There are so many great places to live in Houston that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.

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As a busy mom of two who is often on the go, Angela Chiang understands the importance of not sitting in traffic. That's why she's extra grateful to live and work in the Tanglewood area of Houston.

"It is a fantastic city-centric area, ultra convenient with something for everyone. The location and charm really draw people in to the area," the real estate agent says. "Whether it be Tanglewood, Briargrove, Broad Oaks, Westhaven Estates, or Briarcroft, people are coming to live here for the excellent location near parks, schools, shopping, dining, and grocery stores. Most people are incredibly busy with jobs and family, so sitting in traffic isn't usually an option."

In her 11 years as an agent with Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty, Chiang has consistently had listings and buyers in the Tanglewood area.

This prime location boasts streets that are lined with gorgeous, mature trees and generous landscaping.

Excellent schools are also nearby, including T.H. Rogers, Duchesne Academy, Kinkaid, Mandarin Immersion Magnet School, Second Baptist, St. Francis Episcopal, St. Martin's, and Briargrove Elementary.

Chiang, who speaks both English and Mandarin Chinese, recently moved to the Tanglewood area with her husband and two young children. Previously, the family had lived in nearby Camp Logan, in the Memorial Park area, for 15 years.

Chiang shared a few of her personal favorites about life in the Tanglewood area. Here's her guide:

Where to eat & drink
"Grabbing lunch that is quick and delicious is key on those days where you don't have the bandwidth to decide the age-old question of 'what should I eat today,'" Chiang says. "Trinity Thai is my go-to lunch spot. They offer online ordering, curbside pickup typically within 10 minutes, friendly service, and some of the best Thai food in the city for $10-$12. Lunch is my opportunity to enjoy my love for spicy food because my kids are at school and I don't have to share!"

Chiang also calls out Kenny and Ziggy's, Buffalo Grille, Uchiko, Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, Caracol, burger-chan, Roegels Barbecue, Killen's STQ, Chama Gaucha, Craft Pita, and Rocambolesc Gelateria as delicious dining destinations.

"One unique thing that this area offers is six grocery stores in a two-mile radius: Trader Joe's, HEB San Felipe, two Whole Foods Markets, Kroger, and Randalls," offers Chiang.

Where to play
Catch live music at The Rustic or an al-fresco flick at Rooftop Cinema Club, Chiang recommends, or browse all the shops at The Galleria.

For nature and exercise, she gives special notice to The Houstonian, Houston Country Club, Trotter YMCA, and Memorial Park.

What to see
The Christmas lights are especially magical in Tanglewood, says Chiang.

Where to live
"Typical homes in the Tanglewood area are designed by top architects on large lots, lined with towering live oak trees and lush landscaping," the agent says. "From original one-story bungalows to newer construction single-family homes, there are a variety of styles, from traditional, modern, Spanish, English, and more. When describing the neighborhood, the word 'classic' comes to mind."

In addition to the single-family homes, the area also encompasses patio homes, luxury high-rises, and townhomes, providing something for everyone.

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Angela Chiang works and plays in the Tanglewood area. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email angela.chiang@sothebyshomes.com, or call 832-212-1446.