It’s no secret that planning a trip to Brazil can be overwhelming. South America’s largest economy is a sprawling, diverse nation that would take even the most avid traveler a lifetime to explore. Where to even start? Luckily, Brazilians have an almost fanatical, legendary love of celebration, making regional festivals the obvious place to start any adventure to Brazil. When you think of Brazil, odds are you think of Carnival, but there’s so much more to this country than just its most famous festival. Fans of folk dance should consider traveling to Brazil for the lively Festa Junina, while the Festival de Cachaca is ideal for anyone willing to brave Brazil’s iconic alcohol, cachaca. Finally, if you have an interest in Brazil’s indigenous culture, make sure you take some time out in June for the country’s second largest party, the Parintins Folklore Festival.
Parintins Folklore Festival
The small riverside town of Parintins, Amazonas, might not look like the kind of place to put on the nation’s second largest festival, but come here in June and you’ll see this Amazonian hamlet punches far above its weight when it comes to putting on a party. For three days at the end of June, Parintins erupts with energy during the annual Parintins Folklore Festival. This festival is based on indigenous Amazonian beliefs, with the centerpiece being an legend of an ox that rose from the dead. Two teams ritualistically compete in a game/drama about the legend. On the sidelines of this epic struggle, visitors can see parades, traditional dances and otherwise immerse themselves in Amazonian indigenous culture. It’s a great way to see the lesser-known side of the ethnically-diverse Brazil, and well worth the trip.
Oktoberfest
Why celebrate Oktoberfest in Bavaria when you’ve got Brazil? That might sound a bit out of place, but to say the city of Blumenau in Santa Catarina takes its Oktoberfest seriously is, without a doubt, an understatement. In mid October, this otherwise mellow city runs slick with beer, beer and more beer. Indeed, Blumenau itself was originally founded by mostly German and Italian settlers, and even today retains distinct traces of its central European heritage. After a walking tour through the city center to see the old German architecture, join the roughly million other visitors who annually descend on the Blumenau Oktoberfest for a stein or two and some authentic German grub. Bear in mind that as previously mentioned, Oktoberfest is wildly popular, and stretches Blumenau’s tourism infrastructure to its limits. Needless to say, you’ll want to book your accommodation well in advance if possible.
Festival de Cachaca
Speaking of binge drinking, you haven’t had a hangover until you’ve dipped your toes in the wild world of cachaca. Brazil’s most popular alcoholic beverage isn’t particularly well known abroad, but is something of a cultural icon in the nation of its birth. It’s a bit like white rum, but don’t tell any Brazilians that (in the past, the government has lobbied internationally against attempts to classify cachaca as rum). The key difference is that while rum is made from sugarcane molasses, cachaca is produced using cane juice. The result is a flavor that’s somewhat like white rum, but with a distinct herbal twist. Even this, however, is a simplification: the world of cachaca is a wide one, ranging from artistic and exotic at the high end, to bottom shelf swill that you’d probably be better off using to clean your car engine. There’s no better place to introduce yourself to cachaca than the colonial town of Paraty during the annual Festival de Cachaca. Within spitting distance of Rio, Paratay’s celebration of all things cachaca takes place over three days in August. Along with being ideal for sampling hundreds of types of cachaca, the festival also usually features a mix of music and samba, plus the mandatory handicrafts.
Festa Junina
June in Brazil is pure chaos, and it’s all thanks to the Festa Junina. An adopted version of the European Midsummer festival tradition, Festa Junina was introduced by European colonists as a kind of religious/agrarian celebration. Very much a family event, the festival is celebrated all over Brazil on the last weekend of June. At the heart of the festivities is the quadrilha, a unique dance that’s closely associated with Festa Junina. In the south, bonfires are integral to the celebration. However, the real place to be for Festa Junina is in the northeast, where the end of June generally coincides with the start of the wet season. After weeks or months of drought, the celebration represents an outpouring of relief as the dry season passes. A couple of good destinations for Festa Junina include Campina Grande in Paraiba, and Pernambuco’s Caruaru. Otherwise, head to the countryside for something more authentic.
Carnival
A reason to visit the country in-and-of-itself, Carnival is almost a synonym for Brazilian culture. The first week of March is a nonstop party that engulfs the entire nation with spontaneous celebration, parades, cultural events and the ubiquitous blocos (the Brazilian version of a block party). Carnival can be celebrated anywhere in Brazil, though it’s usually the big cities that boast the best parties. Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Recife are all good picks.
The city of Oxford has become almost synonymous with its university, one of the top learning institutions in the world, as well as one of the oldest. The university is made up of 38 colleges whose pristine quadrangles, picturesque chapels, and medieval dining halls have seen the likes of Stephen Hawking, Margaret Thatcher and Oscar Wilde pass through as students. But Oxford isn’t just about pouring over books in dusty libraries and cramming for exams. The city’s charms – its history-steeped streets, fascinating traditions, and acclaimed dining scene – aren’t solely the preserve of students. In fact, Oxford has all the ingredients for a blissful weekend getaway. From punting along idyllic waterways to exploring Winston Churchill’s former home, Oxford guarantees a truly memorable holiday.
Here are 10 reasons why Oxford should be on your bucket-list, whether it’s as a last-minute escape or a special anniversary weekend with your partner. As CN Traveller puts it, ‘Oxford is constant, reliable, wonderful, a weekend jaunt with historic thrills.’
The city of Oxford
Because of its incredible good looks The first thing you’ll notice upon arriving in Oxford is how attractive the city is. It’s possible to spend your entire afternoon in a history bubble surrounded by ancient architecture and other relics from the past. There are the colleges, with their honey-coloured brick walls, tranquil cloisters, and perfectly maintained lawns. Then there are the city’s beautiful buildings like the Radcliffe Camera and the Hertford Bridge, also known as The Bridge of Sighs. With stained glass windows at every corner, and domes and spires dominating the skyline, Oxford is indisputably one of the most photogenic cities in Britain. The best views are from The Carfax Tower.
The Bodleian Library
Because its traditions are alive and kicking
Oxford certainly wears its past on its sleeve and its traditions, far from being consigned to the history books, are still practiced with enthusiasm today. These rather eccentric conventions and rituals are evident in the students flying past on bicycles on their way to exams, dressed in the traditional attire of gowns and mortarboards. There are also the glorious May Morning celebrations, where, on May 1st each year, the Magdalen College choristers sing from the top of the college tower, angelic voices drifting down to the crowds below, gathered to welcome in the Spring. A final unique experience is evensong at Magdalen College, an atmospheric candle-lit service where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped inside a time-machine.
Because it has some of the best museums
Few cities can rival London when it comes to world-class museums but Oxford steps confidently up to the challenge. The city boasts an incredible number of museums and you’d be hard pushed to visit them all in one weekend. There’s the enormous Ashmolean, for one, Britain’s oldest public museum, where you can see Michelangelo’s studies for the Sistine Chapel and Guy Fawkes’ lantern. Enjoy refreshments in the rooftop restaurant afterwards. Then there’s the History of Science Museum, where, as Lonely Planet writes, “science, art, celebrity, and nostalgia come together.” Or the Oxford Museum of Natural History which has the world’s most complete dodo specimen. One of our favourites is the Pitt Rivers Museum, full of oddities from all over the world, including blowpipes and shrunken heads. And, finally, there’s Oxford Castle & Prison, for those who like their history gory.
Inside the Ashmolean Museum
Because you can catch movies and plays in style
As the sun sets on Oxford’s cobbled streets, with feet tired from all that sightseeing, you might fancy snuggling down with some popcorn and catching a movie. At The Ultimate Picture Palace on the Cowley Road in east Oxford, you can enjoy the latest blockbuster in a cinema with a difference. This Grade II-listed building has a gorgeous Art Deco auditorium which shows all the recent releases as well as some old-school favourites. There’s even a bar for snacks and drinks to see you through the screening. But if spending the evening indoors seems a shame, pick up a ticket for a show by the Oxford Shakespeare Company who perform up-to-date takes on Shakespeare’s plays in outdoor settings, including Oxford Castle and Wadham College. Bring a picnic to enjoy during the performance.
Because you can drift down the river in a small wooden boat
How do Oxonians unwind? Since the 19th century, their preferred way to relax has always been in a flat-bottomed wooden boat known as a punt – accompanied by a jug of Pimms. Rent a punt from Magdalen Bridge and discover the city’s picturesque waterways. Remember to pack some snacks, preferably strawberries and a bottle of bubbly, and take in the charming scenery of meadows and woodland. You probably won’t be surprised to discover that it was in a punt like this that Lewis Carroll found inspiration for the story of Alice In Wonderland, drifting along the river with the young Alice Liddell. So sit back and allow yourself to meander along, enjoying this wonderfully idyllic way to explore the city.
Punting is a popular thing to do in Oxford
Because it’s a movie star in its own right
Does Oxford look a tad familiar? That’s because the city has starred in multiple movies including, and perhaps most famously, Harry Potter. The Great Hall in Christ Church College inspired Hogwarts’ very own Great Hall, and the Bodleian Library, Duke Humfrey’s Library, and New College all also featured in the movies. In addition to making appearances in the wizarding world, Oxford also played a major role in both the TV and film adaptation of Evelyn Waugh’s 1945 novel Brideshead Revisited. The city also features in the film adaptation of The History Boys, a play by Alan Bennett, who was also an alumnus of the university. And, finally, you might enjoy a tour of all the Oxford locations – pubs, colleges, and streets – that appeared in the detective series Inspector Morse.
Because of its dining and bar scene
Oxford’s bar and restaurant scene has improved tremendously in recent years. From creative cocktail bars to old-fashioned pubs full of legends and lore, from fancy bistros to quirky little cafes, today there’s something for every mood and taste. Check out the Lamb and Flag where Thomas Hardy wrote Jude the Obscure. For more ancient drinking dens you’ve got the Turf Tavern and the King’s Arms. The Eagle and Child was a hang-out for the ‘Inklings’, a group of writers that included CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien. For food, one of the best rated places in the city is Oli’s Thai, an unassuming eatery in east Oxford where you have to book months in advance. Otherwise, there’s Turl Street Kitchen, which The Telegraph describes as ‘a trendy, charity-run café with a changing collection of work by local artists and a short, seasonal menu with tempting veggie options.’ TripExpert also recommends Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, and Gee’s Restaurant, which, as Frommer’s says, is ‘where Oxford students take their parents when they come to town.’ And when evening arrives, head east across Magdalen Bridge to the Cowley Road where the city’s most lively bars and clubs await.
Gee’s restaurant
Because there’s no better place for book-lovers in all of Britain
Not only is Oxford a hallowed centre of learning, boasting one hundred libraries and alumni including JRR Tolkien and Dr Seuss, but it’s also home to Blackwell’s bookshop. Blackwell’s is the largest academic and specialist bookseller in the UK. But the best part of this particular bookshop is the Norrington Room, where bookworms can scour over three miles of shelves. Blackwells is in fact the Guinness World Record holder for the largest single room selling books. So peruse the shelves at your leisure and pick out something that catches your eye. As for where to read it? No better place than in a punt.
Because the surrounding countryside is idyllic
Oxford is an indisputably beautiful city so it’s no surprise that it demands high standards of its surroundings as well. The towns and villages scattered around the city are just as picturesque as Oxford itself, nestled among the gently rolling hills and charming farmland. You don’t even have to venture that far to get a taste of these bucolic delights. Port Meadow is walkable from the city-centre, a wide open pasture with a meandering river, the spires of Oxford visible in the distance. Walk along the waterfront until you reach The Perch, a 17th century pub with a great beer garden. Or you might consider going further afield to see Blenheim Palace, a huge Baroque country house with vast gardens and parkland, the birthplace of Winston Churchill.
Blenheim Palace
Because you can stay in some thoroughly unique hotels
Given Oxford’s rather eccentric nature and unique traditions, it’s only fitting that there are some equally unusual – but nonetheless fabulous – places to stay during your weekend away. Book a room in the neo-Gothic Macdonald Randolph Hotel for a bit of old-school grandeur. Or there’s Malmaison Oxford Castle – because how often do you get the chance to stay in a 19th century prison? For something a little less fancy but no less characterful, you’ve got Holywell Bed and Breakfast, a warm and traditional hotel with rooms full of ‘quirky antiques, bunches of dried lavender, imaginative book collections and a good tea tray.‘ Finally, for a bit of luxury and some impeccable views, it’s hard to beat the Old Bank Hotel and its rooftop bedroom, The Room with The View.
One final reason why Oxford makes the easiest and most enjoyable of weekend breaks is the city’s proximity to London. Fly into a London airport before catching the train from London Paddington or the 24/7 Oxford Tube from Victoria. You’ll be among the city’s spires, towers, and turrets in no time.
Wedged between Ukraine and Romania, Moldova is home to one of the fastest-growing tourism industries in the world. As more opportunities for travelers develop, such as themed routes ranging from cycling to gastronomy, wine is one industry that is already highly-developed and waiting for travelers to drink up. With more than 110,000 hectares of vineyards across the entire country, there are more wineries among the various regions to see than can be visited in a single weekend. Our guide to a perfect two-day sojourn in the design-forward capital, Chisinau, lends insight into Moldovan culture and history while detailing a plan for tasting a few of the many Moldovan wines that have received high praise and international awards.
Friday
Check into Zentrum Apartments, a four-star, all-suite hotel in the center of the capital, within walking distance to most destinations and restaurants. Each suite is complete with a separate sitting area and a fully-equipped kitchen for apartment-style living. Freshen up then hit the sidewalk. Stop in CoffeeMolka next door to the hotel and across from the Church of Saint Pantaleon for an afternoon caffeine jolt before walking another two blocks to the National Art Museum of Moldova. Founded in 1939, climb the white marble staircase to find a collection of paintings and sculptures by local and international artists. Continuing down the same street, 31 August 1989, visit the National Museum of History of Moldova for insight into the country’s origins, former rulers, and independence. The architecture of the buildings themselves are beautiful, but the exhibits provide a glance into the traditions and culture of Moldova, such as their traditional costume. Another two blocks to the left from the history museums, take dinner at Propaganda Café. Serving a variety of international favorites and traditional Moldovan dishes, this vintage-inspired restaurant is delicious and provides an opportunity to try one of the many good Moldovan wines. Order a bottle from an independently-owned, small vineyard such as Et Cetera. For more tastings, venture over to Carpe Diem Wine Bar after dinner. This city center tasting room for Carpe Diem’s winery offers a wide range of their own wines as well as other options. Book a reservation to ensure a table, and ask their extremely knowledgeable staff all of your questions.
Saturday
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel or venture over to Chianti for a late breakfast. After fueling up for the day, take a walking tour of the city’s sites on your own with the help of the tourist information office located in center. From Chianti, located on Mihai Eminescu street around the corner from the hotel, continue towards Stefan cel Mare si Sfant Boulevard and turn left, passing the National Drama Theatre, which also begins the sight-seeing. Pass the stunning Organ Hall, where concerts, ballets and operas are still performed, and cross the street to reach the tourist information center for suggestions, maps, and other tips. Caddy-corner to the information is Cathedral Park, which houses two of the most prominent sites, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Triumphant Arc, nestled opposite the Government House. Crossing back over the main street, wander through the green Stephan the Great Central Park, featuring statues of both its namesake and of Alexander Pushkin. After walking through the park alongside the many busts of notable Moldovan figures, take 31 August 1989 street back toward the hotel and a left onto Alexander Pushkin street to reach Black Rabbit for lunch. An urban setting, this restaurant is sleek and chic, serving international fare ranging from garden-fresh salads to creamy risottos. Return to the hotel to catch a transfer, which can be arranged ahead of time, to visit Atú Urban Winery for an afternoon of tastings. Located in a warehouse just outside of the city center, this winery breathes a modern air from the time guests arrive at their vibrant mural. Sample a few of their young wines as well as some of their best-sellers. If guests are lucky, the owners might even uncork a barrel to let them try a new creation. Step back in time after experiencing one of Moldova’s most modern wineries by visiting Castel Mimi. A 30-minute transfer just outside of the capital, this winery is a prime example of the country’s pre-Soviet architecture. Fronted by a clean and simple reception, the castle’s grounds are well-kept and a beautiful setting for a leisurely evening of history, wines and dining. After a tour of the cellars and a trip through the life of one of Moldova’s former ruling families, take a seat at one of the winery’s restaurants for an artfully-presented dinner. Arrive back to the hotel with bellies full and a new appreciation for Moldova’s wine-rich culture and complex history before jetting off the next morning.
Whether banning single-use plastic or switching to clean energy, hotels are finally waking up to the environmental catastrophe the world is facing. But when it comes to green credentials, some places are a cut above the rest. Here are some hotels and resorts taking inventive measures to safeguard the future of the planet.
The Bucuti and Tara resort in Aruba sits on Eagle Beach, a flawless white sand beach dotted with swaying palm trees and home to nesting sea turtles. Owner and eco pioneer Ewald Biemans has been advancing green initiatives at his resort for 31 years. He built the largest solar panel system on the island, banned plastic – 20 years ago – and reduced food portions to prevent food waste. Recently he has barred sunscreens which are toxic to coral and supplies guests with alternatives. In 2018, the resort became the first carbon-neutral resort in the Caribbean. Oh – and our experts think this is the best resort in Aruba, and give it an outstanding score of 95, too.
Between 2014 and 2017 rising sea temperatures caused75 per cent of the world’s coral to bleach. Determined to halt this natural disaster in the reefs around their Maldivian resorts, Anantara Hotels began funding a reef restoration project, HARP (Holistic Approach to Reef Protection). The project team takes pieces of surviving coral and grows them in nurseries before returning them to the reef. Three years in, 1500 new corals have been planted, and the reefs are regenerating. Visit either Anantara Dhigu or Anantara Veli, remote, beautiful strips of overwater villas in the South Male atoll, and you can volunteer on the project.
Overlooking the Amstel River in cool Amsterdam-Oost, the QO hotel is a feat of green engineering. One of only sixLEED Platinum hotels in Europe, its smart façade reflects the sun or insulates, creating perfect room temperatures. Heat is stored in an energy storage system 70 metres underground, and electricity is generated from waste frying fat. Proving sustainability doesn’t have to be ugly or boring, rooms are serene and minimal with natural hues, and carpets made from old fishing nets. It’s a quick cycle to the district’s trendy bars and restaurants.
The Four Seasons Ko Olina sits facing the ocean on the rugged west coast of volcanic Oahu. Rooms are furnished with natural materials, and most have views of swaying palm trees and the powerful Pacific surf. The resort has taken an innovative approach to sustainability by joining theBlue Zones project. Inspired by the original ‘blue zones’ where people live very long lives, the resort has improved quality of life for its employees. Measures include upgrading communal spaces, making food healthier, establishing a weekly farmers market, employee yoga classes, and walking and biking programs.
Acclaimed filmmaker and son of ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau, Jean-Michel Cousteau has won countless awards for his environmentalism. His Fiji resort is on Vanua Levu, a rainforested, reef-encircled island in Northern Fiji, home to pearl farms and sugar cane growers. The resort funds education and health care for the local community. Guests can volunteer on sustainability projects, including repopulating giant clams and planting thousands of mangroves. There is no plastic, no chemicals and the water reclamation plant – Fiji’s first – reuses wastewater. Accommodation is in luxurious huts modelled on Fijian bures. Our experts give this resort an excellent score of 89, too.
Overlooking the green slopes of Brooklyn Bridge Park and the East River, 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is designed to bring the natural world inside. Light-filled rooms contain trees and moss grows here and there. Furniture is crafted from salvaged pine beams and old shipping pallets as well as stone, marble, and slate. The result is beautiful, chic – and reduces waste. Calling themselves ‘a platform for change’ 1 Hotels has introduced many green measures at this hotel, including efficient heating and cooling and rainwater harvesting. The restaurant even recycles oysters – taking the shells to nurseries to be regrown before returning them to the New York Harbour.
On the edge of Sinharaja Rainforest, the Rainforest Ecolodge is another LEED platinum building – the first in Sri Lanka. The lodge met strict constraints to acquire the certification that included not disturbing the surrounding forest and paying to upgrade a local tea workers village. Accommodation is in huts on stilts made from old shipping containers and salvaged railway sleepers. The location is magical; the tropical rainforest is just a few feet away, and you can expect to wake and find yourself shrouded in mist and serenaded by birds, toads, and giant squirrels.
Parkroyal on Pickering, an astonishing hotel on the edge of Singapore’s vibrant Chinatown, has won the title of Asia’s Leading Green Hotel for four consecutive years. The hotel’s design is inspired by natural features like waterfalls and ravines and includes 1500 square metres of gardens that cool the building and improve the air quality. Altogether the greenery – which includes 50 different types of plants – covers 200 per cent of the hotel’s land area. There are plenty of innovative energy-saving measures; motion sensors regulate energy use, and the hotel saves 32.5 Olympic size pools of water every year.
There’s plenty of reasons to visit Argentina. The Andes beckon to hikers, while Buenos Aires calls to culture fans with its vibrant tradition of dance and performing arts. Adventure tourists needn’t look further than the awe-inspiring Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, not to mention the mysterious southern frontier of Tierra del Fuego. Oh, and then there’s the wine. There’s no shame in sloshing your way through Argentina, which competes with neighboring Chile for the Western Hemisphere’s best wine. Wine is produced throughout the nation, with each region offering its own flavors and character, not to mention opportunities for adventure beyond the bottle. So brace yourself: wine-tour is coming.
Salta and the Calchaquies Valleys
Argentina’s mountainous north west is brimming with opportunities for hikers, mountaineers and nature lovers. There’s no better base for exploring this wild landscape than Salta, the tourist hub of the north. Indeed, there’s good reason why locals often refer to this colonial city as Salta la Linda (Salta the Pretty). This well-preserved historic town has a dramatic Andean backdrop, and also happens to be one of the best places in Argentina to catch a glimpse of the country’s indigenous culture. Wine lovers, however, should beeline for the nearby Calchaquies Valleys, which itself is arguably Argentina’s second largest wine producing region. The region is dominated by the Torrontes grape, which thrives in the cold, dry highlands of Calchaquies. These uniquely Argentine grapes make for whites with extraordinarily smooth textures and mild aromas. Expect aromas of peach and apricot that are perfect for fans of gentle, soft whites. While you’re in the region, don’t miss the wine town of Cafayate, which is as mellow as a glass of Torrontes. While ideally you’ll want to rent a car to get the most out of the wide expanses of wilderness here, it’s easy enough to soak up the scenery on foot or by bike. Bicycle tours are wildly popular for a reason, and from Cafayate you can cycle between vineyards, stopping occasionally to sample those easy-to-drink Torrontes. Motorists and the more ambitious cyclists should consider hitting up either the Quebrada de Cafayate or Quebrada de Humahuaca – both of which are easily among the best drives in the country.
Catamarca
Also in the north west, Catamarca is far less established than Calchaquies and its surroundings. Until around a decade or two ago, this region was primarily known for producing raisins, with high quality wine grapes being largely out of the question for this remote region for most of its history. Dry, bleak and rocky, Catamarca just never seemed to be able to catch up to its bigger vino siblings, Salta and La Rioja. That all began to change a generation ago, when viticulture began to take root along the shoes of the Abaucan River. The tough, arid conditions in this distant corner of the country mean that vines produce few clusters, resulting in extremely limited harvests. However, it also means that the few grapes that do grow are of particularly high quality. As with Salta, Catamarca is good for Torrontes, but the real reason to adventure out here is for the outrageously rich Syrah.
San Juan
While Salta likes to claim it’s Argentina’s second largest wine growing region, San Juan churns out roughly the same amount of the good stuff. Whichever claims the silver medal in terms of raw output, it’s indisputable that San Juan is home to Argentina’s most elite wines. Hot and dry, San Juan has traditionally been known for its high quality (and high priced) reds, particularly Syrah and Bonarda (Charbono). Nowadays, however, Malbec and Viognier are gradually replacing the past generations of Bonarda and Syrah, making for an increasingly diverse region. Whatever you go for, expect intensity; San Juan is all about concentrated, almost overwhelmingly flavorful reds. If you can drag yourself away from San Juan’s vineyards and wine bars for a day, do yourself a favor and check out the Ruta del Olivo. This popular tourist trail takes visitors on an adventure through the region’s other major industry, olive oil. Along with a lively museum, you can also visit the olive farms and factories to see every step in the oil manufacturing process.
Mendoza
Argentina’s most well-known wine region consists of the twin districts of Valle de Uco and Lujan de Cuyo, and boasts over 300,000 hectares of glorious vineyards stretching from the base of the Andes to the far horizon. Over 1,200 wineries call Mendoza home, including many of the country’s most recognizable names, like Carmelo Patti and Clos de los Siete. Expect a massive variety, from Cabernet Sauvignons to Merlots, Torrontes to Malbecs. Avid fans of Argentine wine should start at Bodega Catena Zapata and its unique, pyramid shaped winery surrounded by vines. This is the winery that put Argentine wine on the map in the early 20th Century, and their tours are some of the most informative in the region. The nearby Bodega Salentein likewise is steeped in history, and their vast underground cellar is worth a visit in and of itself. While you’re there, consider taking a side trip to Cacheuta in Lujan de Cuyo for the Parque de Aqua Termal. After a day of sampling the local produce, there’s no better way to mellow out than in the local thermal springs.
Rio Negro
Located in the mid-south of the country, Rio Negro is the southern-most frontier of the Argentine wine world. Considerably cooler than other wine regions listed here, this is a land of Patagonian wilds centered around the river of Rio Negro. This river is created by meltwater from the Andes, which was exploited in the early 19th Century by British colonists. These pioneers dug out a network of canals on the flanks of the river, carving out a stretch of green in the otherwise harsh desert environment. Along with apples and pears, the region also produces grapes ideal for Sauvignon Blanc, Malbec and Pinot Noir. Of note are the whites here, which tend to feature unique, mineral-esque aromas that you won’t find anywhere else. This is especially true of the Sauvignon Blancs and Semillons. Bear in mind that viticulture is relatively new here, and as such wine tourism infrastructure is much more limited than what you’d expect from the likes of Mendoza, San Juan and Salta. You’ll also need a car, as distances between wineries are pretty considerable around here. To travel the vast distances of this region, consider using the provincial capital of Neuquen as a base of operations. There isn’t too much to do here, though the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes is worth a few hours of your time before you head out to the vineyards. In terms of wineries, Bodega Charca, Bodega Humberto Canale and Patagonia Vinos are all worth visiting.
Prepare to fall in love. It may take a few days, it may take mere minutes; but as soon as Sydney displays its charm in full force, you’ll be a goner. All glitzy beaches and cosmopolitan pizzazz, Australia’s largest city is an old adept at winning traveling hearts.
A long weekend may seem like not enough for true love to blossom, but it definitely is to get a glimpse at just how good a thing you could have with Sydney. Consider this taster as the first few dates, when you’re still getting to know each other and you’re finding out about what makes the city special: the overwhelming beauty of its harbor, the secrets in every neighborhood corner, its unapologetic joie de vivre.
Sydney Opera House
After these two and a half days, you’ll be left with a fuzzy feeling, and although you may not be willing to put a label on it, trust us: with Sydney, it is the real deal.
(HALF) FRIDAY Start your trip by visiting Sydney’s most famous area, and rightfully so: Circular Quay. Bestowed with world-class landmarks, such as one Opera House, this neighborhood lives by the water and loves to dazzle visitors, regardless of whether it’s their first or millionth times in the city.
A stone’s throw away are the famous Royal Botanical Gardens, a green oasis where kookaburras and crested cockatoos hold court. The gardens also have one of the most glorious views over the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, which is bound to claim the background in more than one your trip’s
Sydney Harbor Bridge
photos. After sunset, there’s no need to venture far. You can catch a show at the Opera, which has played hostess to everything from musicals to burlesque shows to stand-up comedy, and then get a drink at its namesake bar while, once again, taking in the view (it never gets old, promise).
If you’re feeling peckish, head to the nearby The Rocks District, a historical neighborhood with cobblestone streets and a story lurking on every corner. This area is a prime spot to linger in front of a pint and some class-A pub grub at any of the classic institutions in the area. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for Asian food, Sailors Thai is an excellent choice.
SATURDAY Spend your first full day in Sydney’s North Shore, starting with the long way there: crossing the Harbour Bridge on foot. Walking across this landmark takes around an hour at a leisurely pace and will give you ample time to revel in the view of the Opera House and the skyline from multiple angles.
Taronga Zoo
The bridge will take you to the neighborhood of Kirribilli, a charming high-end area with an absolutely privileged background. Take the opportunity to dive into Sydney’s obsession with coffee, and grab your first (or second or third, but definitely not last) flat white of the weekend at Anvil Coffee. Right by the wharf, you can enjoy your drink with a side of water murmurs and sunshine.
After recharging your batteries, get ready to get close and personal to some of Australia’s best known inhabitants at Taronga Zoo. This zoo, in the neighboring area of Mosman, is home to kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and wombats, and makes for one memorable visit.
Manly Beach
For lunch get back to the water in Manly Beach. One of Sydney’s top beaches and most lively neighborhoods, Manly has outstanding options for international food, such the hearty Italian fare of Hugos or the joyful Mexican cuisine at Chica Bonita. Take the rest of the afternoon off and find a patch of sand to claim yours for a few hours. It is not a visit to Sydney if you don’t indulge in at least a few hours of sun time.
Catch the ferry back to the city, in yet another cruise around Sydney’s spectacular harbor. Grab dinner at the famed Quay Bar. Don’t let its “tourist trap” look fool you: with a creative modern Australian menu and a prime location, this is one of the best restaurants in the city.
SUNDAY Have an early start on your second Sydney morning, and stretch your muscles with one of the city’s most beloved walks around the south beaches. The Bondi to Coogee stroll spans six kilometers (3.72 miles, around two hours walking leisurely) that take you through some of the most iconic beaches in the city: Bondi, Tamarama, Bronte and Coogee. It is an easy urban walk, but it will take you close to nature, going by cliffs, bays, natural pools and parks, and featuring some mildly steep gradient paths. Word of caution: the Australian sun is unforgiving, even in the early morning. Do not forget sunscreen.
Once you reach your destination, take a pause to enjoy that most sacred Sunday tradition: brunch. The Little Kitchen is a neighborhood institution, touting ricotta pancakes and smoked salmon on scrambled eggs from its tempting menu. Take the train
back to the city for a dose of urban culture. The Art Gallery of New South Wales, one of the best museums in the country, focuses its collection on Australian art (both Aboriginal and European-influenced) and provides a glimpse into the country’s history as reflected by local artists. Follow up by indulging your hedonistic side with a good dose of retail therapy in the hip neighborhood of Paddington. Strutting down Oxford street until you reach the Intersection will take you by a cornucopia of stores and boutiques showcasing the best Australian talent in fashion, jewelry and accessories. Finish the day (and weekend) on a high note with a stroll and dinner in Surry Hills. Once rough around the edges, this area has seen great revitalization and restoration, bringing its Victorian-style tree-lined streets back to life. This is also a top foodie spot: with great restaurants like Nomad, Folonomo and Firedoor, the hardest part of dinnertime will be choosing where to go.
The United Arab Emirates is no stranger to excess, with the world’s tallest building and a hotel that uses 24 carat gold as wallpaper. Glittering Dubai, the City of Superlatives, is in the spotlight more than Abu Dhabi, but anyone going to the UAE should make a point to spend at least one day in the country’s capital. The 2019 Experts’ Choice winner for top attraction in Abu Dhabi is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, whichFrommer’s describes as having “enough marble, gold, and silver to make the Taj Mahal jealous.”
The massive building’s 82 domes, 1,096 pillars, and the largest floor mosaic in the world give Abu Dhabi bragging rights. What Travel + Leisure calls one of the country’s “most impressive and striking structures“ is certainly worth the one-and-a-half hour travel time from Dubai.
The mosque, which can hold 41,000 worshippers, offers free admission and free daily tours in a variety of languages. If you have small children, we recommend picking up free audio guides and seeing the building at your own pace. The group cultural tours are interesting but last more than an hour and are regimented.
Visiting hours are 9 am to 10 pm but Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an active place of worship so it’s important to note that the mosque is closed to visitors on Fridays, the Muslim holy day, until 4:30 pm. We recommend going at dusk to see the marble both reflecting the sun and illuminated at night. Taxis are readily available throughout the city and at the mosque, there’s clear signage in English, and staff is available to answer questions. The mosque receives 5.7 million people a year: 1.4 million worshippers and 3.4 million visitors so they understand visitors’ requirements.
There’s a separate entrance for women where attendants lend, again at no charge, loose hooded robes that fit easily over clothes. It is acceptable to wear usual Western warm-weather clothing in most circumstances in the UAE, but when entering a mosque both men and women must cover their extremities, women must cover their heads, and all must remove their shoes.
Since only 12 percent of the UAE’s 9.5 million residents are Emiratis and people from 200 countries call the UAE home, the country is open to other cultures and welcomes explaining theirs.
We think that this remarkable building should take its place among the world’s most notable houses of worship; worth a special trip to experience the awe-inspiring edifices man has created in tribute to God.
A visit to Hong Kong has long been among the most thrilling, incomparable experiences of urban life in the world, never mind Asia. Many of the former British colony’s highlights are evergreen – think hiking Victoria Peak, the view of Hong Kong Island’s skyline from Kowloon, the bustling nightlife of Lan Kwai Fong and dim sum the morning after. However, a series of new developments are reinvigorating the city’s appeal, honoring its history and energetically lifting up creativity and the arts.
All of this is set against a backdrop of political uncertainty. Twenty-two years after the end of British rule, there’s growing pessimism about Hong Kong’s ability to retain its distinctive identity, as Beijing steadily asserts its sovereignty over the territory. These changes seem inevitable, so visit now and discover why Hong Kong is our Best of Asia winner in our 2019 Experts’ Choice Awards.
Victoria Peak
Hong Kong’s energy is infectious, and you feel it as soon as you step into the densely populated hustle of downtown Kowloon or Hong Kong Island’s hectic business districts. You’ll hear conversations going on in Cantonese, English, Mandarin and many other languages besides, and the city’s iconic neon signs compete for your attention from all directions.
The food in Hong Kong is spectacular, in every category, at every price point and any hour of the day. From dim sum steamers filled with siu mai and har gow, to fishball noodle soup, char siu BBQ goose and pork, and the East-meets-West charm of the city’s cha caan teng, there’s so much variety, craftsmanship and history just in the local cuisine. Join one of the many food tours, who’ll make your life easy and allow you to get on with enjoying the food. You can also enjoy incredible food from all over the world, with 63 Michelin-starred restaurants including Caprice, Bo Innovation and Lung King Heen.
You can end your evenings convening with other globetrotters to watch the fireworks over Victoria Harbor, or exploring creative, beautifully presented cocktails at bars like The Old Man, Quinary, The Iron Fairies and Ping Pong 129. And when it’s time to get some rest, Hong Kong has some of the world’s
The Peninsula
finest hotels, many offering stunning views. Leading the TripExpert pack this year are The Peninsula, InterContinental, Mandarin Oriental and The Upper House, but look out for newly opened spots like the St. Regis and Rosewood to climb the rankings in the year ahead.
Hong Kong’s creative side has often been overlooked, but a range of new developments in the arts is raising the city’s game. This year will see the opening of the highly anticipated M+ Museum in the West Kowloon Cultural District, which also contains the already-open Arts Park and the Xiqu Centre, a theater celebrating the art of Chinese opera and other traditional performing arts. The WKCD also adds welcome parkland to the Kowloon harbor-front.
Other developments embrace contemporary art while also spotlighting Hong Kong’s history and heritage: Set in a 19th century building that once housed the Central Police Station, Tai Kwun features an art gallery and auditorium as well as a number of restaurants and shops. Back across Victoria Harbor on the Kowloon waterfront, the 457-meter Avenue of Stars – Hong Kong’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame – has just reopened after a transformative facelift headed by James Corner, the architect behind Manhattan’s High Line. The Avenue of Stars renovation is one plank of the USD 2.6 billion Victoria Dockside project, which will be boosted later in 2019 by the launch of mixed-use art and retail development K11 Musea. For family fun, Hong Kong Disneyland is currently being expanded, with the first stage set to be completed over the next 12 months.
Kowloon
Finally, don’t forget to get away from the skyscrapers and explore Hong Kong’s stunning surroundings. To the north of Kowloon, the New Territories offer fantastic hiking opportunities, and the MTR network is your friend: hop on a train and hit a hiking trail to burn some calories, making way for more eating. Take a ferry across to the former Portuguese colony of Macau, and make time to visit one or two of the smaller islands (there are over 200) to wander fishing villages and beaches.
French Polynesia is comprised of 118 volcanic and coral laden islands and 5 archipelagos, but a few of the most popular hotspots include Bora Bora, Mo’orea, and Tahiti. It’s a destination favored by the jet-set and A-listers, to include the Obamas, Tom Hanks, Bruce Springsteen, and Oprah. Based on our best-of lists from esteemed and credible travel media and our own algorithms that identify the world’s top hotels, restaurants, and attractions, we’ve named French Polynesia the Best of Oceania for 2019 in our Experts’ Choice Awards.
The five island groups that make up French Polynesia include: the Society (the Windward Islands and Leeward Islands combined) Tuamotu, Gambier, Austral, and the Marquesas Islands. Only 67 of the 118 islands are inhabited, with the most populated being Tahiti. While the main languages spoken are French and Reo Maohi (Tahitian),
Tahiti
you won’t have a problem speaking English as the the islands due to its popularity as a vacation destination for travelers from all over the world.
Not matter where you decide to hang up your hat, the environment lends itself to indulgent relaxation, whether that means laying on the beach with a good read (and libation) or getting pampered at a spa that incorporates indigenous ingredients into its treatment menu. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of activities to keep you busy, too. If you’re into snorkeling and scuba diving, then you can’t miss the Garuae Pass. Perfectly positioned north of Fakarava—a UNESCO biosphere—this watery abyss is known for being one of the best diving sites in the world. Fun fact: The pass was first crossed by R.L. Stevenson (writer and author of “Treasure Island,” amongst other works) in 1888. There’s also kitesurfing, golf, biking, kayaking, horseback riding, jet-skiing, and paddle-boarding to help you burn off all of that delicious island cuisine.
Speaking of food, eating out in French Polynesia is a natural version of fusion that incorporates French, Chinese, and Polynesian flavors. Think traditional Tahitian fare (Ma0a Tahiti) such as fat-heavy pork or fish (raw or cooked) plus veggies and a healthy dose of coconut milk. Like Hawaii, cooking a pig in a pit with
Bora Bora
banana leaves is also a popular tradition. Do yourself a favor and skip the tourist trap restaurants selling eats such as burgers, pizza, and pasta—you can almost always find something acceptable for kids at a more traditional restaurant if you communicate with the staff. Don’t miss out on tropical fruits such as lychee, grapefruits, pineapples, and bananas, a much-needed detox if you’ve been imbibing. Consider a freshly pressed fruit juice or coconut water (pape harri) for ultimate refreshment and replenishment.
To be fair, the majority of the accomodations in French Polynesia are are on the high-end side, to include expert picks in Bora Bora such as the Four Seasons (90) and the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort (88). There’s also famed resort, The Brando, on the small island of Tetiaroa. As the name suggests, this private escape is the brainchild of Marlon Brando and Richard Bailey—a long-time resident of Tahiti—who shared the same goals regarding to the preservation of the environment and scientific research, all while giving curious guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in this unspoilt world. Regardless of all the glitz and glamour, you can find a good selection of proper guesthouses for a more rustic yet charming experience that won’t deprive you of your entire vacation budget.
Marquesas Islands
French Polynesia is an expansive area that should be equally researched in advance as it is explored in person. When it comes to where you choose to stay, you truly can’t go wrong—just be sure to consider your interests, whether that means adventure-seeker, foodie, beach bum, or history buff.
If there’s one thing our experts agree on, it’s that the death of authentic Havana has been greatly exaggerated. While it’s true that Cuba is now receiving more tourists than ever before in its modern history, Havana remains as paradoxical and alluring as ever. It still somehow has a gracefulness of its own, even while the whole crumbling city feels like it’s being held together with duct tape, string and pure improvised ingenuity. It’s the kind of place where the best laid plans fall to the wayside – maybe because nothing quite works properly, or maybe it’s the Caribbean heat. Maybe it’s because it’s just too easy to kick back, dip a cigar in some honey and soak up the vibes through a cloud of pungent tobacco smoke. Whatever the reason, Havana’s lethargic charm is irresistibly seductive, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t at least try to see a few sights between those ice cold mojitos. This year, more than 20 attractions around Havana received our Experts’ Choice Award. The full list of winners is available at ourHavana destination page; or, read on to find out about some of our experts’ favorite sights around the city.
Come for the missiles, stay for the ungainly yet endearing efforts to meticulously detail the minutiae of Cuba’s revolution. Havana’s Museum of the Revolution lures in visitors with its open-air exhibition of military aircraft, tanks and a surface-to-air missile system that proudly sits in street view. Behind the boisterous display of military hardware, visitors are treated to a fascinating, albeit eclectic mix of relics from the revolutionary period. Gawk at Fidel’s sweat-stained, half-century-old combat fatigues, or check out the tin spoon that supposedly saved one rebel’s life from a stray bullet. Sure, you might overdose on patriotic kitsch, but along the way you’ll get a crash-course in the Cuban perspective of the revolution, Cold War and beyond. Unfortunately, you can only get the most out of this museum if you already have both a working knowledge of Cuban history and some basic Spanish up your sleeve. Moreover, at the time of writing, some exhibition rooms were temporarily closed for partial renovations. Even at the best of times though, this museum can still feel like an makeshift affair thanks to the counter-intuitive layout and the fact that some of the exhibitions look about as tired as Fidel’s aforementioned fatigues. Having said that, there’s something irresistibly delightful about the awkward juxtaposition of dusty militaristic bits and bobs being housed in what was once Havana’s most effete residence. The Museum of the Revolution is located in the former presidential palace, which in its heyday served as the home of notorious dictator Fulgencio Batista. The interior was originally decorated by Tiffany’s of New York, and behind the revolutionary sloganeering, the structure itself still oozes with the dilapidated decadence of a distant past.
“The worlds longest sofa,” as its sometimes affectionately labeled by locals, the Malecon is more than just a nice spot to catch one of Havana’s glorious gold-crimson sunsets. This 7km stretch of waterfront has long been beloved by Habaneros as a place to kick back after work and catch up on local gossip. Constructed in 1902, the Malecon used to be the gaudy seaward face of a city dedicated to debauchery and diversion. Throughout the high-rolling years of the early 20th Century, the Malecon greeted thirsty North American cruise-goers fleeing prohibition with a colorful flank of hotels and casinos to one side, and azure Caribbean waters to the other. Nowadays, the Malecon is sure showing its age. The Neo-Classical architectural wonders that line the waterfront are crumbling into the sea, while every year the waves seem to crash just a little bit harder against the buckling sea wall. Needless to say, it’s hard to find a more dramatic backdrop for an afternoon stroll, though it’s the locals themselves who make the Malecon a joy to visit. Come on a weekend or after work hours, and you’ll find lovers huddled between fishermen, and children playing in the spray. Be warned though, the waves hit hard here, and a step too close to the water’s edge might leave you soaked from head to toe.
Havana is best enjoyed on foot, with the old town lending itself well to aimless wandering. However, there’s only really one place where you should start your ramble: the historic Plaza de la Catedral. Sprawling in the shadow of the 18th Century Havana Cathedral, this airy plaza is home to some of the city’s best preserved Baroque architecture. Many of the buildings around here have been painstakingly refurbished after decades of neglect, and today house a mix of museums and restaurants. Among the most worthwhile is the Casa de Lombillo, which is found on the eastern edge of the plaza and hosts a constantly changing mix of art exhibitions. On the opposite side of the plaza to the north west, the Casa de los Marqueses de Aguas Claras is also worth a peek for its pleasant interior courtyard and onsite Restaurant Paris.
During the interwar period of the early 20th Century, Cuba was flush with cash. While Europe was still recovering from World War I, Havana was riding historically high sugar prices and then-president Gerardo Machado was eager to splurge on something big. The caudillo had over 5000 laborers work for three years to construct a building that would not only serve as an edifice for Machado’s congress, but would also be a testament to the island nation’s sweet years of sugary riches. The result was the Capitolio, a Neo-Classical marvel that looks suspiciously similar to the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. Don’t tell that to Cubans though, as generations of the island’s architects have maintained that any resemblance is purely coincidental. Another interesting coincidence is the fact that Havana’s Capitolio just happens to be a meter wider, longer and higher than its counterpart in Washington. Not only that, but until the 1950s the Capitolio was Havana’s tallest building. After congress was abolished during the revolution, the Capitolio fell into a state of disrepair. However, in 2013 the building was revived to house the National Assembly, and today the newly renovated Capitolio is as grand as ever. Tours are available for a peso or two, or just find a comfortable place to sit on the steps outside for a spot of people watching.
The oldest surviving stone fort in the Americas, the Castillo de la Real Fuerza is a symbol of Havana. Visible from the Malecon, the fort was originally built in the 16th Century to protect the port from pirates. Construction began just a few years after Havana was sacked by French privateer Jacques de Sores, but in their haste the Spanish colonial authorities made some serious strategic blunders. For one, the Castillo was too far from the mouth of Havana’s harbor to effectively repel privateers. In a curious twist of fate, the Castillo is today full of pirates, though they’re all located behind the glass display cases of the on-site maritime-themed museum.
Napoleonic Museum
Napoleonic Museum
Here’s an odd question: what do Cuba and Napoleon Bonaparte have to do with one another? The answer: basically nothing, but for some reason Havana is home to one of the world’s most impressive collections of Napoleon-related artifacts. The Museo Napoleonico hosts over 7000 items from the French emperor’s life, including one of his iconic bicorne hats. Another must-see is the bronze death mask – one of just a handful made by Napoleon’s personal physician just days after his death. Also, don’t forget to check out the view from the museum’s fourth floor terrace.
