Alex Couto

Portugal

Lisbon

Where to Find Good Accommodation in Lisbon

Michella Ore

United States

New York City 

Where to Find Good Accommodation in New York

Vivian Yeung

What Staying in a Secluded Cabin in the Black Mountains Was Like

Maria Pappa

Greece

Athens

Where to Find Good Accommodation in Athens

Dimitri Voulg

Mexico

Mexico City 

Where to Find Good Accommodation in Mexico City

Marouane Malek

Morocco

Casablanca

Where to Find Good Accommodation in Casablanca

Liam Casey

Los Angeles 

Where to Find Good Accommodation in Los Angeles 

Georgina Ustik

11 Tips on Travelling Sustainably

Jacqueline De Gorter

France

Paris

Where To Find Good Accommodation in Paris

Holly Tuppen 

How to Pick Socially Sustainable Accommodation

Max Migowski 

Germany

Berlin

Where to Find Good Accommodation in Berlin

Talk to Coco 

How To Search for Queer-Friendly Accommodation

Bengaluru

Part of the Lalit group of hotels, Lalit Ashok is a pioneer of queer-friendly hospitality, promoting LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the workplace, and playing a crucial role in mainstreaming drag culture in India. Kitty Ko, the first ever space in Bangalore for regular drag shows on every Wednesday, hosts Kooth night – a specifically dedicated South Indian drag show every month – and mega events like Queerdom, Fifty Shades of Gay, Drag-o-ween and ChristmasSlay at its extravagant ballrooms bi-monthly. Experience the blend of subculture and mainstream while enjoying fantastic cocktails and mingling with like-minded people. Performing on the stage at Lalit Ashok Bengaluru is like a rite of passage for most South Indian drag artists.

For an unforgettable queer nightlife experience in Bangalore, look no further than Dude Party. They are one of the biggest names in India's queer nightlife scene, organising LGBTQIA+ parties for over a decade. Synonymous with Saturday night gay experiences in the city, you can find them at Kitty Ko every Wednesday and Saturday at various five-star venues across Bangalore. They are best known for high-production queer extravaganza shows like White Party and Moulin Rouge, bringing circuit-style queer parties to Bengaluru.

Social is not just a cafe or collaborative workspace; it's a vibrant hub for artists, innovators, and the LGBTQIA+ community is what they say and I agree. Don't miss their Satrangi Mela, a day-long festival celebrating everything queer – from art, culture and live music to delicious food, drinks and drag shows. The flea market – focusing on women, trans and non-binary-led brands – runs from 2pm to 8pm, followed by an enthralling drag show featuring a mix of new and legendary drag artists. Afterwards, dance the night away to the beats of the DJ for an authentic young and Gen-Z Bangalore queer experience.

The eagerly-awaited annual Bangalore Queer Film Festival takes place at the Goethe-Institut/Max Mueller Bhavan in Indiranagar, typically from 4-6 August. Since 2003, BQFF has been showcasing queer-centric films and has been a vital platform for screening LGBTQIA+ films from South India. More than just a film festival, it's a hotspot for queer art and culture, featuring art and photo exhibitions and captivating live performances.

Urban Solace is a charming little cafe with a delightful view of Ulsoor Lake. The owner, Perry, is known for giving the warmest hugs and providing the best service. It's more than just a cafe to the queer folx in Bengaluru, having long supported the community even before the revocation of Section 377. Urban Solace hosts several events – including poetry hours, open mic nights, comedy shows – and serves as a venue for queer dating platforms.

Once known as a prominent cruising spot for the LGBTQIA+ community before the advent of app-based dating, Cubbon Park has transformed into a welcoming space for various queer support group meets. I still remember my first Bangalore Queer Campus meeting as a newbie in the city at Cubbon Park way back in 2012. Don't miss the weekly LGBTQIA+ walk/run by Bengaluru Frontrunners and the annual Pride March-related events held at this beautiful park, home to more than 6,000 trees. Truly supporting a vibrant ecosystem.

Queer Spaces in Bengaluru With Zeeshan Ali

Camidoh

Accra

I enjoy this beach mostly at night, because it reveals the real "architectural" aesthetics and its marvellously decorated beachfront with thatch roofs, summer huts, beautiful bonfire and scented oil lamps.

At this beach, I get to have a practical contact with two exceptional climate zones in close proximity and also see the offshore oil rigs at work. This eco-lodge beach is always a favourite destination anytime I am in the western part of Ghana.

Officially known as the La Pleasure Beach, anytime I visit Labadi beach, it is because of the scenic stretch of sand. Due to its spacious shoreline lined with sparse coconut trees, I am offered that lovely opportunity to have a great walk with cool breeze, enjoy horseback rides, delicious street food, and live band music without travelling out of town.

I love Bojo Beach to the core. You have to travel far out the capital city to relax by the sea, it offers great intimate and pleasant experiences and you can also canoe!

Ghana's Best Beaches with Camidoh

Krisna Sudharma 

Bali

The recommendation for Nonfrasa Gallery in my guide is a deeply personal choice. The gallery embodies my vision and aspiration to transform how people perceive art within the context of Bali. It serves as a living case study for my journey of learning, redefining the art canon, and dismantling biases and misinterpretations present in the interactions between the local community and foreigners. Moreover, Nonfrasa Gallery stands as an inclusive platform that supports emerging artists while rediscovering the leftfield work of established ones.

Starting with a blank slate and without any academic background in art, the gallery has gradually evolved into a catalyst for change in Bali. Nonfrasa Gallery has become a purpose and a vision in itself, shaping its identity through a process of continuous learning, experimentation, and growth. The consciousness and discourse of Nonfrasa Gallery have been collectively built by every artist who has been a part of its journey. The exchange of ideas and discussions with curators, writers, and institutions have intertwined to condensed these voices into a force, both heard and unheard into a unified direction that extends beyond the gallery's walls, hopefully impacting the art landscape of Bali in meaningful ways. Nonfrasa Gallery is more than just a physical space; it is a reflection of commitment to promoting inclusivity, artistic redefinition, and constructive dialogue within Bali's art scene.


Tian Taru in Payangan, Gianyar, is recommended for its exceptional and unparalleled effort by Sebastian Mesdag and Ayu Purpa. Over the span of 20 years, they have dedicated themselves to creating a forest and a plantation even before harvesting the indigo for their crafts. Their holistic approach to brand thinking, centered around the principles of endurance and sustainability, is a rarity in modern-day Bali. What sets their endeavor apart is not just the making of indigo, but the incredible level of craftsmanship and intensive research that underpins their entire process.
From their deep insight into the dyeing process to their thorough understanding of the native plants in Payangan and the meticulous planning of their farm and workshop area, every aspect of Tian Taru showcases a dedication to excellence. The construction of their shelter, which also serves as a space for workshops and classes, has been thoughtfully designed to align with their vision, their decision to open Tian Taru as a dedicated space to share their knowledge and contribute to the local village reflects a genuine commitment to giving back. It's not just about ideation, but also about cultivating positive, sustainable habits within their community. Tian Taru's story and dedication to sustainability, craftsmanship, and community strongly resonate with the essence of the local area. It represents a unique blend of artistic ingenuity, environmental mindfulness, and a sincere aspiration to cultivate a mutually beneficial relationship with the community. 


Visiting the Bajra Sandhi Monument in Denpasar, a monumental structure that holds significant cultural and historical importance. Growing up in Bali, it's hard not to remember witnessing this structure gradually unveil itself as a place where people from Denpasar gather to relax, take a leisurely stroll, enjoy some grilled corn, or savor a delicious lumpia (fried spring roll) with homemade sauce. Even though it's not yet fully completed, the museum has already become a central spot for socializing in Denpasar, with people leisurely hanging out around its lush garden and pathways. 
The Bajra Sandhi Museum stands as one of the most important cultural institutions in Bali, showcasing the historical timeline of the island, its struggle for independence, and the heroic efforts of its patrons and patriots. It is a place that offers a comfortable and engaging atmosphere, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and stories of Bali while also enjoying the serene surroundings. The museum serves as a metaphorical reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices made by those who fought for Bali's independence and cultural identity.


I recommend visiting Kedux, a figure who has greatly influenced the custom culture in Bali. Although I don't personally know him, his impact on the way of living and his ability to push boundaries have made Bali a representative of this unique culture. He has created a wave of inspiration for young individuals, showing them that dreams are not too high to reach as long as they are willing to put in hard work and maintain discipline. Kedux is known for his passion for custom motorcycles, with a particular focus on Harley Davidson, European, and American muscle bikes. His craftsmanship in working with gasoline and oil goes beyond what anyone else in Bali, and even Indonesia, can achieve. When discussing Kedux, mention should also be made of other renowned artists like Marmar Herayukti. Together, they contribute to something beyond imagination in terms of artistry and technicality.
 
One of the highlights of Kedux's work is his involvement in creating ogoh-ogoh, which are large papier-mâché effigies used in the festivities leading up to Nyepi. During the pengrupukan ceremony, these artistic and technically impressive creations take center stage, representing one of million essence of Bali. From the small canang offerings made by mothers or grandmothers at home to the enormous ogoh-ogoh prepared by the seka teruna teruni, a youth group in each Banjar (traditional neighborhood community), Bali is filled with artistic expressions that intertwine with its cultural identity. 


Space Available holds a significance as it represents the early forefront of the sustainability movement within the creative industry. Space Available was one of the early platforms to address the issue of waste and sustainability, inspiring others to join the cause. The platform introduced a circular system that transformed waste into beautiful products, sparking a much-needed dialogue around the impact of over consumption on the environment.

Space Available's commitment to sustainability extends beyond its products and into all aspects of the platform, from production to consumption, and even their merchandise. The top-notch communication and creativity displayed by the team pushes the boundaries of what is possible and inspires a new generation to take active roles in environmental conservation.
Dan Mitchell, the man behind Space Available, was my mentor and a former Creative Director for Potato Head, where I had the pleasure of witnessing his approach to bridging the desire for change and the need for beautiful products. His ability to intertwine his beliefs and concerns with his creative vision has left a long-lasting impression on me. Space Available's commitment to sustainability and driving change is unparalleled, and it encompasses our responsibility to conserve, protect and respect the environment towards a more sustainable future in the creative industry. 


Studio Gelombang in Gianyar is a gem that I highly recommend. This studio is founded by the remarkable artist, Made Griyawan, whose passion not only shines through his art but also through his dedication to giving back to the community. In Bali, the concept of art and artists has deep roots in the act of offering to the higher force, a tradition that predates the formal existence of the term "artist" before the 1930s, especially within early art collectives. This cultural context continues to be passed down through generations, with the learning process traditionally beginning within the family. Youngsters observe their parents or grandparents engaging in artistic endeavors, absorbing the techniques and traditions organically.
 
Made Griyawan embodies this tradition by passing on his knowledge and the spirit of "ngayah" (doing contribution) to the younger generation in Batuan, where he hails from and where the renowned Batuan style originates. His commitment goes beyond preserving and continuing the legacy of his predecessors; he also provides a platform for young individuals from the village of Batuan to study, learn, and refine their skills within the Batuan style while exploring new artistic possibilities and the studio serves as a hub for nurturing and perpetuating this rich artistic tradition.


The recommendation for Tandjung Sari in my guide holds a personal significance as it represents a treasure that I stumbled upon in 2017 through a 50th-anniversary book. Despite my childhood spent in Sanur, I had never come across this place during the pre-crisis and reformasi era. This discovery evoked memories of my father taking me fishing along the shores of Mertasari Beach to Shindu, creating a connection to Tandjung Sari that was previously unknown to me. Throughout the pandemic, the hospitality industry faced tremendous challenges, I had the opportunity to assist Tandjung Sari. This experience not only allowed me to refine their communications but also provided insights into the rich archives and personal stories of staff members who had dedicated decades to the establishment, fostering a deeper appreciation for its history and legacy.
The collaborative efforts of Wija Waworuntu with I Nyoman Cekog and I Wayan Puger was rooted not just in architectural drawings or technicalities, but in Wija's conceptual ideas and discussions about layouts, which Cekog and Puger then translated through their understanding of Balinese architecture. This process encapsulated the transmission of knowledge and formation of learning spaces within familial and kinship ties, mirroring the traditional passing down of knowledge in Balinese families. Such an approach gave rise to the early design elements associated with Bali style, seamlessly integrating Balinese philosophy with modern functionality.
The intersection of Balinese philosophy and modern functionality at Tandjung Sari signifies the seamless integration of cultural heritage into contemporary design, setting it apart as a boutique hotel that embodies these principles. Like a living museum, Tandjung Sari's legacy endures through its steadfast commitment to maintaining this delicate balance, ensuring that its rich history remains a vibrant part of its present-day identity.


A Guide to Bali's Best Art Galleries and Design Spaces

La Bella Verde

Ibiza

It is just crazy, beautiful. If you want to reach it by land, it's a massive hike and definitely not everybody is up for that or even capable of getting there. So it's easier by boat. It's such an impressive place, the colour of the water, the history of the place. It's just an amazing, unique and beautiful place.

Es Vedrà is this huge rock sticking out of the water with many myths written about it. It's supposed to be, super magnetic and contributing to the magical energy of the island. And there's this old pirate myth that due to the magnetic forces of the rock like compasses would be spinning around like crazy, and people would not be able to know the way north was and they would crash. These are all stories, but it is a very impressive place to sail past.

It's just very beautiful and the whole West Coast really is quite impressive to sail past because of the geometric rock formations and caves.

This is where one of our boats is based and it has these beautiful, white sand beaches like Playa de Migjorn and the caves!

On the way from the port of Formentera to Cala Saona, there are these swim-in caves. We get close by and then you can jump off the boat and swim into them.

This is a beautiful private island on the east coast. It is a really magical place as well. Beautiful water and just an amazing location.

Ibiza's Only Eco-Friendly Boat Trip with La Bella Verde

Cami Layé Okún

Havana

I highly recommend a visit to the other side of the bay of Havana, the way to get there is by the “Lanchitas de Regla” (small boats). Known for being a town with a strong cultural tradition, especially with regard to Afro-Cuban religiosity and spirituality, it’s also a place known for its musicians.

The University of the Arts, built in 1976, is undoubtedly one of the city's architectural emblems. Twenty minutes from the centre of Havana, the ISA is a campus full of vegetation with domes and tunnels that from an aerial view, suggest breasts, fallopian tubes and vaginas. Despite having five buildings, you can only access the ‘artes circenses’ building that is currently abandoned. Ideal place to meditate, read or picnic with friends.

Exquisite live jazz club. Located in a basement of 23rd Avenue in the heart of the Vedado neighbourhood. A space where you can really get a feel for the musical talent found in the city.

The spot for fresh, natural juices. Ideal place to stop and cool down from the sun. It’s one of the few places I know where you can find a variety of juices without sugar, made in the moment with fresh fruits and vegetables. Only accepts national currency.

One of the best views of the city and sea. Admission is free for everyone, no matter if you are not staying at the hotel. Highly recommended spot for the sunset.

The greenest area in the city, where the smell of the earth is penetrating. With lush vegetation and trees brought from Africa, it is a space full of spirituality where many works of Afro-Cuban santeria are practised.

In the summer season there’s nothing better than swimming at Club Náutico.

This is a natural park where the facilities and nature merge in an enveloping way. Ideal to arrive by bicycle and enjoy the musical activities that are offered, mainly for children on weekends.

Havana would not be Havana without the Malecon. The Wall that protects the ocean and the place that gives us the best sunsets and sunrises from any point. It is the ideal place for all those things that make life more beautiful.

Havana with DJ, Cami Layé Okún

Darkovibes

Twist night club is my go to location when it’s comes to night life in Accra. Growing up, I heard so many stories about the club which intrigued me to visit the club some day. It has an indoor studio where I record sometimes as well.

A beach house with a serene environment suitable for any kind of mood.


Go there order the ginger shot and Kokroko, your night will be made. They have some of the nicest calamari too.


I love Epos just because it runs 24 hours a day & any time of the day I can get food from them.

A beautiful rooftop view with live band performances.


Anytime I can’t go to Belleza Beach club due to the distance you’ll find me at Labadi beach riding a horse.


This club runs till morning. It’s definitely a vibe anytime me and my friends go there.


Explore Accra with Darkovibes 

Drew Smith

Yosemite

This is the place to camp, the only first come first serve campground in Yosemite. Camp 4 is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its nationally significant role in the development of rock climbing as a sport. You will meet travellers and climbers from all over the world here.

My favorite place to look up at El Capitan. Yosemite’s most iconic formation, rising 3000ft straight up from the valley floor. Once you've parked, grab a blanket, snacks, and a beverage. With these items in hand, find a spot to relax and enjoy the sunset. A spot that is my favorite is right next to the tree on the eastern side of the meadow.

If you’re into sunsets this is the spot. Park at the Taft Point trailhead and hike 20-30 minutes. You'll get impressive views of the north valley wall, including El Capitan (which you'll actually be looking down on) and Yosemite Falls.

Taking the Mist Trail up to Nevada Falls is one of my favorite hikes. The steep hike follows the Merced River. Starting at Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley, you’ll hike past Vernal Falls and Emerald Pool, ending at Nevada Falls. Hiking to Nevada Falls is around 3.5 miles and the views are breathtaking all along the way.

If it’s raining or you just feel like chilling inside. The Ahwahnee has big sitting rooms and is the best place to read a book under the impressive architecture.

Best pizza in the Valley. After a big day out this is my go-to: grabbing a pizza and cold beverage.

If you forget any supplies and need anything from clothing to climbing gear this place has it all.

This natural spring is just off the road while driving into Yosemite Valley. It’s a great place to fill up water bottles and take a break. Some say the water is healing.

This is a Yosemite classic, a fun long 5.10 climb that takes you floor to rim. Covering lots of ground with a solid partner are some of my favorite days out.

This might be the best 5.11c multi-pitch rock climb on earth. Every pitch is high-quality and would be sought after individual classics were they at any crag, but stacked on top of each other they create a superb and memorable challenge. The climbing is secure, well protected, and physical.

Explore Yosemite with Climber Drew Smith

Eugy

Club twist is popping! It took me 4 years to get into the Club Twist, if you get in you're made! If you haven't met the bouncer FM you haven't been to Twist.

After the party it's the after party! It's for the after partiers, when you leave Twist you go to Ace Tantra. Look out for my guys Yeho and Pablo Ghost they'll look after you.

Drinks to order - Ginger Shots, Kokokro & taste their Calamari - it makes sense!

All types of vibes from food/drinks to live music and horse riding.

Accra's Nightlife with Eugy

Lordkez

Johannesburg

This is a collection of shops, restaurants and galleries all in one space in Johannesburg. My favourite spot to go to when I am there is called "Peachy" they have incredible "Asianesque Wings" that you need to try out. They also have live music which is always great, especially when it is Jazz!

This is one of the best places I have been to in Johannesburg. The food is incredible, the music is so nice and the overall aesthetic of the place is amazing, in fact, I shot some scenes for my music video "Sunday" in the venue. When you go there you need to ask for Katlego Mlambo, he is the head chef - award winning type of guy.

This is a really cool place to go chill on a Saturday afternoon, it is a food and drink market that happens in the city, great views, good music and tasty food is always a good combination.

My favorite part about these gardens is the river with the fish, I like feeding the fish, it is so peaceful and green. Oh, they also have ducks and ducks are really cute. Sometimes, you just need to sit under a tree and breathe in fresh air with your shoes off, this is the perfect place for this.

This is an old school cinema based in Braamfontein, which is near Johannesburg city centre. They showcase indie films there, both local and international. It's really great to spend an evening watching indie films and eating popcorn, I feel so vintage when I do that.

This place is really cool, it is a lifestyle centre made up of over 100 empty shipping containers filled with different fashion and retail stores, there are also some really cool coffee shops with great doughnuts, they sometimes have live music too, if you watching live music you need a glass of wine. South Africa has the best wine.

This rooftop is on the 15th Floor of a designer hotel in the middle of Johannesburg City Centre, the views of the city are incredible and the sunsets are even better. If you ever find yourself in this beautiful venue you have to try the Oysters, they are unbelievable.

Explore

All 28 Results

Filtered Results