By: Emily Engle
Sticking with a relatively local destination can take away some of the added travel stress that hits during the holiday season. Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is a quick drive from where I grew up in Maryland and offers a wilderness escape that’s truly in the middle of nowhere. I recommend staying in a Getaway House for a modern, yet cozy take on glamping. Its tiny cabins have floor-to-ceiling windows so you feel like you’re waking up in the forest, and they’re situated in the epi-center of overlapping hiking trails to keep you busy. Plenty of antique shops and the very nerdy but very cool Luray Caverns are about an hour away for added entertainment.
What to eat: If you’re heading from the Washington, D.C. area to the park, there’s a local favorite ice cream shop with a roadside attraction-style fake cow at the front called Moo Thru. The offerings of the creamy and flavorful dessert range from classic Chocolate and Vanilla to more adventurous options like Cake Batter, Moundz and Orange. I also recommend stopping to pick up famous local Virginia ham at any of the nearby farms to cook up for breakfast with some eggs.
What to bring: Someone that won’t drive you insane in a small cabin. Also plenty of books.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, United States
Paris, France
By: Jason Dike
Paris is home to a million cliché’s, but some of them do ring true — the main one being that the city is an incredibly picturesque city to visit. There’s more than enough to do in the day time, with lovers of print magazines sure to enjoy the vintage magazine shops, while the plethora of menswear stores — ranging from the Broken Arm to Tom Greyhound Paris — ensure there’s plenty for the shopper.
There’s a cafe/bar/restaurant on every corner, although the somewhat brusque manner of the waiters will throw newcomers off. There’s no shortage of places to stay, but lovers of newer hotels will enjoy the Hoxton Hotel.
What to eat: Jah Jah by Le Tricycle. A vegan Rastafarian restaurant isn’t the typical Paris-based eatery, but there’s no denying just how good Jah Jah is. A highlight is the vegan wings, which will make you wonder why you ever bothered to eat meat.
What to bring: A good pair of gloves. The late night bar scene is very fond of outside seating, which isn’t always conducive to warm hands. A personal favorite is Dent’s Margate gloves, which combine classic design with touchscreen capabilities.
El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
By: Mallory Chin
The beautiful endless white beaches and crystal clear waters of El Nido inspired Alex Garland to write his best-selling novel The Beach. So it’s no surprise that many adventurers have found their way to the remote archipelago even though the journey to El Nido is no easy task, taking six hours from Puerto Princesa.
However, since opening a small airport, the area has become a prime spot for tourists. Your days here can be spent relaxing on the sand, scuba diving, island hopping, kayaking, or renting motorbikes to check out the local scene.
What to eat: Seafood in El Nido is so fresh and cheap compared to other areas located around Europe and North America. The restaurants will let you choose your live seafood options and cook it up to your liking right in front of you. Additionally the street food and BBQ are can’t miss choices as well.
What to bring: Waterproof dry bags to make sure all your belongings are safe from the sea. A good book, snorkeling set, and bathing suits are also highly suggested.
Marrakech, Morocco
By: Felson Sajonas
Marrakech is an ideal destination for adventurers who yearn for a bit of mystery and intrigue in their travels. Getting lost here is almost guaranteed, so prepare to make plenty of wrong turns, like I did in the Old City's labyrinth-like souks. The result, however, is the serendipitous discoveries of new food, shopping and even musical experiences. Plus, if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the main town, taking a two or even a three day trip in the Sahara will make you appreciate the impressive panoramic views of the desert.
What to eat: There are plenty of terrace dining options in Medina but Terrasse Des Epices offers a relaxed, upscale vibe with a nice view of the city. Tagine is a Moroccan staple, but there’s something special about the restaurant’s lamb version of the dish.
What to bring: A reliable hooded lightweight jacket. While it may be hot and dry during the day, nighttime usually brings in cooler temps in the Sahara.
Melbourne, Australia
By: Eddie Eng
Australia was always the most foreign of my destinations, simply because of its history and distance. However, there was a comfort element at the same time because of the language and the cuisine. Having friends there as well only sealed the deal for me last fall.
What to eat: The cafe culture is one of the best in the world, so definitely find one with the atmosphere you like the most; bring a laptop, people watch, and relax. Higher Grounds is perfect if you prefer a darker tone, The Kettle Black for some sunlight. Grab a croissant at Lune as well.
What to bring: A GORE-TEX shell is a must to keep you dry and warm for those breezy days, esp. in spring and fall. A decent pair of “sunnies” as well.
November is the ideal time to go on vacation. With the holidays looming around the corner, for many it’s the last chance of the year to take a break from your job and get in a change of scenery before the family commitments pile on. With this in mind, we’ve asked our editors to pick their favorite getaways from around the world.
Our choices range from baltic cold to sunny and pleasant, so there’s sure to be at least one destination that’ll pique your interest. Read on to see our editors’ favorite picks for a holiday getaway, as well as their tips for what to pack and what to eat while you’re there.
Our editors share their favorite travel spots for the season.
Editors’ Picks: Holiday Getaways
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Image Credit: Getaway House
Image Credit: Frédéric Soltan/Corbis via Getty Images
By: Emily Jensen
Minas Gerais is a favorite amongst residents of bustling Rio and São Paulo for a quiet getaway. The state is famed for its waterfalls and hiking, as well as baroque Portuguese-style architecture in towns like Ouro Preto and Tiradentes. But one of its crowning jewels is the Inhotim, located in Brumadinho. The sprawling, open-air museum and botanical garden is a playground of art, architecture and nature, with installations by the likes of Yayoi Kusama and Hélio Oiticica dotted throughout its 247 acres.
What to eat: You can eat pão de queijo almost anywhere in Brazil, but the emblematic cheese bread made of yuca flour originally hails from Minas, so eat as much of it as you can here. Try it with many other local products like cachaça and coffee at the Mercado Central in the capital city of Belo Horizonte.
What to bring: Bus is your best bet to get around Minas, so bring ample reading. The Complete Stories, by Brazil's premier short story-writer Clarice Lispector, ought to get you through any length of road trip.
Minas Gerais, Brazil
By: Charlie Zhang
Beyond the city capital of Tokyo, Japan, lies small rural towns where life is quaint, slow and traditional; Takayama is one such place. It’s an old town located in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu, Japan.
Takayama’s charm comes from its narrow walkways lined with short brown wooden homes, shops, sake breweries, restaurants and cafes. Many shops offer unlimited tastings for as little as $1 USD and they let you see their brewing processes. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, you can rent a bike to cycle in the countryside sprawled with shimmering green rice fields and wild forestry.
What to eat: Takayama’s ramen is characterized by its soy base and curly wheat noodles. Masago Ramen is a great spot that serves this. It’s run by the grandson in law of its original founder, mastering one specific dish over the course of three generations, about 70 years.
What to bring: Definitely bring a warm jacket in the winter as the city sits on a high altitude and collects a good amount of snow.
Takayama, Japan
Barcelona, Spain
By: Nia Groce
I have yet to take a trip to Barcelona that didn’t leave me longing for more time. The weather is nearly always sunny and perfect and there are endless options for fresh seafood, tapas and wine. The cultural scene will keep you just as busy, whether dancing in a beach club until 6 a.m., walking up Montjuïc hill for picturesque views of the entire city or strolling through Ciutadella Park for a photo opp in front of the famous Cascada fountain. I always leave plenty of time to marvel at the magnificent Gaudí architecture.
What to eat: If there is one food that stands out in this city known for delicious classics, it’s the patatas bravas. As for restaurants, I always plan a pit stop at Elsa y Fred for a mouth-watering gastronomical experience.
What to bring: Definitely pick up sunscreen and shades because many activities are outdoors. But more important than bringing anything is keeping a close eye on what you have with you as pickpocketing can be a problem in some areas.
By: Nicolaus Li
Canada's westernmost province comes complete with snow-capped mountains, lush evergreen forests, amazing coastlines and an array of hills, valleys, lakes and rivers to be explored.
Aside from the natural wonders, the cosmopolitan city has a diverse cuisine landscape centered around an unrivaled selection of food delicacies. It’s also perfect shopping destination, with its downtown area filled with standout boutiques like HAVEN, RODEN GRAY, Neighbour and /017.
What to eat: Despite being a Japanese delicacy, sushi is a must-have when you visit Vancouver. Regarded by many as the sushi capital of North America, Metro Vancouver boasts more than 600 sushi outlets which make up roughly 10 percent of all restaurants in the city.
Those looking for a higher-end traditional experience should try Sushi Bar Maumi's Omakase menu. Tom Sushi is a mid-tier restaurant that offers premium Japanese cuisine with local, west coast elements, while Fujiya Japanese Food's take away is an affordable option that is quick and easy but still delivers an authentic experience.
What to bring: Be sure to bring a sturdy umbrella to battle the rainfall of one of the wettest cities in Canada.
Vancouver, Canada
Image Credit: Emily Jensen
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via Getty Images
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Buscalan, Tinglayan, Kalinga, Philippines
By: Sophie Caraan
Buscalan treads the line of an off-the-beaten-path and a tourist destination, it all depends on how willing you truly are to reach it.
If you decide to go on the 17-hour journey — composed of a lengthy bus ride from Metro Manila, another van ride and a one-hour hike — you’ll be rewarded with a traditional tattoo from the legendary 102-year-old Apo Whang-Od.
What to eat: Dining remains simple in this remote village, so start your morning with a view of the Cordillera mountains and a hot cup of local Kalinga coffee.
What to bring: Candy for the children. Buscalan is beginning to see a surge of local and international tourists in recent years, and it’s the norm for the village kids to come up to them and ask for candy. It’s the least tourists can do to thank the area for accommodating them.
By: Jade Chung
It doesn’t get more exotic than Orlando, Florida. If you’re looking for a two-day adventure, Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure packs so much fun, you’ll literally forget what real muggle life is like while you’re there.
During the wintertime, snow falls softly in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, a truly magical experience as you sip butterbeer or, my personal preference, firewhisky. Definitely check out Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, the new ride exclusive to Universal Florida.
What to eat: Bangers and mash at The Leaky Cauldron and a heartwarming rack of ribs, roast chicken, potatoes, and corn on the cob at The Three Broomsticks.
What to bring: Cash/credit card! Exchange your muggle money for Gringotts currency as a Goblin mutters to himself and looks at you judgmentally -- then buy everything you need with your hard earned galleons.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Orlando, Florida, United States
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Image Credit: Jade Chung
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Image Credit: Getaway House
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By: Jason Dike
Homme Plissé Issey Miyake is a favorite in the HYPEBEAST London office -- specifically the trousers. The reason is simple: they’re exceedingly comfortable. They offer the ease of sweatpants but not the look of them, making wearing them on a daily basis extremely tempting.
This piece makes for an ideal layering addition from Homme Plissé. While technically listed as a shirt, it could easily work as either a light jacket or a layering piece under a jacket and above a base layer. It’s an item one or more of us in the London office will be wearing during these transitional months.
Where to buy: Browns for £375 GBP (approximately $463 USD)
Homme Plissé Issey Miyake Pleated Press Popper Shirt
Image Credit: Emily Jensen
By: Torsten Ingvaldsen
Stone Island’s Shadow Project immediately conjures layering to mind. After all, ACRONYM head honcho Errolson Hugh originally established the PARSEQ GRID system with the label some-odd years ago, developing collections that whose layers operated in unison to create new options. Within the offshoot’s latest Fall/Winter 2019 collection, one notable piece that remains within this methodology is its latest Quilted Fishtail Parka. The two-layer ripstop shell has been garment dyed in a head-turning mint green, refined to present a unique industrial texture and feel. More details of the fabric include superior abrasion resistance and an anti-drop formula to help in solidifying its place in your everyday wardrobe. The piece has been finished off with a large detachable hood and visor, as well as removable knit cuffs to keep your hands warm during the colder months.
Where to buy: MATCHESFASHION.COM for $1,845 USD
Stone Island Shadow Project Hooded Ripstop Parka
Image Credit: Jade Chung
By: Eddie Eng
As the temps drop, I find myself going more to denim and jeans than joggers and sweats. Maybe it has to do with the ruggedness and flexibility to coordinate with hoodies and long-sleeves and even tees should the office’s heat be cranked up. Nevertheless, I was a fan of the customized/savage/crash denim styles of the early-to-mid 2000s from brands like Levi’s Phenom, its other sub-label LVC and even UNIQLO’s foray into washed Selvedge denim — not to mention wearing in your APCs till they fell apart. However, I remember I was always drawn to NBHD Savage denim with its over-the-top patching, stitching, embroidery and details. These new ones are a step in the right direction with the past trend, where the location and selection of customization is more subtle, for lack of a better term. I really hope NBHD Savage picks up again — would be a nice return and a step back from athleisure!
Where to buy: END. for $495 USD
Neighborhood CLAW MOD SAVAGE Denim
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By: Emily Engle
This pick is dedicated to all the cozy people out there who can’t wait to put their hoods up and tie ‘em on tight as soon as fall weather hits. AMBUSH’s Multi Cord Hoodie is part comical, part tactical, stuffed with multiple cords to get creative with. Leave the cords flat and hold them together with the included AMBUSH-branded metal toggle, or figure out ways to make the piece your own through different bows and knots. Belongings never stay put in the awkward, oversized kangaroo pockets that are on most hoodies, so I love that this silhouette features a functional angled and slightly raised version of the classic detail. The oversized hoodie also comes in beige and blue colorways, but I prefer the black option because the branding across the chest is a bit more subtle.
Where to buy: AMBUSH for ¥49,680 JPY (approximately $464 USD)
AMBUSH Multi Cord Hoodie
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By: Keith Estiler
When layering, I usually go for a classic work shirt that I can easily throw on over a white tee and leave unbuttoned. I’m a sucker for Dickies’ 574 work shirts because they’re long-lasting and come in tonal options like dark green. Lately, however, I’ve had my eyes on Snow Peak’s Shijira Shirt in grey. The top is a bit more intricate than your ordinary overshirt. It’s executed in the traditional Japanese weaving style of Awa Shijira that gives off this crepe-like texture and knobby surface. Some say the fabric construction resembles seersucker, but it’s not as visually loud. Versatility is also a key attribute as this shirt can be worn both outdoors and casually at home.
Where to buy: Snow Peak for $219 USD
Snow Peak Shijira Shirt
Image Credit: Veronique DURRUTY/Gamma-Rapho
By: Nicolaus Li
A growing appreciation of Western detailing led me to Lanvin's Patchwork Parrot Jacket. Originally unveiled at the French fashion house's Fall/Winter 2019 runway presentation, the Italian-crafted jacket is a mix of smooth leather and premium suede. Drawing on '70s Western styling, the jacket is defined by dynamic lines expressed by the contrast stitching framed brown and navy panels paired with burgundy sleeve portions. The slim fit and scalloped hem of the jacket make it perfect for wearing under a longer outerwear piece during chilly days and nights while the widespread collar lets the layers underneath peek through.
Where to buy: MATCHESFASHION.COM for $3,487 USD
Lanvin Patchwork Leather and Suede Parrot Jacket
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Reykjavik, Iceland
By: Jeff Yeung
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer of the wilderness or just want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life this holiday season, Iceland is your ideal destination. With Reykjavik — the country’s heartwarming capital city — as your base, embark on an inspiring road trip around one of the world’s most scenic islands.
From starry night skies graced with the Northern Lights or long stretches of volcanic black-sanded beaches to massive torrential waterfalls, there’s plenty for those with a passion for photography or nature. Once you’ve satisfied your wanderlust, head over to the Blue Lagoon and relax in the most Instagrammable spa on the planet, followed by a feast of cultural Icelandic cuisine such as fermented shark and skyr in Reykjavik’s up and coming food scene.
What to eat: Fermented shark or Skyr
What to bring: A long-exposure-capable camera to capture the Northern Lights and waterfalls, and a nice warm jacket — winters can drop to -10 degrees Celsius.
Image Credit: ansonmiao/Getty Images
By: Ambrose Leung
Those who know me know that I love Americana and military clothing, so this pretty much goes along with that style of clothing — think vintage gym crewnecks. What I like most about this sacai jacket is that it’s not a pullover, so you won’t mess up your hair or any necklaces. It makes for a nice layering piece as it doesn’t steal the show by being overly flashy, but instead has subtly-colorful embroidery down the zipper, cuffs and around the back. You can wear it unzipped with a heavier jacket on top, where the trim detailing will be apparent, but it’ll keep you warm on its own if you choose to zip it up and use the side pockets and hood.
Where to buy: HBX for $625 USD
sacai Sponge Sweat Zip Jacket
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By: Ambrose Leung
Maritime Canada is an area that often gets overlooked when thinking of places to travel in the world. Starting your Maritime adventure would have to begin in Halifax.
What to eat: The Halifax Donair. While the obvious thing to eat is the copious amount of readily-available seafood, as Halifax is home to one of the world’s largest seafood suppliers, this local delicacy is a close second.
What to bring: Be sure to get yourself a nice warm jacket as the majority of the activities tend to be outdoors.
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Prague, Czech Republic
By: Jake Silbert
It won’t be any warmer here than your usual European city, but Prague’s atmosphere is only amplified by early sunsets and peaceful snowdrifts. It’s also an extremely walkable area, with plenty of things to see and do. If you crave nature, however, it’s only a quick taxi ride to several scenic parks, many of which boast exquisite views of the rich history below.
What to eat: If you crave a top-shelf authentic dining experience, make sure to stop by Next-Door, which serves up primo versions of local favorites like beef tartare, broth soups, svickova and dumplings. If you’re after a more affordable bite, however, visit Mr. Hotdog, based slightly outside of Old Town, to experience an inspired spin on the Czech sausage, a twist on a German staple.
What to bring: Be sure to pack a pair of cushioned walking shoes, the cobblestone streets are gorgeous but treacherous for unprepared travelers.
By: Keith Estiler
Yerrr! If you’re trying to experience cultural diversity this holiday season, your best bet is to go to Queens, New York. Its nicknamed the “World’s Borough” for a reason with roughly 800 languages spoken in the entire district. And if Queens were to secede from the rest of New York, it'd be the fourth largest city in the U.S.
What to eat: Queens is the most ethnically diverse borough in all of New York City (perhaps the world) and as a result there’s just too many joints to name. For those looking for true local spots in the sprawling region, some personal recommendations include Sammy’s halal truck on 73rd & Broadway, Tito Rad’s Grill for homestyle Filipino grub on Queens Boulevard, Hamido’s on Ditmars Boulevard in Astoria for reasonably priced Mediterranean seafood, and The Cast Iron Pot 3 in Flushing for all you can eat Korean BBQ. All of these places are open late, too.
What to bring: Depending on the length of your stay, bring $121 USD for an unlimited monthly Metrocard or $32 USD for a weekly card, because there’s a lot of spots to check out and swipe it forward for the holidays.
Queens, New York, United States
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By: Sohie Caraan
Buscalan treads the line of an off-the-beaten-path and a tourist destination, it all depends on how willing you truly are to reach it.
If you decide to go on the 17-hour journey — composed of a lengthy bus ride from Metro Manila, another van ride and a one-hour hike — you’ll be rewarded with a traditional tattoo from the legendary 102-year-old Apo Whang-Od.
What to eat: Dining remains simple in this remote village, so start your morning with a view of the Cordillera mountains and a hot cup of local Kalinga coffee.
What to bring: Candy for the children. Buscalan is beginning to see a surge of local and international tourists in recent years, and it’s the norm for the village kids to come up to them and ask for candy. It’s the least tourists can do to thank the area for accommodating them.
Buscalan, Tinglayan, Kalinga, Philippines
Image Credit: RyersonClark/Getty Images
By: Charlie Zhang
Beyond the city capital of Tokyo, Japan, lies small rural towns where life is quaint, slow and traditional; Takayama is one such place. It’s an old town located in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu, Japan.
Takayama’s charm comes from its narrow walkways lined with short brown wooden homes, shops, sake breweries, restaurants and cafes. Many shops offer unlimited tastings for as little as $1 USD and they let you see their brewing processes. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, you can rent a bike to cycle in the countryside sprawled with shimmering green rice fields and wild forestry.
What to eat: Takayama’s ramen is characterized by its soy base and curly wheat noodles. Masago Ramen is a great spot that serves this. It’s run by the grandson in law of its original founder, mastering one specific dish over the course of three generations, about 70 years.
What to bring: Definitely bring a warm jacket in the winter as the city sits on a high altitude and collects a good amount of snow.
Takayama, Japan
Image Credit: Sean Gallup/Getty Images
By: Jeff Yeung
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer of the wilderness or just want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life this holiday season, Iceland is your ideal destination. With Reykjavik — the country’s heartwarming capital city — as your base, embark on an inspiring road trip around one of the world’s most scenic islands.
From starry night skies graced with the Northern Lights or long stretches of volcanic black-sanded beaches to massive torrential waterfalls, there’s plenty for those with a passion for photography or nature. Once you’ve satisfied your wanderlust, head over to the Blue Lagoon and relax in the most Instagrammable spa on the planet, followed by a feast of cultural Icelandic cuisine such as fermented shark and skyr in Reykjavik’s up and coming food scene.
What to eat: Fermented shark or Skyr
What to bring: A long-exposure-capable camera to capture the Northern Lights and waterfalls, and a nice warm jacket — winters can drop to -10 degrees Celsius.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Image Credit: Gary Burke/Getty Image