. With a wealth of trim and accessory options, you're sure to get exactly what you want. MSRP excludes the Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee of $865 for cars, $940 for small/medium trucks (Sienna, RAV4 Gas, RAV4 Hybrid, Highlander Gas, Highlander Hybrid, 4Runner & Tacoma), $1095 for Large SUVs (Sequoia, Land Cruiser) and $1195 for Large Truck (Tundra) (Historically, vehicle is called the “Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee and is based on the value of the processing, handling and delivery services Toyota provides as well as Toyota’s overall pricing structure. Toyota may make a profit on the Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee.) Excludes taxes, license, title and available or regionally required equipment. The Delivery, processing and Handling Fee in AL, AR, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, OK. SC & TX will be higher. Actual dealer price will vary. Image via Toyota.com

There's no better way to rekindle the love in your life than with an escape to a new place for your romantic pursuits. Besides, your home may not include a walk-in steam shower, Victorian furniture, or gourmet breakfasts made to order. If you're looking for a titillating getaway without springing for an airplane ticket, look no further than the wide selection of romantic inns found in the Norfolk area. Beach Spa Bed & Breakfast Located three blocks from the sand in nearby Virginia Beach, this award-winning inn offers eight tasteful and luxurious guest rooms. Some of the amenities include a 24-hour coffee and tea bar, a two-course breakfast with Bloody Mary or mimosa, complimentary afternoon snacks and beverages, and an outside spa pool with heated waterfall massage. If you're a vegan, gluten-free, eating Atkins or Paleo, or have any allergies, they're happy to accommodate special breakfast requests. Spa services feature Dr. Hauschka products and include massage techniques such as hot stone, sports, Reiki, aromatherapy, Swedish, and deep-tissue. Their most popular offering is their couples massage, perhaps the most intimate way to connect with your partner without actually touching one another. Spa services at Beach are exclusively for registered guests, ensuring a private and intimate experience. more Freemason Inn Bed & Breakfast This bed and breakfast is located in a gorgeous Victorian home that's been fully renovated. The quaint neighborhood is home to quiet, tree-lined cobblestone streets. Freemason is mere steps away from downtown Norfolk and destinations like the Chrysler Museum of Art, Pagoda Garden, and Town Point Park. Freemason offers four guest suites, each with its own look and tasteful appointments. Depending on your choice, you'll have access to romantic amenities such as gas fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs, and in-room sitting areas. Their scrumptious meals are enjoyed in either the elegant dining room or the lovely garden patio. Freemason's garden is a perfect place for weddings, celebrations, and special events of all kinds. Even if you're not getting married during your stay, book the Wishing Oak Bridal Suite and pretend! Page House Inn This historic four-star bed and breakfast is right next door to the Chrysler Museum of Art and its romantic collection of Tiffany glass. Complete your getaway with a visit to the Virginia Opera, Virginia Symphony, or Broadway Theatre at Chrysler Hall, all within walking distance to Page House. Relax in the rockers on the expansive front porch, enjoy 24-hour complimentary fresh fruit, candy, beverages, and snacks, and sample fresh-baked cookies, iced tea, and lemonade every afternoon in the parlor. Select from seven rooms and suites, each with its own distinctive style. Canopy beds, gas fireplaces, fully stocked in-room wet bars, bay window seating, whirlpool and steam baths, bidets, claw-foot tubs, and bright skylights are all found among their accommodations. For a truly special evening (and morning), try one of these lovely bed and breakfasts. It's a perfect way to rejuvenate your minds, bodies, and relationship. Both you and your partner will walk away relaxed and joyful. Perhaps you'll decide to move in permanently! https://www.flickr.com/photos/matt-davis/1461738820/sizes/l Image via Flickr by matt.davis

The winter months can really do a number on your car or truck. Slush, rain, road salt and more can damage your vehicle's paint, ruin its tires, and trash the seats and carpet. To maintain your car's value and ensure years of comfort and convenience, a good spring cleaning is critical. Prepare Before You Begin First off, strip your car's interior down to the bone. Remove all items, clean out the glove box, and empty the trunk. Winter-only articles such as scrapers and shovels can be removed and stored away for next year. Remove the floor mats so you can hose them off and hang them to dry. more Detail the Interior Completely and Carefully Vacuum up any dirt from the interior, especially between the seats and cushions. Use a soft brush attachment to suck up dust and grit from the dash buttons, so when you wipe them down later you won't press dirt into the tiny crevices surrounding each button. Wipe down the dash, door panels, center console, and any other non-cloth surfaces with a cleaning protectant such as Armor All. Never spray directly on the area to be cleaned, but on your wiping cloth instead. Clean the seats and carpet using slightly watered-down carpet cleaning solution. For tougher stains, consider picking up a can of foaming carpet cleaner from your local auto parts store. Finish off with some air freshener. Instead of spray bottles full of chemicals, consider a few drops of essential oil. It's natural and lasts longer, too. Be careful about where it's applied, since essential oils can stain or discolor some surfaces. Remember, Your Paint Isn't a Load of Dishes If you've driven in areas with snowfall, chances are you have salt residue underneath your car. This can eat away at metal and other surfaces, so give your car a good spraying underneath. When washing your car's exterior, it's tempting to just squirt some dish soap into a bucket and add water. This is inadvisable because it can cloud or damage your car's paint. Instead, find a good car wash solution. When you're finished, don't let your car air-dry. Hard water deposits are unsightly and bad for your paint. Instead, use a cloth or a chamois to dry. If your paint is contaminated with grit, tree sap, or dead bugs, or it simply doesn't have the deep glow you used to enjoy, consider waxing or using rubbing compound. This is a risky affair since you don't want to strip your paint's clear coat and leave it vulnerable to UV rays. You may want to spring for a professional detailer to buff out the paint for you. Take good care of your wheels and rims. Wheel cleaner does a great job of removing brake dust and grime without endless scrubbing. Be sure to clean the rims before you wash the car, since you don't want these powerful cleaners (or the muck it loosens from your wheels) on your paint job.  Dress your tires with protectant to prevent cracking and extend their lives. Spring cleaning for your car is necessary, so make it fun! Recruit a friend or family member to help, pop open some cold refreshments, crank up some tunes, and give your four-wheeled buddy a well-deserved spa treatment. https://www.flickr.com/photos/colinob/2220337440/sizes/l Image via Flickr by ColoradoColin

Home to the first British colony, Virginia has the longest history of any state in the union. It's perhaps no surprise that some of the finest museums in the country are located here. Many of them are found in Norfolk, and there's a museum to match the interests of just about anyone. Hunter House Victorian Museum Travel back in time to an era rich in art and culture, without the pesky cholera. What began in 1894 as a family home was turned into a museum when the last surviving family member passed away and willed that her home should be operated as such. Furniture, rich tapestries, musical instruments, silverware, artwork, and lush gardens are a mere sample of what's on display. The museum shop features amazing jewelry, stationery, books, and more. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $1 for children. One-hour guided tours are offered April through December. The museum sometimes closes for special events, so it's best to contact them before visiting. Please note that strollers and interior photography are not permitted. more Chrysler Museum of Art The Chrysler is a massive museum that covers a vast variety of art, including painting, sculpture, photography, and more. Glassmaking is something of a specialty at the Chrysler, and the Perry Glass Studio hosts free demonstrations every day at noon (except Monday). The "You Draw It, We Make It" board often serves as a muse for these master glass crafters. You can even sign up for a glassmaking class. Popular destinations include the Ancient Worlds exhibit replete with Egyptian mummies, the kids' art station where they can create their own masterpieces, the Art Nouveau furniture, the Tiffany glass pieces, and the modern pop art collection. Admission is free, and the museum is open every day, with limited hours on weekends. Hermitage Museum & Gardens For a more peaceful and introspective visit, try the Hermitage. Its lush 12-acre garden is a lovely place to unwind. You'll see sublime statuary, wetlands, rose gardens, and fountains. Of note are the antique millstones that have been collected and placed as decorations all around the grounds. In all, over 100 of them can be found. Inside, you'll find the extensive Sloane Collection, an assemblage of over 40,000 pieces representing the art and culture of more than 30 countries. Some of these masterpieces are thousands of years old. Hermitage Museum is open every day except Monday, and house tours are available at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for students, military, and kids ages 5 to 12. Members and children under 5 are free. Weddings and other events are sometimes hosted here, so be sure to plan ahead. The gardens are a delightful place to take photographs for your own special occasion. Check their photography policies page for details. For those interested in art, culture, and history, Norfolk is an excellent place to be. Visiting your local museum is a delightful blend of enlightenment, entertainment, and education, and the country's best museums are just a short drive away. https://www.flickr.com/photos/navycrackerjack74/2238518546/sizes/o/ Image via Flickr by L. Allen Brewer

Don't be unprepared when Valentine's Day rolls around. The wide selection of great romantic venues in Norfolk means there's plenty to choose from to create the perfect Valentine's celebration with the one you love. Enjoy a Romantic Cruise Spirit Cruises offer a few choices for a romantic cruise. Choose from an Early Valentine's Dinner Cruise, a Valentine's Brunch Cruise, or a Valentine's Day Dinner Cruise. The cruises include gorgeous views, entertainment, delicious buffet style menus, and the Valentine Dinner Cruises include a champagne toast. You can also upgrade to a platinum package that includes roses, keepsake flutes, a full bottle of champagne, a designated table, and a guaranteed window table if desired. more Dine on Italian Fare at Luce Located in downtown Norfolk, Luce is a fine Italian restaurant perfect for a romantic Valentine's dinner. Fresh, seasonal ingredients are used, and the menu includes creative salads, sandwiches, and entrees. Visitors can enjoy carefully created dishes such as Red Wine Braised Short Rib Garganelli, Roasted Breast of Chicken with Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts, Roasted Duck Breast with Lentils and Huckleberries, and Seared Gulf Snapper with Baby Bok Choy, Pomegranate, and Prawn Glace. For a special treat, consider the nine-course chef's tasting menu. Luce's extensive wine selections were awarded the Wine Spectator's Best of Excellence Award. Take in a Concert at The NorVa A premier musical venue, The NorVa has exceptional entertainment as well as seating and viewing areas that offer the perfect ambiance for a romantic evening together. When visitors choose the Get in Early option, dining is available in the FM Restaurant and they can get early access to the facility 15 minutes before its doors open to the general public. This provides the perfect opportunity to secure cozy seating with your sweetheart before the show. View Exhibits at D'Art A quiet, intimate stroll through the Norfolk's D'Art Center will allow you to enjoy the beauty and wonder of professional artists' work while you enjoy one another's company. Admission to view the artwork is free. For those who prefer a more active date, sign up for a class or workshop together and have fun learning about techniques in oil paint, watercolor, drawing, pottery, ceramic design, fiber assemblage, mixed media, and more. See a Film at The Naro For movie lovers, The Naro offers an excellent choice for a romantic evening filled with great film artistry. The theater features state-of-the-art digital sound and production, and classic and independent films, along with a monthly showing of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. The highly rated theater has an old-fashioned feel that's ideal for a romantic Valentine's evening. Prices, films, and show times vary, but visitors can check their website for the latest showings and events. Discount ticket books are also available on The Naro's website. Whether you're looking for a simple place to stroll and explore, the adventure of a concert, or a unique and special dinner together on a cruise ship or a specialty restaurant, Norfolk is full of excellent options to make your Valentine's Day unforgettable. https://www.flickr.com/photos/39908901@N06/9079558849/sizes/l Image via Flickr by m01229

Toyota cars, trucks, and vans are some of the best-selling vehicles on the planet, ensuring reliable and consistent engineering, low prices, and stellar customer service. However, with so many Toyotas on the road, one can feel a bit conformist at times. Break free by adding genuine Toyota accessories. You'll have a more personalized and engaging driving experience as a result. There are a ton of customizations to choose from. Paint Protection Film OK, this accessory may not help your vehicle to stand out — it's completely transparent — but it's an excellent way to maximize resale value. Professional installers apply custom-fitted pieces of clear urethane film to the hood, fenders, and front bumper that protect against harmful UV light, grit, and road debris that can damage your paint. Like an invisible dragon that follows you wherever you go, paint protection film has you covered. more Step boards and Running Boards The high ground clearance of your Tundra or Tacoma is great when you're off-roading, but climbing in and out of your truck can be a bit difficult for some. Consider adding one of Toyota's many custom steps beneath the doors. Predator tube steps are crafted in durable aluminum and have black powder coating. Cast aluminum running boards feature slip-resistant coating. Round or oval tube steps are available with either chrome plating or black powder-coat. Brushed stainless steel step boards are both beautiful and functional. Roof Racks Besides adding style and protection to roof lines that can be a bit vanilla in appearance, roof racks are an awesome way to increase the functionality of your Toyota. With the ability to carry about 150 pounds of oversized cargo, you'll never need to cram sporting gear or large boxes into the back of your car or SUV. This is especially handy for families, as the luxury of reconfiguring the rear seats to accommodate extra cargo isn't an option. Aftermarket roof racks can be both unreliable and clumsy-looking, so choosing a genuine Toyota rack is a smart choice. All-Weather Floor Liners Opting for cheaper aftermarket floor mats is tempting, but they won't boast the durability and safety of genuine Toyota accessories. These custom-fitted mats will not only protect every inch of your original carpet, but they're crafted to stay exactly where they're supposed to. Shifting floor mats are a safety hazard, as they can obstruct moving parts such as gas and brake pedals. Toyota mats are designed to fasten or clip exactly into place. The custom-molded logo adds a welcome splash of class. Performance Chrome Exhaust Not only will you show the world that you mean business, a TRD performance exhaust will improve the efficiency and power of your Toyota. When exploded fuel gasses are pushed out of your engine's block, resistance (known as back pressure) forces your motor to work harder for the next cylinder stroke. Performance exhaust systems help overcome this obstacle. Plus, they look and sound awesome. Adding genuine Toyota accessories is an excellent way to enhance the functionality of your ride, increase its value, and truly make it your own. The folks at Priority Toyota's parts department are ready to help. Call them at 757-366-5010 or search for parts online, and they'll take care of everything! https://www.flickr.com/photos/72637915@N03/16468191775/sizes/l Image via Flickr by ilikewaffles11

Whether you've been married for 50 years or you just started dating a month ago, couples always need a romantic place to enjoy an intimate meal together. Chesapeake already boasts some of the finest restaurants in the state, so if you're looking for a quiet spot to talk, dine, and laugh together, the perfect destination is just a short drive away. Passion The Restaurant With a name like "Passion," it's no wonder that this award-winning eatery tops our list. With its mellow, classy atmosphere, dim lighting, and exposed ceiling beams, Passion is a delightful place for your date night. Gourmet dishes at Passion include rack of lamb, crab soup, New York strip steak, fresh seafood, and Virginia crab cakes. Every dish is carefully assembled and presented. Desserts are a specialty here, and folks rave about the white chocolate bread pudding and homemade ice cream. more Ddeb's - A Taste of Home Restaurant Located in the downtown Great Bridge area, this restaurant more than defines "home cooking." It's actually a house that's been converted into a restaurant. You won't find a privacy-defiling open-seating configuration here. Each of the cozy rooms only holds a couple of tables. Relax in the waiting area (formerly a living room) replete with armchairs and a fireplace. Once you're seated among the tastefully chosen decor, indulge in gourmet comfort food that includes shrimp and grits, chicken and dumplings, and meatloaf. Alternately, choose from more "date-appropriate" selections such as chicken Marsala, seafood, linguine, or beef stroganoff. The dessert menu is small, but the hand-picked selections are out of this world. Amber Lantern Restaurant Take a stroll amongst the waterfront fountains to engage the appetite, and step into the Amber Lantern just as the sun hits the water. You and your partner will be treated to a gorgeous sunset outside the huge windows. Better yet, if weather permits, sit at an outside patio table and behold the sun melting into the horizon. Inside, the oversized windows aren't conducive to low, cozy lighting but do offer lovely views of the water and surrounding countryside. Decor is breezy and classy with a touch of flair. Indulge in dishes such as lobster bisque, Mediterranean chicken, and what some say are the best crab cakes in the state. End your experience with one of their signature desserts, like the lemon berry mascarpone cake. Baker's Crust With dim, romantic lighting, muted glass, the exposed brick-oven kitchen, and rich mahogany, Baker's Crust is the picture of romance. It's mostly table seating here, so call ahead to reserve a booth for intimate dining and conversation. Baker's Crust has a small bar that is tastefully tucked away in a corner of the restaurant. Some of the farm-to-table dinner specialties include Hawaiian flat-iron steak, Atlantic salmon, and Asiago chicken. You can opt for burgers or pizza, however, and still receive a beautifully presented gourmet "date-worthy" dish. They boast an extensive dessert menu with crepes, cheesecake, praline bread pudding, and more. Thanks to Chesapeake's love of fine food, a romantic dinner getaway is never far from home. Any one of these fine establishments will ensure the perfect evening for both of you. https://www.flickr.com/photos/vastateparksstaff/29413751820/sizes/l Image via Flickr by vastateparksstaff

If you know what green beans are, why burr grinders are superior, and the difference between a pour-over and an espresso, then chances are you're a caffeine junkie. Norfolk is a great place to get your fix, as it's home to some of the best coffeehouses in the state. The most difficult part is choosing from this vast array of excellent locales. Fair Grounds As the oldest independent coffeehouse in town, Fair Grounds is a benevolent king on his throne, dispensing coffee and good vibes to all of his subjects. Every coffee served is Fair Trade Certified, so you can be proud that you're supporting global equality and responsible purchasing. Fair Grounds has a quieter, more relaxed vibe than most coffeehouses, making it a great place to read, study, or have an intimate conversation with a friend. It also boasts an extensive menu that includes veggie burgers, sandwiches, and baked goods. Fair Grounds supports the local community of musicians and artists, and open-mic nights are held here regularly. It also has its own parking lot, unlike some of the competition. Fair Grounds' hours are also a bit more extensive than other coffeehouses in the area. The coffeehouse is open until 10 p.m. on Sunday and until 11 p.m. the rest of the week. more Cafe Stella For a more upscale experience, try Cafe Stella. The decor, a mix of modern and vintage, is a bit fancier than most, yet the prices remain quite reasonable. Best of all, Cafe Stella roasts its own beans in tiny batches. You can buy whole-bean coffee to take home, and Cafe Stella uses only reusable and recyclable packaging. There's even a small shop that sells vintage items, art, coffee paraphernalia, and home furnishings. Cafe Stella's menu is diverse, including salads and soups of the day, fresh-baked pizza, brown rice bowls with pan-seared salmon, and a variety of grilled sandwiches and burgers. They bake their own pastries daily, right on the premises. When the weather is pleasant, you can enjoy your gourmet meal and coffee in the outdoor seating area. Cure Coffeehouse and Brasserie Proudly serving Counter Culture brand coffee, this airy and spacious coffeehouse has a distinct advantage over some other venues. Beer! Cure has local craft beer in bottles and on tap, and it serves wine as well. Pieces from local artists hang on the walls, live music is featured regularly, and it boasts a small library. Expect a young, hip crowd with a friendly vibe. Besides the staple caffeine and alcohol, Cure has extensive menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus a weekend brunch menu that's good until 2 p.m. Folks rave about the mac & cheese, Reuben sandwich, spinach quinoa burger, house-smoked chicken salad, and Cuban sandwich with house-smoked BBQ pork. With choices like these just a short walk or drive away, there's no reason to sit at home with your room-temperature toaster pastry and cup of instant coffee. Support your local independent coffeehouse and get your caffeine fix, all in one trip! https://www.flickr.com/photos/infomastern/19435425450/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Infomastern

Too many bars nowadays only care about the libations and forget about the music. Tired of digital jukeboxes cranking out overplayed Journey songs that you can barely hear above the din of conversation? Sick of poorly screeched Neil Diamond songs on karaoke night? Then check out one of these awesome Norfolk bars where great live music is still embraced and treasured. Hell's Kitchen Hell's Kitchen has its finger on the pulse of downtown Norfolk. They pride themselves on their great food, bad attitudes, and blisteringly loud live music. They've been rocking the downtown scene for nearly two decades, and they're here to stay! Exposed brick, grungy wall decor, and red everywhere gives Hell's Kitchen a tough-as-nails, yet fun-loving vibe. Did we mention that it's really loud? Live music can be found here on Friday and Saturday nights. Food at Hell's Kitchen is as good as the tunes are. Going way beyond mere bar food, they serve up delicacies such as teriyaki tenderloin steak, seafood nachos, buffalo flounder sandwiches, hand-cut sirloin steak, blackened tuna, and jumbo-lump Maryland crab cakes. There's a kickin' vegan menu as well, replete with plant-based "meats." more Gershwin's For a classier outing, try Gershwin's in the heart of the theater district. Gershwin's is tricked out in Roaring '20s Manhattan decor, so don't be surprised if someone in a top hat refers to you as "old sport." Yes, you may actually want to dress up a bit. Gershwin's has live music every night of the week, but don't expect a Nirvana cover band. You'll enjoy laid-back jazz, piano music, and American standards like Frank Sinatra and Cole Porter. Servers in tuxedos bring the libations, with cocktails as the specialty of the house. Think smoked whiskey, cucumber-infused gin, and cherry bourbon. Imagine Sidecars, Manhattans, and Singapore Slings. Gershwin's is also a fabulous place to dine. Try the linguine, grilled pork chops, or New York Strip Steak au Poivre. On Sundays, Gershwin's hosts one of the best brunches in Norfolk. The Tap House Grill As its name implies, Tap House is a great place to try a vast array of local, craft, and mainstream brews. They've been serving up the suds for more than 20 years, and currently have about 50 beers on tap and hundreds of bottles available. Believe it or not, most beer contains animal products of some kind. Vegans need not worry since Tap House has both beer and menu items for them. Carnivores will be happy here as well since Tap House serves some of the best burgers in town. Tap House doesn't have a website, so it can be hard to track its upcoming bands, but information can be found on their Facebook page. Live music is here on most Saturdays, many Fridays, and occasionally on other days of the week. Live music, depending on the selection, can bring you anything from a meditative state of tranquility to a massive shot of adrenaline in your jugular vein. Whatever you're looking for, Norfolk has it. Get on out and get your tunes on! https://www.flickr.com/photos/blackroompictures/23009355912/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Black Room Photography

The best-selling Toyota Camry is a smart choice for any driver in the Chesapeake area. But what if you're looking for better fuel economy or cutting-edge technology? Find out how the 2017 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid compare, and decide on the right vehicle for your family. Fuel Economy When it comes to fuel economy, the difference is clear. The 2017 Camry Hybrid gets an estimated 42 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. This model's energy monitor shows how the vehicle is using the gas engine, the electric motor, and the hybrid battery, so you can make sure you're always on track. In comparison, the 2017 Toyota Camry gets an estimated 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. While it isn't as efficient as the hybrid model, the standard Camry still performs remarkably well on the highway. more Performance The 2017 Toyota Camry boasts impressive power, thanks to a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 268 horsepower. With its Electric Power Steering, recalibrated shocks, and superior high-speed control, this model also offers great handling. Hybrids aren't generally known for their performance or agility, but the Camry Hybrid gives the gas-powered model a run for its money. Thanks to its Hybrid Synergy Drive, the Camry Hybrid has a combined output of 200 horsepower. Like the gas-powered Camry, the hybrid model makes the most of lightweight materials and an aerodynamic design for excellent handling no matter the driving conditions. Trim Levels If you're looking for a wide range of trim levels to choose from, set your sights on the Camry, which offers four options. The Camry LE is the base model, yet it manages to stand out with features like a 6.1-inch touch screen, an eight-way power driver's seat, and a backup camera. The Camry XSE is the top trim level and includes everything from 18-inch alloy wheels to available Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging. The Camry Hybrid offers just three trim levels, the LE, the SE, and the XLE. The base trim level features EV and ECO Modes and a Smart Key System, while the top trim level includes multi-stage heated front seats with leather trim and an available technology package. Safety Features With awards like a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ nod from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), you can rest assured that the Camry is one of the safest vehicles on the road. Since both the gas-powered and the hybrid models offer similar safety features, you can stay safe no matter which you choose. Both come standard with 10 airbags and the Star Safety System, which includes Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Brake Assist, and more. Upgrade to a higher trim level for the option to add Safety Connector Blind Spot Monitor to either model. Whether you want to drive the latest model of a classic vehicle or you want to make the most of hybrid technology, there's a Toyota Camry for you. Will you opt for the tried-and-true Camry or get behind the wheel of a Camry Hybrid? https://www.flickr.com/photos/albargan/10707486185/sizes/l Image via Flickr by AlBargan

No matter the season, Chesapeake, Virginia, is a wonderful place to live. Get your bearings and learn about the city's highlights with this guide for new Chesapeake residents. Start With the Essentials Moving to a new place can be overwhelming, even if you're just relocating from a nearby city like Norfolk or Hampton. Fortunately, Chesapeake makes it easy to get acclimated. Whether you need to update your driver's license, apply for a business license, or license your pets, you'll find all the information you need on the City of Chesapeake website. That's also the most convenient place to find information about trash collection, public libraries, and local regulations. more Discover Coastal Virginia's History Coastal Virginia boasts some of the nation's earliest history, and you can experience it right in the heart of Chesapeake. At Battlefield Park, you can learn about the Battle of Great Bridge through a number of facilities. Take your own self-guided tour along the interpretive historic pathway, see the 1775 recreation of the causeway, or catch a show at the outdoor auditorium. You can also enjoy an outdoor meal in the family picnic area or schedule a free docent-led tour. Explore the Great Outdoors Chesapeake has an impressive park system with spaces that are ideal for exercise, relaxation, and fun. Not sure where to start? Set your sights on Chesapeake City Park, a 90-acre park with 60 acres of open space and several amenities. Young kids will love exploring the Fun Forest playground, while older kids will have a blast at the skate park. Kids of all ages will appreciate the horseshoe courts, and if you're lucky, you might even catch an event like the Chesapeake Jubilee. Right off the Intracoastal Waterway, Great Bridge Lock Park is a 19-acre site with a walking trail, playground, boat ramp, and a fishing and crabbing area. This is the ideal place to spot boats, yachts, and other watercraft using this waterway, which spans the entire East Coast. Shop Till You Drop Whether you need to stock up on the basics or you're seeking some retail therapy, great shopping options are a must. Hop in the car, and you'll find plenty of shopping in the greater Chesapeake area. Both Chesapeake Square Mall and Greenbrier Mall have the department stores you love. Nearby, Towne Place at the Greenbrier features over 150,000 square feet of shops, restaurants, and outdoor recreation space, all of which is great for families. Join Local Events From festivals to concerts to markets, Chesapeake has no shortage of events. Meet your neighbors and buy local produce, herbs, eggs, meats, honey, and baked goods at the city's farmers markets, which run from mid-June through Thanksgiving. In October, the Chesapeake Wine Festival celebrates the region's longstanding wine industry with a series of wine tastings and food pairings. Also in October, the Waterways Heritage Festival commemorates the rich heritage that lives in Chesapeake's Intracoastal Waterway with a variety of demonstrations, interactive activities, and storytelling. Mark your calendar, gas up the car, and get ready to enjoy all that Chesapeake has to offer. https://www.flickr.com/photos/armyengineersnorfolk/9817626196/sizes/l Image via Flickr by norfolkdistrict