It’s summer, we have to talk about Ibiza. Once a destination for all-night dancing and severe hangovers, the island has had quite the rebrand in recent years with an influx of wellness businesses and British expats looking for sun-trapped laptop spots. It’s not all about the nightlife – these days the chill does tend to outweigh the clubbing. 

We asked those in the know for a quick list of their favourites. It’s not too late to get booking – Ibiza in fall is divine. 

Where to stay

• Paradiso Ibiza Art Hotel – this hotel was simply made for Instagram – check out that millennial pink. Each of the rooms at the PARADISO has Marshall speakers, a Smeg fridge and colorful furniture characteristic of the 70’s. The hotel also has its own gallery that hosts three exhibitions per peak season.

• Cas Gasi Boutique Hotel – surrounded by orchards, 450 olive trees and fragrant fruit trees. The romantic 19th century farmhouse is whitewashed in classic Ibiza style and offers just 10 rooms. An excellent base for exploring the countryside and the pool is gigantic. The head chef is from Valencia so expect lots of paella. Did we mention they have two hotel dogs? 
  
• Los Enamorados – the owners of this 9 room hotel were certainly not afraid of taking risks – just look at the outlandish decor. Based in North Ibiza, Los Enamorados is full of quirky antiques and one-off pieces. The Peruvian chef is masterful with fresh fish and massages are also available. 
  
• Sir Joan Hotel – a retreat for the party animal or quiet introvert alike. The 38 rooms and suites tie into a nautical theme with stripped wood yacht floors. Also features a pool, bar and penthouse with views of Ibiza’s Old Town.

Where to eat

• Restaurante Cala Bonita – here a Spanish chef produces simple yet sophisticated dishes showcasing local produce and seafood. It’s also adjacent to the beach. Try the ‘Arroz con Bogavante.’ 

• The Boat House Ibiza – a tiny jungle in the heart of Ibiza. The relaxed atmosphere hits you as soon as you arrive with huge hammocks on the beachfront. Food is served in tapas form and coconut water makes the perfect accompaniment. 

• Casa Colonial Ibiza – this restaurant and bar distill their own gin (LAW) on the premises. The Thai and Mediterranean-French fusion food will convince you to stay for dinner – served on the large colonial-style terrace. 

Best beaches

• Cala Comte – pedalos to hire, sand dunes, 15 minute drive from San Antonio.
  
• Cala Saladeta  – quiet, snorkelling available, accessed by walking. 
  
• Agua Blancas – nudist-friendly, favourite among residents, 10 minute drive from San Carlos. 

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Where to shop

• Junco yi Mimbre is the best local emporium for anything raffia or woven. From beautiful bags of all shapes and sizes to furniture, hammocks, shoes, and more, it’s all here. Prices are up to 300% cheaper than hotels or fancy boutiques. A close walk from the new Sir Joan hotel.
  
• Don’t miss the on-site concept store at Los Enamorados hotel for high fashion mixed with some more local, affordable items. One of the owners is a former magazine editor, so we trust his judgement.
  

• The boutique at Experimental Beach Club is the most “Ibiza” of the bunch. Pricier than it should be, but a great curation of women’s and men’s clothes, bathing suits, and jewelry.

Where to dance at night

• DC-10 – a former airplane hanger where the plans soar low over the outdoor terrace, giving the audience an adrenalin buzz! Circo Loco on Mondays is the best night. It may be pricey, but the 150 EUR VIP bracelet is 100% worth it for the extra bar (easy drinks), a cleaner washroom, and a special patio exclusive to your group. The average age is older at around 30-40 – a nice change from other clubs.

• Hi Ibiza – the night to go is Black Coffee on Saturdays. South Africa’s DJ Nathi Maphumulo has collaborated with some of the biggest names, including Akon, Alicia Keys, Drake, David Guetta, Usher, Pharrell Williams, Diplo, Kelly Rowland, Beyonce and Jay Z. The Glitter Box night skews towards a younger crowd, bringing dancers, fierce performers, drag queens and music together.
  
• Pacha – an old school favorite that’s been kicking about since 1973. Go for Flower Power on Monday nights: a retro hippy party where colorful and free-spirited characters come together to dance to hits from the 60’s and the 70’s.

Where to dance in the day

• Experimental Beach Club – the original ‘day party to sunset’ spot. Reserve in advance to ensure a table, and graze over amazing light bites and white sangria for hours, while you watch the sunset over Es Vedra. Must order: the watermellon feta salad and the squid a la plancha.

• Beachhouse – pretty easy to get into if you have a large crew and can’t find reservations in the smaller options. On a soft sand beach (rare in Ibiza) and offers good food with huge portions for sharing. Great spot to swim. Close to the airport too – the perfect place to welcome friends who have just arrived.

A quick getaway for busy New Yorkers, The Catskills is less than three hours from The Big Apple. The Catskills Mountains are swathed in forests, which teem with wildlife and offer incredible hikes for nature starved urbanites. We couldn’t think of anyone better to ask about the must-dos in the area than local photographer Ernesto Roman. Creative Director of Deer Mountain Inn, he lives and breathes the rustic Catskills lifestyle. Here are his top tips:

We know you live in upstate NY, but let’s say you were to take your dream staycation. Where would you stay?

• Deer Mountain Inn:  Your Catskills getaway dreams come true. A classic, turn of the century construction, offering a rustic dining experience with wood-burning fireplaces, cozy entertainment lounge that is private for inn guests and hundreds of acres to explore the outdoors.
• Camp Here Here: A fun glamping experience with a great restaurant, but they only run in the summer.
• There are amazing, unique private properties around The Catskills that may only get through airbnb. One of them is Mystic Lodge, located in a dairy farm in Bovina, which offers you a secluded teepee experience perfect to disconnect and be one with nature.

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Favorite places to eat on the daily? What do we order?

• Circle W Market: in Palenville & Catskill. Get the Great Red Ruben (with Pastrami for the meat lovers), The Niobe Wrap (for the veggies) or the Avocado toast (for the sriracha lovers). But really look out for their daily specials!
• Silvia in Woodstock. Offer daily specials like $1 oysters happy hour on Tuesdays. Usually, I go for the chicken or the bibimbap. 
• Prospect at Scribners in Hunter. They are open daily for breakfast (not dinner) so get the pancakes!
  
  Extra tip: If you’re visiting during the weekdays, I will emphasize to check business hours before driving to restaurants. Most places are closed Mon-Wed

Where would you go to eat for a special occasion? What are they known for?

• Gaskins (Germantown): Wood-fired oven dishes, locally sourced ingredients with a small-town vibe.
• Deer Mountain Inn (Tannersville). Go for the seasonal (Michelin star) Chef’s Tasting Menu, small bites (get the fried chicken) and craft cocktails. You can sit next to a wood-burning fireplace or a table with mountain views.
• Brushland Eating House (Bovina). A dining destination for most, it’s a great place to reward yourself with a nice dinner after a countryside drive. Love their iron cast dishes and pastas.

We’ve lost our luggage. Where would you suggest we get a new wardrobe?

• Warren Street in Hudson. You will find anything from thrift stores to ateliers.
• A favorite is Mutiny, an exquisite boutique with a hand-picked selection of brands including accessories, publications, writing goods and the best incense I’ve ever smelt.

What are your favorite bars around town? What should we be ordering?

• The Tavern at Rivertown Lodge (Hudson): ask about their organic wines selection
• The Maker Hotel (Hudson): A new addition to the list. You’ll find an elaborated cocktail list. The kind of place you could go for some absinthe or brandy.
• Brunette Wine Bar (Kingston): I always feel the vibe is ‘sparkling rose’
• West Kill Brewery (West Kill): Beers are seasonal and they rotate. There’s always something new to try. Really into the Kaaterskills IPA right now.

Best place for an AM pick me up? Either coffee, green juice, or tea?

• Hartland in Leads
• HILO CAFE in Catskill
• Olsen & Company in Saugerties.
• And the brand new Bear and Fox Provisions in Tannersville!

We have an entire afternoon free, and are looking to do some damage to our credit card. Where should we go?

• Clove & Creek in Kingston
• The Village Common in Catskill
• The Antique Warehouse in Hudson
• Black Creek Mercantile in Kingston
• Maison Bergogne in Narrowsburg 
• Tannersville Antiques in Tannersville (@tannersvilleantiques)

Where can we get our dose of culture where we won’t be swarmed with other tourists?

• OLANA
• Dia Bacon
• Hudson hall

We’re looking to party….like a local. Where should we go?

• The Half Moon, (Hudson): karaoke, live music, dance parties
• Glen Falls House, Glen Falls: Tavern, djs, pool parties

We’d love to see some live music. Where to?

• The Pines (Mount Tremper)
• BSP Kingston (Kingston)
• The Beverly (Kingston)
• Levon Helm Studios (Woodstock)
• Club Helsinski (Hudson) 

Favorite secret spot to get some alone time?

• The Leanto at Deer Mountain Inn: One of the best views of the Catskill Mountains. It’s a 15min hike from the Inn and has been my favorite place to bring a book, get some fresh air, meditate, and catch sunsets.

Tips and tricks for getting around town?

• You can get away with taking Amtrak from NYC to Hudson and relying on Uber/Lyft or just walking around. Other than that, you definitely need a car, no way around it! Add a good 20min to anywhere you go in the summer. Traffic doubles up everywhere, especially the queues at the gas stations!
• Parking at Kaaterskills Falls gets super crowded during the weekends. There’s not a lot of options. If you park on the sides of the road, you’ll probably end up with a parking ticket, so go as early as possible.

Let’s just say we are single – where are the babes hanging out?

• This is a tough one. Being single upstate ain’t no joke. As a rule of thumb, just hit the bars. If you are solely relying on dating apps, well…bless your soul.
• In terms of people watching, follow the crowds, head out to the big festivals or gatherings such as Field and supply, Phoenicia Flea, the Basilica Soundscape or all the summer pool parties.

And if we are coupled up – what is the best date spot that will actually have a table?

• Butterfield at Hasbrouck House

Where should we go for some ‘forest bathing,’ or a nature walk (if not a full-on hike)?

• Kaaterskills Falls: work your way up from the bottom. You can also explore the trails on top of the falls for an easier hike and check out the viewing platform. There are numerous trails to explore.
• Theoutsideinstitute.org: follow their founder and naturist extraordinaire Laura Silverman on a nature walk, foraging class or forest bathing experience.

Where would you go with your sketch pad or journal?

• Storm King: a 500 acres outdoor museum and sculpture park (in case you haven’t been yet). You’ll be inspired.
• Overlook Mountain: the most impressive view of The Catskills.

You need to work, but the wifi is down at work/home. Where do you go?

• The nearest hotel lobby, as they may also have a generator because you never know.
  
  

Where do we go to work out like a local? What are the trends that everyone’s into these days? 

• The great outdoors! There are plenty of lakes, hiking and mountain bike trails to go around. You will also find a lot of yoga studios spread out through The Catskills. Winters are long in the mountains, so if you’re not a skier/snowboarder, you’ll be looking for your classic gym chain (YMCA, Planet Fitness, etc) just to jump on a treadmill. 

We’re jetlagged AF. Where do we go to treat ourselves, spa or massage-wise?

• Emmerson spa
• Mohonk Spa
• Bodhi holistic spa

Anything else you want to add in terms of interesting activities or must-see/do’s?

• Hiway Drive-In or Drive in 32 for an old school drive-in movie theater experience. Watch a film under the stars!
• Lil Deb’s Oasis – A vibrant and colorful Caribbean-style restaurant. It’s a women-powered and community-oriented business with occasional art installations and performances. The fried fish dish and sweet plantains sides make me feel right at home.
• Preserved Instincts – This an electronic music sanctuary. Probably my favorite, most unexpected Catskills find. A beautiful main street storefront in a tranquil town.
• Town Tinker Tubing in Phoenicia. Feel like a kid again!
• The Soiree on the railway: a curated train ride experience throughout the Ulster and Delaware railroad tracks. Passengers travel on a restored 1940’s train, sipping on champagne, wearing their finest summer attire while listening to a live Jazz band. This event happens once a year in the summer and is hosted by Andnorth.com
• Don’t forget to come up in the Fall, the foliage is spectacular!
  
  

If you ask any stressed out Londoner where they head for a beach break, it’ll be Brighton. The capital of kitsch is just 1.5 hours away and the ideal place to trade the smog for some sea air. 

Even the most cynical city dweller won’t be able to resist the fairground rides, cotton candy and ‘Stick of Rock’ (Google it). There’s also a proud green focus here – Brighton often wins award for its eco credentials thanks to its beach cleaning, burgeoning vegan scene and pioneering politicians. The LGBTQ+ community has played a huge part in putting the city on the map. Brighton’s Pride celebrations are considered the best in the UK and this year Britney is headlining, need we say more? 

Before you read on, don’t miss our best tip: for quieter beaches, take a 15 minute train ride from central Brighton to Hove. You can thank us later. 

Where to stay

Drakes Hotel

Located right on the seafront, this townhouse is as quintessentially English as they come and loved by Cate Blanchett, Kylie Minogue and Woody Allen. If you can, book the circular room with couple sized bath overlooking Brighton Pier. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into a postcard. Don’t miss the Drakes Viper cocktail before perusing the Modern British menu. 

Artist Residence

Above the green patch of Regency Square, this bohemian Artist Residence was the first of the boutique brand. The ping-pong in the basement tells us that the crowd is younger and perhaps more sociable than other hotels in the city. Decorated by artists, rooms are curated for creative eyes and filled with antiques. Don’t forget that breakfast is served until midday – these guys know what they’re doing. 

Harbour Hotel

The real pull for this hotel is the underground spa. Built within the exposed bricks of the old smugglers’ tunnel, you’ll find six treatment rooms, a heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room, Scandinavian hot tubs, a hydrotherapy pool, and gym. There are plenty of seaview rooms to choose from and Harby’s bar offers a relaxed setting for drinks and dinner. 

Where to eat

Little Fish Market

Looking for sustainable seafood? This place should be your go-to. The tasting menu includes six courses and recent favourites include: Hand Dived Scallop, Mussel Curry With Apple and Gigha Halibut. Add the wine pairing – you won’t regret it.

Cafe Marmalade

The first thing you’ll notice about this cafe is the beautiful handwritten menus (you’ll understand once you see them). For breakfast, the coffee is spectacular with a bacon sandwich (a British staple) and lunch means healthy salads and veggie quiches. 

Isaac At

Practicing ‘farm-to-table’ perfection, every ingredient is sourced from a local supplier on a daily basis. Notably, Isaac At claim to be the only restaurant in the UK to offer an all English wine list. We’re particularly intrigued by their desserts: Barmley & Chervil Sorbet followed by Pear, Cobnut & Lemon Thyme then Almond Cake. 

Where to drink

Plateau

Wine minus the guilt – a no brainer. Plateau focus on ethical farming, sustainability and organic wines. Their friendly staff mean newbies aren’t intimidated by a tasting. Offering a choice of around 20 wines a day, the list is updated regularly too. 

The Gin Tub

This bar hit the headlines a few years back by banning phones. Whether you’re for or against the idea, the lack of technology means you can focus on present company and enjoy a fantastic cocktail or two. Their Happy Hour works out as extremely good value. 

The Mesmerist Pub

One for the beer drinkers in the heart of Brighton Lanes, this pub spans three floors so you’re guaranteed to find a spot. Saturdays draw in the crowds ready for a night of dancing whilst Sundays offer classic ‘Roast Dinners.’ 

Where to dance 

Number 32 Duke Street

Here you have all three: a restaurant, bar and nightclub venue. From 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays, the tables are cleared and people hop out of armchairs to get ready for the DJs. Expect RnB, hip-hop and pop classics. 

The Haunt

Expect a lot of themed music nights at The Haunt, from ‘80s Party’ to ‘SH*T POP.’ Entry costs just £3 and in the past they have hosted fantastic British bands, such as Hot Chip, The XX and Wild Beasts. 

Casablanca Jazz Club

Locals love this spot for the atmosphere and warm welcome from the staff. A reliable option for those who want a no-fuss live music experience. Don’t expect anything ‘fancy’ – this place is founded upon grit, good stories and classic British charm. 

Where to shop

Workshop

Don’t leave the UK without trying seaweed beauty brand Haeckels. This shop stocks a whole bunch alongside Grown Alchemist, Tangent and plenty more. 

Wolf and Gypsy

Do as the Brits do and take yourself thrift shopping. You could spend hours in Wolf & Gypsy sifting through one-off treasures. Don’t rush it. 

Resident

Vinyls are slim and can slide nicely into your carry-on. There, we’ve given you permission to go crazy at Resident: the best record shop in Brighton. 

Dowse Design

Your friends will be seriously pissed if you don’t bring back a present. Don’t leave it till the airport lounge – Dowse Design have got you covered with jewellery, art prints and ceramics. 

What to do

Time for a cliché: let’s talk about the British weather. We’ve saved you the hassle of coming up with rainy day alternatives by choosing a few ourselves. 

If it’s sunny, head to Pavilion Gardens, walk down the coast, hop between shops in North Laine and we’d highly recommend the street art tour. 

If rain persists, cheer yourself up with treats and arcade games at the Pier then take shelter in The British Airways i360, which presents the best panoramic views whatever the weather. 

Quick hit of culture 

Everyone knows that the ocean is a huge inspiration for artists so it’s no surprise that the city has some great museums to check out. 

Start with Brighton Museum for photography or LGBTQ+ themed work whilst Two Kats and a Cow is a smaller option, launched by three painters (so it’s bound to be good). Finally, Fabrica is all about new work as Brighton’s hub for contemporary art, based in a former Regency church building.