There are places in the world that grab your heart and Vancouver is one of them. I’ve spent more than 20 years here and it never stops. It’s possible to define the different parts of the place, but not the whole. Let me tell you about some of the best parts. Let’s start by picking up a bicycle from Spokes Bicycle Rentals at the edge of Stanley Park, the thousand acres of mostly wild British Columbia that juts out onto the Pacific and anchors Vancouver. We’ll sizzle along the park’s wraparound six-mile-long seawall, which is a rite of passage for most visitors to this extraordinary city on Canada’s west coast.
Stanley Park
Stay
Now let’s decide on a hotel. Location. Location. Location. Right? In Vancouver that means the waterfront: Stanley Park next door; the North Shore mountains across the bustling harbor; and spectacular sunsets over the Pacific morphing peaks of Vancouver Island golden in the distance. Almost all visitors trek to Canada Place for these spectacular and aha-inducing scenes. Why not stay right there at the glass-walled Pan Pacific Vancouver? It’s the only hotel that teeters over the harbor. Even without considering its ideal location, experts consistently rank it among the best hotels in the city. If you want something with less hoopla, away from the cruise ships and float planes that dock next to the Pan Pacific, the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel is across the street, offering outstanding service from a large staff and even a dog to walk, if you care to. There’s a glut of great hotels in this city, but only one waterfront. Why sleep in the inner city? Just saying.
Canada Place
Eat and drink
A block from Canada Place is Gastown, the cobble-stoned historic heart of Vancouver featuring fine casual restaurants. We like The Water St. Cafe for lunch or brunch, especially the see-and-be-seen outdoor patio when the sun shines. Another few blocks distant is Vancouver Magazine’s restaurant of the year for 2016. Maenam serves “authentic Thai cuisine with innovative twists on centuries-old recipes.” It’s located in Kitsilano neighborhood, a hood where you just can’t imagine a Streetcar-Named–Desire lifestyle. It’s close to the beach and only a 15-minute drive across Burrard Bridge from our Canada Place base. On the other hand, nobody should leave northern Pacific waters without dining on seafood. We believe the best is served at Blue Water Cafe, and on this Vancouver Magazine also agrees. The New York Times has called Yew Seafood and Bar (“where cocktails go down easy”), the best place in Vancouver for a nightcap. It’s in the Four Seasons Vancouver, a great hotel, just not on the waterfront. It connects to a vast shopping mall if that’s your thing. A far more hip place for a drink is The Keefer Bar, located in Vancouver’s Old World Chinatown, five minutes from Canada Place. Buzzfeed buzzed about in a piece titled 19 Bars Around The World You Should Drink At Before You Die.
Gastown
Sightsee
From Canada Place, walk the waterfront back to Stanley Park and discover the hallways of tall Douglas firs among the park’s 1,000 acres until you can’t take any more beauty. The First Nations’ totem poles at Brocton Point are British Columbia’s most-visited attraction because of the nine jillion tour buses that stop there. Go early in the morning to experience the vibe. Across Lions Gate Bridge is a gondola at the base of Grouse Mountain, another must-do while visiting Vancouver. During summer months, free shuttles operate from Canada Place. Close by is Capilano Suspension Bridge, which spans a shimmering river where Pacific Ocean salmon spawn. Free shuttles also travel here from downtown locations. Both Grouse Mountain and the suspension bridge charge fees. Throughout greater Vancouver there are reminders that Canada is the homeland of First Nations people. But no place showcases that rich culture deeper than the incomparable Museum of Anthropology, which features permanent and traveling exhibits. Like Seattle, Vancouver gets rain and days on end when the sky is the color of old dimes. That’s when this museum can be the best place to go. Located on the spacious grounds of the University of British Columbia, it’s what you’ll rave about at dinner parties when you get home. Sometimes our own ignorance can really move us. And that’s a reason to travel. Other rainy day attractions include the Vancouver Art Gallery, the largest in Western Canada and featuring traveling exhibits like Picasso and a large permanent collection from the astounding work of West Coast artist Emily Carr. Vancouver in its early days was nailed together hurriedly from odd lots of old growth timber. Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau is the son of Pierre Trudeau, who was perhaps the most dominant prime minister to ever serve Canada. On a visit to Vancouver about 40 years ago, he remarked “Vancouver will be a nice place when it’s finished.” He was right.
Every trip to Osaka should include a visit to Osaka Castle, a breath-taking, Disney-like structure built in the latter half of the 16th century. Stop by in the morning, when the crowds are thin, and spend a couple of hours taking in the castle’s ageless beauty and watching cyclists and runners race around a shaded gravel track that traces its impressive, silvery moat. Most Japanese eat breakfast at home, but there are plenty of bakeries serving on-the-go meals in the morning. Check out TheCity Bakery at Grand Front Osaka for a bite to eat and good coffee. On your way to the bakery, swing through Nakanoshima Park, an islet between the Dōjima and TosaboriRivers. Nakanoshima, the first public park in Osaka, was built in 1891, and today it incorporates a library, a ceramics museum, and a picturesque little rose garden.
Afternoon, Day One
Tenmangu Shrine
Assuming you’ve worn your walking shoes, leave The City Bakery, skipping over Umeda for now, and stroll over to Tenjinbashi. Here you’ll find a nearly two-mile long covered promenade jam-packed with boutiques, restaurants, bars, cafés, convenience stores, and more. Before you pick up a miso starter from Torii Miso, some kitchen goods from House Kaneki, and more fashion than you know what to do with at Ae-Sop, check out the Tenmangu Shrine, the most revered Shinto shrine in Osaka, the religious site itself dating back a millennium. When hunger strikes, set down your shopping bags and blend in with the locals at Harukoma. Unmistakable for its perpetual queue, this sushi spot delivers on many levels—one being it’s affordable, with an average meal for two costing roughly $30. After your meal, chill out with a pint of Japanese ji-biru (craft beer) at nearbyBeer Belly Tenma, a small brewpub associated with Minoh Beer, an award-winning brewery run by three sisters.
Evening, Day One
Amerikamura
When night falls, head toAmerikamura, “America Town,” the eclectic epicenter of Osaka street culture. This former warehouse district-turned-hotspot for teens and twentysomethings offers yet another opportunity to shop, but this time for wilder things. Make sure to visitVillage Vanguard; it may bill itself as a bookstore, but it’s more like a one-stop shop for every facet of Japanese pop-culture under the sun: anime, vinyl albums, hip-hop streetwear, downright absurd magnets, pins, and buttons, and so much more. In Osaka, there are really only two dishes you have to try, one being takoyaki, golden balls of goodness filled with octopus and topped with sweet soy sauce and mayo. Grab a pack of six from Koryagu, a garishly decorated indoor-outdoor shop kitty-cornered from Sanakaku Koen, or “Triangle Park,” which is essentially the hub—and most prime people-watching spot—of Amerikamura. In the mood for a longer night? Go toBar Nayuta, right across the street from the Triangle Park. It’s cheap, cheerful, and full of a motley crew of characters. Plus, it stays open very late—5-AM late. Afterward, unwind at your room. Highly recommended areHotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka and the five-starSt. Regis Osaka.
Morning, Day Two
Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum
Start your day off with breakfast in Dōtonbori atKissa American, a jun-kissa, or basic café. After a round of eggs, bacon, and coffee, take the subway to Umeda, where you can get a sky-high perspective of Japan’s second city at the floating garden inside the Kiji Umeda Sky Building ($10 entrance fee). After you descend from this dizzying height, here’s an oddball for you: a trip to theMomofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum. It might sound kitsch, but it’s actually one of the more interesting modern museums in Japan.Pay your respects at thestatue of the inventor of packaged ramen before you enter this surprisingly large space, where you can stroll through a tunnel of ramen variations and later create your very own cup of the instant soup.
Afternoon, Day Two
Hanshin Koshien Stadium
If you’re lucky enough to be in town during a Hanshin Tigers baseball game, then shuttle over toHanshin Koshien Stadium to take part in the ritual of watching Japanese baseball from the grandstands. If you’re not so lucky, then go for a different kind of cultural experience, a traditional puppet show at the National Bunraku Theatre.
Evening, Day Two
Dōtonbori
Round out your whirlwind 48 hours at Osaka’s neon-lit hotbed for tourist activity, Dōtonbori. The first stop should be the bridge crossing the Dōtonbori canal. Here is the perfect perch to snap a photo of the iconic, neon-lit Glico running man. Photo-op complete, round the corner to chow down on the other dish you have to try in Osaka, okonomiyaki. Unfairly referred to as the “Japanese pancake,” okonomiyaki is, in fact, a much greater thing: shredded cabbage, Japanese yam, egg, dashi, and a flour-based batter, cooked on a griddle and topped with shredded bonito flakes as well as crisscrossed lines of mayo and a sweet sauce that tastes a little like Worcestershire. A good bet isCHIBO, which is right in the middle of Dōtonbori’s walking street. Call ahead to get a seat at the bar, where the chefs put on shows for their clientele each night. If you still have some energy left, check out the institution that is Bar Core, a so-called stand bar (no tables, in other words), with room for only six at a time. Here you can chew the fat with the dapper barman over some rare, aged Japanese whiskeys and end your 48-hour stay in style.
True, Athens can seem a little overwhelming at first. Between the majesty of the Acropolis, the vibrant colors of the Plaka and the non-stop energy of Syntagma Square it can almost seem like the Greek gods are conspiring to throw you a curveball: how can you possibly see it all when time is limited? First of all, relax. While you’d have to be crazy to think you can manage more than 3,400 years of civic history in the space of a weekend, you can actually take in a quite a bit in 48 hours—and still have time for people-watching over a tall frappé, just like the Athenians do.
Day 1
With 48 hours in Athens, chances are you will be spending at least a few of them tackling the Acropolis, so why not get an eyeful of this starring attraction even before you set out? The vast, wraparound rooftop terrace on the tenth floor of the new Electra Metropolis Athens affords the best view of the Parthenon and Acropolis from any hotel in Athens, hands down. It does double duty as the hotel’s breakfast area and evening cocktail area and features a jaw-droppingly beautiful rooftop pool, too. The 216 rooms and suites pairs classic luxe looks (think hardwood floors and crushed velvet headboards) with modern conveniences and totally indulgent marble bathrooms. Rooms are from approximately $220 a night. (Hint: if they’re sold out, try the New Hotel nearby).
Electra Metropolis Athens
If the Acropolis is the most famous of Athens’ landmarks, the Parthenon (completed back in 438 BC) which graces the peak is its most emblematic. Because of the enormous cultural weight this place carries, you might want to give yourself some context before you make the nearly 500-foot climb and the best place to do that is at the ultra modern Acropolis Museum, situated at the base of the hill. Inside you can peruse some 4,000 artifacts in five collections, including finds from the slopes of the Acropolis and antiquities from the Greek archaic and classical periods. Go for lunch at the rooftop restaurant and enjoy panoramic Acropolis views. Museum admission is 5 euros. As you make your way up the Acropolis itself (admission fee 20 euros; seasonal reductions) the first structure you’ll see is the Propylea, the monumental gateway of the ancient religious complex of which the Parthenon is the centerpiece. And if you’re not too distracted by the spectacular city views in all directions, also take time to inspect the Erechtheion, with its six stunning female Caryatid sculptures.
The Erechtheion
The afternoon is a good time to explore the ruins of the ancient Athenian agora, which is less dramatic than the Parthenon but no less evocative. This area lies just northwest of the Acropolis (it’s an easy walk) and contains numerous sights, including the recently restored Museum of the Stoa of Attalos and the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus. Admission to the Agora can be included with Acropolis admission or as a separate (and less expensive) ticket.
The Stoa of Attalos
After soaking up all that history, chances are you’ll be hungry. Tuck into some delicious grilled fish and Greek food classics right in the heart of the Plaka at Diodos (19 Adrianou St). Friendly service and Acropolis views will help make it a meal to remember.
Day 2
Paris has the Louvre, Athens has the National Archaeological Museum. It’s a good thing you had a sound night’s sleep before, because it takes stamina to navigate the thousands of artifacts at what is incontestably one of the greatest museums in the world. Highlights include the gold mask of Agamemnon, the bronze statue of Zeus, frescoes from Akrotiri (the ruined Minoan city in Santorini said to be the original Atlantis), the Antikythera Mechanism—an ancient analogue “computer” recovered from a famous shipwreck—and more richly painted ancient Greek vases than you can count. Admission is 10 euros.
The Mask of Agamemnon, National Archaeological Museum
The neighborhood around the museum, Omonia, has little else to recommend it so after your visit is complete head to Syntagma Square, home to the Greek Parliament and Monument to the Unknown Soldier. This is where to see the iconic Evzones—traditionally dressed presidential guards—who rotate positions on the hour. Syntagma is the heart of modern Athens and it bustles at every hour. For lunch, hit The Greco’s Project at 5 Mitropoleos St where you can either get an amazingly good gyros to go or sit down for a more leisurely plate of souvlaki, moussaka or any number of homemade Greek specialties. You can have a great lunch here for two for under 20 euros.
Evzones at Syntagma Square
In the afternoon, if you have any energy left (and of course you do—you’ve taken your cue from all those Athenians walking around with iced coffees, haven’t you?), explore one of the city’s fantastic, lesser-known museums. One is the Museum of Cycladic Art (admission 7 euros). Technically located in the upscale Kolonaki district, it’s a five-minute walk from Syntagma Square and a veritable treasure chest of antiquities from the Greek islands, Cyprus, Mycenae and more. If on the other hand you want to see the coins that Plato may once have used to buy Socrates a drink, check out the nearby Numismatic Museum (admission 3 euros), housed in the former mansion of Heinrich Schliemann—the notorious archaeologist who excavated Troy. At night, hop on the modern Athens metro to Keramikos. From Syntagma Square this is just one stop after the Monastiraki stop. When you exit the station you’ll be in the heart of Gaziwhich is the epicenter of Athenian nightlife. One glance around the large main square, ringed with restaurants, cafés and bars, and you’ll get an instant refresher course on why cosmopolitan is a Greek word at heart. Almost anywhere you go here is going to be great, but do make time for a cocktail at the raucous Shamone (Elasidon 46) or something more substantial at Butcher Shop (not a real butcher shop) at 19 Persefonis St. Most bars in Gazi serve food too.
Athens is a truly a global city, and it shows and shines in the ancient monuments, the foodie and culture scene and in the sheer vitality of the Greek people who proudly make the capital their home. Two days of taking in the top sights won’t give you much time to rest, but it just might whet your appetite for more.
Twelve European alpine resorts have locked arms and branded themselves “Best of the Alps.” That may sound pretentious but they really are the best of the best, offering Swiss-like-efficiency, capital-H Hospitality, and a tourism infrastructure second to nowhere. And then there’s all the extraordinary skiing.
These dozen classic resorts teeter above the alpine nations of Austria, France, Germany, Italy and Switzerland.
They all offer see-forever views, wide-ranging accommodations, to-die-for restaurants featuring regional cuisine, and history deeper than the abundant winter snowfalls.
Let’s begin by rolling the credits: Chamonix Mont-Blanc, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Davos, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Grindelwald, Kitzbühel, Lech Zürs am Arlberg, Megève, St. Anton am Arlberg, St. Moritz, Seefeld and Zermatt.
They stretch along the horseshoe-shaped Alps from Mont-Blanc to the Matterhorn, way up there where the road gets thin and beautiful and so do the people.
So let’s schuss through these resorts and see what’s there.
Chamonix Mont-Blanc
Chamonix Mont-Blanc
Chamonix is the best-know French resort in the Alps. It was the venue for the first Winter Olympic Games in 1924. Today it’s Ground Zero for adventure sports in the Alps. The place is fuelled on the adrenaline of extreme skiers and climbers, base jumpers, wing-suit flyers and the next new thing.
Accommodation-wise, let’s stick with the best-of-the-best theme. We doff our berets to Hotel Mont-Blanc, the ideally situated and recently renovated 100-year-old Grand Dame of Chamonix inns. The hotel’s Le Matanfan restaurant challenges the best menus in Paris. Off the slopes, don’t miss the Alpine Museum in Chamonix, located in the exquisite Chamonix Palace.
Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina d’Ampezzo
Tucked into Italy’s vaulted Dolomite Mountains, glitzy Cortina d’Ampezzo offers la dolce vita off and on the slopes. Fur coats outnumber ski suits along the streets. But don’t be fooled. This 1956 Winter Olympic venue interconnects with 750 miles of downhill ski trails in 12 valleys utilizing nearly 500 ski lifts. Linked resorts like this are the hallmark of skiing in the Alps. In North America we go up and down; skiers in the Alps go round and round.
Cortina’s best digs, Hotel de la Poste, has been run by the Manaigo family since it opened in 1835. For traditional Ampezzo dishes we recommend El Camineto. For entertainment, stroll the Corso in the center of town amid clouds of Chanel 5 and cigar smoke.
Davos
Davos
Davos is where Prince Charles nearly died in an avalanche (he did lose a friend). It’s the only city in the Alps and it’s as famous for its think tanks, especially the annual World Economic Forum, as it is for its far-reaching slopes. A daylong ski tour leads to the Swiss resort of Arosa, which was made famous by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle who visited in 1894. The Parsenn ski area of Davos was the site of the first downhill race back in 1924.
We like the new Intercontinental Davos hotel perched overlooking the vast alpine playground with sheets like fresh dollar bills. We’re also big on the Old World Pöstli Restaurant. The Kirchner Museum offers insights into the community through the work of Ernst Ludwig Kirchner.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Located beneath the 9,718-foot Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, the combined town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen hosted the 1936 Winter Olympic Games. The warren of old streets defines Bavarian architecture with outdoor frescoes beaming from pastel stuccoed buildings surrounded by glacier-carved summits. The skiing is varied and often challenging. And the infamous Kandahar downhill race is one of the toughest on the World Cup tour.
The Hotel Zugspitze lords over the rest of the Garmisch-Partenkirchen’s accommodations. Interesting side trips include King Ludwig II’s castles at Linderhof and Neuschwanstein. For classic Bavarian dining we like Reindl’s Restaurant. Also not to be missed is the old Ludwigstrasse section of town, where The Werdenfels Museum itself is located in a museum-piece-like fifteenth-century home.
Grindelwald
Grindelwald
The uniquely Swiss storybook village of Grindelwald is dwarfed by glacier-covered summits (including the infamous North Face of the Eiger), and visited by toylike electric trains grinding up the mountains. Visually, this is about as good as the Swiss experience gets.
The chateau-style Grand Regina would receive top-ratings in any European capital, but this setting amid the famed Bernese Oberland makes it seem out of this world. Most of the best dining is found in the region’s hotels. Perhaps the best of them all is Schmitte, located in the Hotel Schweizerhof, which ranks right up there with the Grand Regina.
Kitzbühel
Kitzbühel
Kitzbühel is Austria’s most glamorous resort and usually produces more ski champions than anywhere in the world. This is the heart of the Tyrol, a poster pinup of everything we hope to find when skiing Europe. The fourteenth-century St. Andreas church bells toll and the sweet scent of apfelstrudel drifts with mountain air along the cobbled, car-free streets of Old Town.
Five-stars-and-counting Hotel Tennerhof is as elegant as it gets in this town, which is as famous for its après-ski as it is for its slopes. The elegant restaurant Kupferstube is usually acclaimed as the best kitchen in town. We agree. Both Innsbruck and Venice are just an hour away via train and make for a wonderful daylong excursion away from the slopes.
Lech Zürs am Arlberg
Lech Zürs am Arlberg
Lech Zürs am Arlberg is the last bastion of five-star skiing in Austria. The slopes are as groomed as the mostly silver-haired folks who ski here. Lech’s Old World charm has always been popular with the well-to-do and the well-known, including royalty. Above Lech, the village of Zürs is one of the most exclusive ski destinations in the world.
There’s a glut of high-end hotels in the area, but we like to go sideways here and stay with Olympic downhill champion Egon Zimmermann at his four star Hotel Kristberg, where we never tire of the stories from this kind, gentle and brave man. If you’re craving more luxury, visit the Burgvital Resort and its over-the-top restaurant.
Megève
Megève
Stylish Megève is as much a state of mind as a place. The sunny Mont Blanc neighborhood is all you can ask of the Alps. It’s perhaps the most romantic and charming among the dozen resorts that make up the Best of the Alps, although the slopes are relatively tame. The medieval-style village showcases luxury digs, fine French cuisine and swank shops.
But some of France’s best Haute Savoie cuisine is found in the myriad on-mountain restaurants that border Megève’s slopes. Take your pick – you can’t go wrong. The most acclaimed restaurant is Flocons de Sol, and on this we agree with other professional critics. Off the slopes, explore the thermal baths at St. Gervais.
St. Anton am Arlberg
St. Anton am Arlberg
St. Anton am Arlberg yields up Austria’s most famous ski terrain. Some believe its ski instructors taught the world to ski, moving to new mountain ranges like missionaries. The sweeping ski circus is vast and exciting. The emphasis is on good, hard skiing by day, and raucous partying at night. The quality of both is uncommonly high. Hotel Schwarzer Adler in St. Anton has served us well over the years and we highly recommend it. For a cozy evening, we like to dine by the fireplace at The Museum Restaurant located in the 104-year-old Trier villa, which by day houses St. Anton’s outstanding museum.
St. Moritz
St. Moritz
Surprisingly, the only Olympic site in Switzerland is St. Moritz, host of the Winter Games in1928 and then again in 1948. Set within the spectacular mountains of the heart-shaped Upper Engadine above a string of lakes beneath 13,000-foot Piz Bernina, St. Moritz is arguably the world’s most famous winter address.
Back in 1864, a local innkeeper named Johannes Badrutt dared his British summer guests to return in winter with a money-back guarantee if they weren’t satisfied. From that, the world’s first winter resort evolved. Badrutt’s Palace Hotel remains perhaps the most exclusive accommodations in the ski world. And you can’t beat the hotel’s dining options. Bring your no-limit credit card.
Seefeld
Seefeld
Located just 15 miles south of Innsbruck, Seefeld is one of the prettiest spots in the Alps. And it’s ancient, first mentioned in Roman documents in the year 1022. The heart of the village is a car-free, cobblestone center rimmed by steep roofs, ornate balconies and typical Tyrolean post-and-beam architecture.
Hotels are small, intimate and upscale. Most of them are family run. Particularly pleasing is the five-star Hotel and Spa Klosterbrau, built around a former sixteenth-century monastery. Dining in the hotel’s 500-year-old wine cellar is a memory lasting long after the deep snow turns into even deeper wildflowers.
Zermatt
Zermatt
Surprisingly, this alphabetical listing of the Best of the Alps has saved the best for last. Zermatt is where we most like to ski. You can almost reach out and touch the Matterhorn in this carless village, whose ambience is as rich as a Swiss chocolate bar. It’s the kind of place that would stop a thousand tour buses a day, if they were allowed up this extraordinary valley. The skiing is all you could ask for.
The Grand Hotel Zermatterhof does the resort proud. But we also like the Riffelalp Resort located midway up the mountain, which offers a wide-ranging choice of restaurants. The nearby Findeln area is touted as the finest collection of mountain restaurants in the world. A visitor would be remiss not to seek them out. Especially appealing is the Findlerhof Restaurant.
I moved to Bushwick in October 2014 after graduating from college in Boston. The only thing I knew about the neighborhood was its massive warehouse parties as depicted in an episode of Girls. Truthfully, I knew very little about Brooklyn — what I knew was what my dad told me about the Brooklyn he grew up in. But that was 50 years ago. A lot has changed.
Bushwick today is a diverse, thriving neighborhood. Its industrial past has given way to expansive artists’ lofts and production houses for artisanal products. Its bodegas have morphed into gourmet food stores selling $8 chocolate bars and kombucha. Many of the neighborhood’s longtime resident have expressed anger and frustration over the gentrification. Bushwick, like many other parts of Brooklyn is undergoing a rapid, transformation with consequences beyond the control of well-intentioned hipster newcomers.
The neighborhood is also becoming a popular tourist destination, thanks in large part to the Bushwick Collective, a street art project that commissions artists from all over the world to paint murals in the neighborhood.
So what is one to do in a single day in Bushwick?
A day in Bushwick
Images via Flickr Creative Commons
My ideal day starts off with a hearty breakfast or brunch. Luckily, the latter can be easily found along the L train. My brunch pick is Fritzl’s Lunchbox, a tiny shoebox of a restaurant on a quiet corner of Irving Avenue and Stockholm Street. On a recent visit, I ordered a crab cake omelette while my runny egg-averse companion munched a breakfast sandwich. The vibe is calm, the service friendly, and the wait is often shorter than most brunch spots in the neighborhood.
If brunch isn’t what you’re after, grab a chorizo tostada at Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos (a favorite of none other than Anthony Bourdain). Place your order on an index card, and then await your order by the counter. The tortillas are some in the freshest in town as they’re made right in their factory on site.
Wake up and brunch
With a full belly, make your way to Bushwick’s claim to fame: street art. Strolling down the cluster of blocks off the Jefferson L train and you will understand why tourists from all over the world flock here.
From Stockholm Street, head west to Troutman Street to see the many incredible works of The Bushwick Collective, including a mural of Jay Z and Basquiat from New Zealand street artist Owen Dippie. Every first weekend in June, the collective hosts a massive block party in the neighborhood, drawing thousands of visitors to witness live mural painting and discover the area.
The Bushwick Collective was started by Bushwick native Joe Ficalora. It is now one of the most recognized street art collectives in the world.
Colorful street art in Bushwick
Alternatively, you could check out some of Bushwick’s many art galleries and studios. Since rent is significantly cheaper than Manhattan, many artists call Bushwick home. Don’t miss the studios at 56 Bogart Street (aptly named The BogArt) off the Morgan L that are often open to the public. Notable galleries include Luhring Augustine, SIGNAL and The Living Gallery.
If film is your preferred genre of art, you won’t be disappointed with a visit to Syndicated, a new restaurant and bar that happens to have a movie theater in back. For only $3, catch a flick while dining on tater tots and truffle popcorn.
The area surrounding the Morgan L Train is jokingly known as “Morgantown.”
It’s dinnertime, and Bushwick has plenty of options. The most obvious choice would be Roberta’s, the hipster pizza joint that practically put Bushwick on the map. If the wait is too long, head to Northeast Kingdom. The farm-to-table restaurant serves elevated comfort food in a low-key setting.
In hybrid-loving New York, Maite is an Italian-Basque-Colombian restaurant off the Central M train where the chef creates wildly unique dishes in a homey atmosphere.
Roberta’s
Nightlife is where Bushwick excels. From dive bars hawking $2 Genesee to all night warehouse raves, this is a party neighborhood. Start your night off at The Narrows, a speakeasy-style spot with a great little patio. El Cortez, from the owners of The Commodore in Williamsburg, combines Tex-Mex cuisine with a raucous party vibe.
If bar hopping isn’t your cup of tea, check out the programming at the House of Yes, a performance space hosting a wide variety of dance, circus, theater & cabaret performances.
Where to stay
The New York Loft Hostel
The New York Loft Hostel: A repurposed factory now houses a hip hostel complete with backyard patio and rooftop deck. New York Moore Hostel: Simple hostel accommodation with spacious rooms BKLYN House Hotel: Recently opened full-service hotel inspired by the creative, artistic community of Bushwick.
Couldn’t make it to the Tribeca Film Festival? Fret not, because we have 10 iconic films and their respective cities to inspire major travel lust.
New York City: Manhattan (1979)
New York City
Want an indelible image of New York City in the late 1970s? Watch a Woody Allen film. Few directors managed to capture the essence of the city better than Mr. Allen himself, who in the span of two years, made two films (the other being Annie Hall) that would iconize the city. Honorable mentions: Taxi Driver, Dog Day Afternoon
Manhattan
Rome: La Dolce Vita (1960)
Rome
Federico Fellini’s classic 1960 film is forever associated with the eternal city. The film, which follows restless reporter Marcello Rubini as he drifts through life in Rome, was filmed at Cinecittà Studios and on location (including the infamous scene involving the Trevi fountain).
La Dolce Vita
Paris: Amélie (2001)
Paris
We’d like to think of Paris, particularly Montmartre, as ‘before Amélie’ and ‘after Amélie.’ Few other films had such an effect on tourism and the image of Paris. Some decry the loss of authenticity of Montmartre, while others rejoice in its signature quirks. Honorable mention: Midnight in Paris
Amélie
Los Angeles: L.A. Confidential (1997)
Los Angeles
A throwback to noir films of the 1940s, L.A. Confidential is the ultimate retro L.A. movie. Its plot, loosely based on the 1990 James Ellroy novel of the same name, centers on L.A.P.D. officers and the rabid police corruption of the 1950s. The neighborhoods of Silverlake and Echo Park served as the backdrop for old-school L.A. glamour. Honorable mention: Pulp Fiction
L.A. Confidential
Boston: The Departed (2006)
Boston
Martin Scorsese may be a New Yorker born and bred, but he gave Boston one of its most iconic films to date with The Departed. Inspired by the story of mobster Whitey Bulger, Scorsese’s film is an ode to hard scrabble South Boston and its questionable denizens. It was largely filmed on location in Boston, including the Brutalist-style City Hall.
The Departed
London: Blowup (1966)
London
Inspired by the life of fashion photographer David Bailey, Blowup epitomized Swinging London in the 1960s. With real-life model Veruschka as muse, director Michelangelo Antonioni employed icons of the era in addition to well-known locations like Maryon Park and Charlton. Honorable mentions: An Education, Notting Hill
Blowup
San Francisco: Vertigo (1958)
San Francisco
Alfred Hitchcock’s most memorable film, surprisingly, wasn’t shot in his native England but rather in the hilly cityscape of San Francisco. With its steep hills and tall, arching bridges, the Bay Area became the ideal set for the psychological thriller starring Jimmy Stewart as a retired detective suffering from a case of extreme acrophobia. Honorable mentions: Point Blank, Bullitt
Vertigo
Tokyo: Lost in Translation (2003)
Tokyo
Sofia Coppola’s dramedy starring Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson as unlikely comrades put Tokyo into a whole new light. The frenetic city looked positively romantic and the drop-dead gorgeous views from the Park Hyatt didn’t hurt, either.
Lost in Translation
Stockholm: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2009)
Stockholm
The 2011 version of the Swedish thriller might get all the credit, but we think the 2009 film starring Noomi Rapace gives a more vivid realization of the city. Plenty of Stockholm locations pop up in the film, including the Stockholm Hilton, Stockholm Central Station, Arlanda Airport, and many, many others.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Chicago: The Untouchables (1987)
Chicago
This Brian De Palma flick embodied Chicago’s notorious mob history. Even though a lot of gangster films have been based in Chicago (e.g. Road to Perdition, Public Enemies), a lot of the scenes in The Untouchables were filmed in actual historic buildings around town, including the opulent Chicago Theatre and Union Station.
Forget East vs. West Coast, there’s another rivalry going in: Eastside vs. Westside in Los Angeles. Historically the center of it all, West L.A. has always been what outsiders envision L.A. to be: beaches, pretty people, mansions. But in the past few years, the Eastside has risen among the ranks, drawing artists, tastemakers and millennials to its culturally diverse neighborhoods and cheaper rents.
The following is a throwdown of the best of the best in East and West L.A. – from the quintessential lunch spot to chicest hotel (celebs not included). Read on to find out what makes each area similar, different, and see which we crown the winner.
Attraction
Art v. Science
LACMA Housing a 110,000-piece collection that includes works by Degas, Rembrandt, Hockney, and Monet, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is a must-see for art lovers visiting L.A (and proves this city is at least a little bit cultured). Everyone loves the “Urban Light” installation by Chris Burden in front of the museum, which is probably one of the most Instagrammed places in the city.
Griffith Observatory Have your L.A. ah-ha moment at Griffith Observatory, nestled above the Hollywood Hills. “This 72-year-old Greek Revival landmark on a hilltop in Griffith Park is one of L.A.’s most recognizable icons” says Concierge.com. Science nerds will love exploring the planetarium, while just about anyone will be in total awe of the views below, night or day.
Shopping
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Design and a hint of grit
Melrose Ave Constantly reinventing itself, Melrose Ave was the birthplace of Southern California’s New Wave and Punk cultures in the 80s, and more recently, has become the designer shopping mecca for the rich and famous. Sadly, that means it has lost most of its seediness, but we still get a kick out of strolling past some truly unique L.A. businesses.
Sunset Blvd Snaking through Hollywood to Silver Lake and Los Feliz, Sunset Boulevard is as iconic to L.A. as the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. A drive through its winding curves will take you past historic hotels and music venues in West Hollywood, but we particularly love the charming grit of the boulevard once it hits Silver Lake.
Lunch
Sandwich duel
Apple Pan Locals pile into this West Side institution (in business for almost 70 years), for the signature “steakburger” topped with all the fixins. Second only to In-N-Out in terms of popularity, Apple Pan is also well known for its gooey homemade pie. Better save room for dessert.
Langer’s Homesick New Yorkers should head straight for this old-school Jewish deli, in business since 1947. Frommer’s says “the most sought after sandwich among locals, by far, is the famous No. 19, with pastrami, Swiss cheese, coleslaw, and Russian-style dressing.” Maybe don’t wear your tightest jeans?
Dinner
West Italian v. East Italian
Angelini Osteria Book a dinner rezzie at this cozy osteria on an otherwise nondescript spot on Beverly Blvd for the lasagne verde and other sublime Northern Italian dishes. “Authentic home-style Italian cooking—simple, rustic, and delicious—is the focus at chef-owner Gino Angelini’s unfussy restaurant” (Travel + Leisure).
Little Dom’s LA Weekly says “Little Dom’s is a young person’s idea of an old person’s restaurant, all dark wood and dim lights, snappy waitresses and strong cocktails.” Settle into a leather booth and feast on Italian-American dishes like spaghetti meatballs amongst Silver Lake’s glitterati.
Hotel
Cheateau Marmont v. Hollywood Roosevelt
Chateau Marmont With so many fabulous hotels in West L.A., it’s hard to pick just one. But for the ultimate, extravagant, go-broke-or-go-home experience, stay at the Chateau Marmont. Live like Johnny Depp for a day or two at the city’s most storied hideaway high above the Sunset Strip.
Hollywood Roosevelt At the intersection of Hollywood and Highland across from Grauman’s Chinese Theater, the landmark Roosevelt has seen its fair share of drama since opening in 1927. After undergoing a restoration in 2003, the hotel is still the place to witness “a modern-day, happening scene,” according to Insight Guides.
Hike
Workin’ your fitness
Malibu Creek State Park With over 8,000 acres of rolling tallgrass plains, Malibu Creek State Park makes for an ideal hike along the Pacific. Nicknamed the “Yosemite of Southern California,” you could spend an entire day discovering its incredible vistas. Fun fact: the park played host to film sets dating back to 1919.
Runyon Canyon Park It’s worth it to wake up early and hike to the top of Runyon Canyon just to see the sweeping views of Los Angeles below (but go on a clear day). Don’t be surprised if you spot a celeb or two – the park’s proximity to the Hollywood Hills means plenty of A-listers walking their dogs.
Bar
Yummy cockatails
Birch We wouldn’t normally recommend Downtown Hollywood, but this bar/restaurant really is worth the trip down Hollywood Boulevard. The stellar cocktail menu is filled with unorthodox ingredients like brown butter and bee pollen. Come for a drink, stay for the relaxed vibe and rustic, family-style food.
The Walker Inn It’s a wise choice to head to Koreatown for a night out in Los Angeles (karaoke galore). But don’t miss this cozy bar tucked inside the Hotel Normandie that serves exceptional cocktails, omakase-style. But don’t just show up: you’ll need a reservation to get in.
Drake has said, “When I think of myself, I think of Toronto. My music would never sound the way it does if it weren’t for Toronto.” Growing up in the suburbs outside Toronto, Drake’s love for his hometown shows no bounds. The rapper is set to release his long-awaited fourth album Views from the 6 this month, once again referencing his city. Recently, he was given the key to the city by mayor John Tory at the NBA All Star Celebrity Game, held for the first time outside the U.S.
Despite having multiple cribs in LA, NYC and Miami, Drake often makes his way home, either hitting up Joso’s for seafood or hiding out at the Hazelton Hotel. If you’ve got love for the 6 God, then we have the ultimate guide to exploring Canada’s largest and most culturally diverse city to the soundtrack of its most treasured export.
TORONTO, ON - FEBRUARY 12: Drake and Toronto Mayor John Tory attend the 2016 NBA All-Star Celebrity Game at Ricoh Coliseum on February 12, 2016 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by George Pimentel/WireImage)
Drake receiving the key to Toronto from Mayor John Tory.
No relation to Toronto’s favorite rapper, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a more apt hotel to stay in. Concierge.com says “for anyone who wants to live hard, party with locals, and see the city’s younger, hipper side, there’s no better place to lay your weary head.” With only 19 rooms, the Drake may be small in size, but “epitomises bohemian luxury” according to Insight Guides. A popular rooftop patio, comfort food restaurant, and nightclub will make you never want to leave. Rooms from $166. Listen: “Best I Ever Had”
As sleek as one of Drake’s whips, the NY-based hotel chain made its Toronto debut in 2010, quickly becoming an “adult amusement park” according to BlackBook. Located in the fashionable King West Village, the hotel is a stone’s throw from art, entertainment and shopping, not to mention nightlife (the hotel even has its own underground club). Of the hotel, Gayot says “guests who choose one of the Toronto Thompson Hotel’s spacious 102 rooms or suites can enjoy floor-to-ceiling window views and such amenities as marble bathrooms with heated floors.” Rooms from $230. Listen: “HYFR”
Drake references this Four Seasons outpost in his latest single “Summer Sixteen,” and why not? Standing 55 floors tall with 259 rooms, the hotel is perfect for holding court with your crew, “looking like a damn football team.” Located in the upscale Yorkville neighborhood, Jetsetter says the Four Seasons is “a scene-stealing skyscraper with a talked-about restaurant and stellar spa in downtown’s swankiest ‘hood.” It’s nice being so high up, huh? Rooms from $367. Listen: “Summer Sixteen”
The Hazy, as it’s affectionately known, made not one but two appearances on Drake’s fourth mixtape If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late. A favorite among high rollers, the luxury hotel in Yorkville features rooms decked out in black and gold (Drizzy’s colors of choice). “Sophisticated, dramatic and sexy, this hotel is small enough (62 rooms, 15 suites) to make you feel like the someone special that we all know you are (Lonely Planet). Rooms from $289. Listen: “Used To” “10 Bands”
We’d like to imagine Drake toasting his first record deal with his crew at this Toronto institution for more than 30 years. Consistently stellar food and fantastic views of the Toronto skyline make this one of the best places for a celebratory meal. “Up on a hillside overlooking the dazzling downtown lights, Scaramouche is the perfect hideaway for falling in love with food or your dining companion” (Forbes). Main courses from $39. List: “Crew Love”
This ivy-covered temple to seafood in Yorkville has been serving the freshest catch of the day since 1977. “Artistic objects, sensuous paintings of nudes and the sea, and signed celebrity photos line the walls at this two-story seafood institution that might catch you off-guard with its eccentricity” (Fodor’s). You might recognize the restaurant as the ornate setting for Drake’s Take Care album cover (and a mention in “5AM in Toronto”). Main courses from $28. Listen: “Take Care”
To get in touch with his Jewish side, we can imagine Drake taking his mom to one of the city’s best delis serving corned beef and pastrami (called smoked meat here). BlackBook says “Zane Caplansky’s old school deli has become the de facto spot for Jewish comfort food thanks to his luscious cured beef.” Listen: “You & The 6”
We wouldn’t be shocked to see Drake sipping vino at this Italian spot in King West (he references two other Italian joints, Il Mulino and Sotto Sotto in “Pound Cake” featuring Jay Z). Zagat says “at his high-end, hard-to-find Italian in King West, chef Rob Gentile serves upscale takes on rustic fare, using charcuterie, sausages and pastas made in-house.” Main courses from $21. Listen: “Pound Cake”
For a near-guaranteed Drake sighting…
Fring’s
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You can thank Drake for one of the hottest spots in town – he did, after all, give Fring’s its name. Helmed by celebrity chef Susur Lee, the new restaurant in King West opened late 2015 and has already seen a bevy of famous faces come to taste its global cuisine and see its uber-cool interior. Combine that with the best song of 2015 (we may be biased) and your night is set. Listen: “Hotline Bling”
For that “irie” taste…
The Real Jerk
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You want authentic Caribbean flavor in Toronto? The Real Jerk is the answer. It recently played host to Rihanna and Drake for her “Work” music video, although we can imagine the weekly vibe is a little more sedated than what’s depicted in the video. Listen: Work
TripExpert’s top rated attraction in Toronto also happens to be one of Drake’s favorites, too: he has a tattoo of the tower inked on his arm and was seen riding its elevator in “Headlines.” At 1,815 feet, the CN Tower soars above Toronto skyline, much like the Empire State Building in NYC. Lonely Planet says “riding those glass elevators up the highest freestanding structure in the world (553m) is one of those things in life you just have to do.” Listen: “6 God”
Home of the Toronto Blue Jays, Rogers Centre was prominently featured in Drake’s “Headlines” music video and is a signature feature on the city’s burgeoning waterfront. While Time Out says it resembles “a giant white beetle,” the view of the CN Tower from the stadium can hardly be beat. After seeing a game, wander around the Queens Quay, a new urban revitalization project with green space and public art. Listen: “Headlines”
Air Canada Centre
Image: Dave Gillespie
Image: Dave Gillespie
Drake’s Sher Club
You’ll likely catch Drake cheering on the Toronto Raptors at this stadium – he is their official global ambassador. Whether or not you have thousands to spend on floor seats, it’s worth seeing a game and witnessing the city’s passion for sports. In 2015, Drake opened an exclusive, members-only club in the Air Canada Centre, Sher Club. Listen: “Energy”
For a chill time on the water…
Mariposa Private Harbor Cruise
Private Harbor Cruise
Toast the city on a private charter on Toronto’s harbor, champagne glass in hand.
For the night owl…
Drake Underground
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Located in the basement of The Drake Hotel, the subterranean venue is “beloved by many by many for the intimate opportunities it offers to see genre-spanning artists and DJs on its red curtained stage,” according to blogTO.com. Time to be on your best (worst) behavior. Listen: “Worst Behavior”
Muzik
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Drake has hosted many after parties at this sprawling nightclub on the waterfront, where the Dom Pérignon flows all night long. VIP or not, you’ll feel like a motherf***in legend at this sleek and sexy outdoor/indoor club. More recently, the club played host to the NBA All Stars afterparty. Listen: “Legend”
Every spring, the world is gifted with the sight of cherry blossoms. In Japan, the tradition of cherry blossom season is known as hanami. But the centuries-old tradition extends beyond the shores of Japan, with many more cities across the world holding annual festivals celebrating the precious pink bloom. From quintessential Kyoto to lesser-known Macon, Georgia, these are the 10 best cities in the world to see cherry blossoms and where to stay.
Kyoto
Kyoto
Named one of our most romantic cities in the world, Kyoto is heralded around the world for its cherry blossoms. While the trees can be viewed throughout Japan during spring, Kyoto is the most picturesque. To really see the blooms in action, visit the Imperial Palace or the Philosopher’s Path.
Westin Miyako Kyoto
Located just outside Kyoto, the Westin Miyako Kyoto embodies the serenity of its surroundings.
Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C.
Outside of Kyoto, D.C. is the best place for premium blossom viewing. Each year, the National Cherry Blossom Festival is held over a five week period on the National Mall. Crowds can get uncomfortably large, but luckily there are several places in D.C. to see the blooms.
Mandarin Oriental
See cherry blossoms without leaving your hotel at the Mandarin Oriental, with incredible views of the Tidal Basin.
Every April the Brooklyn Botanic Garden hosts Sakura Matsui, the Japanese tradition marking the end of hanami (aka cherry blossom season). The two-day affair includes a cosplay fashion show, bands playing traditional tunes and dance performances.
Can’t make it to Brooklyn? Take a scroll through the gardens instead.
NU Hotel
Access the Botanic Garden easily from the NU Hotel, a hip haven in nearby Downtown Brooklyn.
Macon, Georgia
Macon
Little known fact: Macon is the cherry blossom capital of the world. With more than 300,000 trees, the city is practically awash in a baby pink. Its annual festival, ending in March, is earlier than most because of the warmer climate down south.
Stonehurst Place
Stay at Stonehurst Place, a charming bed and breakfast in Atlanta.
The Opus Hotel in Vancouver’s trendy Yaletown district is no doubt one of the best in the city.
Stockholm
Stockholm
In 1998, 63 Japanese cherry trees were planted around one of most central parks, the Kungsträdgården (King’s Garden). 18 years later, the trees have become a can’t-miss sight in the Swedish capital every mid-to-late April.
Hotel Diplomat
Hotel Diplomat, located on the grand boulevard Strandvagen, makes for a refined stay.
Seoul
Seoul
In Seoul, the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival brings thousands of visitors to the city’s national assembly building. More than 1,600 cherry trees bloom along the Han River, in addition to nearly 90,000 flowers including azaleas, forsythias and spireas.
Rakkojae Seoul
Skip the chain hotels in favor of the Rakkojae Seoul, a traditional hanok dating back to the 1870s.
San Francisco
San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden
Some 30 cherry blossom trees will bloom in San Francisco’s Japantown. Happening at the same time is the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates the city’s rich Japanese culture and heritage and draws over 200,000 visitors a year.
Hotel Kabuki
Keep in the Japanese theme by booking a room at Hotel Kabuki.
Paris
Paris
One of the many glorious aspects of springtime in Paris is the cherry blossoms along the Parc du Champ De Mars, an expansive green space at the foot of the Eiffel Tower in the 7th arrondissement. On sunny days (a rarity in Paris), there’s no better place to while away an afternoon. Picnics are encouraged.
Hotel du Champ de Mars
Stay at – where else? – Hotel du Champ de Mars, an affordable boutique hotel in the 7th.
Salem, Oregon
Salem
The capitol of Oregon was once known as Cherry City, a nod to the cherry orchards that once surrounded the valley town. Nowadays, the only remnant of Salem’s once-bustling cherry business is the double row of cherry trees outside of Oregon’s capitol building.
Hotel Monaco
The Hotel Monaco is playful and sophisticated in downtown Portland, about an hour away from Salem by car.
As with any vacation, hotel selection is key. The Lodge at Torrey Pines is your best bet. It neighbors a world-class golf course and overlooks the Pacific. And if those surroundings are not enough, “the resort itself is a celebration of the American Craftsman period, from its stained glass and handcrafted woodwork to its Stickley-style furnishings,” says Forbes Travel Guide. Rooms here start at $305.
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Free sunsets
Something to keep in mind is that San Diego is a border city. Mexico is just a short drive away, making for some pretty amazing food. Plus, Mexican heritage is visible in many spots, and Old Town San Diego is a particularly bright spot to experience it. After checking in at the Lodge, make your way to the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. San Diego is definitely a city that requires a car to get around, but if you want to save yourself the hassle of renting one and finding parking, Uber is your safest bet. A trip from the Lodge to Old Town will be around $15. The main attraction of the Historic Park is its plaza, which is “a pleasant place to rest, plan your tour of the park, and watch passers-by,” according to Fodor’s. After a stroll, it’s time you have your first Mexican meal of the trip. The Old Town Mexican Café is a staple in San Diego, where the staff prepares fresh tortillas in front of you. Lonely Planet recommends you try “machacas (shredded pork with onions and peppers), carnitas (grilled pork), and posole (hominy stew).” You can’t go wrong with this casual diner. Dishes here range from $4-$16.
San Diego
Mission San Diego de Alcala
After lunch, cruise over to the Mission San Diego de Alcala, also in Old Town. The architecture is representative of Spanish colonial rule of the area. It is the first of a chain of 21 missions stretching northward along the coast, and according to Fodor’s, has some pretty intense history. Plus, you can still attend mass here over the weekends. Admission into the mission is $5. Before it gets dark, head back to Torrey Pines and check out the Reserve. It is a completely different scene than Old Town. Rather than looking at some amazing architecture surrounded by Mexican food and Spanish music, the Torrey Pines State Reserve is a place to enjoy nature. San Diego is an outdoorsy city, and the Reserve is an ideal place for a late afternoon walk. Afar magazine says “either you can hike a longer loop around the entire reserve, or take a short walk from the parking lot near the nature center to the edge of high bluffs overlooking the ocean.” Exploring the Torrey Pines State Reserve is definitely a great way to open up your appetite before dinner.
Torrey Pines Reserve, La Jolla, California
To end your first day, it’s time to splurge. After all that walking, it’s time to eat at San Diego’s best restaurant, George’s at the Cove. A close drive to the Torrey Pines Lodge, George’s is often regarded as the place to find the city’s best meal. “Chef Trey Foshee is committed to using farm fresh organic and sustainable ingredients in dishes like the yellowfin fish tacos and porcini-glazed halibut,” says Travel + Leisure. Main courses here are between $13-$50.
Day 2
For the next day, you should aim for a big breakfast or brunch, because there’s a lot of walking involved. Hash House A Go Go is known for its huge portions, but “it is not simply quantity over quality,” according to Zagat. The hash browns, biscuits, and pancakes are delicious, as are their eggs cooked in many different styles. Prices range from $9-$18 for meals. It will be a $15 Uber ride from the Torrey Pines Lodge.
Balboa Park
Just a short distance away from the restaurant is one of San Diego’s main attractions: Balboa Park. One of the biggest cultural parks in the world, it houses museums, restaurants, and the first stop for today, the San Diego Zoo. Prepare to explore for hours. “The expansive “habitats” include a tropical rainforest filled with gorillas, a recreated Arctic tundra with polar bears and reindeer, and a Giant Panda Research Station,” says Travel + Leisure. It’ll cost $50 to check out every corner of this 100-acre animal wonderland. After the zoo, be sure to walk around the rest of Balboa Park. The San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego Air & Space Museum are two of the park’s highlights.
Cabrillo National Monument in Point Loma
As a final stop before dinner visit Cabrillo National Monument, in the Point Loma neighborhood. It’s a historic site dedicated to a 16th century explorer, but the views are the biggest pull here. “It’s also the best place in town to see the gray-whale migration (January to March) from land,” says Lonely Planet. It’s a $16 Uber ride away from Balboa Park, and admission is free. Watch the sunset at Cabrillo, and then get ready for a wonderful meal nearby. Point Loma Seafoods is perfect for an early dinner, and promises amazing food and ambiance. “The place is known for its Alaskan cod fish sandwich, though the squid sandwich is another bestseller,” says Gayot. If you still have some energy left, check out Café Sevilla downtown for live music and drinks. It should be an $8 ride from Point Loma Seafoods. “Thursday through Sunday evenings, it’s packed with youthful throngs who crowd the ground-floor bar,” according to Fodor’s.
Day 3
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Not pictured: you.
You can’t leave San Diego without spending some time at the beach. So for the remainder of the trip, it’s all about Mission Beach. The boardwalk here stretches for several miles, perfect for a walk or a bike ride. An Uber ride from the hotel will be $12. Start the day at The Mission for breakfast. It has three locations throughout San Diego, including the beach. “There’s soy chorizo, gluten-free blueberry cornmeal pancakes, egg whites, and braised tofu and generous bowls of fruit and granola for health-conscious types, and roast beef hash and eggs for hungry carnivores,” says Frommer’s. Expect to pay $7-$11 per item here.
Belmont Park
Make your way to the final stop of your San Diego visit: Belmont Park. The once abandoned amusement park bow has a functioning roller coaster, along with shops where you can find kitschy gifts. “Attractions include miniature golf, a video arcade, bumper cars, a tilt-a-whirl, and an antique carousel,” according to Fodor’s. Prices vary for every attraction. After those 72 hours, you probably won’t be done with San Diego. The hikes, the food, and the gorgeous weather will leave you certain of why this place is such a popular spot. Just listen to the experts, and you’ll be enjoying the best of what the city has to offer.
