Every time summer rolls around (or we get to thinking about where we’ll be holidaying when the sun’s out this year), we have to talk about Ibiza. Once a destination for all-night dancing and severe hangovers, the island has had quite the rebrand in recent years, with an influx of wellness businesses and digital nomads looking for laptop sun traps.
And it’s never been all about the nightlife, really – the north side of the island has always been a beautiful retreat for those in the know. These days, for us, the chill does tend to outweigh the clubbing – so here’s our round up of the best places on the island to do it.
This hotel was made for Instagram – check out that millennial pink. Each of the rooms at the Paradiso has Marshall speakers, a Smeg fridge and colorful furniture characteristic of the 70s. The hotel also has its own gallery that hosts three exhibitions per peak season.
Surrounded by orchards, 450 olive trees and fragrant fruit trees, this romantic 19th-century farmhouse is whitewashed in classic Ibiza style and offers just 10 rooms. It’s an excellent base for exploring the countryside and the pool is gigantic. The head chef is from Valencia, so expect lots of paella. Did we mention they have two hotel dogs?
The owners of this nine-room hotel only open their doors in late spring, ready for the summer season, and close around fall. Based in North Ibiza, Los Enamorados is full of quirky antiques and one-off pieces. The Peruvian chef is masterful with fresh fish. And massages are also available.
A retreat for the party animal or quiet introvert alike. The 38 rooms and suites tie into a nautical theme, with stripped wood floors. There’s also a pool, bar and penthouse, with views of Ibiza’s Old Town.
The Spanish chef cooks up simple yet sophisticated dishes, showcasing local produce and seafood – try the arroz con bogavante (rice with lobster). It’s also adjacent to the beach.
A tiny jungle in the heart of Ibiza. The relaxed atmosphere hits you as soon as you arrive, and see the huge hammocks on the beachfront. Order some tapas, sip a coconut water, and enjoy.
This restaurant and bar distill their own gin (LAW) on the premises. The Thai and Mediterranean-French fusion food is served on the large terrace, with great views.
Best beaches in Ibiza
Cala Comte: Pedalos to hire, sand dunes, 15-minute drive from San Antonio.
Cala Saladeta: Quiet, snorkelling available, access on foot.
Agua Blancas: Nudist-friendly, a favorite among residents, 10-minute drive from San Carlos.
The best local emporium for anything raffia or woven. From beautiful bags of all shapes and sizes to furniture, hammocks, shoes, and more, it’s all here. Prices are up to 300% cheaper than in the hotels or fancy boutiques. And it’s a close walk if you’re staying at the Sir Joan hotel.
Don’t miss the on-site concept store at Los Enamorados hotel, for high fashion mixed with some more local, affordable items. One of the owners is a former magazine editor, so we trust his judgement.
The beach club’s boutique is the most “Ibiza” of the bunch. Pricier than it should be, but a great curation of women’s and men’s clothes, bathing suits and jewelry.
A former airplane hanger, where the planes still soar low over the outdoor terrace, for an adrenalin buzz! Circo Loco on Mondays is the best night. It may be pricey, but the 150 euro VIP bracelet is 100% worth it for the extra bar (easier to order drinks), a cleaner washroom, and a special patio exclusive to your group. The average age is older than other places, at around 30 to 40, which makes a nice change.
Only open for the summer season – the night to go is Black Coffee on Saturdays. South Africa’s DJ Nathi Maphumulo has collaborated with some of the biggest names, including Akon, Alicia Keys, Drake, David Guetta, Usher, Pharrell Williams, Diplo, Kelly Rowland, Beyonce and Jay Z. The Glitter Box night skews towards a younger crowd, bringing dancers, fierce performers, drag queens and music together.
An old-school favorite that’s been kicking about since 1973. Go for Flower Power on Monday nights: a retro hippy party where colorful and free-spirited characters come together to dance to hits from the 60s and the 70s.
The original sunrise-to-sunset spot. Reserve in advance to ensure a table, and graze on amazing tapas and white sangria, while you watch the sunset over Es Vedra. Must order: the watermelon feta salad and the squid a la plancha.
Only open for the summer season, this spot is pretty easy to get into if you have a large crew and can’t find reservations elsewhere. On a soft sandy beach (rare in Ibiza), and the food is good, and comes in huge portions that are ideal for sharing. It’s also a great spot to swim, and close to the airport, too – the perfect place to welcome friends who have just arrived.
Machu Picchu has put Cusco on the tourist map for quite some time. In fact, it has made Peru one of the most popular destinations in all of South America. However, we’re here to share what you should see and do before you get to the incredible Inca ruins.
Cusco was declared a UNESCO site in the 1980s, and it’s this heritage that sets the tone, with beautiful cobbled streets and old colonial-style houses. The city is home to great markets, where you’ll find art and textiles, and the food here is great – if you know where to go. As the gateway to the Inca Trail, it’s also a good base for exploring the rest of the region.
A note on tourism: it’s a small place, so the streets and main sites do get easily crowded. Some of the indigenous culture has been intensely commodified, so we encourage you to shop and explore responsibly (especially when it comes to the “medicine” experiences). Otherwise, enjoy!
Nao Victoria is the best of the hostel-level options. It’s design conscious, definitely not a raucous crowd, and good for meeting new people if you’re in that frame of mind, but a little older than the 21-year-old backpackers. The shared rooms come with comfortable, lofted beds, nice sheets, and privacy curtains. If sharing isn’t your thing, Nao Victoria also has standard private rooms and a superior private room. The cafe on the second floor serves food all day, and is a great place to catch up on emails.
This place is pure idyllic luxury. Probably Cusco’s most high-end option, the hotel is housed in a 17th-century Baroque seminary. Though the outside structure has been perfectly maintained, the interiors are up to the Belmond’s exceptional standard. The courtyard is a peaceful setting for morning coffee or an afternoon glass of wine.
Our favorite hotel in Cusco is El Balcón, for its intimate vibe, minimal but considered design, and the fact that it’s housed in a 1600s pre-colonial building. The gardens that lead to the rooms are perfect, the views from the balcony are stunning, and the dining area offers complimentary coca tea. Don’t skip on the breakfast either, it’s exactly what you need to start the day at altitude.
If you arrive in Cusco after traveling through other South American cities, you might be in need of some lettuce. Organika provides healthy greens in a delicious way: think edible flowers, big salads, and vegetables sources from their farm in nearby Urubamba. Tucked away on a side street, the restaurant is small but perfectly formed.
This Cusco spot isn’t quite as good as their Arequipa restaurant, but we still love the food. Come here for excellent Peruvian cuisine, with traditional flavors and quality ingredients from local farms. Save room for dessert.
Pachapapa restaurant is right off of the San Blas plaza. Though it’s a bit touristy, the courtyard is adorable – complete with wooden banquettes and heaters (which is a huge win during the evenings in Cusco). Get the Alpaca skewers.
This little San Blas cafe is great for breakfast. There are only three tables, so you might have to wait your turn, but it’s worth it. Get an acaí bowl or some avocado toast – they bake the bread in-house, and have treats takeaway, too.
We love this vegan restaurant, and we aren’t even vegan. Head down an alley, follow the signs, and upstairs you’ll find more seating than you would imagine. Order anything on the menu and you’ll be happy – the tea selection is ideal, when you’re ready to take a break from the pisco sours.
This is the boutique/coffee shop set-up that we all love to seek out, no matter the city. Owned by a French woman, L’atelier has a beautiful curation downstairs, and good coffee and pastries upstairs. Grab a cup and sit at the window overlooking the street. It doesn’t really get much better, in our opinion.
This gem of a coffee shop is a little hidden away, but worth finding. They have homemade baked goods (we had a delicious carrot cake with edible flowers) and does ‘specialty’ (for the area) drinks like lattes. The benches makes for a cozy spot to do some travel journaling away from the crowds.
Similar to L’atelier, Cocoliso is a clothing store that also has a coffee station in it. There are little tables outside, to sit with your espresso and watch the city go by. It’s fairly close to the Plaza de Armas, but there isn’t too much foot traffic, so it’s the best of both worlds.
This is a no frills coffee shop that gives back to the local community. It’s run by volunteers, and welcomes everyone who walks in the door. They also have super reliable wifi and lunch options, too.
This place deserves a second mention! As good as the coffee is, the jewelry, accessories, and homewares are even better. Get yourself something special to remember Cusco by.
This is a cute shop in San Blas that stocks leather purses, ponchos, handmade ceramics, and more. Everything you see is made by local artisans, and the store itself is owned by a Cusceña – so you know you’re supporting good work.
Cusco is small, so another second mention! Though is good to grab coffee here, it’s primarily a clothing store, with a great line in adorable baby clothes and sweaters. When we were last there we bagged a quality leather pouch that we’re getting a lot of wear out of, too.
A bit more upscale, Iya Mayta sells beautiful sweaters and gorgeous jewelry. Fringing features quite heavily, so if you’ve got a Coachella-esque event coming up, you’ll find something to add to the outfit rotation here. It’s all made by Peruvian artisans, so is properly authentic. Plus, a portion of sales goes towards a local non-profit.
Xapiri is a gallery space that showcases and sells photography, art and other crafts, in support of the indigenous cultures of the Amazon. Head to the events here if they coincide with your stay.
Located in the museum under the same name, this place aims to preserve the traditional Peruvian textile techniques. They support several different local weaving communities (nine at our last count). Browse the museum, then get a memento from the shop.
You can’t come to Cusco without visiting San Pedro market – a large scale, classic mercado with everything you can imagine. They have food stalls – try the Caldo de Gallino (Peruvian chicken soup) – and aisles of fresh vegetables, grains, herbs, and fruits, which you can have freshly juiced. Make sure to pick up maca powder and chia seeds to take back home.
This is one of the lesser known ruins to visit in the Cusco area. It’s a good hike away, and the walk takes you through a beautiful meadow and along a trail. There is a bit of mystery revolving around the origin of the ruins, which makes them even more magical.
The Incas designed much of their lives based on the stars. Agriculture, city planning, and spiritual practices were therefore made with the stars in mind. At the planetarium, you can see what they saw in the sky – which looks quite different to what you might expect to see now. The planetarium is family owned and the staff is super friendly. They can pick you up in town, and take you to the observatory up by Sacsayhuamán.
For an alternative day trip, check out the town of Písac. Known for one of the best markets in the entire valley, Písac has beautiful hikes, great spas, and some of the most intact ruins in Peru.
A citadel on the outskirts of Cusco, Sacsayhuamán is a great option for getting your fix of Inca ruins without the long drive or trek. Some sections date back to the early 1000s, and you can spend a few hours exploring each area. Get ready for some spectacular views of Cusco.
This museum showcases Pre-Columbian artwork from cultures across all regions of Peru. Many works have been loaned by the Larco Museum in Lima, which date to 1250BC. Truly amazing stuff.
Just a little south of Plaza de Armas is Museo Casa Concha. Once a colonial mansion, the house is now a museum where you can see archeological finds from Machu Picchu. The exhibitions are diverse, and include an “ongoing research room” where you can see how modern science has led us to discover more about the lifestyle of the Inca people.
Peruvian cuisine is popular all over the world, and with good reason. While you’re at the heart of it, take a cooking class with one of the above, so you can recreate the experience once the trip is over.
The light-filled cafe area of El Balcon is the perfect place to get work done. We know, because it’s where we plugged in for a week or so during our stay. The space is warm and quiet, and they offer free teas. If you get hungry, they also do food, and the staff is super sweet.
Not to tap into our “To Stay” section too much, but it turns out the communal spaces in the hotels are particularly good here. The cafe on the second floor has great music, good coffee (or a beer if it’s a bit later in the day), and all-important power outlets.
This is is a great bar owned by an Australian-Peruvian couple. There are couches in the back room, so you can settle in for a while. The drink options are solid, and the food menu is good (try the yucca). Also, on Sundays they have live jazz.
This place is a bit touristy, but secure a spot on the balcony and it’s absolutely worth it. Order a glass of wine or a cocktail and take in the view of the entire city.
We love hotel bars, and the Belmond’s is an exceptionally good one. Order a pisco sour and make yourself comfortable in front of the fire. The large wooden bar and the friendly bartenders make this somewhere you could easily hang for hours.
While Uluwatu in Bali is technically a region rather than a city, it’s still very much worthy of focus in our one of our Guides. A trip to Bali is, more often that not, a move towards escapism – and Uluwatu provides the most relaxing surrounds to do it in. We head here to get away from the crowds, to do some yoga and to properly recharge in some of our favorite boutique hotels and hideaways in the world.
Uluwatu doesn’t play into the spiritual tourism of Ubud or the expat tech scene of Canggu. Instead, it appeals to those who are in search of Bali before everyoneelse arrived (we realise the irony, as tourists, looking for the pre-tourist experience, but that’s just how we like to travel).
We think we’ve found it in Uluwatu, so don’t tell too many people about the tips you’re about to read below. Think beautiful unspoilt beaches (some say the best in Bali), equally stunning hotels, and one of the island’s most important temples. For a true wellness retreat, Uluwatu is the one for us.
If you’re holidaying with friends, and maybe looking to surf, you should stay here. The design is on point and they have villas that sleep up to six people. The restaurant, Mana, is low priced and good quality, and we couldn’t love the location more.
Though it’s not on the beach, Gravity is a wonderful, eco-friendly hotel in Uluwatu. It boasts stunning views from each of its pools, the rooms open up onto balconies, and the bungalows make for the most relaxing places to stay.
You caught us red-handed. This is a Four Seasons hotel, but we stand by saying you should stay here, because it feels anything but generic. If you can swing it, stay in one of their villas – each has an indulgent clawfoot tub that looks onto the Balinese gardens.
The Ungasan is set atop limestone cliffs overlooking the ocean in Uluwatu. With one of the best beach clubs sitting just below it on the sand, this private resort feels exclusive and hidden, like it’s made just for you.
These villas are pure luxury. Yes, the experience comes at a price, but it’s reflected in the minimalist design, rooms with with private pools, and the spa, which tailors personalised treatments using organic products. If we could, we would live here.
Perched on the very edge of the coast, and owned by one of the most renowned Italian fine jewelry houses, this hotel is the definition of decadence. If you don’t want to spend the significant room rate, come here for lunch instead. The architecture and views are stunning, and the spa is equally so.
The place to come for a casual, healthy lunch. We order a salad and a smoothie, but pretty much anything on their menu makes for a delicious, refreshing reset.
Dugong is a bit fancier than Uluwatu’s more relaxed options, serving high-end Indonesian food that feels quite special. It’s located in a resort where you can have a drink by the pool – a great spot to take in the sunset.
We love the minimalist design here as much as we love the fresh poké bowls. With communal tables and an all-day menu, Mana is the restaurant Uluwatu Surf Villas, which we mentioned up top. If you’ve got emails to catch up on, this is also a good place to do it.
Fat Chow is a fairly funky restaurant, where everything is repurposed – except the food, of course. Dishes have a pan-Asian focus, without pretension and with a lot of flavor. The welcoming vibe makes us feel right at home.
On Suluban Beach, Single Fin is a great spot for a cocktail or a bite to eat. It truly shines on Sundays, when you can catch live music, but it’s nice any day of the week. Whether you’re surfing or not, chill here around sunset for the best atmosphere.
With colorful lights, white couches and a stage, we’re not quite sure if this is a bar, a restaurant, or a club? Either way, it’s good for cocktails – and also has a pool, if you fancy a dip.
Arrive around 5pm to get a drink and watch the sunset (can you tell that’s our favorite thing to do in Uluwatu). Then order another drink and stay, because this place becomes a dance club that turns up the house, and if you’re lucky, some reggae.
Bringing world-class DJs to this low-key region of Bali, Savaya is a day club to dance at under the sun. There are beautiful views, a restaurant, and a pool, too.
As we mentioned, Cashew Tree is an all-day cafe and a great place to rock up with your laptop. It serves coffee all day (necessary until you’ve shaken off the jet-lag), and its general ambiance makes for good work vibes.
If you’re a surfer, this is one of the best places to hit up. It’s not the only break in Uluwatu that is worth the ride, but it’s an absolute must visit. If you don’t surf, still come here to check out the waves, lay on the sand, and take in the sights.
Nyang Nyang might be the last beach in Bali where you can go for a walk at sunset and find yourself almost alone. The hike down to the beach is an experience in itself, and one we recommend. It’s not so much a place to swim, more a beach to find solitude and calm.
Uluwatu’s is one of Bali’s most important temples. The cliff-side walk on the way up can be testing, as can the monkeys – but don’t let that deter you. They hold sunset Kacek dances to end the day, which we highly recommend as a wonderful experience of Balinese culture.
Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue depicts Vishnu and is designed to be one of the largest and highest monumental statues in the world. The park itself has a ton to do – from a shopping center to traditional dance performances. It’s a bit touristy, yes, but still worth a visit.
Throughout Bali, yoga reigns supreme. We love Morning Light Yoga Studio, in Uluwatu Surf Villas. The outdoor practice space is surrounded by jungle, and there are 90-minute classes every day. They also offer specific retreats, which range from mysticism to yoga and meditation.
Surfing
There are so many places to surf in Uluwatu. If you have some experience, head to Dreamland, Bingin, or Balangan to catch the waves.
If you’re interested in Muay Thai, go to Bali Training Center. The owner found a passion for Muay Thai in Phuket, but couldn’t find a decent gym in Uluwatu, so he opened one himself. For an intense workout, you can definitely count on this place to kick your ass.
With a menu of Asian-inspired holistic remedies, Karma Spa is one of our favorite places to unwind. Karma has locations around the world, but this spa, overlooking the cliffs in Uluwatu, is perhaps the most spectacular.
The spa at the Four Seasons is worth the price tag. You get a private room, which is more like a hut, overlooking the beach, and always impeccable service.
Seattle is a city that has always had a lot going for it – long before Amazon set up shop there. While this growing tech scene might be the first thing you think of, it’s worth noting that Seattle has a rich history in music, art and food, too. Quincy Jones and Jimi Hendrix both grew up here; Dale Chihuly is just one of Seattle’s artists; and chefs including Shota Nakajima and Tom Douglas are based in the city.
In recent years – with more young professionals moving in, the laws surrounding cannabis production changing, and, as mentioned, Amazon – Seattle real estate is booming. With that, comes the pros and cons of an expanding city, but it also means that Seattle has become a top destination.
Frankly, we’ve always loved Seattle. It’s surrounded by great weekend getaways, has a vibrant creative culture, and world-class restaurants. We could easily spend a day in just one of its neighborhoods, lazing around the excellent coffee shops and eating seafood. Read on for a few of our favorite things to do in Seattle.
This is our favorite Kimpton hotel within the city. They have a few, but Palladian has the quirky yet refined design elements we love. It’s located in Belltown, so you can easily walk to Pike Place Market and the waterfront. The rooms range in size, but we recommend getting at least a Deluxe Guest room so you can take advantage of the clawfoot tub.
This is the OG Acel. A former workers hotel, the structure was built in 1909, and the owners have maintained the loft ceilings and gorgeous windows. Choose between a standard room with a shared bath, or a deluxe room with private amenities. As you’d expect from the Ace, the minimalist design and artwork is on point throughout.
Designed by Seattle’s Olson Kundig Architects, The Thompson sits on top of Pike Place, which means the views through the floor-to-ceiling windows are gorgeous. The rooms are spacious and perfectly set up for a “work-in-room” experience if you need to. And when you’re done, head up to their rooftop bar, The Nest – there’s no better place to clock off.
If you’re familiar with Seattle, you’ve probably heard of this Ballard oyster bar, as its one of the Sea Creatures restaurant group’s most popular spots. There’s a marble bar, complete with oyster baskets – and the food is truly amazing. Come for happy hour if you can get a table.
Seattle is known for good Vietnamese food, and while this is not one of the hole-in-the-wall type places, its very much the real deal. Dishing up great phở, it’s a perfect spot on a cold night when you want a bit of atmosphere. There are three locations, and we love all of them.
Eve is one of our go-to restaurants in the Fremont neighborhood. The dishes are consistently intriguing and delicious, and we love the large mural that makes up their far interior wall. Stop by for a late lunch and order a few dishes to share.
Listed in Eater’s Bill Addison roundup of best new restaurants when it opened, Kamonegi is a Japanese standout in a city with a lot of great Japanese food. Their soba is made in-house and a must order. We also encourage you to try something from their seasonal sake menu.
Seemingly taking in all the light Pioneer Square has to offer, London Plane is a bright restaurant perfect for any time of day. There is a flower shop and a bakery at the front, and casual prix-fixe menu if you decide to stay. It’s a place we always make sure to visit when we are in town.
Remember that hole-in-the-wall, Vietnamese place we mentioned above? Well, this is it. Come to Huong Binh for an incredible, cheap bowl of phở. Some people say it’s the city’s best – but we’re still working our way around the many bowls in Seattle. Just know that it’s really, really good.
On quiet 31st Ave, this small coffee shop is real gem. Selling sustainable coffee, baked goods (with vegan options, too), breakfast tacos on weekends, and decent kombucha, all bases are covered. It’s also a nice spot to plug in and work for an hour or so.
This might be our favorite cup of coffee (and branding) in Seattle. They roast their beans in house and if that isn’t enough, they also sell fresh baked goods from Sea Wolf Bakers. Order a latte, take a seat on one of their bar stools, and enjoy.
Located at the back of Elliott Bay Bookstore, this is the sister cafe to larger restaurant, Oddfellows. Part the appeal is obviously that it’s a cafe in a bookshop, which we are suckers for. And, there’s great coffee and snacks.
Milstead & Co is where you take your coffee snob friend for a refined brew. It rotates renowned roasters like Kuma and Coava, and the espresso-based drinks are particularly good. Take a seat outside and savor it.
Victrola has a few locations, but we usually head to their Capitol Hill shop. It’s built in a 1920s ‘auto row’ building and has kept a lot of the original architectural integrity. We love the big communal tables and the fact that they roast their own beans.
Chihuly is a household name in Seattle. Opened in 2012, this is the artist’s long-standing exhibition in his home state of Washington. The glass structures are other worldly and you can spend hours in each room. The museum has pieces inside and outside, interwoven with the garden.
Outside the Seattle Art Museum, the design of this space has won international awards and is seen as a model for outdoor sculpture parks across the US. Home to pieces by Richard Serra and Alexander Calder, it’s also an exhibit in its own right; the architecture of the walkways and landscape is all part of the experience. It’s only open in the spring/summer season, so check ahead.
Previously EMP (Experience Music Project), the Museum of Pop Culture is dedicated to the art, films and ideas that have come about in, you guessed it, pop culture. We particularly love its take on Seattle’s music history: with more than 6,000 Jimi Hendrix-related artifacts, it also pays homage to the inspiration for the first museum (EMP), funded by Paul Allen.
If it’s warm, try out Seattle’s ferry system by heading to Langley on Whidbey Island. Only a 30-minute boat ride from the city transports you to a seaside town. Grab coffee at Useless Bay Coffee and stop by home goods shop, Edit.
Okay, we know. You know. Everyone knows. But you can’t go to Seattle without stopping by Pike Place. It will most likely be crowded, but don’t let that deter you. Head to Market Grill for a blackened fish sandwich; then check out the little bookshops downstairs for some great deals.
Seattle is a bit of a bookstore hub, and Peter Miller has a reputation as the most design-centric of them all. Alongside luxury coffee-table books, you can also buy home goods, drafting supplies, and more.
This is one of our favorite wine bars. The interior is a mix of rustic wood and beautiful wallpaper, and the wine selection is top notch. They also have oysters and small plates, and we’d happily while away the whole weekend on their patio if we could.
Serving “apothecary” style cocktails and Creole food, Percy’s has long shared tables and a backdrop of hanging plants behind the bar. Their big booths are the perfect place to cozy up during the rainy months.
If you want a good-weird sort of dive bar and a great burger, Twilight is your place. It has stickers on the ceiling and random trophies displayed, but that is all part of the charm.
Our friend and yoga teacher Anna Douglas tipped us off about this spot. They have group and private classes, but what we love most is the ability to get a massage right after the workout.
Here you can choose between Bouldering Basics, and Bouldering 1-3, depending on your skill level. Head to their cafe, West Wall, afterwards for a debrief over coffee.
The weekend can get a bit crowded here, but it still makes for a great walk. The inner loop is 2.8 miles and the outer loop is 3.1 miles around the lake. If you want to go further, head towards Woodland Park from the south end of Green Lake.
Less than three hours from New York City, the Catskills is a quick getaway for those in need of some respite in nature. For those of you who haven’t been (yet), think mountains swathed in forests and teeming with wildlife, with incredible hikes and views from all angles.
Someone who’s a master of getting the best angle is photographer Ernesto Roman. Creative Director of Deer Mountain Inn, and East Coast Editor of A Hotel Life, he lives and breathes the panoramic outdoor lifestyle. Here are his top tips.
If you didn’t already live there, where would you love to stay in the Catskills?
Your Catskills getaway dream come true. A classic, turn-of-the-century construction, offering a rustic dining experience with wood-burning fireplaces, a cozy entertainment lounge that is private for inn guests, and hundreds of acres to explore the outdoors.
There are amazing, unique private properties around the Catskills, that you may only get through Airbnb. One of them is Mystic Lodge, located in a dairy farm in Bovina, which offers you a secluded teepee experience – perfect to disconnect and be one with nature.
Image: Chronogram Magazine
Favorite places to eat in the Catskills? What do we order?
Get the Great Red Ruben (with Pastrami for the meat lovers), The Niobe Wrap (for the veggies), or the Avocado toast (for the sriracha lovers). But really, look out for their daily specials!
Go for the seasonal (Michelin-star) chef’s tasting menu, small bites (get the fried chicken) and craft cocktails. You can sit next to a log fireplace, or at a table with mountain views.
A favorite of mine, this exquisite boutique has a hand-picked selection of brands including accessories, publications, writing goods and the best incense I’ve ever smelt.
The Leanto at Deer Mountain Inn, for one of the best views of the Catskill Mountains. It’s a 15-minute hike from the Inn and is my favorite place to bring a book, get some fresh air, meditate, and catch sunsets.
Tips and tricks for getting around the Catskills?
You can get away with taking Amtrak from NYC to Hudson and relying on Uber/Lyft or just walking around. Other than that, you definitely need a car, no way around it! Add a good 20 minutes to anywhere you go in the summer, as traffic doubles up everywhere, especially the queues at the gas stations!
Parking at Kaaterskills Falls gets super crowded during the weekends, so go as early as possible. If you park on the sides of the road, you’ll probably end up with a parking ticket.
Where are the cool crowd hanging out in the Catskills, if we’re single or solo traveling?
This is a tough one. Being single upstate ain’t no joke. As a rule of thumb, just hit the bars.
In terms of people watching, follow the crowds, head out to the big festivals or gatherings such as Field and Supply, Phoenicia Flea, the Basilica Soundscape (summer only) or all the pool parties.
And if we are coupled up, what is the best date spot that will actually have a table?
Where should we go for a nature walk (if not a full-on hike)?
Kaaterskills Falls
Work your way up from the bottom. You can also explore the trails on top of the falls for an easier hike and check out the viewing platform. There are numerous trails to explore.
The great outdoors! There are plenty of lakes, hiking and mountain bike trails to go around. You will also find a lot of yoga studios. Winters are long in the mountains, so if you’re not a skier/snowboarder, you’ll be looking for your classic gym chain (YMCA, Planet Fitness, etc), just to jump on a treadmill.
Where do we go to treat ourselves to a spa or massage?
A vibrant and colorful Caribbean-style restaurant. It’s a women-powered and community-oriented business with occasional art installations and performances. The fried fish dish and sweet plantains sides make me feel right at home.
With cobblestone streets and colorful mansions, it’s hard not to be immediately charmed as soon as you set foot in Cartagena. The palm-lined plazas that fill the walled city are humming with people 24/7; eat world-class arepas, catch a salsa party, dodge the tourist traps, and you’ll leave content.
Cartagena is one of our favorite places to explore hotels, with an array of individual, boutique lodgings, housed in old mansions. Though many may tell you to stick within the limits of the old city – and there is privacy and beautiful residences to be found there – we usually opt for Getsemani as our base. It’s very easy to imagine yourself at the center of a Gabriel García Mírquez novel when you’re there (at least, as long as the Out Of Office is switched on).
Between the scenery, short boat trips to stunning beaches, great dancing, and the fact that it’s a direct (and relatively painless) flight from most major cities in the US, Cartagena is one of our go-to getaways.
One of our top picks, Casa Don Sancho is a renovated townhouse on the edge of the walled city. We love the location – away from most of the crowds, but still in old town – and the six bedrooms are spread across three beautifully designed floors. Bright rooms and neutral colors give this place a peaceful energy among the buzz of Cartagena. Head up to the rooftop patio for sunset.
Right next to Bolivar Park, Casa de Alba is an old mansion in the Cartagena’s historic center. With an outdoor pool and courtyard garden, it’s as good for larger groups as it is for a romantic getaway. We love the individual decor of each room, ranging from stunning canopy beds to a set of perfectly placed twins. Upstairs, on the roof, there’s a second pool with A+ views.
Hotel Capellán sits in our neighborhood of choice. The minute you walk in, you’ll relax into the Caribbean-inspired design – beautiful fountains, white cushioned chairs, and dark wood accents. The rooms are bright and airy, and the rooftop pool is second to none. They also have a pretty good spa, if you are looking to indulge.
Also located in Getsemani, Casa Lola is a great, price-conscious choice. It’s sweet, has a fantastic rooftop pool and bar, and is just down the street from Cafe Havana, so you can dance your way home in about two minutes.
When on a budget, Casa Venita is one of our favorite places to stay. Rooms range from hostel-style, to queen and king-sized. The cafe serves delicious acai bowls – so go for the “breakfast included” option.
We love this restaurant for a few reasons. Firstly, the location right on Plaza de la Trinidad, which gives way to pretty spectacular people watching. Secondly, the tapas-style menu. And, thirdly, the really good cocktails that will start your night off in the best way.
Mila is located in the center of the old town and does a great morning pastry and a coffee. Swing by early, before spending the day exploring in the sun.
This place was started by two young locals, who wanted to create a great cocktail bar serving quality drinks without the American price tag. Enter Bonche. You’ll meet young locals and visitors alike – order a burger and embrace the conversation.
Street food
On the corner of Carrera 11 and Calle 38 is our favorite arepa stand. Come here in the morning to get a ham, cheese, or veggie arepa freshly made – a true Cartagena staple.
This upscale cocktail bar will feel very familiar to those traveling from America or Europe. Though it’s rather small, the romantic decor and great drinks make you feel like you could stay for hours. The bartenders are half the reason to love it here – and they also serve small bites.
This three-floor bar looks like something out of a 1920s novel. Once a warehouse, the owner has since renovated, preserving the integrity of the original architecture with beautiful attention to detail. The first floor gets fairly crowded; the second is more relaxed, with blue velvet chairs and tiled floors; and the rooftop patio is the place to go for great tunes and a dance. Order anything with mezcal.
This could technically be put in our “Where to dance” category, but as it serves excellent wine, and there are so many incredible salsa clubs already, we are leaving it right here. While it’s relatively expensive and geared towards well-heeled tourists, the art deco design and crowded basement make for a fun experience.
Beer Lovers pours some of Colombia’s best brews. They serve more than just what this country has to offer, but we recommend sitting at the bar and trying what’s local on tap.
A Getsemani club classic (alongside Cafe Havana and Bazurto, before it sadly closed). Quiebra Canto is geared more towards the experienced salsa dancers, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a good time for everyone.
In any other country this bar wouldn’t be anything special. In Cartagena, where beautiful cocktail bars are easily found, this straight-forward establishment is a breath of fresh air. Be prepared to find loads of tourists; also be prepared to dance your heart out.
A recommendation from Cartagena native, Ernesto Roman, Cafe de la Mañana is a perfect place for a morning or afternoon break. Get a $6 breakfast of eggs, bread, fruit, and juice or a mimosa – along with your coffee – and stay a while. Laptops welcome.
On a quiet street in Getsemani, this adorable cafe takes pride in the coffee they serve. Though Colombia is a huge exporter of beans, it doesn’t usually keep much of the high-quality stuff within its borders. This place, however, is on a mission to showcase the true beauty of Colombian coffee, serving some of the best cups in town. Take a seat outside and admire the street art while you drink.
Beiyu Cafe in Getsemani is good for a smoothie or juice. It has great A.C. (which is important in the summer months) and reliable wifi, so it’s a solid choice while you catch up on emails.
Our favorite place for iced coffee is Epoca. We get the blended version and call it a day, but there are so many options to choose from. Make sure to check hours, as it opens a bit later than most.
Rosario Islands (or Islas del Rosario) is technically a national park, about an hour’s boat ride away from Cartagena port. Swim in the crystal Caribbean waters, relax on the stunning sandy beaches, and maybe book into one of the hotels here for a night (although, it’s a totally doable day trip).
Walled city walk
Built in the 1500s, Cartagena’s historic walls run 4km around the old town. Previously used to protect the city from pirates, you can now take a romantic stroll along the walls, or come here to catch the sunset.
Another beach getaway that’s closer than Islas del Rosario, Tierra Bomba is easily accessed via boat. If you decide to stay here, we recommend Blue Apple Beach House. You can also pay for a day-pass to the hotel, but we think you might as well stay a night or two.
Las Bóvedas is a series of 23 vaults built into the walls, originally used to store weapons – or anything else the Spanish wanted to hide. Later, these same vaults were used as prison cells during the Civil War. Today, they’re used as markets stalls, where you’ll find local goods and souvenirs to take home.
Just outside Cartagena sits this 15th-century fortress, overlooking the city. In short, you can tell that the conquers of this land weren’t messing around. Make sure to come here on a sunny day, because it can take good few hours to walk around the well-preserved site.
Exhibiting a fantastic collection of gold pottery, Museo del Oro Zenú showcases the pre-colonial works, with a strong focus on the indigenous Zenú culture. Definitely one of our favorite museums in town.
Salsa classes
Technically Cali is the salsa capital of Colombia. That said, Cartagena is still a great place to take classes. Check out Crazy Salsa to learn some moves, then head to Cafe Havana or Quiebra Canto to try out your new skills.
Colombia has incredible street art. Within Cartagena, the best place to see it is within the Getsemani neighborhood. Walk around the winding streets and you’ll discover gorgeous murals everywhere.
With over 100 Colombian and international designers, St. Dom has something for everyone. A fashion concept store that has a great range, from sunglasses to dresses that will make a great addition to your vacation closet.
With stores in Miami, Madrid, and Cartagena, the queen of Colombian chic Silvia Tcherassi is a household name here (and a hotel owner, too). If you need a dress for a wedding, party, or any special occasion, you’ll likely find it here.
For excellent homewares and antiqeus, come to El Arcón. It’s also one of the only places we found where you could buy the famed door knockers you see throughout the city.
Though we wouldn’t recommend staying here, Selina Hostel is a popular place for young people working remotely. That being the case, they are set up with great facilities (and fast wifi). They have decent food and you will inevitably meet someone who knows someone who knows someone you used to work with.
A large space with great wifi and lots of outlets: three things you’d assume wouldn’t be hard to find in a place like Cartagena, but somehow they are. This cafe is a diamond in the rough, and a true gift when we need to power through some work.
Part bookstore, part coffee shop, Abacus is absolutely adorable. The wifi isn’t super reliable, but that doesn’t seem to matter much when you’re surrounded by tall shelves housing hundreds of books – it’s the digital nomad set up of dreams. Come here for good coffee and solitude when you need to focus (but, also make it cute for Instagram).
“That’s so Brooklyn” is a bit of a ridiculous saying, being that the famous borough is made up of 77 neighborhoods and 2.7 million people. That’s right – if Brooklyn were its own city, it would be on track to surpass Chicago.
Between the brownstones of Fort Greene, the famous Chinese restaurants in Sunset Park, and the bars loved by everyone in Williamsburg – it’s pretty hard to categorize Brooklyn as one thing. The sheer diversity of people, food, and fun here is unmatched, and we could probably dedicate several guides to Kings County alone. We aren’t going to do that, but we are going to break down a few of our favorite Brooklyn spots by area.
This our guide to the north Brooklyn hoods, which include Greenpoint, Williamsburg, Bushwick, and Bed-Stuy. Whether you are here for vacation, a work trip, or have decided to make the move, go forth and explore.
It’s one of the longest standing hotels in Williamsburg, but it remains our favorite. Despite other trendy properties that have popped up along Wythe Ave, aka ‘hotel row’, this Brooklyn staple has our hearts for its industrial-chic rooms, great restaurant, and Bar Blondeau – the rooftop bar to end all rooftop bars.
We mostly love this place due to the location. Set in the middle of Franklin Street in Greenpoint, it’s harder to find a better stretch of shops, restaurants and bars, all within a few blocks. You can choose between studios or suites – both designed as airy lofts and complete with kitchens. Hit the McCarren Park Greenmarket on Saturday mornings to make yourself brunch.
As you’d expect from The Hoxton, the lobby here could be mistaken for a Brooklyn co-working space – mostly because the coffee, food, and general vibe is so good. We love the perfectly designed rooms and the drinks they are serving at Klein’s. Plus, in the summer they have the perfect patio to kick back in the sun.
Answering a question like “where to eat” in Brooklyn is nearly impossible, but Diner is almost always a great option. Owned by the same people behind Brooklyn mainstay Marlow & Sons, this has one of our favorite burgers in the city. Bonus: you are consuming said burger in a train car. If you don’t like burgers, everything else is fantastic, too.
This isn’t the hole-in-the-wall dumpling spot you’d find in Sunset Park or Queens, but it’s still really damn good. They recently opened a Manhattan location, but the Williamsburg outpost is better and the original. Make sure to order the soup dumplings (off-menu) and at least three of the vegetable dishes. And the noodles. Just order everything.
For a really good fish taco – or really good fish anything – come here. Part fish market and part restaurant, it’s a great lunch option when you want something light but delicious.
On a corner in Bed-Stuy, this is one of our favorite spots in Brooklyn: a wine bar, restaurant, and bakery combined. Outside seating is romantic, inside is equally so, with perfect rustic decor. Order the pizza and all the wine.
One of our new favorites in Greenpoint. You’re not coming to Chez Ma Tante for jaw-dropping design (it kind of looks like everything else in Brooklyn); you’re coming here for excellent food. The caesar salad changes lives, their falafel is to die for, the drinks are incredible.
With two locations – one in Bushwick and one in Bed-Stuy – this is some of Brooklyn’s best ramen. It’s best for a solo lunch or when there’s just two of you (big groups are better served elsewhere), and there are minimal bells and whistles. Samurai Papa means business, and that business is really good ramen.
You could easily miss Achilles Heel, as there is no signage and the door looks like it belongs to a Western film that lost funding. All of this only adds to the charm, though – setting the mood for a second, seventh or too-many-to-count date night. Inside, you will find a wood-burning stove, great drinks, and fantastic small plates. We love their wine selection and seasonal menu.
Our favorite wine bar in north Brooklyn, Four Horsemen was opened by LCD Soundsystem’s James Murphy. It has a great selection of natural wine on rotation, and excellent small plates, all served in a slick, modern space. You could easily spend hours here, perched on a stool, talking wine with the bartender.
Ramona wins our hearts due to its spacious, acoustically calm, beautiful design (ie. you aren’t crammed into 500 sq ft with 100 other people, unable to hear the person you’re with, as is often the case elsewhere in Brooklyn). Order the Self Portrait.
Make sure to get to Bar LunÀtico on the earlier side, because it fills up. There is live music almost every night, and if you are lucky, you’ll secure a small table and make yourself comfortable for a good while. If not, it’s still worth popping your head in for a quick drink.
Grimm Brewery in Bushwick is a treat for beer fans. Serving up grade-A artisanal ales, you could spend hours in their taproom, or head here for a casual meet-up before dinner at Misi or Marlow & Sons.
This Greenpoint spot hosts DJs most nights of the week, and is our kind of club. You won’t find $1k table service here, but they do have a disco ball, dim lights, and some of the best house music around.
Bar in the front, party in the back. Friends & Lovers is technically at the intersection of Crown Heights and Prospect Heights, but we are including it because you should go here either way. It’s one of our favorite bars to dance in. Head here late, and see who is scheduled to DJ.
C’mon Everybody is set up the way a lot of bars in NYC are – part bar, part music venue. It hosts everything from live music to comedy shows, and makes for a great place to drink and dance on the weekends. We love it for its proximity to Chilo’s – a food truck, serving some of the best tacos in Bed-Stuy.
This sleek coffee shop in Bushwick looks like it was built for Instagram. The interior is bright, airy, and everything we want when it comes to good light. The coffee is also fantastic (and very strong).
This Italian cafe sits on a quiet block in Williamsburg. Run entirely by real-deal Italians, you can trust the piadinis, and their espresso bar is on our regular rotation. In the summer, take a seat on the benches outside their coffee window for excellent people watching.
One of the most beautiful coffee shops in New York, Devocion Williamsburg looks like an architectural wonder that just happens to be a cafe. The coffee is expensive, but good. We mostly come here for the ambiance, though.
Maman has several locations throughout NYC, but this one is our favorite for the shabby-chic interior, the matcha (or lavender) lattes and fresh pastries.
One of our favorite vintage stops, Stella Dallas is Williamsburg stalwart. Though it isn’t the cheapest, you’re almost guaranteed to find something great to take home here. Their denim selection is top notch, as are the graphic tees.
As we mentioned up top, the Hoxton Williamsburg could easily be confused with a Brooklyn co-working space. Locals come here for breakfast meetings, followed by good coffee and chill music, while they plug away.
Stonefruit almost went into our “Where to get coffee” and “Where to eat” categories, and then we realized that both of those things mean it’s a great place to spend the day working. With a cafe in the front and a flower store in the back, it serves great espresso-based drinks and healthy food. The large table among the plants is our favorite seat to type from.
Chelsea isn’t the only place in NYC with great art going on. A few times during the year, Greenpoint opens up its various warehouses and invites the public to see what artists in the area are up to. This includes small fashion brands, multi-media designers, and fine artists.
If you are in the mood for an evening in (or it’s way too cold outside for anything that involves walking), head to Syndicated. As the name suggest, this movie theater plays great films that range from older French cinema, to cult coming-of-age comedies, to recent releases. The best part? The menu is excellent, and you can order booze and food while watching the movie.
On the Williamsburg waterfront, Domino Park has an incredible view of the city. It’s a perfect location for a picnic – or the Brooklyn equivalent, tacos from the nearby stand (there’s always one on hand in this hood). The park has fountains in summer, a dog run, a playground, and benches for taking in the Manhattan skyline.
Where to see live music
Between Brooklyn Bowl, Knitting Factory, Music Hall of Williamsburg, and the smaller venues that can be found in bars across Brooklyn, it would be hard to find a better neighborhood to listen to all different types of live music. Check out the calendar for the larger venues, or pop in to low-key spots for newer acts.
Modo has locations across the city, but we prefer the Williamsburg outpost. The studio is nicer and newer, we love all the teachers, and the vinyasa classes are great to work up a sweat.
This is our favorite pilates studio in Brooklyn. The bright interiors are welcoming, as are the instructors. Choose from mat, reformer, or cardio classes. All of them are great.
Swedes live by the concept of allemansrätten, which loosely translates to ‘the right to roam’. And yet Stockholm is second only to San Francisco when it comes to unicorn startups per capita. What does this mean? The city strikes the perfect balance between work and wellness.
From parks to lakes to waterways, access to the wilderness here is a public right. Do as the Swedes do and take a moment to have fika (a daily coffee and sweet treat ritual, which we highly approve of) outside to soak it all up.
If you have time, it’s worth getting out of the city to the Archipelago for a picnic and a walk (ferries from the city center take between 30 minutes to 1.5 hours). Scroll down for a few of our favorites in Stockholm.
As you might guess by its name, this hotel is great for anyone interested in Stockholm’s history. Just 15 minutes from the palace and next door to one of the city’s oldest cafés and bakeries, Sturekatten, the walls definitely have stories to tell. The rooms were converted from former apartments (the old doors now serve as headboards), the reception was a barber shop and the restaurant used to be a garage. We also like the organic Swedish soaps from L:A Bruket.
Near the Ostermalms Saluhall food market, Hotel Diplomat is the perfect example of Jugendstil architecture. If you like antique decor, you’ll love the marble staircase edged in gold, old bookcases and the best seat in the house, by the fireplace. Owned by the Malmström family, all of the art you see has been collected personally by them. The spacious bedrooms seem more like apartments than hotel suites, complete with giant couches.
The best rooms here offer views of Norrmalmstorg square, Berzelii park and the sea. Noi, the on-site restaurant specialises in ‘family’ portions to share – try the liquorice-fragrant sweetbread and dry-aged beef on salt stone. Thanks to its fantastic food, Nobis is a favorite of visitors and locals alike. You’ll also find several Swedish flagships stores nearby, including Acne, Hope and Rodebjer.
Södermalm is the main area for foodies, and one of our favorites is this experimental restaurant. They offer decadent small plates, such as foie gras, caviar, oysters and lobster. It’s as much about the experience as the food – guests are given Lego to play with in between courses and 90s music plays from the speakers. If you can’t get a table, don’t worry, try the nearby Bleck, Bananas or Café Nizza.
For somewhere more central, Riche is a classic bistro with a Swedish/French menu. The quirky decor features bold artworks and chandeliers. Yes, there’s meatballs, but we’d recommend going with fish – the salmon and trout are always fantastic.
Great Japanese food with a modern twist, Tako is the best of the bunch when it comes to Asian fusion in Stockholm. Downstairs in the Östermalm basement, the decor is sleek, and the crowd is cool.
Swedes love their coffee and this small chain Johan & Nyström is a favorite for locals. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to cafes in Stockholm, but this is a good starting point.
If you’re interested in the full Swedish fika experience, go to Mellqvist, where they care as much about the coffee as they do about baking. Don’t miss the fluffiest cinnamon and cardamom buns (‘kanelbulle’ and ‘kardemummabulle’).
A former ‘Swedish Barista of the Year’, Linnea Vannesjö is known as the best in town for coffee roasting. Drop usually have a variety of coffee to sample, as well as hosting brewing courses and selling coffee-making gadgets.
Where to shop
The Swedes are known for their love of minimalist design, so you can count on the local stores. Some key areas to browse the shops are:
Norrmalmstorg
The town square that connects shopping streets Hamngatan and Biblioteksgatan. You’ll recognise Acne Studios, but make sure you also check out Rodebjer (founded in New York in 1999 by native Swede Carin Rodebjer) and Filippa K (one of Sweden’s leading fashion brands).
Biblioteksgatan
The street that continues towards Humlegården and the Royal Library. Try Eytys for edgy sneakers (think towering platforms) or Byredo for luxury fragrances and candles (founded in Stockholm in 2006).
Strandvägen
There’s only one place for your list, here. Svenskt Tenn is a famous interior design store with plenty of small pieces that make great gifts.
In the summer, Trädgården is where it’s at. This outdoor club is open from morning till late on the weekends, and there’s no place like it in the city. Make sure to check if there’s a daytime session happening while you’re in town.
Try Spybar or Mono as backups if it’s out of season (or follow ons!). And go to Ugglan Bar before (or after) to play ping-pong and pool with the young hipster crowd.
For less party, more low-key date vibes, head to Tyge & Sessil – a great wine bar (next to Stureplan) located on the quieter Brahegatan.
Ask any Londoner where they head for a beach break and it’ll be Brighton. The capital of kitsch is just 1.5 hours away from London, and the ideal place to trade the city for some sea air.
There’s also a proud green focus here – Brighton often wins award for its eco-credentials, thanks to its beach cleaning initiatives, thriving vegan scene, no-waste restaurants and pioneering politicians. The LGBTQ+ community has played a huge part in putting Brighton on the map – Pride celebrations here are considered the best in the UK. Britney has previously headlined, so, it’s worth planning your trip to coincide.
As much as we love the buzz of Brighton, our best tip is this: for quieter beaches, take a 10-minute train ride, or walk along the seafront to Hove. You can thank us later.
Located right on the seafront, this townhouse is as quintessentially English as they come and loved by Cate Blanchett, Kylie Minogue and Woody Allen. If you can, book the circular room with couple-sized bath overlooking Brighton Pier. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into a postcard. Don’t miss the Drakes Viper cocktail before perusing the Modern British menu.
Above Regency Square, this bohemian Artist Residence was the first of the boutique brand. The ping-pong in the basement tells us that the crowd is younger and perhaps more sociable than other hotels in the city. Decorated by artists, rooms are curated for creative eyes and filled with antiques. Don’t forget that breakfast is served until midday – these guys know what they’re doing.
The real pull for this hotel is the underground spa. Built within the exposed bricks of the old smugglers’ tunnel, you’ll find six treatment rooms, a heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room, Scandinavian hot tubs, a hydrotherapy pool, and gym. There are plenty of seaview rooms to choose from and Harby’s bar offers a relaxed setting for drinks and dinner.
Looking for sustainable seafood? This place should be your go-to. The tasting menu includes six courses, featuring dishes like hand-dived scallops, mussel curry with apple, and gigha halibut. Definitely add the wine pairing.
This restaurant serves a short but delicious menu, from Thursday to Saturday evenings. The rest of the week, check out their concept store just a stone’s throw away, which serves coffee, pastries and sandwiches throughout the day and is a great place to stock up on luxe local provisions. There are also a couple of outdoor tables, perfect to sit for 10 minutes, while you drink your flat white in the sun.
Practicing ‘farm-to-table’ perfection, every ingredient is sourced from a local supplier on a daily basis. Isaac At also claim to be the only restaurant in the UK to offer an all-English wine list. And we particularly love their inventive desserts.
Plateau focus on ethical farming, sustainability and organic wines. Their friendly staff ensure the wine tastings are accessible, even for non-experts. Offering a choice of around 20 wines a day, the list is updated regularly, too.
This bar hit the headlines a few years back by banning phones. Whether you’re for or against the idea, the lack of technology means you can focus on present company and enjoy the fantastic cocktails. Their Happy Hour works out as extremely good value.
One for the beer drinkers in the heart of Brighton’s Lanes, this pub spans three floors so you should find space, even when it’s busy. Saturdays draw in the crowds ready for a night of dancing, while on Sundays, they’ll be serving up classic roasts.
Here you have all three: a restaurant, bar and nightclub. From 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays, the tables are cleared and the DJs set up their decks. Expect RnB, hip-hop and pop classics.
Expect a lot of themed music nights at The Haunt, from ‘80s Party’ to ‘SH*T POP’. Entry costs just £3 and in the past they have hosted British bands, such as Hot Chip, The XX and Wild Beasts.
Locals love this spot for a no-fuss live music experience, and warm welcome from the staff. Don’t expect anything fancy – this place is founded upon grit, good stories and classic Brighton charm.
Dowse Design is the store for present buying – from jewelry to art prints and ceramics.
Photo via Trouva
What to do in Brighton
Time for a cliché: let’s talk about the British weather.
If it’s sunny, head to Pavilion Gardens, walk down the coast, hop between shops in North Laine. And, we’d highly recommend a street art tour with street artist REQ and Enter Gallery (bookable via Eventbrite).
If rain persists, cheer yourself up with treats and arcade games at the Pier then take shelter in The British Airways i360, which presents the best panoramic views whatever the weather.
Photo via Thousand Wonders
Quick hit of culture
The ocean is always a huge inspiration for artists, so it’s no surprise that Brighton has some great galleries and museums.
Start with Brighton Museum for photography or LGBTQ+ themed work. Two Kats and a Cow is a smaller option, launched by three painters. Finally, Fabrica is all about new contemporary work, based in a former Regency church building.
Austin has been on our radar for a while now. Though big name festivals like Austin City Limits and South by Southwest call the city home, they aren’t even close to the only reason we love making the trip. With great music seven days a week, excellent restaurants (and food trucks), and more outdoor activities than we can count, it’s hard not to find something you’ll love here, too.
Given all of the above, not to mention the University of Texas campus in the middle of town, Austin is a real hub for creativity and innovation. The city’s young professional population is on the rise, and in turn, they’ve brought new indie coffee shops, fashion stores, restaurants, and more. Brands like Outdoor Voices have moved their headquarters down south, emerging chefs like Zach Hunter have made Texas their base, and boutique hotel groups such as Bunkhouse have decided to expand here.
Yet, despite the influx of new blood, none of the quirk we love so much about the city has been lost. You’ll find the best of both worlds in Austin. Below are just a few of our favorite spots.
This 14-room boutique hotel is located in the South Congress neighborhood of Austin. A bit more secluded than the rest of the hotels on this list, Saint Cecilia sits with lush grounds that give a true sense of privacy. Named after the patron saint of music and poetry, there’s a subtle a sense of rock n’ roll. Oh, and that iconic neon “SOUL” sign overlooking a beautiful pool you’ve probably seen photos of? You’ll find that here, too.
The LINE’s third property in Austin is much like the DC and LA experience, in that it is shaped by the city it’s built in. Housed in an old jazz club, The LINE pays homage to the creative history of the building and Austin itself. Rooms overlook Lady Bird Lake and come complete with local art. If you can find any time to rest during your trip, definitely spend a few hours by their gorgeous pool.
Behind stucco walls on South Congress Avenue, you’ll find Hotel San José. The modern design, with minimalist concrete accents, feels harmonious with the gardens and courtyard. While the pool is surrounded by bright couches and pillows – always photoshoot ready. In fact, it is almost too pretty to leave; luckily the cocktails are great, so it’s no chore to stay.
Heywood Hotel is located in the east Austin area, probably one of the hottest neighborhoods in town. With only seven guest rooms, you can expect impeccably personalized service. Grab a bike to explore the neighborhood (or for a quick ride downtown); or enjoy the digital nomad life as you work through your inbox in the sunny courtyard.
A former farmers market stand and supper club, Dai Due’s bricks-and-mortar location gives a true taste of Texas. Expect hyper-locally sourced meat and rich recipes that are typical of the state, and deliciously done.
From the owners of upscale restaurant Odd Duck (which you should also go to), this all-day eatery/market/bar in Eastside is a wonderfully laidback alternative. It is the perfect place to grab a beer, wine, or cocktail and a few small plates with friends, gathered around the outdoor picnic tables.
For those visiting from New York, LA, or anywhere else that claims to have the best ramen around – get ready. This place, along with its sister restaurant Ramen Tatsu-Ya, serves some of the best. As well as great noodles, Kemuri is also known for its “Texas Izakaya”, a hybrid of Texas BBQ goodness and Japanese ramen goodness. It’s all very, very good.
Austin has exceptionally good Vietnamese food, and this spot serves our favorite banh mi in town, out of an old shipping container – which only adds to the whole experience.
Veracruz is worth the hype and you should go to any or all of their locations. Our favorite is the one near Radio Coffee & Beer or around Mueller’s Farmers Market. Get the Migas Poblanas and have your life be changed forever.
Kitty Cohen’s is a Palm Springs-inspired patio bar, where you can get punches and other tiki drinks and probably be the happiest version of yourself. They have a small pool in the middle of the outdoor area, which you can dip into if you want.
On the rooftop of the LINE hotel, this cocktail bar serves serious booze and even more serious views. The drinks aren’t cheap, but they are delicious, and it would be a challenge to find a better place to watch the sun go down.
This tiny mezcal bar sits at the top of a restaurant in the east Austin neighborhood. There’s an extensive selection of mezcal, a dark wooden bar and romantic interior, plus an outdoor patio if you’re in a bigger group.
If you’re looking for a club experience that still fits with the Austin culture, come to Barbarella. Each night of the week is themed (60s, 70s, 80s, electronic, etc.), so there is truly something for everyone.
If you’re looking to dance to live music (usually honky-tonk) and want to get your two-step on, there’s nowhere better than this Eastside staple. The live bands change depending on the night, but you are pretty much guaranteed a great time seven days a week.
Cheer Up Charlies is a queer-friendly bar made for everyone. Housed in what looks like a lodge, there’s a great patio and even better music. They have dance parties, live bands, art shows, and beyond. Plus, kombucha on tap, if you don’t fancy a beer.
We love Esby Apparel for the classic cuts and clean lines – think menswear for women. It’s a sustainable brand that values minimalism and makes those pieces that you can wear on repeat.
One of our favorite farmers markets in Austin. Right next to a man-made lake, come here for great produce vendors, packaged goods, games, and food trucks.
One of Austin’s most upscale stores, ByGeorge has high-end designers and high-quality brands you might not have heard of (yet). Their jewelry section is second to none. If you’re looking to drop some cash on some seriously beautiful items, this is your spot.
Austin has really good vintage shopping (Charm School Vintage, Room Service Vintage, Blue Velvet, etc). If you just go to one, make it Feathers, for a more curated selection. There won’t be piles of clothes here – the store reads more like a boutique, but you will find great denim, hats, and amazing one-of-a-kind pieces (we found a floor-length denim jacket and couldn’t be happier).
The selection at Take Heart is perfectly curated and the place to go for a gift, or just to browse every shelf. We love their minimalist pottery, Japanese goods, jewelry, and candles.
This is Austin’s favorite watering hole. Fed entirely by natural springs, it’s a man made pool in the middle of Zilker Park, and the perfect place to cool off during the warmer months in Austin.
With 227 acres of hiking trails, Wild Basin Preserve is a great and totally accessible outdoor excursion. There is a clear map at the entrance that allows you to map your route, so you can decide to make it a challenging hike or an easy meander.
With beautiful views, outdoor games, and great pizza, you could easily spend an entire day here. Their year-round and special-edition beers are fantastic, but what we love more is the property. The farmhouse sits in Texas Hill Country and makes you feel like you could be much further than 30 minutes west of Austin.
This place serves our favorite coffee in Austin (a bold claim), but we are putting it on our “Where to work” list because of the big communal tables, large outdoor space, and private high tops. Plus, their baked goods and drinks are worth working your way through. Pro tip: if you buy a bag of beans to take home (which you should), you get a free drink.
You’re in Austin, where the weather is pretty warm most of the year. If you aren’t taking advantage of that while you are penning emails, closing deals, or editing copy – then, let this be your prompt. Head to the pool at Saint Cecilia for prime sunshine and privacy.
The Austin Public Library is an architectural gem inside and out, and happens to have a fantastic restaurant. It’s downtown and the perfect place to come to plug-in.
One of our favorite coffee shops in south Austin. It’s spacious and comfy, which makes sense because it was once a home. We love the minimalist design and the coffee is well brewed.
Insider Margot Boyer-Dry calls Figure 8 the best cup of coffee she’s had, hands down. Started by two Austin natives, Figure 8 is a small local coffee shop with reclaimed wood tables and its own roasted beans – delicious. As they say, it’s: “Worth the (ever increasing) Drive on 35”.
Broken Spokes is a legendary dance hall and music museum. Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton have both played here. Need we say more? Come here to two-step any day of the week. Dancing isn’t mandatory, but it’s hard to resist once you’re there.
On the UT campus, this is far beyond a traditional college art museum. With permanent collections and exhibitions that come through, it’s a must visit in Austin. We love taking time out in the peaceful courtyard to wind down from the buzz of the city, and there’s also a great cafe.
We love this no-frills Eastside studio and every teacher we have had has been great. They categorize themselves as “absurdly high-quality donation-based yoga” and we couldn’t agree more.
We know this isn’t necessarily a “hyper-local” suggestion, but CorePower Yoga does the trick and we do love the Austin location. When you just need to sweat it, CorePower has you covered.
Austin boasts some of the most beautiful city greens we could ask for, so it’s worth taking the workout outside. Ann & Roy Butler Path is the trail that runs along Lady Bird Lake, and it’s the perfect place for a bike ride or a jog. Our suggestion? Jog along the trail to Deep Eddy, and then take a dip.
