Toronto

My favourite Italian food in the city. The restaurant is beautiful, the food is so good, staff is amazing. Would recommend to anyone looking for elevated Italian. 

Specifically the one on Ossington (but they’re all great). They’ve got my favourite cold brew and the staff is so sweet.

My go-to spot for a big cup of fresh squeezed juice. I make sure to always have cash in my wallet exclusively for Galaxy (cash only). 

Best park in the city, always some entertaining sports to sit and watch or meet up with a friend and walk / have a picnic.

My favourite Italian deli sandwiches & cannoli. Simple, light & flavourful. Follow the IG for popup info @tutto.panino. NB: Map location is not accurate, please check their IG for details of their pop-ups. 

Go on a weekday to avoid the crowds. I go for the vintage shopping, butchers, fish mongers, produce, bars, vendors & consignment instrument shopping. There’s something for everyone.

Italian Delights and Cold Brew Bliss: Charlotte Day Wilson's Guide to Toronto 

Boxout.fm

New Delhi

They are one of the essentials to get the day started for most of the Boxout.fm crew. They initially started as a cafe based in Delhi then expanded to 20 outlets around the country specialising in coffee roasting

Owned by Mr Shah, this spot is located in the middle of Old Delhi. He will offer you tea whilst you dig for tunes. You can find some gems here from Bollywood soundtracks, to classical Indian music to old school Western classics. It is the home of records that are worth £50+ but cost £10+

VegNonVeg also known as “VNV” is India’s first multi-brand sneaker store, based in Delhi. These guys are one of the few people in the city trying to pioneer streetwear culture in India. They also have a sister homegrown clothing brand named Bhaane

Wild City is an online publication that was set up around 8 years ago. Munbir & Sarah the founders moved to New Delhi from London and kick started this. They have a fully functioning office now and are one of the only reliable publications dedicated to underground music in India. They also host an annual music festival in Rajasthan taking place in a Palace every 2nd week of December - highly recommended

Rajinder’s is a place where families and groups of friends gather, either ending their night there or starting it. This is a unique place because it started as one food cart to now owning the whole square. You can order and collect your food and sit outside amongst the others whilst enjoying some of the best, grilled, fried & butter chicken in Delhi. Great as a takeout option if you want to avoid the heat outdoors!

This is our flagship weekly night we throw in New Delhi. It's a night where our community can come together and have a space to explore new sounds. We have had some sick people play including people like Daedelus, Djrum & Flava DThis is our flagship weekly night we throw in New Delhi. It's a night where our community can come together and have a space to explore new sounds. We have had some sick people play including people like Daedelus, Djrum & Flava D

This is a place where you can find everything from Indian garments to notebooks and stationary and some of the most exciting street food carts exploring all regions of India with over 60+ stalls in total. For an entry of 500 rupees you can enjoy all the above

Lodhi Gardens is a historical park in Delhi, spread over 90acres. One of Delhi’s oldest parks including tombs from some of the last Sayyid Dynasty rulers. A popular place for picnics or enjoying long walks away from the busy Delhi streets

Once known as the house of Jaipur and the former residential palace of JAIPUR Maharaja of Jaipur, it is now the home of all modern art in India. This is a great place to explore art both old and new. NGMA is one of the few galleries in India funded by the government, with branches in Delhi, Mumbai & Bangalore

Qutub Minar is a historical landmark in Delhi. This is a place if you are feeling touristic and wanting to dive into the worlds of early Sultanates

New Delhi with Boxout.fm

Medellin

A lot of our skate competitions in Medellín happen in La Loma. This famous hill spot is very steep, and when you descolgar (go down) you hit a crazy speed. I like skating in this spot because it’s exciting and you get a lot of adrenaline. Because it's so high, after you skate it someone has to bring you back up in the motorbikes, where you hold onto the back and they drive you; or you have to walk back up which takes ages.

I grew up in this barrio so it will always be special for me and somewhere where I can skate. This barrio has a lot of tourists now, and is less dangerous than it used to be but you still have to be smart and be good with the people. There is a lot of things happening on the street here. I like skating here in my barrio, because you can find a lot of secret spots. You can skate down the paths and go fast, or find little back roads, ledges, alleys, playgrounds and more to land tricks. When I’m in the Comuna I like showing the other kids in the barrio how to skate.

Estadio was the first skatepark in Medellín, it’s right next to the Nacional stadium. It is an important spot for me because it’s where I first started spending a lot of time skateboarding, met a lot of people who have been important to me. There would always be people here skating all the time, so you can always arrive and there’ll be parceros to skate with or people to spend time with. Next to the stadium there is Estadio Skate Shop where Danny and his friends sell brands from Colombia, Mexico; we don't get many brands from outside of Latin America.

La 4 is probably the biggest skatepark in Medellín, it reminds me of Southbank in London because it has a roof. The roof means everyone can hang here when it rains. La 4 has the reputation as the party skatepark, and maybe dangerous at times; there are always people partying with big speakers playing techno or reggaeton, eating, drinking and the rest. You can go there at any time and there will be people partying there, and here all the different crews gather like the skaters, BMX, rollers and the moto crews all hang around and come together. In La 4 there is always a high energy, you have to be a very aggressive skater here to stand out, to get your turn, you have to push further and go faster, because there are so many people trying to use the space. The police come here a lot and cause problems. The other week, they took my moto into the transito and gave me a fine for not having the right papers. There are also a lot of fights here  because the people are charged a lot.

This is a more low-key skatepark and it’s higher up in the city. It has a view where you can see all the red buildings of Medellín, all the barrios and the mountains in the background. Here is a good parche because everyone is chill, and when it’s sunny you can see a lot of things in beautiful Medellín.

Centro also has some good spots to skate. You can see places like Parque de la Deseos – which was nicknamed Parque de la Resistencia during the months of protest a few years ago. Many people camped out there, living there in tents as part of the primera línea, as a protest, and there was all sorts of craziness going on here.

Where to Skate in Medellín, According to Cris Skate Future

ESEA Sisters

London

Brighton

Wales

A beautiful, serene traditional Japanese garden located in West London, designed by Japanese landscape architect Shoji Nakahara. With tiered waterfalls, stone lanterns, a koi pond, Japanese maple trees and Sakura trees, it really gives a sense of a ‘home from home’ for the Japanese diaspora. It’s also completely free to access! I go there first thing most mornings before work, to clear my head, ground myself with nature, and write. It’s a very special place that has a lot of history to it - it was opened in 1991 as a gift from the City of Kyoto to commemorate the friendship between Japan and Great Britain, and in 2012 there was an additional Fukushima memorial garden added to the side of the Kyoto Garden. The peacocks strutting around the garden are an added bonus!

It’s a tranquil pebbly beach set below the backdrop of the Seven Sisters cliffs - which creates a pretty dramatic scene! It’s a great place to go swimming or surfing, but if the tide is out, you’ll also see some rock pools to explore, and you can hunt for fossils and even catch crabs! There’s definitely something for everyone, I know that some areas of the Birling Gap beach are used by nudists/naturists. Which is maybe something to be mindful of when you visit. 

Our collective, ESEA Sisters, have been organising a series of nature walks with healing circles each month in different locations near London, and the Birling Gap is actually going to be our next destination! Immersing ourselves in the water, having a swim, connecting with nature, and incorporating some tai-chi/qi-gong on the beach, we’ll be rebalancing our energy and grounding ourselves, while in community with others. I’d recommend that if you go to the Birling Gap, try some of those activities out - either alone or in company. It’s a great way to destress. 

It's our capital's dividing waterway, it's home to famous races and regattas and an abundance of wildlife resides on it’s banks. How could we not add it to the list!

There are so many things that make the Thames special but let's start outside of London. The Thames is home to hundreds of beautiful towns and villages many of which are easily accessible by train so you can spend the day walking between places (the Thames has 185miles of walkable trails!) before finally heading home. Towns include Henley-on-Thames, famous for the regatta in the Summer and you can cross the Thames between Windsor and Eton, but the most magical places are the areas up and down the banks that locals would call 'our spot'. These are small oases found up and down the river where rope swings are built, bridges were made for jumping off and friends spend late summer evenings swimming and cooling off in the water. If you swam anywhere near the zoo Beale Park, like I did all through my teenage years, you’d often find yourself swimming alongside terrapins from when the park once flooded! 

One of the best places to swim here is a village called Pangbourne, not far from Reading, easily accessible by train or car as there is a dedicated carpark. Here you’ll find the brave jumping off the bridge, people using the water activities facility to canoe, others who come to try their hand at fishing a bit further down and tonnes of people splashing in the water or watching the boats and yachts go by from the jetty.

Now heading downstream to the capital. The Thames Path walking routes here are not to be missed from the quaint village-esque feel of Barnes all the way to the Wapping, a now largely residential area that still holds it's old dock and factory history within every cobbled street, it makes a perfect alternative day out for anyone heading to London. Getting tired feet doing all that walking? Hop on one of the many river buses or tours that depart between Richmond all the way to the Thames Barrier. Another great way to see the sites of London on one of Britain's most famous waterways.

This is a huge expanse of white rolling sand dunes residing on the coast of West Sussex. It is often deemed one of the most beautiful beaches in England at 13km long and backing onto the South Downs, it’s enjoyable all year round and there are areas all along the front for you to swim, make sandcastles, go for a walk or enjoy a BBQ with family. 

It’s one of the few beaches in the UK where I have found absolutely anyone is welcome to come and enjoy it, no stares or whispered conversation between other families for looking different. I went to university in a county with a lot of coastline and always found my presence at the beaches there to be bothersome to many others. In fact, the only thing to note when you come to enjoy West Wittering is please be mindful and smart when going to enjoy the water, there are safe swimming areas for a reason! 

Lifeguards are posted up and down the beach and with it being so large, there are many areas to swim. Lots of places have much calmer, slightly busier waters which make it perfect for swimming together with friends and family or if you prefer to get your sea laps in, like me, there are equally calm areas to swim often used by those of us who might be taking the beach a little too seriously... If you’re looking for a bit of thrill when you head here, there are areas dedicated to water activities like wind surfing too.

Whilst visiting my partner’s parents for the first time in Gellifor, North Wales we took a trip West, to Dolgellau, hiked around Llynnau Cregennen (Cregennan Lakes), and meandered down hairpin bends towards Fairbourne Beach. We met with a large sea wall that protects the village from high tide, which we clambered over and stood in awe of the sprawling sandy beach. Despite the sunshine, it was sparsely filled with fellow beach walkers. Opalescent jellyfish were dotted around the sand - marking the edge of the tide. The open views fogged the horizon line facing the general direction of Ireland, and I felt at peace. A resolution had been made. We had our swimming gear - we had to jump in. Nothing beats a salty swim with natural views, crisp fresh air, and staring up to a clear blue sky. The feeling of weightlessness clears the mind, ready for the return back to the hustle bustle of London living.

Sadly, Fairbourne is on the front line in the battle against climate change and there are rising concerns that the lovely little village by it’s shores will be consumed by rising tides and ever more frequent flooding. “It’s being called the first place in the UK to be lost to climate change, as rising sea levels and extreme weather become too much to defend it from.” 13th March 2020 - Greenpeace. So be considerate and respectful when visiting and perhaps let your trip inspire you to invest as much time in healing the earth we share as we try to invest in healing ourselves. 

ESEA Sisters Guide us to Healing Waters

Casey MQ

Fresh pressed juices and cold cut bánh mì sandwiches from this local restaurant. A gem in Toronto and the owners are incredibly kind. Plus their instagram is amazing.

A great beach spot to suddenly feel a little removed from Toronto while maintaining a view from the city. There is a clothing optional area as well.

I do not drink coffee but if I did, from what I’ve heard, I would purchase from The Common. I regularly get a tea and croissant from there though. Currently takeout but in the past I have spent a lot of time hanging out in there.

This family run restaurant in Parkdale makes excellent Momos. Lovely place!

TECHNICALLY you could ride your bike from Leslie Spit through to Don Valley Trail but it would be a mission. It’s a beautiful bike ride though and Leslie Spit takes you to an outer point of Toronto where you end up looking right back at the city by the end of the epic trail.

The Lightbox is not open at the moment but I’ve always loved the programming and have gone on solo dates there many times!

This is a lovely fashion store in Toronto. Tightly curated selection of clothing and publications. The store really has it’s own demeanor.

A great place to find preloved books. There are three locations at this point in Toronto but most of my purchases have been at the Bloor location. I basically stand around the recommended reads for a little too long.

Which brings me to the Toronto Reference Library lol. Last year I spent a lot of time at this library on the fourth or fifth floor. The inside is gorgeous. I actually spent a lot of time working on ‘babycasey’ at this library.

I have only been here a few times at night but if you hope the fence which is not a particularly easy task - you can maybe get a few laps of swimming in!

Casey MQ takes us around Toronto

David Hanes-Gonzalez

Mexico City 

Boxers from all across the city and state flock here every Saturday morning. Better known as La Casa de Sparring. Ask for Coach Chicano and you’ll be in good hands. Getting here is an equally thrilling experience. You must travel through 10-15 minutes of tianguis, passing hundreds of people, carnicerias, fruit and vegetables vendors, and eventually walk up a flight of stairs of a large warehouse.

Arguably the most scenic place to train in the city. Coach Tony Vega holds private and group classes early in the morning and every evening Monday to Saturday. A great place to train outdoors with a view.

A historic gym located in the Transito neighbourhood. If you are an amateur boxer fighting in Mexico City this place is a rite of passage.

Tucked in the middle of Tepito is another historic gym and home to many champion boxers. It’s open throughout the day with access to a soccer field as well. Come in early morning or around 4pm to train with some of them.

The centre for photography in all of Mexico. I'm very thankful that this institution exists. They have rotating exhibits featuring work from Mexican and Latin American artists, and frequently host workshops, portfolio reviews and other activities for artists of all ranges.

Looking to surround yourself with fellow photographers, develop and buy film, and work on your creative projects all from a rooftop? At Dichroic Lab you can do all that. My go-to place for my film developing needs and nerding out on all things photography.

Come for the coffee, stay for the music. Half coffee shop, half record store where the baristas DJ vinyl. A great space to edit photos or catch up with a friend. The music is so good that using headphones is almost frowned upon. At night they become a cocktail joint with rotating DJs. A must visit.

My perfect night out consists of live music. Former apartment-turned-jazz-club featuring music from local and international musicians. An intimate space, perfect for a date night or gathering with a group of friends. Make a reservation two days in advance so you can get a seat in the main room.

A good indicator of a classic taqueria is one that doesn’t have Instagram or accepts cards. This is my favourite in all of the city. If you need a reason why, read the 40,000 reviews on Google Maps or check out the line on any given Saturday or Sunday morning. Order the carnitas, you won’t be disappointed.

A small pulqueria and cantina located in Roma. A place I like to take visitors. Come here during the day or late night with a group of friends. Order a round of mezcal shots and pitcher of coconut pulque while listening to Mexican classics like Luis Miguel, Juan Gabriel and Los Angeles Azules.

A Guide to Mexico City’s Boxing Gyms and Cultural Hotspots

Bangkok

A therapeutic escape to the greener side of Bangkok for nature lovers and daytrippers. Tip: for the sunset, you can visit Hidden Woods.

Located in the historic venue of Bangkok 1899, Bar Na is a fantastic addition to Bangkok's growing scene of alternative listening bars. The atmosphere and music is spot on, complemented by a standout cocktail selection. Here's a tip: try the Pisco Sour.

Built with love, and managed by a group of amazing folks. It's fun, cosy and a space to dance with a versatile selection of music being played throughout the week. It also serves up great cocktails. A little tip: don't forget to flash a big smile and give the bartender, Arm, a high five.

All about immersing yourself in music at this bar and embracing the idea of experiencing full-length albums from beginning to end. The owner, a passionate vinyl collector, shares this collection with guests through an audiophile-grade sound system. Get involved!

A great place for runners to sweat out the week or weekend.

Sunju Hargun on Where to Unwind in Bangkok

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

HiedraH Club de Baile

Buenos Aires

Although it is a very recognizable tourist place, like la Ciudad Vieja in Montevideo, it preserves the melancholy and mystery of the city. There is an enhancement of the city to combine the most avant-garde art galleries with the riverside museums of typical artists of the area. The most beautiful art district and the charm of the city mixed with the stench of the river are a perfect combo for us.

This is the essence of the city of Buenos Aires itself and its Misa Criolla, the sensitive concept of our identity. It's a mix between Hogwarts and the Parisian amphitheater from "Interview with the Vampire" but with a Sudaka energy. You can watch the milonga dance under the candlelight and enjoy a glass of wine. It opens from Tuesday to Sunday and you will find the most suspiciously friendly characters here.

The best pizzeria in Buenos Aires and one of the obligatory stops when we bring a foreign producer. The ritual of eating a slice of muzza al corte and a deep-fried empanada is unique of Buenos Aires.

Other people would say that the renowned cemetery in Buenos Aires is La Recoleta, but for us the cemetery and La Chacarita neighborhood implies a beautiful universe of popular heritage. The Cemetery was created to house the enormous quantity of corpses resulting from the yellow fever that struck Buenos Aires in 1871 and that brutal energy is felt in its streets. You can visit the niches of Gilda, Gardel, Moura, Favio, Ferrari, and other popular artists of Buenos Aires and get to know the largest necropolis in the city. Also, on the outskirts of the Cemetery you will find a sanctuary of Gauchito Gil, a pagan saint to whom we usually bring offerings or ask for help, and on Saturdays in Parque Los Andes there are some very good fairs to buy trinkets.

It’s the city's largest and most biodiverse green space, in contrast to its location in the fancier area of the City. Also, it has a “hidden” side, in which it is a good spot to practice cruising behind the bushes. On weekends you can also drink a beer and eat a choripan in the carritos parrilleros at the entry and walk through la feria while people dance cumbia in the street. La combi completa!

Parque de La Memoria (Memorial Park) is a scenic landmark and one of the most beautiful historical monuments in the city. It is located facing the Rio de La Plata, the fatal destination of many of the people who disappeared due to the murderous actions of the last military dictatorship. In addition to its strong historical content, it has a very interesting contemporary art center and astonishment monuments. It is a solemn, beautiful and forceful space to be visited on a sunny day.

The Market was inaugurated at the end of the 19th century with the aim of supplying the necessary food to the new wave of European immigrants. The building retains its original internal structure, made up of metal beams, arches and columns with sheet metal and glass roofs. In addition to its architecture, it also preserves a certain charm of old customs and in its corridors, you can buy everything from meat, fish or vegetables to antiques, jewelry and decoration elements. It is also a gastronomic pole to eat regional or international food.

33km from the city of Buenos Aires, Tigre is one of the most important tourist destinations in the province and is the weekend getaway for many Buenos Aires residents. There is the lower Delta of the Paraná River, one of the largest in the world. On its way it drags a large volume of sediment that is deposited forming clay, sand and silt banks that continually grow and give rise to islands. This complex water system, of more than 350 islands that divide the course of the waters, contributes to giving its shape to the landscape, and also shapes the lives of its inhabitants who have the river environment as their main means of communication by boats. It is a unique ecosystem in the world and a great adventure to navigate its waters and spend a weekend in its stilt houses. Super recommended!

It is a crowded place on weekends, but if you can go during the week it is a very nice place for doing sports, rollerblading or cycling, running or simply to sunbathe and enjoy the air of the city smoking a joint.

Buenos Aires with HiedraH Club de Baile

Abornmal Sleepz

Manchester

This is where the studio is, however from time to time they have art exhibitions and stuff. Besides me there's a community of studios and musicians/bands. If you're into music don't be a stranger!

Right in the heart of where I've grown up. Beautiful park that's been renovated. Great day out when the weather's nice. Manchester Carnival takes place here in Summer time too

You will find everything here from bars, nights out, quirky restaurants and vintage shops. It's worth exploring on a visit to Manchester.

This is a really cool club spot open in the day. Perfect balance of a good night out. Whether you're smart casual or all out dressed up all are welcome. They have ping pong tables and beer pong. I DJ here sometimes and is the main place I go out to.

When I was growing up I loved the arcades here. You can do shopping here as an alternative to Town/Arndale centre. If you got kids or are a kid take them to the arcade in the food court.

Go for a chicken split - it wont taste the same anywhere else you go I guarantee!

This is a legendary food spot. You'll find your favourite artists here at crazy hours of the morning. This is on the curry mile and a must go

Abnormal Sleepz' Best Spots in Manchester

Yasmin

This is my favourite record shop to find,disco & funk in the city.

Excellent coffee and the best croissant you’ll find outside of France.

I love playing at YuYu cause it’s what a real nightclub should be - a dark, sweaty little basement, a sound system you can feel in your bones and a no phones on the dance floor policy. Mostly techno & electronic music, but you can find some more soulful disco and house played here too.

A lot of people will recommend the ever busy El Parnita next door, but this is the spot for super authentic rural cuisine. There’s no menu at this joint, just tell them what you do / don’t eat and they do the rest.

This market only runs on Saturdays from 8am - 3pm. There are many huge and amazing markets in Mexico City (Lagunilla, Sonora etc) but personally I prefer an easy stroll to an expedition so this is my favourite market for whiling away a few hours on a Saturday. You can find vintage eyewear, records, antique furniture, art and weird trinkets by the boat load.

"I live nearby this taco truck and it’s always poppin. Tasty, cheap and meat-free. Vegan or not you gotta eat these tacos at least once while you’re in the city.

I love to grab a coffee and head to Parque Mexico. It’s a mini jungle in the neighbourhood that's perfect for people watching but even better for dog watching.

This lil spot has an awesome selection of vintage clothes, prints by local artists and accessories by local designers.

The National Anthropology Museum is next level. Remember this is a culture that had access to the finest of psychedelics so their ancient artefacts are trippy AF. Just note it will take you a good few hours to do the whole museum, it’s huge with so much to see.

Yasmin's Guide to Mexico City

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

Berlin

It’s a former power plant and they do concerts really well. I’ve been there a few times on invitation from my friends who performed at Atonal Festival as LABOUR.

A well curated exhibition of the Boros collection in a huge bunker that changes every four years – what more do you want? Just make sure to book ahead of time.


It was one of the first places I visited when I came to Berlin. I’ve been to the memorials in Washington, D.C. so many times but nothing compares to the scale of this.

A residency programme and building in Wedding. I really enjoy attending my friends’ open studios, performances and rehearsals there. Just generally good vibes. Now my good friend Isabel Parkes works there, be sure to say hi.

Perfect, colourful place to visit when Berlin gets really grey during the winter.

Christine Sun Kim on Berlin’s Art Spaces

Psycho YP

Abuja

I’m a huge fan of wings and this is a place I know has great wings. Deffo one for this list

I don’t really go clubbing that much, but I know Moscow is the one people are at.

Got a close friend who DJs there most nights so it’s always a vibe. Outdoor but under like a little cabana type thing. Big vibes.

Abuja with Psycho YP

Varnrable

Addis Ababa

A place for organic homemade Ethiopian food and tella, a traditional brew. Tella is brewed in households, usually in the rural areas, and consumed on a daily basis. But tella's legitimate status has been fading away, losing its place to mass produced beer and imported liquor. In Selo everything is homemade, from the injera to the tella. Ingredients are collected from local communities, creating an authentic and sustainable culture around Selo. The energy is inclusive and warm, the food is fresh and tasty, and there is a variation of tellas to try out!

Shifta offers a wide range of delicious Caribbean, vegan and African food. The food I had there was super tasty! It's vibrant and filled with local creatives. A great place to eat, drink and hang out all night, having good conversations or just listening to the music. 

Fendika Cultural Center is the perfect place to take in traditional music, and at the same time enjoy traditional food and drinks in a chilled environment. There are performances every week and the place is filled with soul and good energy. Everything is traditional and relevant. I went there to soak up some local jazz one night and that was a beautiful trip.

This is a club concept, making electronic parties at different locations and with differenct DJs. They are reimagining rave culture in the modern day Addis Ababa. These parties are some of the highlights in the club scene and are happening once a month. 

A traditional restaurant in Addis Ababa where you can experience cultural performances while you eat local food. From around 7.30pm there are musicians, dancers and singers performing traditional acts from different tribes around Ethiopia, while wearing outfits from the different regions. All your senses are being stimulated while being in a beautifully decorated room with traditional design and art. 

The perfect way to get out of the city, and it is only a short car ride away from the centrum. There is a great view over the city and you're able to take a walk in nature. The park itself is how we know most parks to be, but if you wander more up, in the mountain, there are small villages; more raw and beautiful nature. 

An institute of Ethio jazz in its historical location, owned by the legendary Mulatu Astatke. This place features some of the best jazz musicians live in raw sessions. 

Explore Addis Ababa's Cultural Scene with Varnrable

Alanis Forde

Barbados

This is located opposite the Garrison where Gold Cup Horse racing takes place. So you're seeing more than one cultural spot and right around the corner is a bunch of food places. So you know, all in one there. 

There's pottery places and there's an art gallery. There's some food places as well. It's very cool. It's a walkway away from the port and from where the cruise ships dock.

This recently opened in 2021 and there are these benches that these artists were commissioned to create. There's also this beautiful like brick wall with different last names of people in Barbados. I think Rihanna visited it on one of her last visits here. So it's a cool little historical heritage like brick wall. But if you're from Barbados you can find your last name.

The Art Scene in Barbados with Alanis Forde

Amsterdam

I love walking with the dogs in Beatrixpark. It's a park where all small dogs meet, it's the place where I am able to put my mind at ease.

Buffet van Odette is my favourite place for breakfast – it's super low key but they have the best food. I always do my business meetings here so it's kind of the place that reminds me that I'm doing quite well.

The Frozen Fountain is my favourite store for furniture, as they represent so much Dutch design talent!

Skins is my favourite skincare store – I'm there weekly, I'm obsessed with skincare.

La Fiorita is my favourite restaurant/ I go there for celebrations with my husband. It's the best [for] pure food and organic wines!

I love a boat tour over the Amstel. which is the most beautiful part of Amsterdam.

6 Spots You Need to Visit in Amsterdam with Designer Elza Wandler

Barcelona

I discovered this place 4 years ago approximately and been going a lot, it's kind of my safe spot when I need to be out of my house but still feel safe and be alone. It's a free small cinema with a digital archive with a lot of experimental films. I highly recommend this spot. 

This is another cinema recommendation but this time it is an actual movie theatre. I think the most beautiful one I have been in and they also show the best selection of movies, old ones and contemporary also. Fun fact, I was there last year for their Halloween experience, and never had that much fun on Halloween, it was amazing. 

This is a vintage shop based in the centre of Barcelona, they have a really nice selection, handpicked and top quality with a lot of Vintage designer clothes and also they have a space (if i'm not wrong) for new designer clothes like Espiritu Club. They also have the nicest dressing rooms ever. 

This is an archival clothing store + record store. Been here a lot to check for weird archive pieces, they have a really nice selection of unique clothes, shoes and accessories. 

A new natural wine and music bar also based in the centre (Raval). I'm not really a drinker, so what I usually look in bars when I go is a place where I can chill and talk with my friends, is more the atmosphere of the place, the ambience they create, and here I felt super comfortable, regarding the people working there and the crowd also. Plus they have an old piano as a table, cute af. 

A vegan restaurant near the beach. I really like this place, especially around summer, they have a nice set up and nice vegan food, i'm not vegan but still enjoy vegan food a loot. All their menus are delicious. I especially recommend their vegan nachos. 

If you are looking for the best sandwiches it's here for sure. They have lots of options, including gluten free and vegan options. Plus the space inside is really cute and they also have a terrace to sit outside. 

This recommendation can be maybe the most mainstream one but since I discovered this place I have been going a lot when I have the time. I feel good here, it's kind of an oasis in the city to me, love going here alone with my headphones and just spending hours. Wont say much about the place, you just have to go! It's a small fragment of the rainforest. I feel really relaxed in these kinds of environments, like humid deep green places. 

Explore Barcelona with Primavera Artist YOZY

Emerald Rose Lewis

Where it's at in the summer. BBQs, basketball, music, mates, beers, all of that.

Many different walks of life in this spot - skateboarders, NTS radio station, Vortex Jazz club, Ethiopian food, etc.

Incredible brutalist architecture, feels like a dystopian land. Great to take pics in and around, great exhibitions in the art gallery.

Bigger and more relaxed than London Fields. Beautiful, huge park and gorgeous all year round.

Indoor and outdoor market with lovely lunch spots.

A proper market, fresh produce, cheap and proper.

Another gorgeous East London park, this one's got deer!

One of my favourite clubs ever. It's 5 stories. Go to the soul train night, it's the best.

Emerald Rose Lewis in London

Oshun

New York City 

Historical market on 116th adorned with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, art, and African-American Culture. Favorite vendors: the fabric stores & the waist bead tables

Upscale rooftop bar and restaurant in LES with a millennial touch. Beautiful view of NYC. Favourites on the menu: Any of their delicious cocktails!

Our favourite hangout spot, right in the centre of NYU. Lowkey kinda sketchy which is cool because anything interesting can happen! Very close to all kinds of food

Fun Nigerian restaurant with a dinner table inside an authentic Lagos-style taxi! Favorites on menu include: efo, akara, and egusi

Cute & small African boutique shop. Everything from clothing, to purses / backpacks, accessories, and interior decoration - this is our go to spot for gifts and fly statement pieces

Falafel sandwich w hummus for $4. Deliciousssssss

Oshun's Top Tips for NYC

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.

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