THE UPROXX FALL
TRAVEL HOT LIST
Destinations
experiences
Food & drinks
hotels
a letter from the editor
Depending on your POV, the idea of a "hot list" is either patently absurd or incredibly interesting. Absurd because the planet has been inhabited for some 200,000 years and the very concept of "exploration" leaves an odd taste in the mouth. Interesting because... well, it's a recreation. Knowing what's buzzing in travel is fun in the same way that knowing who's about to pop off in music is. It's about cultivating taste and road-testing your ideas by getting offline and outdoors.
This fall's hotlist pitches -- by a diverse and deeply talented collection of writers -- surfaced certain recurrent themes. Most notably, avoiding the throngs of tourists in Western Europe by traveling to less trafficked destinations, outside of the peak season. (When you get five Balkans-related pitches, you know that the summer travel influencer and supermodel party circuit is likely to have a new stop soon.) But our travel writers were also eager to buck trends, pushing against common media narratives about certain destinations, and unafraid to pitch well-worn spots with a fresh twist.
Every locale, restaurant, bar, club, activity, and hotel on this list had to prove its mettle by answering the question "why now?" But you don't have to answer that with regards to your own travels at all. While new hotels, restaurants, and bars have a certain allure, "new to me" is a very valid mantra to plan your trips around.
What our team really delivered the most this fall -- whether raving about a tasting menu or a party in a cave -- was a sense of wonder. And we hope you have that same feeling out on the road. To be present, as they say. To taste and touch and smell and really push the limits of just how alive you can feel. To marvel at the world and the people you meet. To be "be here, now" as the philosopher said, in the deepest (and most fun) sense.
If you can carry that energy into your travels, you're sure to come home with some memories -- whether you use our roadmap or simply follow your gut. As always, we're excited to see you out there on the open road. We hope to recognize you by your wide eyes and even wider smiles.
Project Creative Director - Steve Bramucci | Project Manager - Jason Tabrys | Project Coordinator - Mikala Lugen | Design - Daisy James, Carlos Sotelo Olivas, Joe Petrolis | Additional Support: Merle Cooper, Zach Johnston, Jessica Toomer
Be here, wow!
Svalbard, Norway
When describing the region of Svalbard, it’s hard to avoid hyperbole. The world’s northernmost populated settlement is a destination where science and adventure commingle by necessity (and where you can’t venture outside the city of Longyearbyen without a rifle). Nearly 2,500 people from 50+ countries call this harsh landscape home, creating a truly intentional community that endures the polar summers and winters together.
It’s also an adventure traveler’s dream come true – rugged, wild, unspoilt. And it’s now more accessible than ever.
Hurtigruten Cruises has resumed expeditions to the country’s remote territory after 40 years, leveraging their onsite tour operations to facilitate experiences like dog sledding, whale watching, and culinary explorations. Arriving by ship is a fun alternative to flying that showcases (in a minor key) what adventurers of the past had to endure to reach Svalbard, while building anticipation for arrival. During your stay, sleep and sauna at Funken Lodge, enjoy fine dining at Huset Restaurant, and hang with pups at the too-cute Cafe Huskies.
WHY NOW: An increase in remote travel has generated more options for visiting the far reaches of civilization than ever and Hurtigruten’s Svalbard trips offer a sterling example of that.
BY: ALI WUNDERMAN
@ALIWUNDERMAN
IMAGE CREDIT: Ali Wunderma (1,2) andy brunner On Unsplash (3) VINCE GX On Unsplash (4)
Puglia, Italy
Italy is well-loved for la dolce vita, and Puglian lifestyle comes with the extra-sweet taste of less-touristed cultural authenticity. Among Puglia’s diverse landscapes are the rolling hills of the Itria Valley (home to Italy’s oldest olive trees), two incredible Mediterranean coastlines on the Ionian and Adriatic Seas (with their lovely whitewashed towns), the Tremiti archipelago (a quieter Capri, if you will), and the last Italian vestige of a UNESCO protected ancient forest (the Forest Umbra in Gargano National Park).
Beyond natural immersion, the stellar regional cuisine of Puglia – ripe with decadent cheeses like burrata and caciocavallo, the country’s finest olive oil, and varieties of genuine handmade bread and rich wines – is a world worthy of losing oneself in entirely.
If you really want to become intimate with Puglia’s Southern Italian culture, road trip it. Enjoying Puglian heritage without relying on tour operators means you’ll have time to savor an aperitif on an ancient wooden fishing trabucco or eat mussels in a seaside osteria. It means biking through vineyards on a Roman path and hiking through a forest to a beach lined with limestone cliffs. Touring centuries old wine cellars underneath city streets, seeing the golden-glow of Lecce, Baroque buildings at sunset, and falling asleep in a historic trullo dwelling also shouldn’t be missed.
WHY NOW: Italy’s problems with overtourism have been thoroughly documented and came to a head in 2023, with certain regions putting strict limits on guests. But that doesn’t mean not to visit – it just means it’s time to celebrate regions like this one, which aren’t seen as often by the average American tourist.
BY: Melanie Gordon
@livinginflowco
Image credits: Melanie Gordon (1,2,3,4)
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina is the gateway to the Balkans. Bordered by Serbia, Croatia, and Montenegro, it makes the ideal launchpad for regional immersion – a captivating nation poised for potential EU membership. What’s more, a trip promises an enriching adventure without breaking the bank.
Amidst the breathtaking landscapes, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s solemn history unfolds. At Srebrenica, pay homage to civilian lives lost in the July, 1995 genocide. Explore Sarajevo, the capital, brimming with flavors, stories of the past, and a welcome influx of youthful energy. Trace BiH’s evolution from its Slavic origins to Ottoman rule and into the present day.
While the nation’s history deserves your attention, travelers to BiH will also witness a land of staggering beauty. Over 200 waterfalls and the world’s coldest lake grace this compact-yet-geographically-diverse country. Embark on a scenic drive or train ride where crystal-clear rivers wind through a backdrop of stunning mountains and forests. Finally, any beach lover will be overjoyed to witness the beauty and (relatively) light crowds of the nation’s Adriatic beaches – a true gem for sun seekers.
WHY NOW: With its status as an EU candidate country upgraded on December 15th, 2022, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a captivating nation for travelers who are always wondering “what’s next” along the Adriatic. And with new direct flights to its neighbor Croatia, it’s sure to hit the “Influencer summer travel circuit” all too soon.
BY: Vescoe Blake
@vesblake
Image credits: Vescoe Blake (1,2,3) Adev on Unsplash (4)
Ksamil, Albania
Fall 2023 is time to expand your knowledge of the Balkan Peninsula, and what better way to start than with the often overlooked, but incredibly stunning Southern Albanian Riviera.
Just south of Sarandë, Ksamil is a seaside oasis surrounded by exquisite turquoise water, secret coves and white sand beaches. While it can be more challenging to get to (it's a four-hour drive from Tirana or you can arrive via the ferry from Corfu, Greece), Ksamil's off-the-beaten-tourist-track location makes it truly a special stay for those wanting to avoid the overcrowded hotspots elsewhere in the Mediterranean. Throw in a sense of communal hospitality, vibrant nightlife, and delicious food (a mix between hearty Balkan and fresh Mediterranean flavors), and it's the perfect place for a week-long fall European escape without the crowds.
WHY NOW: Ksamil is a popular summer/ fall getaway spot for Albanians, and while it's certainly growing in popularity among international visitors, it hasn't seemed to land on the mainstream travel media radar quite yet — now is the time to go before the secret gets out.
BY: Emily Hill
@emmannhill
Image credits: Emily Hill (1,), gerda-schulpe On unsplash (2) erjona leniqi On Unsplash (3) polina rytova On Unsplash (4)
Faroe Islands
This stunning archipelago in the North Atlantic just got more accessible thanks to a new direct flight between New York City and Vágar. Atlantic Airways kicked off its trial run at the end of August. If it does well (and there’s no reason it shouldn’t), the airline will put the six-hour route into regular rotation.
If you’ve ever seen photos of the Faroes, you know the autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark looks straight out of a fairy tale dream. The 18 beautiful islands are defined by windswept cliffs, thundering waterfalls, desolate black-sand beaches, traditional turf-roofed farmstays, and the kind of jaw-dropping scenery that made drone photography all the rage. Rural hamlets are home to dozens (or fewer) villagers; in some ways, it’s easier to befriend a sheep or puffin here than a local.
WHY NOW: This remote locale – with some of the best hiking on Earth – is sure to hit a lot of radars after a new Atlantic Airways direct flight from NYC launched on August 23rd, 2023. Go this fall to lock in the best Airbnbs or a suite at the Nordic-chic Hotel Føroyar in Tórshavn.
BY: Ashlea Halpern
@AshleaHalpern
Image credits: robert bahn On Unsplash (1), sebastian boring on unsplash,(2), rogerio toledo On Unsplash (3), Eric Welch On Unsplash (4)
Sierra Leone, West Africa
The then-nascent tourism industry of Sierra Leone was obliterated by a devastating civil war that lasted from 1991 until 2002 (and lingered far longer). An Ebola outbreak from 2014 to 2016 kept it deflated. This year marks the first time in decades that the country is making an earnest bid for international travelers. A $270 million dollar airport — three times the size of the previous terminal and the only airport in West Africa powered by a 1.5 megawatt solar farm — was unveiled in March 2023. Officials have also eased visa restrictions for U.S. citizens.
Sierra Leone’s first ecotourism circuit is in the works, highlighting pygmy hippos, Western chimpanzees, and other distinct flora and fauna. Meanwhile, the nation’s beaches serve up some of the best surfing in West Africa. Most importantly, the budding tourism industry gives locals a chance to share stories beyond the salacious headlines. Former child soldiers like Peter Momoh Bassie of Tourism Is Life Tours in Freetown are now working as guides – offering unfiltered accounts of life during the war and how Sierra Leone has changed exponentially since.
WHY NOW: A new airport and fewer visa restrictions are huge perks but the chance to support the eco-minded tourism sector of a nation that has dealt with significant turmoil is all the motivation you should need.
BY: Ashlea Halpern
@AshleaHalpern
Image credits: bunting kargbo On Unsplash (1), joshua hanson On Unsplash (2), will shirley On Unsplash (3), annie spratt On Unsplash (4)
Glacier National Park (Montana, USA)
National Parks have experienced explosive growth over the past few years, prompting reservation systems and timed entry for some of the United States' most awe-inspiring places. Glacier National Park is one of the most dramatically beautiful of the 63 major US National Parks. But with vehicle reservations getting booked in mere seconds when they become available (months in advance), planning a summer trip to the park can be overwhelming.
A fall trip is the perfect workaround. Vehicle reservation systems end on September 10th, and the iconic Going-To-The-Sun Road typically doesn’t begin shutting down until the third Monday of October. This fall window means fewer crowds, no reservations to hassle with, and easier access to accommodations. I recommend renting a van or RV from RVShare and making the long drive (add Grand Teton and Yellowstone, maybe even cross over into Canada to Waterton Lakes and Banff). If you’re flying in, opt for a camping cabin at the East or West Glacier KOAs – the locations are incredible and have everything you need to go as off-grid as you choose.
WHY NOW: Glacier National Park is the sort of jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring place you honestly must see to believe. And while vehicle reservations are sometimes necessary to keep the beauty of the United States National Parks intact for generations to come, fall is the best time to bypass these restrictions, crowds, and congestion.
BY: Emily Hart
@emilyventures
Image credits: Emily Hart
Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City has some of the most beautiful fall landscapes you’ll ever see, with plenty of color-changing scenery scattered throughout the city and across its outskirts. The city also underwent significant change this year, with new restaurants seeming to open on every other block – Melba in the Saint-Sauveur neighborhood and Saint-Roch district’s Honō Ramen are two standouts.
For those who want to experience Canada’s famous winters even in early fall, Quebec City opened its first-ever year-round ski simulator, Préski. Perhaps more significant, in a global sense, the city also launched the first hydrogen-powered train in the Americas – Train de Charlevoix – which has been running since June of this year on a sightseeing route along the Charles River.
The one place Quebec City hasn’t changed as dramatically is hotels, though the Hôtel de Glace, an ice hotel situated just northwest of the city limits, has gotten fantastic reviews. If you’re staying in the city proper, there’s nothing so new and noteworthy that you should forgo a chance to visit the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. The castle is one of the most famous showplaces in Quebec, while also offering a fantastic hotel to stay at with luxurious rooms, superb food, and great service from its professional and friendly staff.
WHY NOW: You can’t beat the fall colors in Quebec City and you still have time to experience Préski and Train de Charlevoix before winter sets in. If you miss fall and winter altogether, it’s never too early to start planning for Festival d'été de Québec – coming back July 4-14, 2024.
BY: Oliver Heldens
@OliverHeldens
Image credits: livia widjaja (1), eddy lee On Unplash(2), rich martello (3), Festival d'été de Québec (4)
Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
For those in the know, Santa Teresa has long been a coastal paradise on the southern tip of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula. It’s famous for its excellent surfing, wild palm-tree-lined beaches, and, more recently, booming expat scene. Not surprisingly, the town has attracted a lot of new tourists in recent years and is firmly on the Costa Rican vagabond circuit, along with its quieter neighbors, Mal Pais and Playa Hermosa.
Among the myriad byproducts of all that growth are countless new cafes (Mantarraya Cafe, Convivio, and Pronto Piccola Italia), accommodations (Ecocoon Tree-Villas and KUNUK), and yoga studios. Bohemian paradise/ hot new(ish) hotel Zūnya is just two clicks from the town’s main intersection. Growing pains are sure to come, but savvy travelers will have fun with Santa Teresa’s boomtown energy – there’s something exciting in the air and it’s fun to be around.
WHY NOW: Cobano Airport just opened this year, catering to commercial planes rather than puddle jumpers, and is just 20 minutes from Santa Teresa. Suddenly Santa Teresa is more accessible to tourists than ever. If you want to see it before the impacts of that added accessibility are fully felt, this fall (as rainy season wraps up) is the time to go.
BY: Salt In Our Hair
@saltinourhair
Image credits: Salt In Our Hair
Electric Road Trip Across Portugal's Algarve Region
The Algarve coastal road trip has long been an autumn essential in Europe. And while a car rental provides the liberation you deserve, an electric rental car supports eco-minded travel (if you want to go truly sustainable, five new walking routes in the region opened this year).
For a week of wind-in-your-hair-coastal-adventure, snag an electric car in Faro then set your sights west. Miles upon miles of sea-cave and rock-formation dotted coast will lead you to cities like Albufeira and Portimão, where you can sip cocktails on the sand and party all night. Keep zooming west to reach the vibe-y little seaside town of Lagos. Here is the best spot to kayak the Atlantic in all of Portugal, exploring the towering ochre-colored cliffs. Cherry-on-top your trip with surfing in Sagres, the Algarve’s chilled-out and rugged surf-bum town. And don’t head east until you’ve seen at least one sunset at Cape St. Vincent!
The Algarve in autumn is a total dreamscape. The Portuguese sun still shines bright and the beaches are just as golden as they are in the summer. But by September, you’ll have much more freedom on the open road. And in your wallet, too, thanks to shoulder season pricing.
WHY NOW: There are many electric car charging stations all along the Algarve Coast for you to charge up – there are six stations in Sagres, 13 in the little town of Lagos, and plenty in larger towns like Portimão – and always at Lidl grocery stores. This all makes fall 2023 one of the easiest times to truly go electric on a road trip through Portugal.
BY: Melanie Gordon
@livinginflowco
Image credits: melanie gordon (1,2) UNSPLASH (3) tiago aguiar on Unsplash (4)
Enjoy Next-Level Self-Care At The Spa at Séc-He In Palm Springs
Entering the The Spa at Séc-he (“the sound of boiling water”) in Palm Springs, California, it’s clear that every moment was thought through in great detail. From the design elements honoring the history and culture of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the circular layout of the massive spa, the custom massage tables, the decor of the waiting rooms, and even the zero-gravity chairs – everything has a story, a reason, an in-depth explanation.
The result? The Spa at Séc-he (newly opened in 2023) is advancing the idea of self care in a significant way and is sure to become a favorite among the LA crowd. The massage menu is longer than the offerings at most small plates restaurants (cupping, therapeutic, recovery, and CBD massage, etc.). For those on a tighter budget, a “Taking of the Waters Day-Pass” allows you to spend a day savoring the spa’s many amenities, including taking a private 15-minute soak in the 105 degree fahrenheit mineral water that emerges from a cavern 8,000-feet below the earth’s surface. The privacy of the room gives you the option to soak in the nude and eliminates any distraction that could be caused by sharing this sacred space.
WHY NOW: Palm Springs get its name from natural hot springs rising up throughout the area – now, for the first time you can enjoy the healing benefits of soaking in these waters in a spa setting.
BY: Nikta Nilchian
@NIKTANIC
Image credits: The Spa at Séc-he (all)
Bathe in a Japanese Onsen at a Modern Ryokan
HOSHINOYA Tokyo is a luxurious urban twist on the traditional Japanese inn, a peaceful retreat known as a ryokan. Upon entering HOSHINOYA Tokyo, you’ll remove your shoes and store them in one of the bamboo cubbies on the wall. Inside the spacious quarters, you’ll find contemporary furnishings, deep soaking tubs, and shoji screens that reveal floor-to-ceiling windows covered with a metal lattice representing komon, a kimono with repeating patterns.
The hotel’s onsen is central to any visit – especially after walking around the city for hours each day. The top floor of HOSHINOYA Tokyo consists of two bath halls separated by gender. The indoor and outdoor baths are connected by a cavernous tunnel and are fed by hot springs drawn from 1,500 meters below the ground. Due to its high saline content, the water is soothing to the skin and deeply relaxing. The outdoor bath is located at the bottom of an open-roofed chamber with soaring walls that frame the sky above. At night, cool breezes waft in from above.
It’s a truly transcendental and rejuvenating experience, right in the heart of Tokyo.
WHY NOW: Japan is buzzing among travelers right now after announcing the removal of all travel restrictions in May 2023. And with wellness experiences trending, the idea of traveling to a Japanese hot spring-fed spa is plenty of motivation.
BY: Lindsay Paige Stein
@lindsaypaigestein
Image credits: hoshinya Tokyo (All):
Become A "Tramper" On One Of New Zealand's Great Walks
New Zealand’s Great Walks are the perfect place to begin (or continue!) a sweeping love affair with the natural world. The Routeburn Track in Fiordland, on the South Island, is one of the most popular among a growing list of tracks – and for good reason. The alpine scenery, flocks of kea parrots, and upscale lodges make this an ideal blend of soft adventure and creature comforts.
To access the lodges, trampers (long-distance walkers) should book through Ultimate Hikes, which operates accommodations along the track. While camping is allowed, having a prepared meal, a cozy bed, and a proper shower is ideal after eight hours of walking uphill. Planning a tramp during the summer months (November through April) is recommended, as is booking well in advance. Once you get moving, bask in being offline and sharing your trail with some of the nicest hikers in the world – the instant bonding that occurs with fellow trampers is the real magic (though the scenery is a pretty great perk too).
WHY NOW: Throughout 2022 and 2023 new Great Walks were added to New Zealand’s list with more to come in 2024. Moreover, on December 1st, 2023, New Zealand’s South Island will get its first ever flight from the U.S. with a United route from San Francisco to Christchurch. As most of the walks are on the South Island, this makes them far more accessible to U.S. travelers coming from the West Coast.
BY: ALI WUNDERMAN
@ALIWUNDERMAN
Image credits: COURTESY OF TOURISM NEW ZEALAND (all)
Make Your Own Roman-Style Pizza In New York's West Village
Spearheaded by Italian-born pizzaiolo Salvatore Olivella, Little Charli is a rustic restaurant located in the West Village on Bleecker Street, offering some of the city’s most authentic Roman cuisine. Now, as of only a few months ago, you can learn how to make delicious Roman-style pizzas alongside Chef Olivella himself.
The team at Little Charli offers pizza making classes on Sunday afternoons and Monday evenings, which include family-style appetizers, Nutella s’more pies, and, of course, your very own custom-made pizza. Best of all? Unlimited beer and wine are also included with these Monday night classes.
This is definitely one of the best first dates in Manhattan right now. Sunday afternoon classes take place from 12-2pm and cost $75 per person, whereas Monday evening experiences happen at 6pm and 8:30p and costs $125 per person (with fewer families). In a city like New York, for the amount of food, drink, and Roman family-approved fun you’re getting, the price is seriously right (and you’ll likely leave with a good portion of food to go, too).
WHY NOW: Enjoy this brand new pizza-making establishment’s first fall season before the crowds catch on. And of course, New Yorkers will tell you that there’s no better time to visit than the fall.
BY: Vicki Denig
@vickidenig
Image credits: COURTESY OF LITTLE CHARLI (ALL)
Party Your Face Off At Madame Ushi & GALA Aspen
Restaurant and club duo Madame Ushi and GALA Aspen are among the best spots this year for that après ski lifestyle, thanks to their exclusive nature and impeccable attention to detail. This is one of the few places in town where you can go from the restaurant to the club without having to leave the building, which you'll especially appreciate on a snowy winter night. Plus, the design aesthetic beautifully morphs as you go from Madame Ushi to GALA – it feels like you're being transported to another world.
Recently, Madame Ushi collaborated with fashion label Chrome Hearts. The brand and restaurant teamed up to create a one-of-a-kind sushi roll that comes with an exclusive pair of Chrome Hearts designed chopsticks that are yours to keep. This roll happens to be one of the best on the menu and it doesn't hurt that you get to take home a present.
WHY NOW: Since opening on New Years Eve 2023, Madame Ushi has already become the go-to Aspen sushi spot for A-list celebrities, while GALA regularly hosts secret DJ sets from the likes of David Guetta, Diplo, Cedric Gervais, and more.
BY: Bunny Zingler
@xo.bunny
Image credits: Gala Aspen (1,4) Madame Ushi (2,3)
Take Advantage Of Spain's Digital Nomad Visa
Spain has something for everyone from the bustling metropolis of Madrid and the ancient seaside towns to the rolling mountains and dry plains to the cool Atlantic highlands. And all of that is before you even get to the food, drink, and people. You always leave feeling like you haven’t seen it all, giving you so much reason to stay longer.
Well, now you can! Spain’s new Digital Nomad Visa allows eligible remote workers – those earning at least €2,160 per month ($2,334) – to live anywhere in Spain for 12 months with the option to renew for up to five years. The visa process demands proof of remote work outside of Spain, valid Spanish health insurance, a place to live, and several other easily met requirements including a recognized university degree/diploma from at least three years ago. You can see the whole checklist here.
With a digital economy growth rate of over 20% in recent years and 86% of Spain having high-speed wireless coverage, Spain is a digital nomad's paradise. Concerned about costs? Spain's living expenses are 18% lower than the EU average, which means you’ll have extra cash for traveling, food, and fun.
WHY NOW: Spain launched their new Digital Nomad Visa in May 2023, making it a hot remote work destination right now. The five-year visa renewal limit means you can really get to know the country while meeting other digital nomads doing the same!
BY: GabBy Beckford
@packslight
Image credits: jorge fernandez salas On Unsplash (1), GabBy beckford (2,4) mariya oliynyk on unsplash (3)
Chase Down One Perfect Cocktail
As global cocktail culture reaches a new apex and with hyper-local cocktail scenes feeling more accessible than ever, there’s never been a more exciting time to travel for one perfect drink. I spent this summer chasing down “bucket list” cocktails and don’t regret a minute. At The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, I hit The Chandelier, where I savored “The Cigar Lover’s Manhattan” – no doubt the best Manhattan I’ve ever tasted. It was made with cognac, rum, rye whiskey, Pedro Ximénez sherry, and tobacco bitters topped with a cognac-infused cigar-shaped dark chocolate.
In London, I visited the iconic American Bar at The Savoy Hotel. The masterfully made cocktails drew me in, especially the Dandy Beau. It was a delightful Negroni riff with Ceylon arrack, strawberry sake, bitter vermouth, and Campari.
Austin (which is home for me but might be a travel destination for you) has a booming drinks scene. A can’t-miss is The Roosevelt Room’s play on a Zombie, which comes complete with a fiery show. The tiki drink is comprised of a housemade tiki rum blend, Donn's mix, falernum, lime, grenadine, Angostura Bitters, and caramelized absinthe. Naturally, it’s served in a skull.
WHY NOW: Regardless of where your boozy odyssey takes you, being on a quest has always made travel feel purposeful. The craft cocktail renaissance feels like the right time to really learn about a city’s soul by enjoying what local bartenders are serving up.
BY: Gabrielle Nicole Pharms
@GABBYNIKKI
Image credits: Gabrielle Nicole Pharms (1, 2), The Roosevelt room (3,4)
Revel In 50 Years Of Partying at Pacha In Ibiza
If you love to party, Ibiza is still the place to be. The “white island” has long been known for its world-renowned clubs and party scene, becoming a flagship summer and fall (for those in the know) destination. And as the island saw yet another boom in summer 2023, Ibiza’s most iconic nightclub, Pacha, stepped back into the spotlight.
This year, Pacha marks its 50th anniversary as the pioneer of Ibiza's dance and cultural movement. Some of the world’s biggest DJs have spun at the club – from Swedish House Mafia to David Guetta and Redfoo to Afrojack. Claptone, Skrillex, A-Trak, Hot Chip, Calvin Harris, Diplo, Benny Benassi… the list is unending.
As we head into fall, the venue is set to keep the birthday celebrations going with a string of parties, with performances by Claptone, Solomun, Flower Power, CamelPhat, Robin Schulz, Bedouin, and more.
Be prepared to party until the sun is up and beyond.
WHY NOW: With Pacha turning 50, this is your chance to enjoy the nightclub experience at its very finest.
BY: Mikala Lugen
@MIKALALUGEN
IMAGE CREDIT: david svihovec on Unsplash (1), Mikala Lugen (2,3,4)
Check out all our other great travel hotspots
Witness Turkish Flavors Elevated At Akdeniz by Esra Muslu
In May 2023, the Kempinski Ciragan Palace in Istanbul expanded its restaurant offerings, including a new signature restaurant from famed London-based Turkish chef Esra Muslu, Akdeniz by Esra Muslu.
As one of the most lauded female chefs working in London today, Muslu created a menu of modern Turkish/Mediterranean shared small plates – offering an extensive selection of beautifully presented dishes highlighting local flavors like sumac, cumin, smoked paprika, and dukkah herbs in an equally vibrant space featuring a color palette of gold, deep blues, and reds. Dishes you won’t want to miss are the lemon and olive oil topped silky-smoked labneh with zahter (a fresh green herb similar to oregano) and lavosh crackers, the watermelon and feta salad served with chili jam, and the wood oven fried jumbo prawns with garlic butter.
While all of this is served in a white-table-cloth setting, you’ll still feel like you’re in Muslu’s backyard or at an intimate family dinner. The meal feels warm and communal – perhaps chef’s greatest accomplishment of all.
WHY NOW: This brand-new restaurant offers a chance to indulge in elevated Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in a plush setting without ever feeling elitist. It’s yet another testament to Esra Muslu’s incredible talent and skill.
BY: Kimberly Fisher
@ITSKimberlyFisher
Image credits: AKDENIZ BY ESRA MUSLU (all)
Savor The Never-Been-Better New Orleans Food Scene
New Orleans has always been known for its food scene. Cajun stews, po’ boys, oysters as far as the eye can see – they’re all iconic for a reason. But New Orleans in 2023 is about so much more than “the classics.”
Tucked away on Magazine Street, Saba is a hip Israeli spot with a young chef and even younger bar manager creating Mediterranean masterpieces on plates and in glasses. The confit tomatoes and lamb ragu hummus are showstoppers (don’t skip the best fresh pita this side of the Atlantic). Gianna, a James Beard nominee, balances Italian high-end classics with a NOLA flare alongside a near-perfect bar experience and some stellar focaccia. A veteran of the scene, Herbsaint, takes the fusion of Cajun cuisine and the modern farm-to-table experience to a new level, with a menu that elevates comfort food in the best ways – from simple cornmeal fried oysters to a palate-expanding carbonara pasta with a fried poached egg.
These restaurants are on fire right now and helping up NOLA’s culinary game citywide.
WHY NOW: New openings abound. We love Pigeon and Whale for phenomenal caviar service, Hungry Eyes for an 80s themed restaurant that somehow balances nostalgia and fine dining (without snark), and King Brasserie & Bar at the Kimpton Hotel. For the new-new, hit up Osteria Lupo for their instantly iconic black truffle arancini (deep fried risotto balls) paired with a drinks menu that reflects Italian cocktail culture filtered through a New Orleans lens.
BY: Zach Johnston
@ztpwhiskey
Image credits: saba (1), Zach Johnston (2,3,4)
Explore The Real History Of Tennessee Whiskey At The Nearest Green Distillery
The Nearest Green Distillery – about an hour outside of Nashville, Tennessee – isn’t just a place to drink whiskey. The converted horse farm offers a chance to bear witness to the history of Central Tennessee and dive into the less-told-yet-vital stories of Black people and women in the region. It’s not a walk through a museum, per se, more of an interactive look back at the people that the history books often purposefully omit. A hidden speakeasy offers a glimpse into the Suffragette movement that helped secure women the right to vote not only in Tennessee but across the nation. The hall leading into the world’s longest bar, Humble Baron, offers a glimpse into the lives of the Black families who helped put Tennessee whiskey on the map from enslavement to present day (including, of course, Nearest Green – who mentored Jack Daniel).
There’s a lot of great whiskey as well. Humble Baron offers a world-class cocktail program and food menu from local chefs focusing on both Black and female talent. Next door, you can get your BBQ on at Barrel House BBQ while you sip sweet tea. Finally, be sure to hit the bottle shop for a chance to find Uncle Nearest bottles that might not make it to retailers in your neck of the woods.
WHY NOW: The Nearest Green Distillery has been slowly expanding since Juneteenth 2021 with Humble Baron opening in March of 2023. This is as fresh as it gets in a region that has a whiskey scene dating back to the 1800s.
BY: Zach Johnston
@ztpwhiskey
Image credits: HUMBLE BARON (1), NEAREST GREEN DISTILLERY (2, 3), Zach Johnston (4)
Eat Brazil's Freshest Fish With a Northern Italian Twist At Fasano Angra Dos Reis
Angra Dos Reis is the gateway to the biggest archipelago in Brazil, with over 300 beach-studded islands accessible only by boat. Meaning you can spend your days enjoying the islands and your nights indulging in the freshest fish imaginable (same day, sometimes same hour!).
The Fasano treats their hotel, spa, and restaurants like works of art that you’ve been invited to live in for a while. Fresh seafood is given center stage at this luxury seaside outpost. Highlights include sea bass, shrimp, squid, and octopus, all of which are caught near the hotel. The Northern Italian style dishes are remixed and paired with Brazilian specialities like grilled hearts of palm and fresh caipirinhas.
Stand out dishes from a recent visit were the fig, prosciutto, and mozzarella salad, pappardelle with mushrooms (there’s a cream hiding at the bottom of the dish that bordered on too decadent), and the shrimp and scallops grilled in lemon sauce with couscous, shitake, and tomato. This a chance to combine a far-flung Brazilian escape with the best of local hospitality and Italian cuisine.
WHY NOW: This fall, Executive Chef Fábio Jobim Panasiewiczat joins Fasano Angra dos Reis, bringing his 15+ years of experience with the Fasano Group to this distant archipelago. Plus, autumn in the U.S. is spring in Brazil – making it the perfect time to beat the heat and humidity.
BY: Erin Granat
@justeringranat
Image credits: Hotel Fasano Angra dos Reis (1, 2, 3,4)
Expand Your Wine Knowledge In The Areni Region Of Armenia
Areni – in the Vayots Dzor province of Armenia – is leveraging its history as one of the oldest wine regions in the world to take a spot on the international stage. New vineyards and tasting rooms have opened and this rise in popularity has attracted new hotels to meet tourist demand.
Only a two-hour drive from the capital of Yerevan, visitors can head to Areni to enjoy the Areni-1 Cave, home of the world’s oldest known winery. Stop in Momik WineCube for a unique tasting room experience and Trinity Canyon Vineyards’ new tasting room. Devotees should plan a trip to the area in October for the Areni Wine Festival. For those who only have time to visit Yerevan, Decant Wine Shop provides a fantastic taste of what Armenian wine has to offer.
WHY NOW: This is old meets new in the best sense, with fresh upstarts showcasing the ancient prowess of Armenian winemaking.
BY: ALI WUNDERMAN
@ALIWUNDERMAN
Image credits: ivars utinans on unsplash (1), WineCube (2,3,4)
Sip The Perfect Espresso Martini In Front Of the Colosseum
Espresso martinis are having a moment – there are a million variations that you can try in pretty much every corner of the world – so finding a special one often takes going to a special place. That place? Rome. More specifically, The Court, an intimate rooftop bar at Palazzo Manfredi. Spearheaded by bar manager Matteo Zed, the bar offers a unique twist on classic cocktails, as well as one of the city’s best views of the Colosseum.
Zed has devoted his recent years to expanding cocktail culture in Rome, and the proof is in this innovative twist on The Court’s espresso martini. Crafted from Grey Goose, Frangelico, Lavazza coffee, chocolate bitters, and sugar, the cocktail is clarified before serving, leaving it looking more akin to a classic dirty martini. On the palate, beautiful notes of bitter dark chocolate complement the rich coffee taste, which are both cut by the vodka base and rounded out with a hint of sugar. It’s difficult to choose which is more memorable, the cocktail or the view. When paired together, the experience is simply indelible.
WHY NOW: Espresso martinis are currently the cocktail du jour. Try this unique twist at The Court to witness the cocktail’s most elevated iteration before the buzz dies down.
BY: Vicki Denig
@vickidenig
Image credits: david-kohler on unsplash (1), THE COURT (2,3,4)
Combine Drinks And Views While Overlooking San Francisco’s Iconic Skyline
When the world needed to serve guests outdoors, San Francisco looked up – accelerating the already bubbling trend of rooftop bars in the city by the bay. The immediate popularity of these sky high lounges has caused a cascade of similar spots launching, with numbers still growing.
In just a few years, bars like Charmaine’s on top of the Proper Hotel, Rise Over Run atop the LINE Hotel (both on Market Street downtown), and Kaiyo Rooftop above the Hyatt Place Hotel in SoMa have become sensations – serving crafty cocktails alongside delectable bites, paired with incredible views. The success of these new bars has inspired an even newer wave of options, including the recently-opened Shelby’s at Canopy by Hilton and the wraparound rooftop bar Chotto Matte, launching above Union Square. Note: Since these places are often absolutely packed, do yourself a favor and get a reservation.
Why Now: Rooftop bars are red hot in San Francisco and a key part of the (often wrongly) maligned city’s resurgence among travelers.
BY: ALI WUNDERMAN
@ALIWUNDERMAN
Image credits: Charmaine's (1), KAIYO ROOFTOP (2), CANOPY BY HILTON (3), PROPER HOTEL (4)
Score A Perfect 10 At San Diego’s Newest Omakase Spot
San Diego’s newest fine dining experience, Kinme Omakase, joins the growing omakase trend in the United States (in which guests sit facing the chef, who guides them through a carefully curated tasting menu). Created by chef Nao Ichimura, the restaurant offers an immersive and seasonal 10-course menu in which every dish offers surprises of textures and flavors. It’s a dining experience built on trust, curiosity, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone.
Kinme honors long-lived Japanese omakase customs while combining modern techniques, creative plating, references to regional foodways (like a riff on elote), and local ingredients, such as sea urchin (uni) caught right off the California coast. Like all good fine dining experiences, it’s a testament to culinary creativity and the power of sourcing. The sashimi and sushi is melt-in-your-mouth fresh; the wagyu will change your ideas about how beef tastes. But the intimacy is the true highlight — watching the chefs create right in front of you while explaining the history, ingredients, technique, and inspiration behind each dish.
WHY NOW: Kinme Omakase opened in March 2023 and is quickly becoming a coveted San Diego dining spot for locals and visitors alike; reservations are already filling up more than a month in advance (tip: follow Kinme on Instagram, as the restaurant posts last-minute availability from canceled reservations).
BY: Chloe Caldwell
@bychloecaldwell
Image credits: Kinme (ALL)
Taste Your Way Through Vancouver's Newly Minted Michelin Restaurants
Last year, Michelin dropped its inaugural guide to Vancouver, BC – naming eight one-Michelin-starred restaurants and “recommending” 69 more. While traveling for food means more than following a guide, these enteries make an incredible launchpad for a culinary odyssey through the city.
The new Michelin guide seems to break Vancouver’s dining scene into four sectors – Pan-Asian cuisines, Italian, “contemporary” (which is code for “cheffed-up”), and steakhouses. Among the latter, RILEY’S Fish & Steak is a standout. The brioche is like eating a buttery bread cloud, the Crab Louie is a classic dish executed flawlessly, and the sablefish is delicate and flaky. Do you order the oysters? Obviously. It’s Vancouver, after all.
Eager for Italian? acquafarina combines fine dining with chef-led playfulness. The octopus salad, truffle pizza, and duck breast are the restaurant’s must-order dishes. The Rotolo Alla Norma (essentially one long ravioli, rolled up) is the standout pasta pick. The vast wine offerings are a spectacle to behold but cocktail lovers shouldn’t miss the grapefruit and hibiscus-forward Hopeless Wanderer.
If you want to focus on Michelin star restaurants, we recommend Masayoshi. The restaurant marries the Japanese “jewelbox sushi” concept to its Vancouver home by sourcing hyper-local fish and produce.
WHY NOW: The new Michelin Guide and the proximity to local ingredients have created a fine dining renaissance in Vancouver – visit this fall as menus shift to feature a new season’s produce.
BY: Stephen Bramucci
@steve_bramucci
IMAGE CREDIT: COURTESY OF DESTINATION VANCOUVER (all)
Viewline Resort Snowmass (Colorado, USA)
Viewline Resort Snowmass takes the “ski in, ski out” concept to its furthest possible incarnation. The hotel is situated on the mountain with its own ski lockers and benches, making it easy for early birds to slap their gear on and ski down to the lift lines the moment they open (or straight into the hot tub at the end of the day). This is a true gift for those who need every ounce of their energy to get down the slopes.
Inside of the property – added to Marriott's Autograph Collection in February of 2022 – you’ll find a modern-Nordic design emphasizing comfy furniture and clean lines. It’s the perfect approach for a hotel that is absolutely hemmed in by mountains. The lobby serves as a convivial meeting place, with a cozy fire, epic views, and bar program that knows its way around the classics alongside its own clever inventions; “This Must Be The Place” with ginger and hibiscus will kick-off your vacation on a bright note.
Stark’s Alpine Grill, Viewline’s in-house restaurant, serves well-executed comfort fare. The secret is to ride so hard during the day that you feel okay treating yourself to both the mushroom mac and the skillet brownie at dinner. Just a few steps away, those in the know visit The Stew Pot at least once per trip – the habanero pork stew is a must.
Lastly, no mountain hotel could ever make our Hot List without a dialed in spa and Viewline’s Lupine Spa fits the bill. The massage and facial menu is modern, the staff is skilled, and the offerings are complimented with mountain-friendly add-ons like herb-infused oxygen treatments.
WHY NOW: Your Snowmass lift ticket also gets you access to Aspen Mountain, which will see a new section of terrain called “Pandora’s” opening for the 2023-24 season, increasing skiable acreage on the mountain by 20%. The idea that you could visit Aspen-Snowmass and never ski the same run twice has never been truer.
BY: Stephen Bramucci
@steve_bramucci
Image credits: josh hild On unsplash (1), COURTESY OF MARRIOT AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION (2,3,4)
Capella Sydney (Sydney, Australia)
There are so many things to love about the Capella Sydney. Let’s start with the top-notch in-house restaurant – Brasserie 1930 – which serves arguably the best breakfast buffet scrambled eggs you’ll ever taste. Then there’s the absurdly perfect location within walking distance of the city's famed harbor with plenty of restaurants, museums, watering holes, and entertainment. Within the hotel, there’s a clear dedication to highlighting the region's Indigenous culture. In fact, the entire property feels like you’re staying inside a museum committed to preserving and showcasing art and culture.
The highlight – in terms of the hotel’s stunning art collection – is the courtyard lounge that doubles as a lush garden and features a “bespoke kinetic sculpture” by the Amsterdam-based art duo DRIFT. There you can sip a perfectly made flat white as a giant jellyfish peacefully flutters above you. Additionally, the hotel’s walls (and rooms) are adorned with so many striking paintings that any trip down to the lobby takes much longer than it usually would – it’s impossible not to stop and stare at the beautiful things you’re presented along the way.
WHY NOW: Having opened in 2023, the 1912 sandstone office building turned luxury 192-room high-tech hotel exemplifies the region's appreciation for Indigenous culture and oozes art and luxury at every turn.
BY: Brett Michael Dykes
@thecajunboy
Image credits: dan-freeman on unsplash (1), COURTESY OF CAPELLA SYDNEY (2,3,4)
Address Beach Resort Bahrain (Manama, Bahrain)
Amidst the ancient-meets-uber-modern landscape of Bahrain, Address Beach Resort shines as one of Emaar Group's newest luxury additions (they also operate iconic locations like the Burj Khalifa) – embracing relaxation and indulgence with 5-star aplomb.
The property’s allure lies in its ability to whisk you away to a realm of tranquility. The resort's crown jewel – "The Spa" – boasts six state-of-the-art treatment rooms, providing a haven of rejuvenation. Immerse yourself in serenity, allowing your body, mind, and spirit to be nourished. Beyond the pampering, there are four restaurants, each offering high-end cuisine in casual to formal settings. And then there are the rooms, which showcase luxurious minimalism with stunning views of sparkling blue seas.
WHY NOW: Having opened in November 2022, Address Beach Resort offers an ideal oasis for luxury-minded visitors to Bahrain.
BY: Samson Olalekan
@sammyvagabond
Image credits: SAMSON OLALEKAN (1,2), Address Beach resort (3,4)
Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier (Tangier, Morocco)
Basking in luxury takes on an entirely new meaning at the Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier. Perched above the rolling hills of the legendary city, the property was a former palace (for an advisor to the Moroccan king) that has transformed into as opulent a hotel stay as any in the region.
Terraced rooms overlook both elegant gardens and a striking courtyard pool. History comes to life in these rooms, tastefully fitted with callbacks to a century ago (while remaining luxurious by current standards). In the public spaces, the commitment to past and present are palpable. There's an excellent cigar bar with a terrific Scotch whisky selection, a lovely Moroccan-style spa experience, and fresh and inventive Moroccan dishes served at every restaurant on the sprawling property. There's even a speakeasy hidden behind a rotating wall at the top of a quiet staircase (you’ll have to figure out which one!).
Add to all of this the old-world charm of Tangier -- a famed haven for exiles, writers, and misfits -- and it's not hard to feel like you're staying at the nexus of ancient and modern, free to enjoy the best aspects of each.
WHY NOW: Having opened its doors at the end of 2022, Fairmont Tazi Palace is the ideal escape for those craving luxury as they prepare for the strong mint tea cafes, spice merchants, and hash bars of the Kasbah.
BY: Beau Hayhoe
@beauhayhoe
Image credits: COURTESY OF FAIRMONT HOTELS AND RESORTS (all)
Copal Tree Lodge (Punta Gorda, Belize)
Copal Tree Lodge does three things amazingly well:
First, the gardens, which are tended by local Belizean farmers, provide the lodge with every ingredient for the property’s kitchen and bar. It’s all 100% organic and regenerative. So while that makes the menus at the Lodge a little smaller, it also makes them truly sustainable (nothing is flown in – the only exception being bottles of mainstream booze at the bar).
Next, there’s the chocolate. Cacao is grown on-site and Copal employs Mayan chocolatiers to steward the cacao trees as they grow, then harvest, ferment, and make the chocolate on-site (they also grow and process their own fresh vanilla). Visitors get a deep look into how chocolate is cultivated and created by the people who did it first – the Mayans. It’s both educational and delectable.
Lastly, there’s the rum. Copalli Rum is a premiere brand that’s starting to take hold in the U.S. Like the chocolate, it’s sustainably farmed on-site – made with sugarcane grown on the Lodge’s land, harvested by locals, and fermented, distilled, and aged just down the hill from the property.
WHY NOW: Copalli just created a Choco-Rum that bridges the worlds of white rum and sustainable Indigenous Mayan chocolate making. The promise of tasting it should be reason alone to book your stay.
BY: Zach Johnston
@ztpwhiskey
Image credits: COURTESY OF COPAL TREE LODGE (all)
Mona Athens (Athens, Greece)
The 20-room Mona in Athens could easily coast on its central location and guest-exclusive rooftop view of the Acropolis. But this property offers much more than a simple place to stay. Part art gallery and part design studio, the sophisticated-yet-minimalist Mona is a sensory experience designed to catalyze creativity and foster community. There’s an open air bar on the roof and a speakeasy in the basement – both ideal for travelers to enjoy the surrounding city while savoring a modern approach to hospitality.
Simply put, this place is cool. It’s sexy. It’s creative. Nothing is uniform or boring – each of the 20 rooms across the eight stories of this former textile factory vary widely, marrying the industrial bones of the building with modern design concepts.
The hotel opened at the tail end of 2022 and continues to bring new elements to the guest experience without ever straying from their central goal – to present guests with a creative ecosystem. This is the freshest stay in Athens right now and it’s only a 20-minute walk to the Acropolis.
WHY NOW: Nothing is hotter in Athens this fall. Period. But with only 20 rooms, it’s highly recommended to book in advance.
BY: ALI WUNDERMAN
@ALIWUNDERMAN
Image credits:Tristan Hollingsworth (1,2,3) MONA Athens (4)
Eastwind Oliverea Valley (New York, USA)
The new 30-room boutique hotel Eastwind Oliverea Valley opened in January 2023, bringing Eastwind Hotel’s signature Scandinavian-inspired accommodations to a new corner of the Catskills – one of the most sought-after fall and winter destinations on the East Coast. Highlights include the on-site restaurant and bar, Dandelion; daily breakfast baskets delivered to your door; s’mores kits at the firepit; and new room category.
The sentiment of hygge – the Scandinavian word meaning a sense of contentment and coziness – drove the design of Eastwind Oliverea Valley, which is evident across the property. Guests can ride bikes along a nature path, join a sunrise yoga session, enjoy creative seasonal workshops (we participated in a gin tasting class), or go for a foraging walk. Or… they can just lounge by the pool, enjoying curated DJ sets.
WHY NOW: The hotel is new and the Catskills is one of the East Coast’s most stunning-yet-relatively-unsung nature-focused getaways.
BY: Lindsay Paige Stein
@lindsaypaigestein
Image credits: thomas loizeau on unsplash (1), Peony Lee, @adventures.of.peony (2), Lawrence Braun, Upland Creative (3), Amanda Rowe, @beyondtheboroughs (4)
Zel Mallorca (Balears, Spain)
For those who appreciate a “fiesta and siesta” vacation vibe, Mallorca’s newly opened ZEL hotel is where it’s at. Inspired by the outdoor lifestyle and island culture of the Balearic Islands, ZEL offers the perfect place to relax and party simultaneously, without ever having to leave the resort. If soaking in the sun during the day—whether at the hotel’s on-site pool or across the street at Palmanova Beach—and getting your drink on at night sounds like your thing, you’ve come to the right place.
ZEL represents the first hotel of the new lifestyle brand created by Meliá Hotels International and pro tennis player Rafa Nadal, a native of the island of Mallorca. Situated just 25 minutes from the airport, the hotel offers a unique reprieve from the bustling capital town of Palma, yet still remains close enough for those looking to explore the city. That said, with everything you could possibly need at your fingertips – including a gorgeous pool, outdoor bar, fitness center, and some of the island’s best coffee – you’ll be tempted not to leave at all (do, you should always get off-property when traveling). The hotel’s airy communal spaces and large rooms make the deal even sweeter—and be sure to leave your fiesta / siesta sign on your door so that the hotel staff knows what’s up.
WHY NOW: Mallorca is home to some of Europe’s most stunning beaches, though their beauty is way less alluring when overcrowded with tourists during the high season. Enjoy this trendy new hotel (June 2023) during the start of the off season – when temperatures are still beach appropriate and the mass crowds of tourists are back to work.
BY: Vicki Denig
@vickidenig
Image credits: COURTESY OF MELIA HOTELS (all)
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok At Chao Phraya River (Bangkok, Thailand)
We all know HBO’s next season of White Lotus will be set in Thailand. We know they film at Four Seasons properties. And we’ve seen what Season 2 did for the chain’s Taormina property. So even before filming begins, it’s time to make reservations at Four Seasons Bangkok.
This property doesn’t need pop culture cred to be worth a visit, though. Perched upon the bank of the Chao Phraya River, right in the heart of Bangkok, luxury is imbued into every element of the hotel – from the veritable forest of orchids decorating the vaulted lobby to the considerate touches housekeeping bestows upon each room. Restaurants include the one Michelin Star Yu Ting Yuan. BKK Social Club, the most prominent bar on site, just may be the best in all of Thailand. The Evita, a custom cocktail made with pineapple rum, aperol, campari, bay leaf, and cinnamon syrup is sure to be sipped on HBO in due time.
This is a place to see and be seen. Fortunately, Bangkok’s top sights and vibrant culture are close enough to tempt you off the property.
WHY NOW: Get ahead of the White Lotus crowds by booking a room where the show is likely to shoot.
BY: ALI WUNDERMAN
@ALIWUNDERMAN
IMAGE CREDITs: COURTESY OF FOUR SEASONS (all)
The Caverns of Grundy County (Tennessee, USA)
Seeing a concert is one thing. Dancing to live music in a 400-million-year-old cave that people have been gathering in for 25,000 years? That’s a whole other level.
When you enter The Caverns – a music venue based in a cave system in Grundy County, Tennessee – you’re greeted by Sequoyah Cherokee script that reads, “Welcome to The Caverns where the Great Spirit brings all people together through music.” This ethos has helped the venue cultivate a reputation as a top-tier music destination. The venue has been selling out its shows this year, even with its most robust music schedule to date, including the highly anticipated return of one the electronic community’s most revered producers, Pretty Lights.
Thanks to all the buzz, The Caverns is gaining widespread acclaim for its completely unique sonic experience – earning the nickname “Red Rocks of the South." If that's not your vibe, The Caverns also offers daily tours that include one of the largest underground rooms in the world. The experience braids together the unique history of Grundy County, the geology of the caves themselves, and the mythology and lore surrounding this unique locale.
WHY NOW: The Caverns welcomes Pretty Lights for three nights in November 2023. There’s no doubt that it’s on the cusp of gaining global mainstream recognition.
BY: Mikala Lugen
@mikalalugen
Image credits: COURTESY OF THE CAVERNS (1,4) York Angelo Pimiento (2,3,)
Celebrate Fine Dining At Oregon's Hottest Restaurant
When ōkta opened in the summer of 2022, it thrilled lovers of fine dining. Michelin-starred chef Matthew Lightner’s commitment to farming, foraging, and elevated culinary techniques have earned him widespread acclaim. And yet… ōkta did field some critiques, most notably from Karen Brooks of Portland Monthly who wished for more context on the menu from the staff.
A year later, Lightner seems to have absorbed the most resonant notes and pinch points from the restaurant’s early days. For the Summer ‘23 Menu, he penned a touching ode to the season’s ingredients and the ineffable feelings it creates in him; which he, in turn, hoped to translate into the dishes themselves.
The result is a smashing success. The meal opens with a tomato granita-gazpacho that manages to be both bright and a sneaky reminder of how much umami tomatoes can deliver. “Pollinator” stars nasturtium petals cupping honeyed buckwheat puffs and hiding foie gras over a smoked almond cracker. The 15-course menu is full of discoveries like this – two to three bite entries that taste like how a good novel is supposed to end: “surprising yet inevitable.”
Any time things threaten to veer too conceptual, Lightner presents a dish that is direct and unbeguiling – like the truffle tart which was rich and “of the soil” in the best-possible way.
WHY NOW: Two days after Uproxx’s July visit, Portland Monthly updated their review with a bombastic (but bang on) headline – “Okta Is Now Oregon Wine Country’s Greatest Restaurant, Ever.” They’re not wrong. This is fine dining at its most fun and exploratory; it’s sure to be a destination restaurant very soon.
BY: Stephen Bramucci
@steve_Bramucci
Image credits: dan meyers on unsplash (1), COURTESY OF OKTA (2,3,4)
Bask In The New Era Of BNBs (Worldwide)
The old model of Airbnb has officially jumped the shark. Between new regulations for short-term rentals nationwide (including stricter laws enacted this September in NYC) and the often viral pushback by users to a model which puts tons of onus on guests (cleaning, trash disposal, etc.), the idea of a rental platform for spare rooms and oddly decorated bedsits has lost its luster. Who wants to do their own dishes when hotel apps can often score you a lower price?
The good news is that the new era of BnBs is already upon us. And most of them can be booked on Airbnb itself.
While turning spare rooms and unfinished basements into “rustic hideaways” feels played out, this new wave of short term rentals definitely understands what travelers want – offering bespoke design, high-end amenities, and the one thing hotels can’t: privacy. At Amaru Muru in Joshua Tree, you don’t feel like you’re inhabiting someone else’s space, rather that you’ve bought out all the rooms of a boutique hotel. The attention to detail by host (and widely-known stuntwoman) Mallory Thomspon is cohesive and clever at every turn. With a heated saltwater pool, in-ground hot tub, yoga room, sound system, and open layout, this dreamy retreat in the desert defines the best of what a BnB can be.
Similarly, pro-surfer, documentarian, and homesteader Cyrus Sutton spent the better part of a decade developing The Gorge Onsen in Washougal, Washington. The Japanese-inflected property features two saunas, a cold plunge, a cedar hot tub, a vegetable garden, a yoga room, and a wood stove. It’s minimalist and stylish in a way that’s sure to capture the eye of travelers who consider digital storytelling a key part of their adventures.
WHY NOW: Both Amaru Muru and Gorge Onsen opened since our last Hot List launched. Moreover, the trend of higher-end BnBs is booming across the country. Sites like Plum Guide specialize in these sorts of rentals, while Airbnb is taking major steps this year toward transparency, making finding more hotel-like stays easier than ever.
BY: Stephen Bramucci
@steve_bramucci
Image credits: william foley on unsplash (1) CYRUS SUTTON (2,3), MALLORY THOMPSON (4)
The Caverns of Grundy County (Tennessee, USA)
Seeing a concert is one thing. Dancing to live music in a 400-million-year-old cave that people have been gathering in for 25,000 years? That’s a whole other level.
When you enter The Caverns – a music venue based in a cave system in Grundy County, Tennessee – you’re greeted by Sequoyah Cherokee script that reads, “Welcome to The Caverns where the Great Spirit brings all people together through music.” This ethos has helped the venue cultivate a reputation as a top-tier music destination. The venue has been selling out its shows this year, even with its most robust music schedule to date, including the highly anticipated return of one the electronic community’s most revered producers, Pretty Lights.
Thanks to all the buzz, The Caverns is gaining widespread acclaim for its completely unique sonic experience – earning the nickname “Red Rocks of the South." If that's not your vibe, The Caverns also offers daily tours that include one of the largest underground rooms in the world. The experience braids together the unique history of Grundy County, the geology of the caves themselves, and the mythology and lore surrounding this unique locale.
WHY NOW: The Caverns welcomes Pretty Lights for three nights in November 2023. There’s no doubt that it’s on the cusp of gaining global mainstream recognition.
BY: Mikala Lugen
@Mikalalugen
Image credits: COURTESY OF THE CAVERNS (1,4) York Angelo Pimiento (2,3,)
Celebrate Fine Dining At Oregon's Hottest Restaurant
When ōkta opened in the summer of 2022, it thrilled lovers of fine dining. Michelin-starred chef Matthew Lightner’s commitment to farming, foraging, and elevated culinary techniques have earned him widespread acclaim. And yet… ōkta did field some critiques, most notably from Karen Brooks of Portland Monthly who wished for more context on the menu from the staff.
A year later, Lightner seems to have absorbed the most resonant notes and pinch points from the restaurant’s early days. For the Summer ‘23 Menu, he penned a touching ode to the season’s ingredients and the ineffable feelings it creates in him; which he, in turn, hoped to translate into the dishes themselves.
The result is a smashing success. The meal opens with a tomato granita-gazpacho that manages to be both bright and a sneaky reminder of how much umami tomatoes can deliver. “Pollinator” stars nasturtium petals cupping honeyed buckwheat puffs and hiding foie gras over a smoked almond cracker. The 15-course menu is full of discoveries like this – two to three bite entries that taste like how a good novel is supposed to end: “surprising yet inevitable.”
Any time things threaten to veer too conceptual, Lightner presents a dish that is direct and unbeguiling – like the truffle tart which was rich and “of the soil” in the best-possible way.
WHY NOW: Two days after Uproxx’s July visit, Portland Monthly updated their review with a bombastic (but bang on) headline – “Okta Is Now Oregon Wine Country’s Greatest Restaurant, Ever.” They’re not wrong. This is fine dining at its most fun and exploratory; it’s sure to be a destination restaurant very soon.
BY: Stephen Bramucci
@steve_bramucci
Image credits: dan meyers on unsplash (1), COURTESY OF OKTA (2,3,4)
Bask In The New Era Of BnBs
The old model of Airbnb has officially jumped the shark. Between new regulations for short-term rentals nationwide (including stricter laws enacted this September in NYC) and the often viral pushback by users to a model which puts tons of onus on guests (cleaning, trash disposal, etc.), the idea of a rental platform for spare rooms and oddly decorated bedsits has lost its luster. Who wants to do their own dishes when hotel apps can often score you a lower price?
The good news is that the new era of BnBs is already upon us. And most of them can be booked on Airbnb itself.
While turning spare rooms and unfinished basements into “rustic hideaways” feels played out, this new wave of short term rentals definitely understands what travelers want – offering bespoke design, high-end amenities, and the one thing hotels can’t: privacy. At Amaru Muru in Joshua Tree, you don’t feel like you’re inhabiting someone else’s space, rather that you’ve bought out all the rooms of a boutique hotel. The attention to detail by host (and widely-known stuntwoman) Mallory Thomspon is cohesive and clever at every turn. With a heated saltwater pool, in-ground hot tub, yoga room, sound system, and open layout, this dreamy retreat in the desert defines the best of what a BnB can be.
Similarly, pro-surfer, documentarian, and homesteader Cyrus Sutton spent the better part of a decade developing The Gorge Onsen in Washougal, Washington. The Japanese-inflected property features two saunas, a cold plunge, a cedar hot tub, a vegetable garden, a yoga room, and a wood stove.
WHY NOW: Both Amaru Muru and Gorge Onsen opened since our last Hot List launched. Moreover, the trend of higher-end BnBs is booming across the country. Sites like Plum Guide specialize in these sorts of rentals, while Airbnb is taking major steps this year toward transparency, making finding more hotel-like stays easier than ever.
BY: Stephen Bramucci
@steve_bramucci
Image credits: william foley on unsplash (1) CYRUS SUTTON (2,3), MALLORY THOMPSON (4)
Check Out The Growing Whiskey Scene Out West
The American whiskey conversation is dominated by one state, Kentucky (with some Tennessee sneaking in there too). But as the whiskey boom continues through 2023 and into 2024, more and more states are getting their due as great American whiskey destinations and it’s time you pay them a visit.
30 short minutes outside of Park City is Wanship, Utah's High West Distillery. It’s the state’s first legal distillery since 1870 with a 30,000 sq. foot distillery and visitor center which features in-depth tours, country-western cuisine at the Reflectory, and a general store for whiskey shopping.
400+ miles east, Colorado's Breckenridge Distillery owns the claim of the “World’s Highest Distillery.” Founded in 2008, the hyper local distillery has gone from local hidden gem to national treasure. You can dine at their award-winning restaurant, enjoy locally crafted and seasonal cocktails, and get an inside look at their active production facility. You’ll also be able to blend your own whiskey while on tour.
Based in the tiny “town” of Kirby (population 90), Wyoming Whiskey only uses ingredients from the Bighorn Basin while promoting the state’s natural and human resources. Every drop of their whiskey is 100% Wyoming-based and they funnel money directly into supporting our National Parks, starting at Yellowstone (which is right next door and makes an adventurous side trip).
WHY NOW: Each of these distilleries are firing on all cylinders right now while gearing up for the fall bottle release season (a big deal in the whiskey world). With highly anticipated 2023 releases set to drop from all three brands, it’s a great time for a whiskey odyssey across the American West.
BY: Rashaun Hall
@bartimestories
Image credits: ZACH JOHNSTON (1) Wyoming Whiskey (2), HIGH WEST (3), Breckenridge Distilling (4)
Check out all our other great travel hotspots
Check Out The Growing Whiskey Scene Out West
The American whiskey conversation is dominated by one state, Kentucky (with some Tennessee sneaking in there too). But as the whiskey boom continues through 2023 and into 2024, more and more states are getting their due as great American whiskey destinations and it’s time you pay them a visit.
30 short minutes outside of Park City is Wanship, Utah's High West Distillery. It’s the state’s first legal distillery since 1870 with a 30,000 sq. foot distillery and visitor center which features in-depth tours, country-western cuisine at the Reflectory, and a general store for whiskey shopping.
400+ miles east, Colorado's Breckenridge Distillery owns the claim of the “World’s Highest Distillery.” Founded in 2008, the hyper local distillery has gone from local hidden gem to national treasure. You can dine at their award-winning restaurant, enjoy locally crafted and seasonal cocktails, and get an inside look at their active production facility. You’ll also be able to blend your own whiskey while on tour.
Based in the tiny “town” of Kirby (population 90), Wyoming Whiskey only uses ingredients from the Bighorn Basin while promoting the state’s natural and human resources. Every drop of their whiskey is 100% Wyoming-based and they funnel money directly into supporting our National Parks, starting at Yellowstone (which is right next door and makes an adventurous side trip).
WHY NOW: Each of these distilleries are firing on all cylinders right now while gearing up for the fall bottle release season (a big deal in the whiskey world). With highly anticipated 2023 releases set to drop from all three brands, it’s a great time for a whiskey odyssey across the American West.
BY: Rashaun Hall
@bartimestories
Image credits: ZACH JOHNSTON (1) Wyoming Whiskey (2), HIGH WEST (3), Breckenridge Distilling (4)
Check out all our other great travel hotspots
Check out all our other great travel hotspots
Check out all our other great travel hotspots
This fall's hotlist pitches -- by a diverse and deeply talented collection of writers -- surfaced certain recurrent themes. Most notably, avoiding the throngs of tourists in Western Europe by traveling to less trafficked destinations, outside of the peak season. (When you get five Balkans-related pitches, you know that the summer travel influencer and supermodel party circuit is likely to have a new stop soon.) But our travel writers were also eager to buck trends, pushing against common media narratives about certain destinations, and unafraid to pitch well-worn spots with a fresh twist.
Every locale, restaurant, bar, club, activity, and hotel on this list had to prove its mettle by answering the question "why now?" But you don't have to answer that with regards to your own travels at all. While new hotels, restaurants, and bars have a certain allure, "new to me" is a very valid mantra to plan your trips around.
What our team really delivered the most this fall -- whether raving about a tasting menu or a party in a cave -- was a sense of wonder. And we hope you have that same feeling out on the road. To be present, as they say. To taste and touch and smell and really push the limits of just how alive you can feel. To marvel at the world and the people you meet. To be "be here, now" as the philosopher said, in the deepest (and most fun) sense.
If you can carry that energy into your travels, you're sure to come home with some memories -- whether you use our roadmap or simply follow your gut. As always, we're excited to see you out there on the open road. We hope to recognize you by your wide eyes and even wider smiles.
Go to Hot List
Project Creative Director - Steve Bramucci
Project Manager - Jason Tabrys
Project Coordinator - Mikala Lugen
Design - Daisy James, Carlos Sotelo Olivas, Joe Petrolis
Additional Support: Merle Cooper
Zach Johnston, Jessica Toomer
We wish to thank all of the many people who contributed words, images, and experiences to this year's list. as well as the people who worked behind the scenes to make this a reality.