Lagos

The Ofada on their menu and Jollof rice.

So the house is a nice chill spot in VI (Victoria Island). They’ve got really good Nigerian dishes like the ofada I mentioned which is local rice and also continental dishes. They open till late daily so you can really have a good time there.


King fisher is a seafood restaurant in Lekki, it’s got some scenic views and they open late as well.

It’s a lounge in VI, I go there because they’ve got really nice cocktails at decent prices and good music too.

Foodies is in lekki, they’ve got all sorts of Nigerian dishes and they’re affordable.

The burg is a joint in Ikeja and as you can tell by the name they’ve got great burgers. You don’t have to break the bank to eat there and their milkshakes are top notch.

Yellow Chilli are on mainland and island. They have really good African dishes with a homely vibe.

They are barbecue joint in VI with great grills and they are affordable too.

So olaiya is a hub for all sorts of Nigerian dishes, I tend to order take out from there most time.

Eating out in Lagos with BOJ

Spaghetto

Milan

Best movie theater in Milano. They screen really cool and diverse movies at literally every time of the day. Movies are not dubbed! You don’t have to hear your fav actors speaking with a weird Italian voice! Yes!! Another awesome thing about this place is that the lovely lesbian couple who run it got it from the local church. I have no idea how they manage to screen stuff like a death metal documentary there but I swear they do!

Illustration and comic book art museum. They have great exhibitions and workshops. The place where the museum is located is very nice. There is a cool funny statue, a little park with a tiny skatepark and a bar called Boom where you can enjoy happy hour sitting outside or on the rooftop.

The place is def not fancy and they only make pizza, but it's super delicious and it gives you an idea of what the Isola district used to be before hipsters and gentrification arrived.

It's a public swimming pool, but also a theater and venue that hosts various events. It's really a unique place, where beautiful 1930s Italian architecture meets contemporary art and happenings.

Triennale is home to the Italian design Museum and hosts some of the best exhibitions in Milano. They also have concerts and sometimes music events that start super late at night and in the morning. Outside in the garden there's a bar, amazing sculptures and a fountain by Giorgio De Chirico.

Probably the best gelato in Milano. Fucking amazing! Try salty pistachio!

It is the first fetish boutique in Italy opening back in 1998. Arianna and Martina are super nice and they have the best lingerie, toys and latex in Milan. What I love is that they also carry pin-up dresses and 50s inspired clothing.

Super fun and friendly place in the heart of Lambrate. They brew their own unpasteurised/unfiltered beer and have won many awards for it. They sell their craft beer to a lot of pubs in Milan, Italy, and abroad, but this is the original spot where it all started in the mid 90s.

I like Rob de Matt because food is good but it’s also a very cool concept/project. The association who runs it provides work and help to marginalised people. They have a big garden/outside area that is fantastic in the summer where you can have brunch outside in the weekends and they hosts lots of happenings.

If you love to be surrounded by books like I do, this is the place for you! It’s a wine bar/bistrot/second hand bookshop all together. You can go for lunch, aperitif, dinner or just drinks. They host poetry readings, stand up comedy nights, little concerts and you can take your drinks outside in the nice little square.

Spaghetto's Guide to Milan

Wavy the Creator

This is probably one of my favorite places to eat, coupled with the fact that it basically gives the vibe of you being in a house based on the variety of “rooms” you can go to.
Their jollof rice, peppered turkey and plantain? Never a miss

This is a new fashion store that appeals to the younger crowd in Nigeria. I first came across them on social media and was very pleased when i went to their online store and saw how well they cater to what the young people like. They have variety of options from shoes, to accessory They recently just opened a store at the Palms mall in Lekki, which is very convenient.

When I heard about Rufus and Bee, a fun house in Lagos, I was excited. The sense of freedom and nostalgia from the experience could make your inner child come alive. It is located in a building with 3 restaurants, a movie theater and an amazing rooftop view.

I feel this is a recreational haven for music and art lovers. It is a strategic site for the country, it was created around a decommissioned prison. From getting an insight into prison life in the 80’s to seeing a sample size of a cell as well as the gallows kind of motivates my process.
You sense immediately the love that transformed this former prison and place of hate and misery of colonial times into a venue where everyone is welcome. The park is beautiful

This bay is the ideal spot for ocean lovers, tourists and unarguably one of the best places to go to and have fun and relax. It’s my go to for the perfect “daycation”.

The main attraction for me was the 400m long canopy walkway (longest in Africa) as it gives a full view of the unique wildlife inhabiting the centre.

My first time at Bogobiri, I felt like I was at a spa in a treehouse. The art and decor are placed together to help you relax. The restaurant, the hotel and the art center make it a hub for everyone. You definitely know I do not miss Thursday’s open mic night.

A fine dining restaurant placed in an eye-catching environment with bamboo structures, use of shapes, contemporary art pieces and lest I forget, a contemporary fashion design store. My friends know it's the luxury Amala for me, to me it’s Amala that went to Yale.

This gallery is arguably the largest of its kind in West Africa with over 8,000 diverse works of art. Getting to see a wealth of artworks and be inspired by the thoughts behind the art. My favorite part of the first experience was how receptive and accommodating it feels once you’re in.

One of the largest markets in the city located in the heart of Lagos island. I enjoy thrifting a lot so this is like thrifting heaven

Exploring Lagos with Wavy the Creator

Hugo Mendoza 

New York City 

The Bronx Museum tends to go under people's radar a lot of the time but this is one of my top 3 favorite museums in NY. Last year (2019) they had the best exhibition I've ever been to. Shout out Henry Chalfant.

This is an old photo but it captures the very essence of Fordham Road. From sneakers you haven't seen in years to $5 thermal packs to keep you warm through a NY winter, this joint has it all. If you make your way towards University Heights Bridge you can fuck with some Texas size Henny Coladas at Dallas BBQs.

This one here is a gem. I stumbled upon the Bartow mansion one time I was riding on my 10-speed headed to City Island, if I remember correctly. The garden is like no other and if you're into Greek revival interiors this joint is for you.

I keep this one close to my heart. Big Pun is in my top 5 for obvious reasons. Tats Cru is legendary Bronx shit. Not much to say about this one, they switch it every other year. Each year is hard. If you fuck with PUN go see it. 

Dominican owned. Bronx based. Great food. The menu changes daily, Thursday is my go-to. Chivo con arroz blanco y guandules de coco. Enough said.

Best Pizza in the Bronx. Don't @ me. Get the sausage slice. 

If you know me, you knew this one was coming. Get a little bit of each section. The menu is broken down into sections. Fried, Boiled and I think burgers and chicken. Don't touch those. Stick to the seafood. Go fuck with a Henny Colada or 2. The peoples at the bar have no actual bartending experience so they bless the Henny amounts.

Best Chopped Cheese in the Bronx in my opinion. Open 24hrs. I know if you are from NY and you're reading this I know youre like "Hugo got it fucked up, the best chopped cheese is..." That's cool. If ya'll ever decide to take a trip uptown, come see for yaself. 

Explore The Bronx with Hugo Mendoza

Mei River

Stockholm 

Mine and my girl's favorite spot. Great food and atmosphere. The chevre with truffle honey is the bomb!

There are some really good ramen spots in Stockholm and you could go into long debates about which one is the best. My favorite is called Totemo, a small place with few seats. There is always a line outside, so be ready for that.

Been sitting in a studio right next door, so swinging by for a beer after a session isn't half bad.

I used to go here every weekend when I was younger. A good supply of old instruments, cameras etc. And for a good cause, the money goes towards social sustainability.

Stockholm-based brand, always on top with their collections. This is a ”side project” they've been doing.

Carl Milles' old home, where he did most if his art. Dreaming to have a garden like that someday. It's nice to just walk around and get inspired.

Spent most of my summers here as a child. Calm and beautiful, a great escape from the city. Just jump on boat in the city and go island hopping.

Stockholm with Mei River

Amsterdam

This is the spot for anyone who is serious about tea. The owner Amanda is a real authority in the tea world. She has been appointed by the Chinese government as the European ambassador of Pu-erh tea. Formocha also does traditional tea ceremony and the upstairs seating area is a real oasis within the Jordaan area. They specialise in tea from China, Taiwan and Japan.

Is a 'by reservation only', vegan ramen restaurant - don't be put off by the 100% plant based ramen. It is incredible.

The real ones in Amsterdam know this is THE late night dining spot. Tell me where else you'll be able to get a Hong Kong-style typhoon shelter fried lobster and some Tsingtaos in the AM's.

An amazing Korean florist, they also host workshops on floral arrangement techniques.

Hands down the best Chinese supermarket in Amsterdam.

Assort is a Japanese hair salon with locations all over the world. The staff are the best and are extremely creative.

Great Filipino bakery, their ube cake is banging!

A hidden gem, some of the best sushi in Amsterdam. They also make their own ice cream.

Honestly one of my favourite spots in Amsterdam, really tasty Malaysian food. Everything on the menu is great but their Sambal Lady Finger's (Okra), Laksa and Hainanese Chicken Rice are must haves.

Asian-Owned Businesses in Amsterdam

Orange Culture

For great breakfast, pop by craft gourmet.

If you want to enjoy an amazing time bouncing - stop by the indoor trampoline park and connect with your inner child.

Fun arcade games, bowling and the option of three different restaurants including one with a rooftop view.

Stop by or order in for great shawarma and fries.

Discover Nigerian contemporary art at its best at Rele in the heart of Lagos.

Catch a beautiful history, beautiful Adire and beautiful conversations with Mama Nike at the Nike Art Gallery. It is truly an experience.

If you want to try delicious suya for the first time, stop by Bukka Hut in the evening.

For super facials, mani peds and relaxing massages, pop by Bnatural in Victoria island, Lagos.

For great spoken word, live bands and delicious food, stop by Bogobiri to enjoy a rich artistic and Afrocentric experience.

If you want to enjoy Nigerian food in a beautiful, architectural space with great vibes stop by NOK. Weekends are great with DJs and bands sometimes hosted while you enjoy great food.

Try the longest bridge walk/canopy walk and also enjoy a nice picnic outside during dry season. Stay hydrated and carry your camera to capture the beautiful experience.

Amazing Japanese food and the option of a beautiful beach view while you sip on a delicious cocktail. Shiro is definitely the spot. At night the music gets really good and you have Hard Rock Cafe in the same compound for a great night out.

Fine dining - this is the place to visit. Steak is amazing.

Lagos with Orange Culture

Lotte Andersen

London

It’s like pick n mix - the programming is dope. The cinema shows crazy stuff all the time and they tend to be the first to screen most independent young artist's films. It’s cheap too, which always blows my mind.

GO FRIDAY!


Don't do Saturdays... it’s like Camden on steroids (in London language, this is stressful). This is my home, it's where i grew up. Friday is the best day for proper vintage and second hand clothes. I studied fashion and am obsessed with textiles, lots of that too! Friday is when all the buyers from the big fashion houses descend (usually at 7.30AM) to swoop all gear for archive research. Walk to the very top and then right on Golborne’s best food stalls (Moroccan, West Indian and more... weather dependant though).

Literally go to to the rose garden and check out all the names of the different strains. It’s so grand, old-fashioned and FREE... Also WHO knew there were roses called Champagne Coast, Rachel, Nostalgia and Simply the best?

This is my childhood gallery. Walk through Kensington Gardens, around the round pond, or from Albert Hall. There are two, the Sackler Centre and the Original Gallery. It’s on this list for pure nostalgia. It’s literally the first gallery I was pushed around in a stroller. The events programme in the Summer is super fun too.

My friend Jackson has opened the most divine restaurant. The food is a sensory ride and is aesthetically gorgeous. The space is designed by Rose Uniacke. Jackson, as corny as it sounds, is a magician with flavour. Boujie.

I worked for John after dropping out of studying fashion. He started ‘Granny Takes a Trip’ in the 60s, dressed icons like Jimi Hendrix and The Beatles... literally everyone. He opened his tailors in the early 80s. He’s usually grump, but if you say you know Lotte he’ll cheer up. He literally invented hype youth culture clothing and lol'd when Supreme opened a block away cos he said he hadn’t seen young people queue for clothes since his shop.

This is one of London’s best kepts... there are a line of restaurants in a row that have been there since the 80s. They’ve got weird cool wooden booths. Order the chana poori or the poori filled with yoghurt and sweet potatoes. So divine! Pay by cash or only one card to make it easy for them. Lunch buffet for £6.50- DIVINE.

Lotte Andersen's London Guide

Gurjeet Singh

Chandigarh

When I was in college, I was very curious to know all about art and I spent a lot of my time at a gallery where I could have a vast learning experience. From the sculptures of the Harappan civilization to miniature Mughal paintings, to the work of contemporary masters, the Government College of Art is a museum and art gallery that covers an extensive range of art, all housed in one place. As a student developing my artistic practice, there could be nothing more exciting than a place like this, with a huge library stocked with books, and much to see and experience. A personal favourite of mine is a modernist mural by Satish Gurjal of Shiva Parvati made with ceramic.

The Rock Garden of Chandigarh is a fitting place for art enthusiasts who are ever interested in using sustainable materials. In the art world now, there’s a lot of talk about creating consciously, and it’s wonderful to know that this garden was built in Chandigarh, all the way back in 1957 by an official called Nek Chand Saini. I’ve spent hours exploring the sculptures that dot the garden because it’s bursting with energy, and I still fear that if I divert my eyes for a second I’ll miss something of value. There is a newly added doll museum of rag doll sculptures made from waste cloth, representing Indian culture and its everyday life – like a bridegroom in his traditional gear or women artisans busy at the spinning wheel. With waterfalls and swings dotting the property, it’s a great place to spend many hours on a day when you have time, admiring the sculptures.

The Rose Garden is a large, botanical garden with over a thousand roses and plants of medicinal value. The garden also happens to be Asia’s largest and hosts an annual cultural event: the Rose Festival at the beginning of the year. The thing I love most is that roses from all over are planted according to the season, so there’s always something in bloom. The special thing about Chandigarh is that it is a planned city, and Mohinder Singh Randhawa – who was involved in landscaping – founded the Rose Garden in his attempt to ensure that there is a healthy mix of nature included in the city’s plan, which is why you will find a lot of green in Chandigarh.

This is my favourite place to eat in all of the city. Being originally from Amritsar, and having lived in Chandigarh for long, I find myself missing the authentic Amritsari chole kulcha (chickpeas cooked in spices, paired with bread from the tandoor), and this spot immediately remedies my homesickness. Pair a tall glass of lassi with the dish and that is your go-to Punjabi meal.

If you wish to have an authentic Indian meal or even bakery treats, made with organic ingredients, this is the cafe you should visit. From a Railway mutton curry to sourdough, you’ll find a delectable variety of food, all consciously sourced and cooked. I really like the urban interiors and soft light of Back to Source, and you can look out onto the city while having a drink in the cafe.

Shastri market is a local market where you’ll find a mixed bag of people, purchasing anything from clothes to cutlery. It’s a huge market, and has items at reasonable prices along with expensive ones, really depending on what you’re looking to buy. I love visiting the market since most of my clothes are created by me, and this is the place from where I source the raw material for the clothes I stitch and wear. I love the prints and patterns they stock. For my art, I solely use discarded fabrics, which I find in the market as well.

A Guide to Chandigarh by Gurjeet Singh

PLANET

Sydney

Great day spot to continue a big night out. Can play giant Jenga, queue tunes on the jukebox and play some games of pool. The bistro is pretty sick as well.

Perfect spot for a post swim schoo. This one is hard to beat from a view perspective - grab a drink from the bar, take a seat on the grass and just vibe. If the mood strikes you can take off your shoes and roll some balls at another, smaller ball. Bliss.

From questionable origins to BBQ heaven. Great spot to come and enjoy some Southern style BBQ in an eclectic beer garden with more plants than a Newtown sharehouse bathroom. Lovely.

They say never mix business with pleasure. ‘They’ are wrong. Had a good few PLANET business meetings here, always very productive. KPI’s smashed. Has a playground for the youngins.

The story here goes that when an old bloke doesn’t show up to his chair one arvo the other locals say “Diddy die?” and that’s how it got called The Diddy. Good ol’ unpretentious bowling club but has had a facelift over the years. Reschs on tap.

Sydney's Best Beer Gardens with PLANET

Vivendii

Family owned gallery started by Ms Nike herself with some of the most amazing paintings, sculptures and other artwork in Lagos. Instagram heaven for all yall social media addicts. Real nice to just have reflective time away from the hustle and just appreciate art. It's fire

One of my favourite places in Lagos to go to. Pick a chilled day to pull up to the market to find amazing artwork, jewellery, painting, models, sculptures, leather products and a bunch of other fire shit. Cultural explosion all available for sale. Come with your bargaining shoes on because none of these cool pieces come without a fight

Exactly what it says it is, a centre promoting the welfare of the environment and its conservation. Monkeys and other animals running around and has Africa's highest foot path over the trees with amazing views. Great time with a bunch of people. Bring some food, drinks and have a picnic in the large open spaces

Amazing Italian/Peruvian (I think) fusion restaurant/chill spot/motel lol. Spot of a vibe and some of my best ideas have come just chilling outside enjoying their sangria. They also have a bakery with some of the best donuts in Lagos NO CAP

An authentic Nigerian beach experience. Pull up with a bunch of friends and enjoy the serenity away from the crazy streets of Lagos. Either go full local and take a banana boat from some of the docks such as Bonny Camp or BICS in Lekki or take a boat/yacht from one of the beach clubs and enjoy the vibe

Shrine is one of the most authentic spots in the city, a celebration of Fela's life and everything he was about. Fire spot you can smoke, drink, eat and watch some amazing performances from artists including his sons, Femi and Seun Kuti

Late food spot open nearly 24/7. Top 3 best chicken wings in the city. After nearly every night at the club, pull up to Maroccaine

Go on the day of exhibitions with great local artists. Get the tequila beer salitos with a slice of lime. SENSATIONAL in the heat. I think it actually tastes better in Lagos. Also, try 16 by 16's twist on zobo, a traditional blackcurrant drink

Vivendii's Top Spots In Lagos

Stiff Pap

Cape Town

If you want a night out in the township, this should be your first stop. Rands is one of the best live music venues in the city and a great place to experience a night out over some drinks and some of SA’s biggest musicians.

If you’re interested in hiking this is an entry level trail. There’s a beautiful view of the ocean and the city when you reach the peak. It’s really pretty around sundown.

This is a great spot for people who want to experience some of Cape Town’s alternative/underground music events. The best event to attend there is called Prime, so keep an eye on their socials.

This is probably the most popular bar in town. They have great music from an eclectic line up of local (and some international) djs. Start off at the one in Kloof Street around 6/7pm for sundowners and make your way down the road to the one on loop street around 10pm for the rest of the night. If you just want a chilled night out, stick to Kloof Street.

If you’re into markets/food festivals this is your spot on Saturday mornings. There are local bands, food stalls and tons of independent retailers selling (often local) goods.

Observatory is often referred to as the bohemian centre of Cape Town, because of all the students and backpackers it attracts. With the many bars on Lower Main Road, its definitely a must see for people looking to meet new people and interact with the creative community.

If you’re a fan of nature, you might want to make a stop here with the whole family. This is easily one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the country. Depending on the season they also host live concerts on the grass.

Cape Town with Music Duo, Stiff Pap

LADIPOE

A quirky afrocentric boutique hotel with a small gallery and a serious vinyl collection of vintage Nigerian music. They host an open mic night every Thursday and this is where I first began to hone my skill as a performer. The food is great too.

This was once a prison during colonial times, but it’s now a centre that celebrates art and culture. It’s home to quite a few festivals and live events, but Afropolitan Vibes is the one that offered me and many others a platform to perform to a big crowd of regulars.

It’s hard to describe hFACTOR. It’s this really cool space in the heart of Lagos Island. They often collaborate with different people to throw some amazing parties and you get to meet the most unique characters. It’s a completely different vibe each time.

It’s the tea for me. However, it is first and foremost a library of vinyl records, CDs, DVDs and books. The proprietors are also a great source of knowledge about Lagos, and Nigeria in general. Also, as mentioned earlier, the tea is excellent. I performed there once, as a member of a group called the Collectiv3.

So many of us have been excluded from places because of our fashion sense, musical leanings and unique way we present ourselves to the world, but at Island Block Party (and its progenitor - mainland block party), everyone is welcome. My favourite thing about it is the exchange of culture between dissimilar yet like-minds. It’s what makes this monthly party a must to attend. It’s also a great place for upcoming and established acts to perform.

LADIPOE's Guide to Arts and Culture In Lagos

Melodic Distraction

Liverpool

Don’t watch the Trip Advisor reviews, Festival Gardens is still a spot in the summertime. Tucked away off the main trail of Otterspool Promenade, the gardens have gone a bit unloved in the last few years. The trees and plants may be reclaiming the land in parts but it all adds to the slightly mysterious vibe of the place.

It may not be in Liverpool but most in this part of the world visit at least once a year. Hilbre Island is only accessible by foot when the tide’s out and takes around an hour to reach by walking across the sand. There’s always some cool wildlife to run into when you’re out there and you can even spot the seals bobbing their heads up from the sea in the summer months.

Art, film, technology and culture all come together at FACT. It’s an interactive gallery, cinema, cafe and learning space all rolled into one. They support loads of great local artists in the city and there’s always something to get involved with.

Our favourite spot for preloved records in Liverpool. Dig Vinyl is a lovingly curated treasure trove of second hand slabs of wax. Belter rock, new wave and reggae sections, backed up by a load of dancefloor cuts and super friendly staff behind the counter on every visit.

It’s a bar, a coffee spot, a gig venue, a winter garden and a boss record store. Phase One is the latest venue from the folks behind the historic Liverpool club, The Jacaranda. We’re here for three months, thanks to the support of Dr. Martens and the good folks at Phase One, as we fundraise for our brand-new studio space. We’re looking to raise £35,000 to build our new, permanent home out of two shipping containers at The Tapestry in Liverpool’s Fabric District. The pandemic may have slowed things down but there is no doubt that the team at Phase One have big plans for the future!

A small and vibrant club and garden down on the North Docks of Liverpool. Nestled away among derelict warehouses, getting there is a challenge upon a first visit but the reward is worth the cab ride.

A hugely passionate crew runs the place and the club is a real labour of love. Who else can say they’ve hosted Moodymann in a 175 capacity venue, eh!?

A small, intimate club with a great soundsystem and booking policy. What more do you need to know? A go-to for students, locals and older heads alike. Any given week can host everything from jazz bands to house, techno and jungle DJs. 24KS have been fighting their own battle against gentrification for some time now - and we can’t think of any regular folks on the ground who aren’t 100% behind their right to stay!

The best outdoor bar in town during Liverpool’s long winter months. Handmade bric-a-brac furniture, mulled drinks and a tiny but punchy little event space, The Kazimier Gardens and adjoining ‘Stockroom’ gig venue are locally beloved.

The jewel in the crown of Liverpool’s Sefton Park, the Palm House is a Victorian era greenhouse filled with tropical plants from around the world.

It regularly hosts weddings, corporate events and functions but from time-to-time you can see a wicked gig in there the likes of Norman Jay, Slick Rick and even a Boiler Room takeover.

The newest spot on our list, Nomad is a lockdown baby. Opening after the first UK lockdown lifted; its coffee and light bites have proven super popular with the residents of the ever-busy Smithdown Road.

Head down all week for coffee, or book a table for a good Sunday lunch (often in the form of a homemade lasagna!)

Community Radio Melodic Distraction's guide to Liverpool

Soukayna

Marrakech

They have great great exhibitions and programmes, they work a lot with Moroccan artists. It’s a beautiful space, it’s in the middle of the Medina and there are always cats napping outside. You know you’re at 18 when you see a bunch of cats napping. People are very very welcoming and they will come and talk to you. It’s a good space to meet people in the art scene. Go and sit in the terrace before your exhibition!

It’s a thrift shop that is actually owned by a Moroccan. Hamad has an incredible eye for curated pieces. He also designs some of the pieces that he sells there. You can get vintage pieces and also pieces made by a local Moroccan designer!

It's a concept store and I really recommend the cheese and tomato briwats! Their msemen kefta wrap is delicious and it’s a cute spot to sit and work at. And the cook is named Saida and she’s super sweet.

Another art-space with programmes but very different dynamic and scene from Dix huit. It’s very much about exploring alternative art and more underground art. They do programmes with different associations in Morocco. They do film projections as well. They have a space called La Garage where they sometimes have parties and invite DJs. It’s more underground.

Keep an eye out for their instagram account where they announce pretty cool underground events if you’re looking for something that’s not so mainstream.



It has a very beautiful garden, drinks are very very cheap and food is great! The staff are super nice and they sometimes let you connect your phone to the AUX cord.

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