Barcelona’s appeal as a laid-back beachside city brimming with architectural elegance and easygoing charm is now well documented. From its Modernist masterpieces to its thriving bar and restaurant scene, and its location on the Mediterranean coast, the city is hard not to fall in love with.
But where exactly in Barcelona should you stay? Whether you’re on a weekend anniversary break with your loved one or a ten day exploration of Catalonia’s finest cultural offerings, here’s our run-down of the city’s neighbourhoods and what makes each one special.
Barri Gòtic
For history, romance, and atmosphere, look no further than the ancient Barri Gòtic. Home to the remains of Roman Barcelona, this central neighbourhood is full of evocative neo-Gothic architecture. Think winding streets, archways and peeling wooden shutters. Check out the gloomy Gothic grandeur of the cathedral with its many gargoyles and great views of the Old City from the roof. Get your fill of ornate churches with the Basilica de Santa Maria del Pi, and the Basilica dels Sants Just i Pastor. Find a seat under a palm tree in Plaça Reial. Stroll down Las Ramblas or head to La Boqueria with its fresh food stalls. This neighbourhood hums with activity in the daytime but is quiet at night, making it ideal for those wanting to get a daily dose of culture, retire early to bed, and make the most of the following day.
Barcelona Cathedral in the Barri Gòtic
Take a trip back to medieval Spain with a stay in the Barri Gòtic. TripExpert recommends staying at Hotel Neri Relais & Chateaux, which Star Service says is, ‘eclectic, elegant and blessed with one of the better dining rooms in the neighborhood.’
El Raval
This former red light district has grown into a lively and dynamic neighbourhood. Here you’ll find the Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona, the city’s main modern art gallery, also a popular spot for skateboarders. There’s also the Filmoteca and the Centre de la Cultura Contemporania, making El Raval a fabulous neighborhood for art lovers. Rapidly gentrifying, El Raval also has some great little boutiques as well as Indian and Pakistani-run markets, contributing to its bohemian and multicultural vibe. Make sure to visit Gaudí’s Palau Güell, a whimsical mansion that is over 100 years old, and catch a show at the Gran Teatre del Liceu.
Center of Contemporary Culture, Barcelona
Find out why Barcelona is considered one of Europe’s hottest cities of culture with a stay in diverse El Raval. TripExpert recommends Hotel 1898. Fodor’s says, ‘Overlooking La Rambla, this imposing mansion, once the headquarters of the Compañiá General de Tabacos de Filipinas, couldn’t be better located.’ There’s also the futuristic Barceló Raval, ‘A hip Barcelona sleep near La Rambla with a rooftop bar and pool and panoramic city views’, according to Jetsetter.
El Born
Like the Barri Gòtic, El Born is full of medieval relics. And like El Raval, it has a trendy buzz. What really sets El Born part from the other two neighbourhoods are its relaxed plazas and lovely parks, which include the charming Ciutadella Park, 280,000 square meters of peace, palm trees, and parrots. Rent a rowing boat here, or pay a visit to Barcelona Zoo. Don’t missSanta Caterina market, a great alternative to the crowded La Boqueria. Art aficionados will want to make a stop at the Picasso Museum. Less high-brow but highly entertaining is the Museu de Xocolata – it’s hard not to like a museum devoted to chocolate. When night falls, head out on an exploration of this neighbourhood’s buzzing restaurant scene. Don’t be confused if you hear this area referred to as La Ribera. It’s original name was actually Sant Pere, Santa Caterina i La Ribera.
El Born, Barcelona
For historic architecture, edgy shops, and a cool vibe, El Born fits the bill. TripExpert recommends staying at Grand Hotel Central, which CN Traveller describes as, ‘hip without the attitude.’
La Barceloneta
Much of Barcelona’s charm lies in its seaside location, and so staying close to its sandy shores is an appealing choice. If you’re after easy breezy beachside living, the old fishermen’s neighbourhood of La Barceloneta is ideal. This area has a lovely village-like vibe and a laid-back atmosphere. Stroll the old centre with its small distinctive houses, narrow balconies, and blue and yellow flags – the ancient heraldic symbols of the neighbourhood.
Enjoy good seafood, go for morning jogs along the Passeig Marítim promenade, and kick back with a beer and watch gorgeous sunsets over the ocean. Kids will love visiting L’Aquarium de Barcelona, one of the biggest in Europe. You’ll also find an IMAX movie theatre in this neighbourhood – in the unlikely event of rain. And, of course, there are four different beaches to choose from. At the beach of Sant Sebastià you can take a cable car up to an observation platform near the Miramar hotel. Then there’s the beach of Barceloneta, the beach of Sant Miquel with its L’Estel Ferit sculpture, and lastly, the beach of Somorrostro.
La Barceloneta, Barcelona
If you feel happiest sunkissed and with sand between your toes, La Barceloneta is the neighbourhood for you. TripExpert recommends staying in WBarcelona. Lonely Planet says the rooms and suites are, ‘the last word in contemporary hotel chic.’
La Dreta de l’Eixample
Barcelona is famous for its Modernist architecture. For those who want to explore what makes these buildings so unique and worthy of their UNESCO status, a stay in La Dreta de L’Eixample is ideal. Located on the right of Passeig de Gràcia, the area is home to Gaudí’s La Pedrera and the iconic Sagrada Família, a magical reinvention of the traditional Gothic cathedral. Pay a visit to the Illa de la Discòrdia for a full-on pageant of Modernism with five creations by the three leading architects of the day: Casa Batlló by Antoni Gaudí, Casa Lleó Morera by Domènech i Muntaner and Puig i Cadafalch’s Casa Amatller . You’ll even find Modernist grocery shops and pharmacies in this neighbourhood. This is a wealthy and upscale area, deserving of its nickname, ‘Quadrat d’or’, or ‘The Golden Grid.’ Peruse the shops along Passeig de Gràcia or relax in a bar on Passeig de Sant Joan.
Casa Batlló, Passeig de Gràcia
For high end glamour and Modernist masterpieces, book into a hotel in Eixample Dreta. TripExpert recommends the Mandarin Oriental.Afar Magazine says the experience is ‘100 percent deluxe.’ There’s also the Sir Victor Hotel, which CN Traveller describes as a celebration of ‘Nordic Zen’.
Gràcia
If you fancy escaping the tourists and traffic of central Barcelona for somewhere authentic, there’s no better place than Gràcia, with it’s arty and alternative vibe and proudly independent spirit. You’ll find chic boutiques, great restaurants, and even a few Modernist buildings, including Hotel Casa Fuster and Casa Vicens. Most significantly, however, this neighbourhood is home to Parc Güell, a Modernist wonderland with a mosaic dragon and Hänsel and Gretel-inspired gatehouses. Enjoy this neighbourhood’s slower pace, taking the time to enjoy a beer in one of the many peaceful plazas such as Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia or Plaça del Sol. Time your visit to coincide with the Festa Major de Gràcia to experience street decorations, fireworks, and parades.
Park Güell, Gràcia
Live like a local in lovely Gràcia. TripExpert recommends staying at Casa Fuster. According to Frommer’s, the hotel, ‘blends sheer luxury with first-rate state-of-the-art amenities.’
L’Esquerra de l’Eixample and Sant Antoni
To the left of the Passeig de Gràcia, you’ll find Eixample Esquerra, an affluent neighbourhood with an intellectual edge thanks to its proximity to multiple university campuses. Head to Parc Joan Miró, also known as the Parc de l’Escorxador, with its pines, pergolas, and statue by Joan Miró called the Dona i Ocell – or Woman and Bird. Catch a concert in the University of Barcelona gardens or explore the up-and-coming area of Sant Antoni, a bohemian corner of the city full of young urban creatives, edgy street art, and a vibrant bar and restaurant scene. There’s also a beautiful market of the same name.
Joan Miró Park
Enjoy all the perks of the city-centre without the crowds in charming Esquerra Eixample. TripExpert recommends Hotel Cram which, CN Traveller writes, ‘isn’t crammed with anything except a very cool Barcelona crowd.’
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.
It’s impossible to run out of fascinating things to discover in Mexico City, but sometimes we all need a break from life in one of the world’s largest urban areas. Luckily, Mexico City makes for the perfect natural base for exploring the rest of central Mexico. Here are seven of the best destinations within a stone’s throw of the capital; all of which can be done as day trips.
Puebla
Puebla
A little over two hours from Mexico City, Puebla is home to some of the country’s most iconic foods. The exquisite, complex Chile en Nogada and the spicy/chocolatey mole poblano both hail from here, though most visitors from Mexico City tend to beeline for the tacos al pastor and cemitas. The former is a cross between a taco and a Turkish shawarma that’s somewhat unique to Puebla, while the latter, the cemita, is a Poblano-style torta bigger than your head. For dessert, head over to the Calle de los Dulces, a street in central Puebla where you can try some traditional Poblano sweets. Be warned though: we’re basically talking pure sugar here, but the cavities are worth it. Once you’ve recovered from your food coma, make sure to visit Puebla’s historic center. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the colonial center is a grid of cobbled streets, colonial-era buildings and the imposing Puebla Cathedral. The cathedral took three centuries to construct, and its interior is unarguably more impressive than its counterpart in Mexico City. History buffs should also be sure to visit Los Fuertes, the fortified hill just to the north of Puebla’s city center. This hill was the site of the famed Battle of Puebla, when on May 5, 1862 a ragtag band of Mexican defenders fought off a French expeditionary force. If you can time your visit for the 5 de Mayo celebrations, you’ll be in for a treat of military parades around the fort.
Cholula
Cholula
Once a small country village, every year Cholula seems to creep closer and closer to getting lost in Puebla’s suburban sprawl. Indeed, visitors from Mexico City will have to travel through Puebla to reach Cholula, meaning both destinations can easily be done in a weekend. Along with being a good place to kick back with a michelada or two on a Sunday afternoon, Cholula is also home to the world’s largest pyramid. In terms of pure mass, the Great Pyramid of Cholula is confirmed to be almost twice the size of the Great Pyramid of Giza – though there’s some speculation it may be even larger than that. The reason you’ve never heard of the Cholula pyramid is because it’s only partly excavated. Even today, the exterior of the pyramid simply looks like a hill with an entire church built on top. Visitors can explore the innards of the pyramid by taking a 10 minute walk though some of its excavated tunnels, before making the climb up to the church. Be aware that the tunnels are not for the claustrophobic, but are unmissable for any Indiana Jones fans.
Tlaxcala
Tlaxcala
Given the state rivalry between Puebla and Tlaxcala, deciding which has the better capital is heavy business. Sure, Puebla has an impressive cathedral, but Tlaxcala is smaller, cuter and just generally more laid back. There isn’t as much to do as in Puebla, though day trippers shouldn’t miss the curiously decorated Capilla Real de Indias, or the hike up to the Franciscan monastery on the edge of the colonial center.
Tepoztlán
Tepoztlán
If you’re craving some greenery after too long in the concrete jungle, then do as the capitalinos do and escape to Tepoztlán. Located to the south of Mexico City, Tepoztlán is very much a weekend hippie hideaway huddled in highlands of Morelos state. There’s a few must-do activities around town, such as the half day hike up Tepozteco Mountain to the pyramid at the peak, and the mandatory meander through the Sunday morning artisan market. For some serious relaxation, try temazcal, the Aztec version of a steam bath.
Valle de Bravo
Valle de Bravo
Home of some of Mexico’s most well-heeled citizens, Valle de Bravo has a reputation as a retreat for the capital’s upper crust. When the smog drifts over Mexico City, the rich and powerful sneak out to this quiet village on the shores of Lake Avándaro. Aside from counting Ferraris in the street, the best way to pass the time in Valle de Bravo is on the water. The village is well-equipped for water sports ranging from paddle-boarding to waterskiing. For the less adventurous, there’s also a regular cruise that takes visitors for a booze-laden tour of the lake. Meanwhile, landlubbers should take advantage of some of the excellent hiking opportunities in the woodlands outside town. If you can, try to visit Valle de Bravo during the winter months from November to March. During these months, the nearby Piedra Herrada sanctuary becomes inundated with millions of migrating monarch butterflies.
Paso de Cortés
Paso de Cortés
As legend has it, in 1519 Hernán Cortés and his exhausted horde of conquistadores stopped at a mountain pass to collect sulfur from the nearby Volcan Popocatépetl. The sulfur was supposedly for making gunpowder ahead of their final showdown with the Aztec Empire. At this same mountain pass, the conquistadores caught their first glimpse of just how immense the Aztec civilization really was. Below the pass, the Valley of Mexico was the densely populated heart of the Aztec world, and hummed with the sounds of industry and agriculture. The conquistadores were apparently overwhelmed by the sight – which makes you wonder how they’d react to the view nowadays. That spot, known called Paso de Cortés, now offers some of the best views of one of the world’s largest megacities. A hike through this mountain pass offers jaw-dropping views of Mexico City to the north, the icy peaks of Iztaccíhuatl to the east and the fiery Popocatépetl to the west. Day trippers can hike all the way to the base of Iztaccíhuatl, though you’ll need to bring a tent, crampons and a good amount of mountaineering experience to hit the peak.
Nevado de Toluca
Nevado de Toluca
For more mountains, take the two hour trip out to Nevado De Toluca. This extinct volcano boasts two brilliantly colored crater lakes, and days of hiking opportunities. Be sure to arrive as early as possible though, as this is an extremely popular destination for day trippers from Mexico City.
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.
French is the language of love, Italians are renowned for their passion, and Germany is home to fairytale towns and castles. But what of Spain? A land of fiestas and flamenco, tapas and rich traditions, Spain has its fair share of places sure to win over loved-up couples. With its endless sunshine, dramatic landscapes, intriguing history, and some of the best cuisine in the world, Spain offers a true recipe for romance. Whether you’re after intimacy and seclusion in a natural paradise or nightlife that promises to get pulses racing, here are TripExpert’s picks for the most romantic destinations in Spain.
Seville
Seville
Seville was voted by Lonely Planet as 2018’s top city to visit and it’s easy to see why. The very definition of sultry, Seville is a city of picturesque plazas, aristocratic mansions, narrow winding alleys, and 25,000 orange trees. Visit the enormous Gothic cathedral or catch a flamenco performance for which Seville is famous. Take a horse and carriage ride around the city – the best way to see the sights. Or take in the spectacular Plaza de España adrift a rowing boat. Enjoy sunsets and champagne from one of the many rooftop bars. Explore magnificent churches, and, of course, the city’s Alcázar, with its Arab-inspired gardens. Wander Triana, home to authentic and characterful tapas bars. And make sure to pay a visit to Monte Gurugú,where, legend has it, a kiss with your partner guarantees your love will survive anything. TripExpert recommended hotels
Another of Andalusia’s many gems, Granada is most famous for the Alhambra. But the allure of this iconic city goes beyond its sensational palace. Here ancient Islamic architecture sits alongside contemporary art, bohemian cafes are packed with students, and the scent of spices hangs in the air – another clue to the city’s Moorish legacy. Wander streets of whitewashed houses and orange trees. Relax with a fragrant tea in a tetería in the Albayzín. Enjoy meals on secluded terraces, or the peace and quiet of the Carmen de los Martires; at the centre is a small turret surely designed for a romantic rendezvous. Explore the white and blue caves of Sacromonte, home to the city’s best flamenco and with exceptional views of the Alhambra. Best to head there at sunset when the walls of the palace slowly turn a dreamy shade of pink. TripExpert recommended hotels
Fairytales are essentially manuals for romance so what could be a more idyllic than a city home to its very own fairytale castle? Segovia, a true medieval masterpiece, is situated just 30 minutes on the train from Madrid and has just as much to tempt honeymooners as the Spanish capital. It’s said that Cinderella’s castle was inspired by the city’s own – and it’s hard not to be captivated by this turreted architectural wonder. But Segovia also has a UNESCO-listed Old Town, an ancient aqueduct, as well as a majestic cathedral. Wander the riverfront promenade and feel yourself whisked back in time as you explore Romanesque churches full of intricate carvings. The city also has a lively creative scene so be sure to catch a concert or exhibition to accompany all that history. Try thecochinillo, or roasted suckling pig – Segovia’s speciality – best enjoyed with a good glass of red wine. And the best time to visit the city? Christmas. Although you’ll miss out on that famous Spanish sun, you’ll experience the dreamy white wonderland that is Segovia in winter, turrets dusted with snow and photo opportunities aplenty.
CostaGalicia
Costa Galicia
For a slightly different side to Spain,Galicia is your rugged, remote, and truly gorgeous alternative. With its Celtic connections, untamed beaches, lush green valleys, and spectacular seafood, this little-visited corner of northwest Spain is known as terra de meigas, or ‘land of witches.’ And it is indeed an enchanting place, whose landscape – more like Scotland than Spain – is perfect for those seeking a romantic refuge. For history, visit Santiago de Compostela, an internationally famous pilgrimage spot. Head to Sanxenxo for sand and surf: the area boasts the highest number of European blue flag beaches in Spain. For luxury and pampering, Illa de A Toxa has you covered with its thermal waters and luxury hotels and spas. For legend and myth, there’s Finisterre, or ‘Land’s End’, believed for a long time to be the most westerly point of Europe. And for food and drink, be sure to sample oysters, nature’s most famous aphrodisiac, in Vigo, and head to Barqueiro for albariño, Galicia’s most famous grape varietal.
Mallorca, Balearic Islands
Mallorca, Balearic Islands
Mallorca, the largest island in the Balearics, has long topped summer holiday destination charts. A favourite among those seeking sun, sand, and sea, with its picture-postcard good looks, it’s certainly no secret. While in the 1970s, few considered Mallorca a contender in the luxury travel market, today it’s becoming an increasingly glamorous destination. And, from the wild Serra de Tramuntana mountain range to the boundary-pushing contemporary cuisine in hip Palma, it offers a perfect romantic escape.In the west, azure seas and majestic cliffs. In the mountainous north, pine-tree framed bays. In the east, wild beaches. And in the southern flatlands, olive groves and sun-bleached sands. Although the island is popular, you can still find seclusion – including gorgeous rural retreats in the form of old manor houses and fincas. Candlelit dining, cliff-top views, and a seafood platter for two – Mallorca is a laid-back getaway made for lovers.
Ibiza, Balearic Islands
Ibiza, Balearic Islands
Ibiza. The party island, yes. But also an island whose gorgeous coastline, elegant boutique hotels, and hamlets hidden away among pine forests, create a cocktail sure to inspire romance. An island whose reputation for bohemian hedonism began with the Beatniks in the 1950s, and, today, indisputably a clubbing mecca. But it’s not hard to discover its quiet and authentic side. Historic architecture, memorable cuisine, and a blissful peace and quiet await visitors who venture away from the main resorts of Playa d’en Bossa or San Antonia. There’s the World Heritage-listed Dalt Vila in Ibiza Town, with its white-washed houses and flea markets. Or upscale Santa Gertrudis with its boho-glam vibe. And around the shoreline a plethora of remote cove beaches, many deserted. The island is also a walking utopia, and is making its mark on the wellness scene too with retreats and health-food cafes popping up all over. TripExpert recommended hotels
No list of Spanish destinations would be complete without mentioning the country’s seaside megastar, Barcelona. This cultural showstopper, with its whimsical Modernist creations, Gothic cathedrals, and countless museums, has much to tempt any traveller. But for honeymooners, Barcelona comes out top. Sun-drenched beaches, an acclaimed drinking and dining scene, and too many galleries to keep count, culture vultures after a little romance should head to Catalonia’s capital. Work your way through Gaudí’s masterpieces or perhaps catch a concert at the Palau de la Música concert hall. For views to make hearts soar, climb the Monument a Colom. Or take to the water on a stand-up paddle-board or cruise. If you want more outdoor activity, the Collserola hills are perfect for hiking and biking. And as the sun falls, perhaps catch an open-air film at the Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona. Feast on paella on a terrace overlooking the sea, then drink away the evening at a shorefront chiringuito. For a romantic getaway that also keeps it cultural, Barcelona is a sure-fin win. TripExpert recommended hotels
Cambridge is the perfect destination for a city break. There is history and architecture at every turn, from the classical colleges to the crooked, timber-framed pubs. The river meanders through the city, crowded with punts and rowers as well as resident swans and geese. And while there’s plenty for visitors to see, if you want to spend all day under a willow tree with a Cambridge gin and tonic, that’s fine too.
Cambridge’s food and drink scene is blossoming; new restaurants, cafes and artisan bakeries are opening all the time, and there’s a burgeoning craft beer scene. New hotels are springing up too, giving visitors much more choice of where to stay. So, once you’ve mastered steering that punt, here’s where to eat, drink and spend the night.
WHERE TO SLEEP The University Arms is more than 180 years old and is the city’s oldest, most historic hotel. After a four-year, multi-million-pound renovation, it has reopened wholly transformed. Inspired by academia, the rooms are beautiful, with old-fashioned writing desks, glass drinks tables and framed vintage prints. The east side of the hotel looks out onto the green expanse of Parker’s Piece, which has been used by the city’s residents as a park and playing field for four hundred years. The hotel’s bar and bistro are the go-to drinking and dining spots for those in the know.
On the other side of Parker’s Piece, the Gonville Hotel is far enough from the centre to be a peaceful haven at the end of a long day’s sightseeing. What sets it apart from other Cambridge hotels is the outstanding service; nothing is too much trouble for the attentive staff. Rooms are decorated with botanical-print fabrics and bathrooms come with rain showers and roll-top baths. In 2018, the hotel opened its own luxury ESPA spa Gresham House Wellness, offering a full range of treatments.
WHERE TO EAT A lovely stroll across grassy Midsummer Common is Midsummer House – which is in an actual Victorian house, complete with walled garden and riverside terrace. A two-Michelin-starred restaurant
for the last 14 years, the menu includes tantalizing offerings like buttermilk poached guinea fowl and hay-crusted pork. There is a focus on local and foraged ingredients, so don’t be surprised to find lovage, wild garlic or purslane in your dish. Owner Daniel Clifford is one of the UK’s most popular chefs, and with creations like baked pineapple and cheesecake ice cream, it’s easy to see why.
Inside the Gonville Hotel, Cotto’s chef is Hans Schweitzer, who earned a Michelin star for his restaurant Table in Germany when he was just 28. He creates exquisite dishes, and, as a former chocolatier, desserts that are akin to works of art. On the menu right now you’ll find Suffolk venison, Squash Wellington and Iberico pork. Don’t worry if you’re vegan – the kitchen will create a bespoke dish for you. If your budget doesn’t stretch to the above, head to Parker’s Tavern in the University Arms Hotel. When it opened in 2018, chef Tristan Welch thrilled the food critics with a menu of tempting English classics like buttered Dover sole and Duke of Cambridge Tart, as well as more eccentric creations like tandoori roast quail. He’s a keen supporter of local farmers and producers, so you’ll find Suffolk lamb, Cambridge trout and Newmarket smoked salmon on the menu too.
Cambridge is known for sky-high property rents, and as a result, many of the best restaurants are outside the city centre. Around fifteen-minutes’ walk from the river, Mill Road is known locally as the city’s most multicultural street and has a unique mix of foodie places. You’ll find Lebanese food at Lagona, Korean at the tiny, cash-only Bibimbap House and Italian groceries at Limoncello. The best is newly opened Atithi which has a menu of classic dishes from all over India, including North Indian staple Daal Makhani and South Indian Lobster Neerulli. The food is beautifully prepared, rich, and full of flavour.
Athithi on Mill Road in Cambridge
Like many cities, Cambridge caters for a growing number of vegans and vegetarians, and the top choice is vegan-only Stem and Glory. What started as a crowdfunded restaurant in a Cambridge neighbourhood became one of the city’s most popular eateries, prompting a move to the city centre and a second venue in London. The menu offers everything from vegan curries to cakes and cocktails. Back on Mill Road, you could easily walk past Number 38 and write it off as a vacant shop. In fact, it houses one of Cambridge’s newest restaurants, Vanderlyle. While not strictly vegan or vegetarian, Vanderlyle’s menu is full of vegetables used in imaginative ways. Roast aubergine comes with a black olive caramel sauce, and a semifreddo dessert is made with celeriac and white chocolate. Food is paired with wine, craft beer, and non-alcoholic brews like black tea Kombucha. Owned by ex-Masterchef finalist Alex Rushmer who is devoted to sustainable cooking, at the time of writing it was fully booked for the next month.
WHERE TO DRINK Restaurants inside houses, places with no signage – you really do have to work hard to find out where to eat and drink in Cambridge. Quirky cocktail bar 196 is yet another great place in a far-flung location. At the bottom end of Mill Road, it is a long schlep from the city centre, but you won’t regret it once you’ve seen the hand-written cocktail list. Excellent cocktails can be found in a more central location at members-only club 12A. Despite having a strict policy regarding admission, it’s possible to apply via their website for temporary membership. With welcoming staff, views of the historic Market Square and an 85-strong cocktail list, it beats the city’s hotel bars hands-down.
Aromi in Cambridge
Wine lovers should make a beeline for the Bridge Street Wine Bar near Magdalene Bridge. This is one of the oldest parts of Cambridge, the location of the medieval Quayside where produce was transported in and out of the city. Part wine shop, part wine bar, you can choose from the menu or, for a small corkage fee, buy and drink any bottle from the huge range on the shelves. A handful of tables on the pavement face the bridge and the ramshackle 17th century houses of Magdalene Street. It’s perfect for watching city life go by on a summer evening. Pubs have existed in Cambridge for more than 500 years, and many have fascinating histories; the Eagle has an ancient cobbled courtyard and 19th century balustraded gallery, the Pickerel Inn was a haunt of Tolkien and C.S Lewis. When it comes to food and drink however, three stand out. Tucked away behind Bridge Street, the family-run Maypole is part Italian, part English gastropub and has a long list of real ale, craft and Belgian beers. The tiny Free Press is worth seeking out for its superb food and quirky character. Slightly easier to find, Pint Shop in the city centre has a comprehensive craft beer menu written on a chalkboard above the bar, which changes every time a beer runs out.
COFFEE
Coffee lovers will find plenty of places to satisfy their cravings in Cambridge, but the best is the long-running Aromi, an independent Sicilian cafe on Bene’t Street. Always crammed-full of people, you won’t be able to resist their cannoli or occhi di bue to go with your coffee. And because they have a liquor license, you can pop back later for an Aperol spritz.
FOODIE THINGS TO DO Until recently, Cambridge didn’t have much to excite foodies. However, the scene has finally begun to flourish, led by innovative chefs and passionate locals who are fervent about their products. As the evenings grow longer, pop-ups, al-fresco dinners and more are advertized on social media. If you’re here at the weekend, seek out Calverley’s Brewery. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, the award-winning brewery opens its taproom until 10.30pm, with tables in the yard and artisan food trucks appearing on rotation.
Delve further into the city’s food scene on a food, gin, or craft beer tour. Local Gerla de Boer has been running the Cambridge Food Tour since 2012 and currently organizes five tours per month, during which you can try everything from arancini to Chelsea Buns. And finally, stop by Gin Lab,
which is sandwiched between a hairdresser and an outdoor clothing shop on Green Street. Their botanical gin comes from the Cambridge Distillery in Grantchester, three-times winner of ‘Most Innovative Distillery in the World.’ Mix your own bottle or sneak into the backroom for a Truffle Gin and Tonic. You can even attend a molecular cocktail-making class here, run by a Cambridge scientist who mixes drinks on the side. Like the new places appearing in Cambridge right now, it’s slightly cool and under-the-radar – in a geeky sort of way.
Oahu is not only the most densely populated island in the Hawaiian island chain, it’s also the most popular. The combination of a bustling downtown, fun Waikiki nightlife and accessible sandy beaches makes Oahu the perfect destination for any type of traveler. If you’re one of the many people saving up for a Hawaiian vacation, Oahu might be your best bet in terms of affordability as well. The high tourist numbers during the busy season keep prices competitive and the international airport in Honolulu has easy routes from all over the world. As most hotels on the island are condensed to the southern tip of Waikiki, it’s easy to feel comfortable booking there; just remember that there are so many other options throughout the almost 600 square miles that make up Oahu.
Situated on a large piece of land in the North Shore town of Kahuku, Turtle Bay Resort takes you far away from the masses of Honolulu. The hotel is just a short drive from the famous Polynesian Cultural Center to the south, and about 12 miles from the quaint surfing town of Haleiwa in the other direction. Along the way to Haleiwa stop at Waimea Bay and Pupukea for some snorkeling during the summer or big-wave watching in the winter. Don’t let its isolated location fool you: Turtle Bay has all the amenities a vacationer could ever need. Two pools, a hot tub, spa, stables, a wide range of dining choices, helicopter tours, fitness classes, two championship golf courses, you name it. Apart from the on-site perks along the miles of beach like private surf lessons, paddle boarding and kayaking, guests can also enjoy sunset horseback riding, hiking and tennis right on the property. Stay in the main structure for a traditional hotel experience or choose a luxurious private beach cottage, ocean villa or vista level for breathtaking views. Golf fans will enjoy the two championship golf courses named for Arnold Palmer and George Fazio and subsequent inclusive packages that combine an ocean view room with unlimited golf. Save money by booking your flight, car and room in one exclusive package from Turtle Bay or make the most of your honeymoon with a Romance Package. Additionally, Turtle Bay also offers a range of special offers throughout the year such as free car rental packages, inclusive breakfast packages and Hawaiian Airlines miles packages.
When it comes to prime locations on Oahu, it doesn’t get much better than The Kahala. Located on the South Shore in the residential area of Kahala, this hotel will get you just far enough away from the busier areas of Oahu without sacrificing accessibility. Guests can enjoy the quiet, peaceful neighborhood and vast amenities at the resort or drive about 10 minutes down the road to the multitude of shops and restaurants. The Kahala boasts several on-site restaurants and bars that cater to all kinds of tastes, a spa with private suites, fitness center with jacuzzi and sauna, complimentary introductory surf lessons and a large lagoon full of well-cared-for dolphins. The hotel also offers shuttles to various shopping malls around the area, a keiki club for children and a beachfront swimming pool. The dolphin lagoon made of natural ocean water is home to several Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins and the hotel offers a variety of different packages to interact with them. There are several resort packages available at The Kahala. The Explorers Package includes daily breakfast buffet, a resort credit for pool and beach activity rental items, tickets to the Bishop’s museum for two and bike rental for two. The Kahala Life Package includes daily breakfast buffet for two, dinner for two at the on-site Hoku’s Restaurant and a personal training class for two.
Prince is located on the outskirts of Waikiki, so you’ll get that convenient accessibility without being right in the middle of the action. There are views of the ocean from every room, the Ala Wai Boat Harbor just outside the grounds and just a short walk to the nearest beach. The hotel also has a shuttle service to the Hawaii Prince Golf Club, poolside dining and cocktail options, infinity pool cabanas, a fitness room and a business center. In addition to limited specials, Prince Waikiki offers packages year-round to help make your vacation more inclusive. The Room, Car, and Breakfast Package includes daily breakfast, mid-sized car rental and an ocean-view room. With a three-nights minimum stay the Romance Package features an ocean-front room, convertible rental car, bottle of sparkling wine and chocolates upon arrival, daily breakfast buffet, and once dinner for two during your stay. For golfers choosing the Stay and Play Package, enjoy a three-night day in an ocean-view room and four 18-round games of golf at the Hawaiian Prince Golf Club.
For those who actually prefer being in the middle of the action, the Outrigger Waikiki Beach is exactly that. With excellent sit down restaurants right inside the hotel and plenty of shops both inside and out, guests will find everything they could possibly need within close walking distance. Those staying at the Outrigger Waikiki can enjoy complimentary body boards and beach toys, Saturday yoga classes, a club lounge and a beachside pool. Right outside on the water, you’ll find the bulk of Waikiki surf lessons, outrigger canoe rentals and catamaran boats ready for a cocktail cruise. Blue Note, the on site jazz club and concert venue, has twice-nightly shows from big name artists to local musicians. The resort offers an inclusive drink package that comes with two drinks per day during your stay with a choice of either city view, pool view or standard room. The Beach Bed and Breakfast special includes every fourth night free, daily breakfast and the free use of a beach lounge chair and umbrella. Guests who’d like to explore can choose the Activity Package featuring one night of accomodation, a discount voucher for the activity desk, unlimited Wifi and a pass for the Waikiki Connection Trolly.
