We are very pleased to announce the winners of our 2016 Experts’ Choice Awards. This year, we are recognizing over 5,000 of the best hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions around the world.
Experts’ Choice is an entirely new kind of award. It is based on reviews written by professionals for major travel guides, magazines, newspapers, and other respected publications. At TripExpert, we bring together these reviews and provide a snapshot of what the experts think are the best places to stay, eat, and visit.
How are the winners chosen?
Experts’ Choice Awards recognize businesses that have outperformed their peers, as reflected in reviews from our 70+ source publications. In general, winners have received a TripExpert Score in the top 30% of comparable venues. (In some destinations with a very large number or quality of venues, more than 30% receive the award.)
In calculating each venue’s TripExpert Score, we take into consideration how many publications have recommended it, what they’ve said about it, and what score or rating they’ve given it. Our algorithm also makes a number of important adjustments; for example, to account for the fact that outstanding but relatively new businesses may not yet have been extensively reviewed. Our research shows that aggregating professional reviews produces much more reliable results than user review sites.
Who are the winners?
Our 5,000 winners cover four continents and over 80 countries, and include hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions. The hotel winners range the full spectrum of lodgings from major luxury hotel chains to five-room family-owned boutiques; our restaurants range from Michelin-starred fine dining establishments to food trucks and “hole-in-the-wall” eateries. In the tourist attraction category, there are museums, parks, historical buildings, and just about anything else that’s worth visiting.
Although Experts’ Choice winners are diverse, they all share one thing: they have received high praise from expert reviewers. Some of our winners have been recommended in as many as 30 different publications, often including not only travel guides and magazines but also local, national and international press.
To find Experts’ Choice winners, look for the badge on TripExpert.com.
What happens next?
We will be publishing a series of posts over the coming months profiling some of our winners. If your business has won the award, we encourage you to add one of our Experts’ Choice badges to your site, which can help you convert visitors into paying customers. We are also happy to work with you to prepare a press release or other media material. Please contact Chris Blume.
Congratulations to all the winners!
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.
A room with a view…no, not the romance novel by E.M. Forster, but high up on many a traveler’s list when choosing a hotel. Whether you prefer waking up to a skyscraper or an azure ocean, these ten hotels have some of the best views around.
See the Hong Kong skyline from the floor-to-ceiling windows at this hotel. “Occupying arguably the finest waterfront position in the territory, the InterContinental tilts at modernity while bowing to colonial traditions” (Lonely Planet).
Take in the beauty of Central Park without leaving your bed
Gaze towards Central Park from one of New York City’s best hotels. “The luxurious rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows to make the most of the spectacular views” (Time Out).
No hotel offers better view of the Sydney harbor:“You’ll be able to spot this superbly-located high-rise hotel from many vantages. Inside, the higher the floor number, the better the view.” DK Eyewitness
Sex and the City fans, you may remember this hotel as the setting for Carrie’s big move to Paris. Wake up to the sight of the Eiffel Tower majestically in the foreground while you savor a croissant and cappuccino on your private balcony. Constructed at the height of Art Nouveau in the early 1900s, the Plaza Athénée “may be a classic but it is no museum” (Table)t. It’ll cost you a pretty penny (make that $1,200+ a night), but that view? Priceless.
Berlin’s symbol of unity and peace is your personal view. “Berlin’s most storied sleep right by the Brandenburg Gate, with Michelin-starred dining, yoga and an indoor pool” (Jetsetter).
“A regular entry in ‘Best Hotel in the World’ lists, this place oozes quality and comfort,” says Lonely Planet. OMG views of the Hagia Sophia don’t hurt, either.
Teetering high above the Amalfi Coast, Frommer’s says “this striking red-and-white 18th-century villa with terraces overlooking the bay is a picturesque sight.”
Less than a half mile from the Taj Mahal, the Oberoi Amarvilas is not only the top hotel in Agra, but one of the most luxurious in India. Fodor’s says “one of India’s best resorts emulates the opulent lifestyle of the Mughal emperors—complete with your own butler.” Five star service coupled with 360 degree views of the Taj make for one unforgettable experience.
Of this drop-dead gorgeous resort on Chapman’s Peak Drive, DK Eyewitness says “sandwiched between the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, this secluded five-star retreat has uninterrupted views of the pristine coastline.”
Perched 1,100 feet above the sea, Ladera Resort in St. Lucia is not for everyone. But if you’re hoping for jaw dropping views of the Pitons, this 5-star resort will just about do it. “Anticipate “the experience of a lifetime” at this eco lodge built with Caribbean timber, local stone, and terracotta tiles on the site of a former cocoa plantation” says Conde Nast Traveler. It’s also the only resort in St. Lucia located on the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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
Gerry Boughan / Shutterstock.com
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.
Carry-on luggage is a basic need when travelling. It’s meant for weekend trips, for carrying basics on the airplane, and for overall comfort. With that in mind there is so much to consider: hard sided or soft? To get wheels or will a simple strap suffice? To suit your needs, we compiled a list of the ten best bags you can use as a carry-on. Remember that packing efficiently is a craft that must be mastered.
Track your luggage via GPS and charge your gadgets via USB
This is first suitcase to connect to your smartphone so you can always keep your belongings tracked. The built-in tracker lets you know where your bag is, anywhere in the world. So if for some reason you get separated from your carry-on, you’ll be able to find it. Plus, there’s scale built into the handle so you can just pick it up and it’ll tell the app how much it weighs. You can also remotely lock the bag or set it to auto-lock if you get separated from it. The charging dock, with two USB ports, lets you power your phone up to six times. It’s $399 and worth every penny.
This very feminine bag has a cotton canvas exterior, leather handles and straps, and bi-directional zippers. It comes in mustard, charcoal, and black so it can easily combine with any outfit. Recommended on various expertly selected websites, the Weekender bag is $150.
This clean and classic duffel-style bag has a very unique zippered side shoe compartment. It comes in a variety of colors and is really malleable. You can hold on to the synthetic leather carry handles or the (removable) padded strap. It’s $85, so this is your bag if you’re not looking to spend too much.
Our experts have nicknamed this “The Mary Poppins bag.” It looks small, but can definitely fit a lot. That’s not to say the bag is designed for women only! The versatile look will appeal to everyone. Available in classic colors like military green and navy blue, the water-repellent nylon bag has leather handles and a removable strap. You’re looking to spend $98 on it.
Our first bag with wheels, this is a favorite among experts because of its practical design that allows you to hang up items on the side. The ballistic nylon outer fabric is durable and low-maintenance. It’s got two wheels and plenty of compartments. You can get it in either black or military green for $599.
This bag boasts that it can travel big and store small. It’s a nylon four-wheeler that comes in a bunch of fun colors and can be neatly folded away when you’re not using it. Plus, it was on Shark Tank, so that’s pretty cool. This really practical piece is $199.
This is the perfect carry-on for those who love to compartmentalize even within the confines of a small bag. The two-wheeler has a bunch of different pockets both inside and outside. It comes in black, and has the signature Tumi signature on the wheels in a deep red. Experts say it’s the most durable carry-on bag. For $595, it better be.
Wear it like a duffle, backpack, or as an addition to your checked bag.
This sporty unisex bag stretches is great because it can stretch a lot. In fact, the name references how the bag can expand to the maximum dimensions allowed as a carry-on. Plus, the compression pocket and laptop pouch offer a lot of packing space for your short trip. The Patagonia is $179.
This carry-on is a classic that sports plenty of zippered compartments and features a retractable handle too. Filson bags are usually deep shades of maroon, brown, mustard, and red. Made with water-resistant nylon and a wide wheel-base for stability, this bag is $595.
A successful Kickstarter and IndieGogo campaign can’t be wrong.
This bag got over $140,000 funding from Kickstarter investors. It’s innovative design ensures that you have 19 different spaces to keep your belongings. Like a true duffel, this leather bag has straps but no wheels. Available in oak, navy, and black, you can pre-order it now for $290 on indiegogo.com. The first delivery is estimated for July 2016.
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
https://www.instagram.com/p/BAlJ1IWPDQR/
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
https://www.instagram.com/p/BC9TwSPk8fL/
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
https://www.instagram.com/p/3Ws495S55i/
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
https://www.instagram.com/p/BBur3P3AHT4/
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”
Between the 1940s and 1960s, Palm Springs became ground zero for Modernist architects like Richard Neutra and John Lautner who were attracted to its lunar terrain and proximity to Los Angeles. Their design aesthetic, which came to be called desert modernism, forever shaped the tableau of the desert city. While sadly you can’t stay at their famous homes, these ten hotels and spas are the next best thing.
The Parker, set against the San Jacinto mountains on 13 lush acres, oozes style and seclusion. The Le Meridien-owned property is a favorite of celebs when they’re in town and the pool area is notorious for star-spotting (Angelina Jolie has been seen lounging by).
Formerly The Horizon, L’Horizon reopened in 2015 after a multi-million dollar refresh by celebrity designer Steve Hermann. The 1950s gem played host to Hollywood legends (and even a few presidents) back in the day and does so today. Each of the luxurious 25 guestrooms is like staying in private Palm Springs home.
Fun and festive describe the Saguaro (pronounced sa-wah-roh), a 245-room hotel decked in pink and orange. If you’re looking for a party-friendly home base for Coachella, this is it. Daily yoga, an Olympic-sized pool and a shuttle to downtown seal the deal.
Jaded city folk should head to this hotel, a former Motel 6 turned high-style hangout. Like its NYC and L.A. counterparts, the Ace has all the amenities you could want, plus an on-site restaurant, bar and spa.
Styled after pensiones in the Mediterranean, the Korakia has all the makings of a seaside retreat — without a sea in sight. A complimentary cooked breakfast is served in the sun-dappled courtyard, one of the many features of this dreamy destination.
Four bars, a restaurant, an 11,000 sq-foot spa – not to mention 398 rooms and 73 suites – the Riviera is as big as it gets in Palm Springs. You won’t be bored here. It’s location in downtown means easy access to everything Palm Springs has to offer.
Like something out of The Jetsons, Orbit In is a retro fantasy come to life. Studio rooms are appointed with Eames furniture and record players, while extras include two saltwater pools and a complimentary happy hour. Their extensive spa menu offers relaxing massages, mat Pilates and yoga therapy.
If Nancy Meyers designed a hotel, it would look a lot like the Alcazar. The Spanish colonial-style inn, located in the hip uptown design district, is decked in sumptuous white linens. Reserve a room with a private patio and let the calm set in.
A hotspot for movie stars in the 1930s,the Spanish Colonial-style hotel was opened by former mobster Al Wertheimer and served as his private club until the 1940s. To this day, the Colony Palms offers guests an indulgent stay, with beautifully appointed suites, a restaurant and spa.
This adults-only property is like a real-life Flintstones set. Built in 1947 by William F. Cody, the hotel was named a Class 1 historic site in 2012. Lounge on a bright orange sun chair or cozy up to one of the hotel’s many inviting common spaces that encircle the saltwater pool.
Originally built in 1935, the Albert Frey designed Movie Colony Hotel combines iconic mid-century modern architecture with a location just one block from downtown Palm Springs. The mostly white boutique hotel has both rooms and townhouses and was a favorite of Sinatra back in the day.
Tired of the mid-century modern aesthetic? Sparrows Lodge is the answer. The restored lodge, built in 1952, is mountain cabin meets desert resort. With No TVs or telephones, it makes for the perfect getaway. The on site restaurant, The Barn Kitchen, serves breakfast, lunch and supper.
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.
