There is never an 'easy' way to lose weight. If you want to make the change, it's something you have to stick with. Always remember, it takes 4 weeks for you to notice a difference, 8 weeks for your close friends and family to notice and 12 weeks for the rest of the world to notice. It isn't easy.
When it comes down to it, the best and healthiest way is to exercise regularly, and eat healthy. However, eating healthy doesn't necessarily mean cut out all 'bad foods.' One small, properly portioned bowl of ice cream won't necessarily hurt you - where on the other hand, filling up on ice cream will. In order to have a healthy diet, proper proportion is key. There are several different meal plans that people use, however I keep mine simple. I try to eat 6 small healthy meals that consist of my daily intake of fruit, veggies, meat, etc., and make sure I am getting all the vitamins I need. For proportion, I fill half my plate of veggies, 1/4 protein, and 1/4 carbs. For snacks I have water and fruit. I generally try to cut out all sugary drinks.
To target a specific area, you would work specific muscles. In addition to some basic cardio, I would recommend finding a good ab work-out. There are several routines on Pinterest that are pretty good. Just remember that your stomach contains three (I think) different muscle groups in your abs, and they should all be worked out evenly.
Personally, what I have found best and the best results for me, is to join fitness classes that appeal to me. First, is that it will make it more enjoyable, because it's something you want to be doing. I tried going to the gym, doing home workouts, and I just didn't care for it. Two, there is a schedule for it, it makes you go to it at a specific time and day. Three, the financial cost is a motivator for me, you spend the money and you want the worth from it. Lastly, where I take my classes, they have built an incredibly supportive community that is built on the small accomplishments. I remember when I did my cross-back straddle for the first time on my own, I have never seen my instructor so happy for me. I was targeting toning my upper body and in four months I noticed a huge difference.
Remember though, if you want to keep the weight off there needs to be a lifestyle change. That's why healthy eating is so crucial.