Category Archives: City Guide

City Guide: 72 Hours in Milan

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Milan, once know as the fashion capital of the world, is a place where fashion, design, art, and food come together to make this city vibrant. Milan Fashion Week is at the epicenter of this grand city’s creativity. Some of the largest fashion house (Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Pucci, to name a few) flock to this beautiful city.

We gathered our favorite shopping places (because who can go to Milan and NOT shop?!), restaurants, and vibrant nightlife scenes. If we were in Milan right now, this is what we would be doing!

 

Thursday:

 

12:00 pm- Check-in to our favorite hotel in Milan, The Armani Hotel. This hotel is a fashion lover’s and designer’s dream. Giorgio Armani personally designed the sleek interior with his aesthetic and passion for design is seen throughout the hotel. Don’t forget to check out the Armani Spa, it’s divine!

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For another luxurious option, The Bulgari Hotel is fantastic. You can’t go wrong with either of these two options.

4:00 pm- There is nothing I like better than being a little pampered after a long-haul flight. Check out the Davide Diodovich salon, he is a wizard with the scissors and could transform even the dullest mane into something gorgeous.

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8:30 pm– Giacomo is Milan’s IT restaurant, don’t be surprised to rub shoulders with Orlando Bloom or Giorgio Armani. The cuisine is wonderful and simple Italian with a seafood accent.

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11:00 pm- Feel like dancing? Head to megaclub Plastic, popular with Milan’s young trendsetters and fashionistas. But don’t be surprised to see some crazy Fashion Week after-parties here.

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Friday:

 

10 am- Stop for a creamy cappuccino at Bastianello. Their pastries are also divine.

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12:00 pm- You’re in the fashion capital of Italy, it’s time to shop. Head to Cavalli & Nastri. This vintage shop has the cutest designer duds around.

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Or try Wait and See, this chic store is filled with quirky fashion and accessories.

2:00 pm- Health nuts will love the farm-to-table restaurant Erba Brusca. They grow their own herbs and vegetables, but try the gnocchi with cherry tomatoes; it doesn’t get better than that!

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4:30 pm- Walk around Brera, the bohemian district, it’s one of my favorite areas in the city!

9:00 pm- Dinner at Clandestino Milano Restaurant. Situated at Maison Moschino, this restaurant serves ‘playful’ Italian cuisine. Sample their “Flower Child Sushi”, a sushi roll that uses Burrata cheese and olive oil instead of wasabi or seaweed.

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11:00 pm- Byblos Milano is a completely new structure in entertainment. It combines art, fashion, design, and music into one fascinating club. A series of levels blend into a glass dance floor suspended over the water.

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Saturday:

 

10:00 am- Start your day at Fioraio Bianchi Milano. This restaurant has been around for 40 years in the downtown Brera district. Today Fioraio Bianchi remains a timeless place, a reinvented flower shop where the scent of fresh flowers mingle with aromas from the kitchen.

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2:00 pm- Walk around 10 Corso Como, the high-end shopping district in the city. There are plenty of things to do besides shopping if you’re all shopped-out. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and the stunning plaza center.

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5:00pm- Attend a fashion show. Bottega Veneta, Girogio Armani, Roberto Cavalli, and Emilio Pucci will all be showcasing their designs for Spring 2015 on this day.

7:30PM- Early dinner at Al Peck, which includes a chic bar and a luxury first-floor deli packed with every type of cheese, salami and indulgent Italian essential imaginable. Al peck specializes in handmade fresh pasta, grilled meat and fish dishes. Try to coal-grilled tender meats and crispy potatoes.

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11:00PM- Club 1930 is so exclusive you won’t even find it on any search website. It is a club of another era, inspired by the prohibitionist era and as such it remains hidden and secret. But if you have received an invitation, go to the shop and use the door at the back, the wonderful club that is located in the back of the shop.

 

Sunday: 

 

11:00 am- Brunch at Dulcis in fundo. American brunch places have been popping up all over Milan recently but this place is one of the best. Only on Sunday, this brunch is set in a lovely space and features American brunch with scrambled eggs and cheesecake, but also pancakes and handmade marmalades. Make sure to book!

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2:00pm- If you have time left, check out Dolce & Gabbana’s show at 2pm. You won’t want to miss it!

4:00 pm- Book yourself a massage at The Armani Spa before you’re on your way to gay ol’ Paris!

 

 

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City Guide: 72 Hours in London

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The 72 Hours City Guide in London is finally here, just in time for London’s Fashion Week! As we follow the world of fashion around the globe, this week’s stop is none other than the city of the “hip royals”. London, being one of our favorite cities in the world, was especially important for us to find the best new restaurants and places to visit for you Posh travelers!

With the help of our dear friend Daphne, at Hotel Insider, we gathered the most ah-ma-zing hotels, restaurants, bars, and more. This hour by hour plan is the only guide you need to follow during your week in London!

Thursday:

 

12:00 pm- Check-in to our favorite hotel in London, The Connaught (article coming Friday). It is an ultra-stylish residence with a remarkable pedigree. There are certain standards that must be upheld in London hospitality. And thanks to a $140 million restoration, this landmark brick Victorian has reclaimed the glory of a golden era.

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For another more fashionable options, try the May Fair Hotel: the official hotel partner for LFW, The Blakes Hotel and the Number Sixteen Hotel.

6:00 pm- Take a stroll around Mayfair, Bond Street and Piccadilly. They are all iconic places to visit and shop for your next London Fashion Week outfit.

8:30 pm– Looking for a delicious spot for dinner? Bar Bulud at the Mandarin Oriental is your stop. Although it’s not your typical brand spanking new spot, the food is to die for. Do not forget to order the boudin blanc.

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If you are looking for something more fun,  go to Berner’s Tavern at the London EDITION. The decor is super chic,  and the cocktails are superb.

11:00 pm-If you feel like dancing after dinner, Bart’s is a speakeasy bar in Sloane Square camouflaged inside a residential building. As you get to the door, you have to knock, they then pull the panel from a tiny hatch, and decide whether or not you can come in, it is super-exclusive.

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If you haven’t had enough fun, head over to Cuckoo, one of our favorite nightclubs. You can also try The Box. It is the same concept as the New York location: burlesque club with very risqué shows on stage.

 

Friday:

 

10 am- Stop for coffee and a delicious breakfast at The Botanist. This chic restaurant will definitely make you feel like you are in the heart of fashion week, and make you forget about your hangover.

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2:00 pm- Check out the Saatchi Gallery near Sloane Square and look for a fun exhibit! The Times Newseum is the newest exhibition, it helps you discover the secrets behind delivering daily news stories since 1785.

6:00 pm- If you feel like burning off some calories to fit in your outfit for tonight, try the new Kicksana class. It is a hybrid of yoga and Thai-boxing fusion. After doing a series of hooks and uppercuts you’ll be doing tree and warrior poses. Kicksana also includes the ‘Piloxing’, cardio fusion of standing pilates, boxing and dance.

8:30 pm- For dinner head over to Chiltern Firehouse in Marylebone, the latest Andre Balazs property. Due to the fact that it is the most desirable hotel and restaurant in town,  getting a table might be tricky, unless you call a few weeks in advance. Our favorite dish was the Ibero pork rib. After dinner indulge on a Nespresso martini with a twist of tequila to speed up the digestion.

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If you didn’t have much luck in Chiltern Firehouse, another great place to try is Cecconi’s. This unmissable Italian spot is my first stop every time I set foot in London.

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Hakkasan is also a great Chinese spot if you are in the mood for a scene-y dinner.

10:30 pm- Head to the Laddershed bar at the Chiltern Firehouse. If you still cannot get in, try the speakeasy Mr Foggs, which happen to be the same owners as Barts, in Mayfair.

 

Saturday:

 

10:00 am- Breakfast at my favorite place, the Pantechnicon in Knightsbridge. The free-range eggs Benedict and buttermilk pancakes are just heavenly.

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2:00 pm- A perfect place for an afternoon High Tea is the Berkeley Hotel, also known as the fashionable afternoon tea Prêt-à-Portea at The Caramel Room. Prêt-à-Portea sweets are inspired by Manolo Blahnik, Oscar de la Renta, Jason Wu among other fashion designers. The menu is transformed every six months to follow the changing seasons in fashion.

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5:00pm- Attend a fashion show. For over three decades JOSEPH has been at the forefront of fashion offering an authoritative view of the season’s trends embodied in the JOSEPH collection and reinforced with a select presentation from the key international designers.

Renowned for its knitwear, sharp tailoring and androgynous femininity, JOSEPH recreates classics with a cool modern edge.

7:00 pm- Saturday night is the night to check out the new IT restaurant Gymkhana, a modern Indian restaurant in Mayfair adored by critiques.

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If Gymkhana is not your cup of tea, the stunning Shangri-La at the Shard just opened its doors to the public. It is located in a sky-high building offering great views for drinks at GONG or dinner at LANG.

 8:30PM- If you finished dinner early, try to pop in to the Marchesa fashion show. Georgina and Keren’s beautifully crafted runway collections and accessories line fuse exquisite detailing with supreme femininity. Coveted not only by celebrities, but by women of all ages, Marchesa continues to be the centerpiece of iconic red carpet moments and high end fashion alike.

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10:00 pm – Drinks at The Blue Bar at the Berkley Hotel.

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Another great place for dinner is Bodegra Negra. The Mexican restaurant  is hip and delicipus. The location is a tad questionable (behind the window of a sex shop), but the food reminds me of my hometown in Mexico. Do not forget that no suits are llowed, so make sure you change into a “cool” attire before you walk in.

 

Sunday: 

 

10:00 am- Breakfast at The Wolseley, do not forget to book in advance. This iconic Picadilly landmark is next to the Ritz Hotel.

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2:00pm- Lunch at the Portobello Road market, one of the most famous street markets in the world. It is a popular destination for Londoners and tourists. Portobello Road goes straight through the heart of Notting Hill.

5:00 pm- Sunset drinks on the rooftop of the Shoreditch House. The pool and the library are the perfect spots to relax after a hectic weekend filled with fashion, friends and great food. Keep in mind that you need to be a member or be accompanied by one to get in.

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For the 72 Hours in New York City Guide, click here!

 

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City Guide: 72 Hours in NY Fashion Week

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It’s that time of the year again, where all the fashion geeks, designers’ muses, and fashion industry vets collide to celebrate New York’s Fashion Week. Since the week gets super hectic, we’ve put an hour-by-hour schedule of our fave (and hottest) places and restaurants to help you enjoy all that NYC has to offer. With the help of the fabulous lifestyle and fashion blogger SkirtSorbet, we custom created this city-guide just for you Posh travelers! Check out our shop below for our must-haves of the season

 

Thursday:

 

6:00 pm- Check in at the Surrey Hotel. What I love most about this hotel is the decor; it is definitely one of my favorite hotels in New York. While you are staying there make sure you visit their rooftop, it has an incredible view to downtown and uptown Manhattan and is your own secret little garden. This is the perfect hotel to stay in during NYFW!

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8:30 pm– Looking for a new trendy place to eat? The new Ralph Lauren restaurant is both traditional and stylish.

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If you want something more modern, Gato is the place to see and be seen. From iron chef Bobby Flay, this restaurant is not only delicious but also has a really chic ambiancegallery-1441373977-hbz-chic-eats-nyfw-co.

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If you prefer something low key, but delicious, try the new artisan pizza spot, Co Pane.

 

11:00 pm- Feel like dancing? Up and down is the place to not only dance your butt off but it is also great for some quality celeb-sightings (It used to be The Darby). For something more laid back The Library at the NoMad hotel will be perfect for you.

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Friday:

 

10 am- Stop for coffee, juice, and a delicious trendy avocado toast at Two Hands. This Australian spot with delicious coffee, unique smoothies, and juices is perfect to start your day.

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Another cool, healthy, and trendy breakfast stop is Butcher’s Daughter. Make sure to get one of their elixir shots; it will erase any last worries from the night before.

If you’re in a hurry between shows, something closer to the Mercedes-Benz tent is Norma’s, a famous and classic spot for a delicious breakfast.

2:00 pm- Casual lunch at the Fat Radish so you can feel like a real New Yorker! If you want to stay closer to the meatpacking district, for all the runways I recommend Cookshop, always packed with artsy people and has a cool view of New York’s famous Highline.

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6:00 pm– Barry’s Bootcamp class has the most insane workout with 2 locations one in Chelsea and the other one in Tribeca. Make sure to book a class in advance because they get full very quickly.

8:30 pm- It’s dinnertime and if you want to have the best new sushi in NYC make a reservation at the famous sushi place Nakazawa with the best omakase. If you’re not in the mood for sushi, have a delicious Italian dinner at the trendy Bar Primi; you will love the food and the decoration.

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If you are looking for one of the best burgers in town, because let’s face it, no one can leave NYC without having one. Minetta Tavern is the right place for you. The best classic spot for a burger and you might even be seated next to Jude Law.

10:30 pm- Head to Acme for a round of delicious drinks and rubbing shoulders with NYC‘s cool kids.

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Saturday:

 

10:00 am- Delicious breakfast at Maialino inside the Gramercy hotel.

2:00 pm- A perfect place for an afternoon refreshment of rosé at Champagne Charlie’s at the Highline hotel. Fun Fact: this hotel used to be a student housing back in 1895!

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4:00pm- Do you have Time for an exhibition? The painting Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I by Gustav Klimt is on permanent view at the Neue Galerie. The Picasso Sculpture is also in exhibition at the MOMA. Finally, my favorite exhibition in New York is by Albert Oelhen at the New Museum.

 

7:00 pm- Saturday night is the night to check out the new IT restaurant in NYC, Charlie Bird. What to order: start with the faro salad and a bottle of Chianti, then the Pasta Nero with crab or Duck egg pasta. Once you’ve been filled to the brim, dance off the carbs at the ultra-exclusive Boom Boom Room.

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Or if you’re in the mood for an early dinner and drinks, check out Narcissa, inside the new Standard East Village hotel. Another delicious place it’s the French restaurant Claudette from the same owners of Rosemary’s.

 

Sunday: 

 

10:00 am- Breakfast at Lafayette with the best pancakes and delicious coffee.

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2:00pm- Visit the McNally Jackson bookshop at 52 Prince Street. It is the best bookshop from easy autumn reading to statement books.

3:00 pm- Laduree’s new location at Soho needs to be visited by you. I always order the caramel Macaroon. If you have time, the backyard is super nice to have a cup of tea or coffee to relax before you’re off to the next Fashion Week in London.

 

 

 

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City Guide: 72 Hours in Cabo San Lucas. Mexico

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The surroundings on the southern tip of Baja California are both exotic and mysterious. No other matches the unequivocal beauty of Cabo San Lucas. The turquoise Sea of Cortez crashing into the desert makes this tiny tip of Baja my beloved oasis.

Cabo has been my second home due to the nature of my family’s business. I have seen this town transform itself from a charming one-horse town to a three-horse town.

What I love about Cabo is that although it’s become the most talked about beach destination in North America, it has always preserved that quaint Mexican town feel that most of the other destinations have lost throughout the years.

With no further ado, find below my day-by-day city guide for Cabo with a few recommendations on where to eat and play, ranging from a hole in the wall to world-renowned brands.

Thursday:

 

12:00pm-  Check into Las Ventanas al Paraiso. With no sign outside the hotel, you can easily drive by and never imagine what is on the other side of the wall. Las Ventanas has been a favorite hotel among A-list celebrities due to its remote location. The rooms are exquisitely decorated inspired by Mexican and Moroccan culture, each of the suites offer a breathtaking view of the ocean and often times of one or two paparazzi. 

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If you can’t seem to get a booking at Las Ventanas, Another Great place to stay is the One and Only Palmilla.  Amazing stand-alone villas with private plunge pools, Jean George’s cuisine, supreme service, make the best guacamole and have the coolest sun beds in town. 

2:00 pm- Check out the amazing pools or sandy white beaches at your hotel. You’re in need of a little Vitamin D!

8:00 pm- Eat at Nick San, Considered the best Japanese restaurant in Baja, the fusion between Japanese and Mexican ingredients take the traditional sushi to the next level. Try: Try the crab stuffed chili’s, lobster roll, tuna tostadas and serranito sashimi.

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11:00 pm- Thursday night is girls’ night at Nowhere Bar, order the mamada shot, and get to dancing on the light-up dance floor. 

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Friday

 

9:00am- Opt for breakfast in town at La Esquina. The red chilaquiles with a fried egg and spicy eggs Benedict are to die for.

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11:30am- Take a day trip to Todos Santos Town Widely considered the culinary star of Baja California, this enchanting picturesque colonial town overflows with eclectic boutiques and art galleries as well as exceptional cuisine.

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7:30pm- Eat dinner at the amazing Floras Farm. A true oasis in the middle of the Baja Peninsula desert. The 150-acre farm-turned-restaurant has been one of the favorite spots among locals and visitors. Everything you eat and drink is grown around you. Their bacon pizzas, pork chop and farmaritas are off the charts.

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Alternatively eat at Market by Jean Georges. Can it get better than a Michelin-starred Chef in Cabo? It is located at The One and Only Palmilla serving Euro-Asian cuisine with a Mexican twist.

11:30pm- Dance off that flavorful and wonderful farm food at Mandala. This 2-level club is the place to see and be seen. One of the members of the Posh Voyage family met her husband there! disclaimer: you will most likely definitely not meet your future husband there. 

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Saturday

 

9:00am- Head to Flora Farm’s for the best breakfast in town if you didn’t end up going to dinner the night before. Keep in mind that it is quite a drive if you are staying in Cabo, so allow 40 minutes each way.

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10:30am- Go ATV-ing! The sand dunes surrounded Cabo are amazing to go ATV-ing on and this is a fun afternoon or morning excursion for a few hours!

1:00pm- Take your lunch break to Mocambo. This casual “palapa” serves the freshest seafood in town. Don’t judge the place by its looks; it is a favorite among the locals. Try: Aguachile, marlin tacos and pescado zarandeado.

7:00pm- Early Dinner at El Farallon. The beauty of the restaurant nestled in the rocks with waves crashing below your table makes it impossible to describe in a few sentences so I hope the picture does it justice. Everything you eat you choose from the fresh seafood display.

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Sunday

 

11:30am- Have a late breakfast after a morning of spa treatments at Tres Gallos. This ranch-like restaurant makes you feel like you are in the middle of the movie “El Mariachi”. The patio surrounded by trees, lights and wood burning oven is the perfect setup for the delicious folkloric lunch. Try: Enchiladas, pozole and sopes.

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12:30am- If you have time, head to Playa el Medano, the most popular beach in Cabo. Bonita Tours is located in Pueblo Bonito Blanco Hotel and they offer infinite activates like a boat tour to Lands End, snorkeling, jet skis, paddle board, kayak and more. Ask for Mark, the owner. If he is around he will be sure to show you everything on your list and more.

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City Guide: 72 Hours in Hong Kong

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After an intense 72-hour trip to my favorite Chinese city, I narrowed down the countless hotel, dining and to-do options for my globetrotting readers. New York might have the diversity, London the architecture and Shanghai the French colonial style, but Hong Kong has all of that, plus Bruce Lee and foot rubs… Oh, I meant to say Dim Sum and foot massages. I know! It cannot get better than this.

Thursday:

 

12:00 pm- Check-in to our favorite hotel in Hong Kong, The Upper House. Described as both calm and exciting, Upper House Hong Kong is one of the cities best hotels. Designed by famous asian architect, Andre Fu,each of the hotel’s 117 rooms embodies the excitement of the city with an element of luxury. This hotel is perfect for the trendy jet setter looking for a bath the size of a king bed.

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Another fantastic hotel is The Peninsula Hotel, built in the roaring ’20s, the Peninsula Hong Kong has long been regarded as the only place for any savvy traveler to stay. Enjoy being transported throughout the historic city of Hong Kong in one of the hotel’s 14 Rolls Royce’s. *When making a reservation make sure you book the suites in the new tower, they are fantastic.

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Finally, the brand spanking new addition is the Ritz Carlton Hong Kong. To be honest I am not a fan of the Ritz Carlton brand lately due to the decrease in their quality, but this one is FA BU LOUS.

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6:00 pm- If you have time before dinner, check out Lin Heung Teah House. What Lin Heung offers is a tasty and unmediated slice of Old Hong Kong. (Don’t leave without trying the lotus paste buns or the glutinous rice dumplings.)

 

8:30 pm– Eat dinner at the three Michelin Star restaurant Lung Keen Heen. It commands spectacular harbor views from the fourth floor of the Four Seasons, and serves contemporary Cantonese cuisine at its best.

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If you are looking for something less stuffy and more trendy try Cafe Gray House, located in the Upper House hotel, this European restaurant is known for its incredible dishes and large portions.

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11:00 pm-  Once you have been re-energized, head to Sevva. Located in Central Hong Kong, expect beautiful views of the city to accompany your cocktails.

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Friday:

 

10:00 am- Eat a leisurely breakfast at Classified, one of the breakfast restaurant staples of Hong Kong. The vibe is rustic and it has a bunch of healthy options.

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2:00 pm- They say, “do as the Romans do”, so Charter A Junk (a traditional Chinese fishing boat that now refers to any motorized pleasure vessel) to give you the full tour of Hong Kong from the sea. Drop anchor somewhere and have yourself a swim!

 

 8:00pm- While walking in the Habor, do not miss A Symphony of Lights, the spectacular light and sound show at Victoria Harbor which incorporates colorful lights synchronized to music. Daily at 8:00pm and lasts 13 minutes so do not blink.

 

8:30 pm- It’s dinnertime: Ronin is the hotspot for a friday night. The team responsible for Yakitori spot Yardbird have opened this seafood spot with more than 50 Japanese Whisky’s and just 14 seats. Although new, the food and service make it seem it has been there for years.

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10:30 pm- Drinks + a fun night out: Head to Tazmanian Ballroom, Known as Hong Kong’s favorite place to party- for the upscale crowd. Enjoy pool tables and a great dance floor with phenomenal drinks. 

 

Saturday:

 

10:00 am- The trendy Po’s Atelier is the place to have breakfast on a saturday. Foodies are obsessing by this emerging PoHo area, where the minimalist-chic bakery is located. It showcases Chef Masami Asano’s loaves, made with ingredients like Oolong tea and Yunnanese ham and goat cheese.

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2:00 pm- Take a day trip to visit Victoria Peak. Looking down at the city from this famous vantage point, you’ll be able to see one of the greatest harbors on Earth and a skyline so amazing that Manhattan’s looks sad by comparison. 

 

5:00pm- Shop at LAB concept, you will bump shoulders with the fashionable crowd in Hong Kong. Be ready to spend some $$$ on the newest and edgiest fashions.

 

8:30PM- Chachawan is the über cool Thai restaurant is the place to see and be seen in Hong Kong on a saturday night. Make sure to order a side of the Khao Niew (sticky white rice) if you are not a fan of the food’s spice.

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11:00pm-  To top off the night, have drinks at Bloom, Renowned as one of the best cocktail lounges in the city, you cannot leave Hong Kong without stopping by this hotspot.

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Sunday: 

 

10:00 am- Stop for a lazy Sunday brunch at the coolest cafe in Hong Kong, Stan Cafe. Stan’s has killer harbor views and some of the best pastries if you’re on the fly.

 

3:00pm- Have one last traditional Chinese meal at Lei Garden. With various locations all around Hong Kong, there is no reason to miss out on a meal at Lei Garden. Enjoy fresh seafood and incredible dim sum.

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City Guide: 72 Hours in Mexico City

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Considered by The Wall Street Journal as a contender for the world’s greatest food city, DF is finally becoming the epicenter of culinary inspiration. World renown for having the most exotic and ancient spices, Mexican cuisine is now being embraced by the finest artisan markets, and top restaurants around the globe.

After years of reading numerous articles and listening to friends rave about the Mexican haute-cuisine, I decided to have a firsthand experience and I went. Upon my return to the US, I was bewildered at the amount of terrific food I had been missing out on. Eating from street-corner joints and mechanical-stores-turned-restaurant-by-night, to chic Michelin-starred restaurants, I found that they all had a common denominator: the cuisine has “the touch” that you could only find at your Latin grandmother’s home (assuming you have one), and nowhere else.

Mexico City might be considered by many unadventurous travelers as city too big to handle, however, when you get there, you will find it oozes with visitors that have a passion for travel and obsession for good food. Here are the top spots you should sleep at, eat at and visit while in DF.

Thursday:

 

2:00pm- Check into Mexico City’s finest hotel, Las Alcobas. This 35 guest room hotel features the lavish radiance of warmth and comfort you need after the hustle and bustle of the city. The award winning restaurant and old world healing therapies at The Spa are the key ingredients to make your Mexico City trip unforgettable.

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Another favorite is the St. Regis. Resting above the vibrant Paseo de la Reforma, The St. Regis Mexico City is in a prime location for travelers interested in the hustle and bustle. The views are spectacular.

If you’re looking for the trendiest hotel, opt for Condesa DF. The Condesa DF, in Mexico City’s hippie Condesa area, is a youthful, current, and carefully designed luxury boutique hotel that honors the feel of the neighborhood perfectly.

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3:00 pm- Grab a quick lunch at Lucas Local. I still dream about their lobster grilled cheese, asparagus salad, ceviche tostadas and manchego fondant.

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4:00 pm- Take a quick trip to Casa Azul: One of the favorite museums in Mexico City exhibits the life and work of its most famous artist: Frida Kahlo. You will also learn fascinating stories of Diego Rivera and her house-guest and lover, Leon Trotsky.

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9:00 pm– Eat: Dulce Patria makes a work of art out of every dish, this updated Mexican restaurant from Chef Martha Ortiz, adds a joyful twist to the haute Mexican cuisine. The interior of the restaurant has a festive ambiance which you will love. It is also located in Las Alcobas Hotel.

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Friday:

 

10:00 am- Stop for some delicious breakfast at The Tea Connection. This coffee shop/ breakfast spot is fantastic for a quick super-healthy breakfast. If you don’t want to get out of bed but you want breakfast, call Reset, they deliver! Ask for the GreenEnergy, it’s the best! (+55 29 197254)

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12:00 pm- Museo Nacional de Antropología: The museum holds the largest artifacts from Mexico’s pre-Columbian epochs, including the famous Piedra del Sol, the famous Aztec Calendar Stone, as well as the famed 16th-century statue of Xochipilli.

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3:00 pm- Grab lunch at Contramar: In Mexico, it is very common to indulge in delicious seafood to cure hangovers, and Contramar is that spot. Often times after lunch, the ambiance is so lively, that you might end up staying there all afternoon, and maybe have dinner as well.

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4:30 pm-Visit the world famous Museo Soumaya. Carlos Slim was the force behind it, honoring his late wife Soumaya.

 

8:30 pm- It’s dinnertime: Eat at Maximo. The Chefs share a passion for local gastronomy, and with this idea, they only use local products and change the menu daily depending on what is available at the local markets.

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11:00 pm- Have after-dinner drinks at Gin Gin, Mexico City’s hottest new bar. Their three top drinks are The Golden Fleece, The Golden Acapulco, and the Mexican Acidito Pimms, you can’t go wrong!

Saturday:

 

10:00 am- Start your day at Rosetta. If you are looking for authentic Italian cuisine, Rosetta is your stop. The rustic design is by the chef’s husband, architect Jaime Serra. Rosetta is small and dim light, with a true tuscan feel.

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11:30am- Spend the day at Teotihuacan. The UNESCO World Heritage sits in the Mexico City region, Teotihuacán. It contains some of the largest pre-Columbian pyramids in all of Mexico. Be sure to hire a private driver to make your trip as seemless possible. 

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4:00pm-  Have lunch at Tori Tori. Talk about nailing the perfect balance between futuristic and Japanese decor. When you walk in, the restaurant might wow you, but wait until you try their food. You will die and come back.screen_shot_2013-01-25_at_2.37.11_pm

If Japanese is not what you’re craving, try Mythos. This Greek restaurant is the hottest restaurant in Mexico City right now!

Lastly, if you want to try a trendy and amazing restaurant, Lazaro in Blanco Colima is the place to go and bump into everyone you might know in town. The old house turned restaurant is as pretty as its food.

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8:30pm- Saturday night is the night to splurge on Pujol. It’s now widely thought of as Mexico’s finest restaurant—and the 36th best in the world, according to the scrutinized S. Pellegrino rankings. Chef Olvera, who trained at New York’s Culinary Institute of America before returning home, is the country’s most celebrated chef.

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Or try Biko, another Micheli-starred restaurant. The Basque-inspired menu is divided in half—one side traditional Spanish dishes, the other modern interpretations.

10:00PM- Grab dessert at Que Bo. The Chocolateria located in the “centro historico” was awarded the most prestigious international chocolate guide by “Club des Croqueurs de Chocolat! “, which is the largest group of passionate chocolatier professionals worldwide. The prehistoric and pure Mexican cacao gives it a taste so unique; you will want to buy the whole store, or take Chef Castillo home.

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Sunday: 

 

10:00 am- Breakfast at Eno. By the famous chef Enrique Olvera.

12:00pm- Before you leave you must check out Bellas Artes. Considered the cultural center of Mexico City, the Palacio de Bellas Artes is a must-see. The palace features Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles,while showcasing murals from Rufino Tamayo, a famous Mexican muralist.

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City Guide: 5 Days in Tuscany

City Guide, ,

Gelaterias, thin crust pizzas, truffles, prosciutto platters, Chianti vino, creamy burrata and pasta carbonara, are a few reasons why I have made Tuscany my home away from home.

During a recent 5-day trip to Tuscany, I discovered the most enchanting off-the-beaten-path hotels and spectacular restaurants to add to my Italian repertoire. Therefore if you happen to be traveling to Italy any time soon, get ready for the itinerary of a lifetime. Also, check out the bottom of this article for our favorite looks for Tuscany and some of our fave pieces of clothing.

* Keep in mind that I changed hotels every day, in order to visit as many properties as possible. I suggest staying in each hotel 2 to 3 days.

Wednesday:

 

3:00pm Check-in to Portrait Suites Hotel in Rome. It is an elegant 14-suite hotel located in the heart of the fashion district, above the Ferragamo store and surrounded by Valentino, Versace, and Hermès. For another awesome hotel, click here.

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Another great place to stay in, is a full-serviced luxury apartment called Casa Manni. The striking decoration, fully equipped modern kitchen, and personal concierge will make you never want to leave the chic Roman lifestyle.

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If you are more of a Four Seasons/St Regis kind of travelers, try Hotel de Russie. This former Russian Embassy is perfect for travelers searching a true luxurious comfort.

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8:30pm If you are in the mood for Italian, try the delicious restaurant, La Pergola. It is a culinary experience with an unbeatable view of Rome.$$$$

Another one of my favorite spots is Il Pagliaccio. * The pasta with salt cod and chili is delightful. $$$$

Dal Bolognese is a great alternative from the first two restaurants, if you want a casual and scene-y atmosphere with great food. $$

Thursday:

 

10:00am Breakfast at Café Angelina, or should I say coffee and a pastry. $

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11:30am Drive (2.5 hours) or take the high-speed train (1.5 hours), Italiarail to Florence.

1:00pm Check-in to Villa La Massa. Built in the 16th century, it became the countryside manor to the Medici family. It was turned into a hotel in 1948, and since then it has received iconic names like Clark Gable, Elizabeth Taylor and Madonna.

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3:00pm Wine tour to the Chianti Classico Wine Region. The hotel can organize a private tasting.

8:00pm Dinner at Il Verrocchio Restaurant at Villa La Massa. $$$

Friday:

 

12:00pm Depart Villa La Massa and drive 15-minutes to Il Saviatino, also located in one of the hills surrounding Florence.

12:20pm Check-in to my favorite hotel in Florence, Il Salviatino Hotel. It is a gorgeous Italian villa set in the rolling hills of Florence. The best part is that it is only a short 10-minute shuttle ride from the city center, so you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the vibrant city, but have the privacy of a hotel in the middle of Tuscany.

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2:00pm Lunch at Vini, it is the smallest and most enchanting trattoria I have ever been to in the heart of Florence. The food is simple and delicious. *Order the crostini, prosciutto and cheese platter.

8:00pm Dinner at Il Santo Bevitore for a modern Italian experience. This was the second best meal in Florence by far. Book a few weeks ahead! $$$

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10:00pm If you have not yet entered a food coma, enjoy a glass of vino at The Savoy. If you want more privacy, head back to Il Saviatino´s terrace for a drink.

Saturday:

 

12:00pm Check-out of Il Salviatino and drive 20-minutes to Fiesole. This picturesque town is located in a mountain near Florence.

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Check-in to Villa San Michele. The former monastery built in the 15th century, is now an Orient Express hotel. The experience is uber romantic and luxurious, which explains why they receive only a few privileged guests at a time.

1:00pm Lunch at the hotel´s restaurant, La Loggia. The views are breathtaking. *Order the simple potato and spinach dumplings with lobster sauce. $$$

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If you want a more casual lunch by the pool, the prosciutto pizza is unbelievable. $$$

8:00pm Take the shuttle down to Florence (20 minutes) for dinner. The best meal in Florence was at La Giostra. This rustic Italian ristorante might look like a tacky celebrity-photos-hanging-in-the-wall kind of place, but before you judge it: *Order the stuffed ravioli with pecorino romano cheese and pear. Pair it with a glass of Brunello di Montalcino and you will be in heaven. I still crave it to the day. $$

Sunday:

 

10:00am Cooking class at Villa San Michele. The lessons are all “hands-on” and at the end of the 2-hour class you get to enjoy your creations.

2:00pm Check-out and drive to Sienna (1.5 hours). Check-in to Grand Hotel Continental. The Suite will be like your own personal museum painted with colorful frescos and decorated with the most exquisite 16th century furniture. No wonder it is considered one of the most important cultural treasures in Siena.

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7:00pm I am all about finding the most typical restaurant wherever I go. So as my fiancée and I were walking back from Piazza del Campo, an aroma of cheeses and prosciutto was coming our way.

We then got closer and closer, walked through a curtain and discovered the most amazing cheese, prosciutto and wine shop called Antica Pizzicheria al Palazzo della Chigiana (quite a tongue twister) . It is so small, only 6 people can be inside at a time. The owner pulled down a tiny wooden table from the wall (no chairs) and brought us the most delectable assortments of cured meats, cheeses and wine.

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Monday:

 

7:00am Drive back to Rome Airport (2.5 hours) and hope you restrain yourself from drinking the Chianti bottles you are bringing back to friends while you wait for your flight.

*I suggest renting a car so you can enjoy the landscapes, as well as explore the most remote hotels. This way you do not limit yourself by train stations and airports, but whatever you do, do not rent a Panda. My lawnmowers engine is more powerful than the Panda.

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