Wavy the Creator

Lagos

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

Queer Bruk

London

Margate

Incredible beach with an amazingly (and somewhat surprisingly) diverse and safe atmosphere. Margate is rich with culture that is slowly but surely becoming more diverse, making it a great place for people of colour and LGBTQ+ people. 


Swim Level: Beginner

Public Transport:  Yes 

Facilities: Lifeguard 

Stanborough Park is a 126 acre plot of land that has two lakes that are beautiful. While swimming isn’t allowed, it’s an amazing place to take part in canoeing, kayaking and other water sports - Welwyn is still relatively close to London, also!

Swim Level: Not for Swimming 

Public Transport: Yes

Facilities: Yes


Trent Park is personally near and dear to my heart, I've had my birthday party underneath the same tree since I was one year old (with the exception of a couple of years) and the place is amazing! Located in North London (Cockfosters), the park is 413 acres and there are many bodies of water. It’s a truly amazing place that is transformative and peaceful.

Swim Level: Not for swimming 

Public Transport:  Yes

Facilities: No 

Cool Off From the Clubs with Queer Bruk’s Water Spots

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

Orienteer Magazine

Scotland

Wales

We took a trip to Arisaig, Scotland with MW guiding us to go sea kayaking. The water is so clear it looks like the Caribbean, we kayaked from island to island spotting seals as we went. With the right equipment you can also go wild camping, snorkelling or fishing. 


Swim level: Beginner 
Public Transport: Yes 
Facilities: Lifeguard 


A photoshoot took us walking the Watkins Path of Snowdonia. We were following the river up which twists and turns through many rock pools and waterfalls, the rock pools make the perfect spot to stop for a swim and cliff jumping! The clearest water and easy to access.  


Swim Level: Intermediate

Public Transport:  Yes

Facilities: None 

Where I am from in Rickmansworth, there are a lot of lakes that you can go sailing on and spots that would be great for wild swimming. I haven’t been back in years but have fond memories. Catch a short train from London and take an easy stroll around them, it's a great spot to go if you just want to be in nature and surrounded by water. 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport:  No 

Facilities: Toilets / Car Park 

When walking The Old Man Of Coniston, the blue lake is the perfect scene for a mirror lake shot - you get reflections of the mountain behind and the sky, if you can stay till sundown! The colours are so vivid. 


Swim Level: Not for Swimming 

Public Transport:  Yes 

Facilities: No 

There is a lake at the bottom of Pen Y Fan, great spot for a wild swim after a long hike. You can pitch up for the night in the nearby forest and wild camp next to small streams. It's a great spot for a few days as with the right equipment this water can be used for drinking water and to clean your cook sets! 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport: No 

 Facilities: No 

Orienteer Mapazine's Top Weekend Trips That End with a Dip

BOY SODA

Sydney

I love this spot! The edge of the cemetery falls away into this big panoramic view of the ocean and it reminds me how small I am! It’s such a beautiful contrast of life and death and it’s humbling to feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world. The sheer size of the cemetery is breathtaking, definitely a special location. 

There is something so local and comforting about Marrickville Bowling club. A lot of rehearsal spaces and hole-in-the-wall recording studios are on the same street so I love going there and watching the sunset as drunk people play bare foot bowls like it’s ten-pin and running into local artists. They’ve had amazing shows there and their live setup is weirdly amazing for how lowkey it is.  They also do a bomb nachos!

They make Banh Mi’s here in lightning speed plus it’s cheap and so so delicious! Super fresh salads and fresh bread, it’s *chef kiss*, just be prepared, people queue around the block! Definitely my go to spot if I'm working or frolicking around the area, because it’s a small, family-oriented business and I get the feeling the food is made with a lot of love! (There’s also super tasty Vietnamese iced coffee right next door to them!) 

Irreplaceable store, easily spotted by the window full of vintage kicks, or their beautiful dog Jazzy who greets everyone at the door! They have a crazy selection of new and vintage kicks and heaps of vintage tees, jackets, workwear, and accessories. There are a few vintage stores in Newtown but I trust Irreplaceable so much for their good taste, so I know I’m always finding that thing I didn’t know I needed in there. There’s also really good size range in everything so I always want to spend my whole pay check on vintage Carhartt pants! 

We’re blessed with a bunch of great vinyl stores in Sydney. If you’ve got a couple of hours to kill, nothing better than flicking through old vinyl racks looking for a gem. I always find great Jazz and soul records in here, and if you’re a producer who loves crate digging it’s a goldmine.

Everybody loves a cocktail but this bar is disguised as an old butcher’s shop so it’s fun and usually very intimate and cosy to hide away in! Friday night cocktail hour is calling your name! From memory they have freshly squeezed apple juice which I love with Fireball! 

Exploring Sydney with BOY SODA

TAKSU

Bali

Miller’s Records, located in the famous spot of umalas, a small shop taking on a vegas style look from the outside has a very wide variety of vinyl records. Being relatively new, this shop has already been a strong community because it does not only offer to buy but also possible to sell personal vinyl collection. Inside you'll see racks in different styles organized by its genres and year, making it easy to find and eye pleasing as some cool looking vinyl stacked up on frames. For most of its vinyl that isn't originally produced, they have a tag showing it’s been purchased there, price range starting even from 60k for some vinyl up to 2,7mill for collector items.

Ganesha Ubud is a very small distinguished library selling old vintage story books, comics, to postcard in Ubud making. Here you'll find the craziest old books you could have not thought of about Indonesia or anything relevant to Indonesia and its history, as they only sell old, rare, out-of-print books.

There will always be 2 very kind shopkeepers who you can ask for help, and they can tell you stories behind the books which are always fascinating. They also allow you to read some of the books (ones which are not sealed) daily as if it's a library. Their prices are relatively cheap for an amazing book you are yet to discover. Some as cheap as 10.000 rupiah for a small book with all the old 80’s indonesia postcard stamps.

Lab Rana is another small, cool shop located in Tamora gallery in the heart of Berawa. Labrana is the go to place to buy your films needs and develop them. It offers a lot of types of film and film cameras, without worrying which one is the best fit for your cause of photography, you could simply share and talk with them about what you want and need and they'll guide you through your best option for purchase.

Going there you'll meet the senior shopkeeper who has a tight film camera community trying to keep the trend alive.

Tinta Photo Solutions really lives up to its name. A small shop not far from Miller Records and the Bumbak area, Umalas. They give a lot of options with high standard quality prints and frames for your art or photo pieces. They have personally done me well with their offer of leasing their frames for an exhibition I'm doing, giving me ease on up-front payments. Very good hospitality. They have a complete catalogue of solutions when shopping for prints and frames, making it much easier to pick the right frame and print that fits your home's interior design. With with affordable prices, Tinta has helped the community so much building the art scene in out in Bali.

Bali Beach Glamping located in Tabanan close to the famous Pigstone Beach which is well known for surfing, a new getaway for camping with a pinch of luxury just opened. If you go there you’ll meet the Asela the manager who will show you around all the tents which have amazing beach views.

A local entrepreneur who is the boss lady of 2 thrift stores located in Tabanan. She started selling thrift tees in the traditional thrift market of Tabanan, and she gained her knowledge through technology/internet/social media and used them well. She is now known across Bali, even throughout Indonesia. Both of her stores are located in the village of Kerambitan, Tabanan. In the traditional market, you could see her store in the first traditional building(more like a big shack) around 150m in the back. With her joyful voice you could spot and know that it’s Bu Dolir. Price range starting from Rp.30.000 up to some collectable items for 2mill rupiah. There are more thrift stores available to explore in the rest of ‘Pasar kodok’ thrift market in Tabanan.

Segelas Kopi Ubud located in the heart of the village of Mas, Ubud. A small coffee shop across Ari Canti hospital offers not only great coffee but also a comfortable silent space to work with a touch of art and balinese culture. I've personally spent my time gathering inspirations and ideas in this spot. Owned and run by a young teen (GUSTRA I.B) the age of 19 has successfully built a solid coffee shop concept supporting not only local workers that has been WFH, but also educating about the value of art to its customers. My favorite menu is the Nasi Goreng Babi Kecap with the piccolo beverage, with the price for both totalling only $4.

The best item on the menu is the Chasumen with an added ajitama (half boiled egg, japanese style). With free flowing mineral water, expenses on beverage are not needed.

Thrifting & Shopping Local with TAKSU

Matt Wilkinson

Cornwall

The name says it all - a tiny hut, hidden away near beautiful Portscatho. This is a legendary local institution, serving awesome, fresh takeaway grub. Their feast nights are off the scale, and their recipe book is great as well.

I always go to this old-school pub whenever I’m back - it’s like a classic, trinket-filled, Aladdin’s cave of a place. Amazing views too, as it’s just metres from one of the most epic harbours on the planet. Go when it’s stormy!

The paddleboarding club at my local beach, Gyllyngvase. Absolutely anyone can paddleboard - here you can take lessons or just head out on your own.

Whether it’s foraging, game butchery, bush-crafting or canoeing, this camping and glamping activity spot - with a central hub for socialising - is remote and beautiful.

The most westerly surf spot in the country, and one of the most breath-taking beaches on the planet, in my opinion. Great for walks, too.

Finisterre have really taken beachwear to the next level. Their surf clothes are tailor-made for the cold climate, and their streetwear is great too.

Cornwall with Matt Wilkinson

Stephen Tayo

Interesting food. Climb Snake Island there's a nice view from the top. It's quiet, people are amazing, beautiful, and welcoming. You can surf here too

2-in-1 situation, Alara concept store with a restaurant, Knock by Alara, inside. It's all about promoting African luxury. Carefully created. Great atmosphere, great smells, great people. If you eat at Knock, try the Amala, it is so so good here

Two spaces in one building again. Great Thai food and an exhibition space promoting African artists. Amazing views and relaxed ambience

Very beautiful, with tons of roadside brands. One thing that’s really cool here is the amazing and beautiful fabric. It’s really big so eat before and go early!

Very cool and beautiful gallery in Lagos. It's inside Eko Hotel on the seafront

I go here to watch basketball and walk around, observe people and learn

Lagos with Stephen Tayo

a l l i e

Toronto

This is the spot where I purchased my crystal singing bowls. The atmosphere is so inviting, and they have an amazing selection of tarot decks, crystals, ritual oils, candles, and homemade goods by local artisans. Their staff is super knowledgeable and it’s possible that they have the best selection of dried flowers and medicinal herbs in the entire city.

This is one of my favourite second-hand bookshops in Toronto. Going in there is like a warm hug. It also feels kind of like stepping through a time machine into the past. You can always find something unique no matter what genre you're looking for, and they have an incredible esoteric section with some really rare finds. If you're looking for anything to do with divination, spiritualism, mysticism and beyond, this is your spot.

If you want to meditate, decompress and get your life, go to Allan Gardens. It’s one of the most stunning botanical gardens to stroll through or sit in and take in the beauty. There's so many different species of plants and flowers to admire, a gorgeous fountain, massive glass ceilings allowing the sun to pour in, and even a turtle pond. When the energy of the city gets overwhelming, this is a great place to recharge.

Jump on the ferry for 15 minutes and you're on Toronto Islands. Check out Wards Island Beach, Gibraltar Point Beach, or Hanlan's Point (our only clothing optional beach). The Island is an easy way to delve into nature while still being really close to downtown Toronto. It's incredibly peaceful, and you feel like you're way further from the city than you actually are.

"The Spit" was initially conceived of as a breakwater to protect Toronto's bustling shoreline.This is where I go when I need to connect with nature in a deeper way. It almost feels like a secret, because it's so quiet and vast in its scope. There's so many different trails, twists and turns you can take, so it's sort of like a “choose your own adventure” vibe. A lot of the shores are filled with rebar and construction debris, which add this trippy sculptural element to the rocky beaches. Love being here on bike or on foot, and there's always some new hidden oasis I discover every time I go.

If you have time for a day trip, it takes under 2 hours to drive to Allenwood. We don't have a lot of sandy beaches with great swimming in and around Toronto, so this is one the best spots to venture to nearby. It's so beautiful, and you can walk for a mile across the water's edge. The sunsets are phenomenal. It feels more tropical than anything you'll find in the city.

Yes, I have two botanical gardens on this list! This one is a favourite because although there are greenhouses on the premises, most of the gardens are situated outdoors. There are some hidden waterfalls, winding paths, open fields, and manicured gardens that give off big “Alice in Wonderland” energy. Connecting with nature is one of the most integral parts of my spiritual practice, and these gardens have that transportive quality that helps me tap into the expansiveness of myself.

Find Your Zen in Toronto with a l l i e

Lila

Montevideo

At the southernmost city in the Americas, in Montevideo bay, very close to the busy city center, there's this Breakwater structure in which I love to spend time, unplugging myself from everything while watching and sampling sounds from the docks, birds and fishermen around.

I won't lie, I am a huge fan of South American cemeteries, visiting them in each city I play gigs at. In Montevideo, there's one I'm particularly fond of, Cementerio del Buceo. The dichotomy between massive architecture next to decaying graves with plastic flowers, cats always running around. Most of my favourite local musicians and poets from past centuries are buried there.

In the backyard of a fantastic art museum, there's the Japanese garden of Montevideo. A beautiful spot filled with bamboo trees, cherry blossoms and orchids, blended with Uruguayan national trees such as Ceibo. Love to go there with a good book and stare at the koi fishes for hours.

The flea market culture is quite remarkable in Uruguay. Every Sunday, you will find Tirstan Narvaja market right in the city center. I visit it every weekend ever since I can remember, walking kilometres in search of thrift clothes, vinyls, music gear and the most random things you can imagine.

Undoubtfully every Uruguayan has a fond memory of this spot. Right next to the amusement park and the beach, there is a lovely tiny lake with small boats that you can rent, surrounded by native trees, musicians playing around, tiny little islands with rabbits, and a castle (that is actually a library) in the middle.

Located in the oldest neighborhood in town, Cafe Brasilero is a very inspiring artistic bar founded in 1877, with typical art nouveau decorations and incredible food. It's been said that many famous writers from around the globe have started their books there.

Montevideo is known for venues shutting down in the blink of an eye, so most parties are itinerant. But luckily there's Tundra Bar, a place where you can go see the most experimental underground acts around, perhaps a rave here and there, and in the evening you can eat amazing vegan food.

Montevideo with Lila

Teezee

Live music, palm wine artists/ creatives hang out

Teezee's Top Lagos Spots

anaiis

Hawai'i

It’s been a ritual for me to do this hike on January 1st, it’s about 5-7 hours of the most ethereal otherworldly beauty, feels like being on mars. You need two cars unless you hitch hike your way back to the top after the hike, bring loads of water and drink it slowly.

My favouuuuuurite fish tacos, definitely get them from this location. The mango salsa is so yummy.

There’s a little hut on the road to Hana, just have to keep an eye out for it. They make the best banana bread with these special breeds of bananas in maui the apple-banana and the ice-cream banana.

This is hidden spot on the road to Hana, but so gorgeous and unexpected.

My favourite activity on Maui, park your car in the parking lot for big beach, walk to the right extremity of the beach and climb up the hill which will lead you to the other side. There’s a drum circle on this nude beach every Sunday and it’s such vibes.

Star gazing La Perouse Bay -- go way past midnight, be mindful of the deers you may encounter on the drive there, and star gaze from the bay’s parking lot.

I love this jungly hike, it feels so good to be immersed in all of the greenery.

Sneak into the Andaz hotel for a nice hot tub / sunset. I love sneaking in to the Andaz, via the beach front… act cool. Really nice view of the sunset from the hot tub.

The Beautiful Island of Maui, Hawai'i with anaiis

Lillian Hardy

Portland

Go in the morning, get breakfast (ask for the house made hot sauce) and get the cookie to-go. It’s award winning! Take that cookie on a walk up Mt. Tabor! Say hi to the trees.

I spend hours here nerding out on stationary, organizational tools and pens. They have the best selections of paper, manga and tiny sticker books.

This place is out near my studio, so we hit it the most. Be prepared, it gets very rowdy! The dancers are amazingly strong, completely nude and lovely to talk to. Don’t forget, tip every song-- $2 bills only! Throw down more and the show is yours.

A local event space, gallery and grocery store that supports Palestinian artists and activists.

Fresh oysters on Sunday and mind blowing cocktails.

This is my studio. We throw events, art shows, pop-ups and have a range of fun toys to play with. Come by for tea, stay for a while.

Order the baked fish and a white Manhattan.

Live out your organic dad dreams here. Bring cash and a tote. Get the steamy corn :-)

Get out of town and into a hike: Coyote Wall or Dog Mountain. Chase some waterfalls on the old highway then get lunch at White Salmon Bakery. Stop by a winery if you’ve got the time! Hiyu is great.

A Guide to Portland by Lillian Hardy

Ana Sting

I have to confess that in the last years I felt quite connected with the frequency and vibration of certain crystals. I have been meditating and using them for protection and healing. There is this magical place called 'Crystal Mountain' which is a hub for health, healing and happiness. It is an experimental, high vibrational temple for sharing and expressing yourself. The centre also reunites a group of experts and alternative healers creating a vortex for deep transformation and realisation. If you are already familiar with that world you will absolutely love it, if you feel the urge to try it, pay a visit, do not doubt it.

One of the most yummy and local places on the island. This front beach restaurant is found in the town of Talamanca, ten minutes away from the old town and it's run by the most fun and charismatic lady. She makes the place unique and always comes and takes care of the clients with a smile on her face but you can't forget about their fresh food. Definitely a place to visit.

If you need to go shopping and need something glamorous and unique you have to stop by Annie's. The English fashion icon and entrepreneur has the best selection of new and vintage clothing and accessories inside the Old Town of Ibiza. I recommend going at night before having dinner at one of the restaurants in the area or while you eat an ice cream and walk around the beautiful streets.

You might have never heard of it but don't worry, I didn't hear of it before I arrived on the island. Primal is the funniest workout I have ever tried, it connects with your inner child and it is more like a game than a workout which makes it entertaining and feels short although it's a full intense hour. 

Paying a visit to the small island of Formentera is a must. Either book a boat with a group of people and spend the day sailing or take a 30 minute boat and spend a couple of days driving around the tiny island of white sand and turquoise waters. If Ibiza gets a little too much this is the best getaway.

Ibiza’s Magical Crystal Mountain Is any Meditator's Dream

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!)

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