(Photo: Joseph Christopher For Beauty and Wellness)

The small island city in Sacramento County is a veritable waterfront playground, packed full of great activities and attractions centred around its idyllic beaches. On dry land, the city also has several day spas where you don’t have to be a member to gain entry. If you’d like to pamper yourself during your Long Beach stay, we’ve picked out 5 of the best day spas that Long Island has to offer.

Joseph Christopher For Beauty and Wellness

Situated close to the 4-mile beachfront at Ocean Beach Park, Joseph Christopher for Beauty & Wellness is a great spa for those seeking cosmetic treatments designed to make you look great, with a huge number of beauty services available. But there’s also a strong wellness focus, with several therapies that concentrate on key areas of the body while delivering a sensory journey for guests through the inhalation of aromas. Among the spa’s most popular treatments are chakra massages, foot reflexology, botanical and exfoliation facials, and body wraps and polishes.

Hyatt Centric The Pike Long Beach

(Photo: Hyatt Centric the Pike Long Beach / Courtesy Booking.com)

Located just a short walk from Long Beach’s bustling Pine Street and a stone’s throw from the Pacific’s rolling surf, Hyatt Centric The Pike Long Beach offers day passes for non-hotel guests to make use of its luxurious leisure and spa facilities. Among them are the only heated rooftop pool in Long Beach complete with 360-degree panoramic views, premium comfort shaded cabanas with couch and chair seating, and snacks drinks and alcohol available from the Market located in the lobby. There’s also a rooftop bar and free WiFi.

You can book a spa day pass at Hyatt Centric The Pike Long Beach via Resortpass.com. Alternatively, there are several other Long Beach hotels that offer day passes for their spas. 

Spavia

Self-proclaimed trailblazers in changing the perception of spas, Spavia want to ensure the spa experience is no longer a costly luxury and is for anyone wanting to relax, recentre and renew. Featuring resort-like amenities, including plush robes, sandals, warmed aromatherapy neck pillows and relaxing retreat rooms, the guest experience is personalised to your tastes and needs. Whether you desire a soothing massage or a rejuvenating body wrap, specialists are on hand to deliver. Turn back the clock with a nourishing facial and finish your spa day with an all-natural beauty treatment, ensuring you depart with a spring in your step and looking – and feeling – your best.

Groupon currently offers discounts of up to 42% at this spa. They also offer reductions for many other Long Beach spas. Check Groupon.com.

Resplendent Day Spa

(Photo: Resplendent Day Spa)

Arriving into Long Beach by plane? Where better to head after a flight than a rejuvenating spa. Just minutes from Long Beach Airport, Resplendent promises to enliven your senses through ancient healing arts, delivering serenity, soothing the body and refreshing the mind. Guest can pick from a variety of treatments, from facials, hair removal, manicures and pedicures to body scrubs, polishes and massages customised to your individual needs. The spa also specialises in Arvigo Maya Therapy, founded upon ancient Maya healing techniques that help to improve the function of your reproductive and digestive systems.

Maple Day Spa

Nestled inland in Lakewood Village, a neighbourhood in the northeast portion of Long Beach, Maple Day Spa prides itself on providing a clean, welcoming and comfortable environment for visitors seeking a day of relaxation. With a wide range of massage available, a licensed therapist aims to alleviate the stresses and pains of everyday life, sending you off with renewed vigour and plenty of energy to enjoy all that Long Beach has to offer. The spa also offers facials, waxing, and body detox sessions catering to anyone looking to improve the condition of their skin.

Book at Groupon

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Meatless District (Photo by Rob Smalley, courtesy of Meatless District)

With its charming canals, picturesque bridges and inviting cafes and restaurants, Amsterdam is a foodie’s playground. The options are outstanding, and not only for lovers of Gouda cheese, stroopwaffels or bitterballen. The market is changing rapidly and being vegan no longer presents a challenge when looking for a feast in the Dutch capital. Don’t miss these 12 vegan restaurants when visiting Amsterdam, whether or not you’re actually vegan.

Vegan Junkfood Bar

Messy and colorful: junk food vegan style (Photo courtesy of www.veganjunkfoodbar.com)

Ask the Dutch about vegan food in Amsterdam and they will send you straight to the Vegan Junkfood Bar. With three locations throughout the city, this restaurant is a treat for both your eyes and your tastebuds. Expect creative, colourful food in a funky atmosphere. We’re talking blue veganaise (egg-free mayo), rainbow burgers and loaded fries with edible flowers. The Netherlands is known for its bitterballen, so definitely order a portion on the side. These Dutch snacks are traditionally made of meat, but some claim that the plant-based version is even tastier. Who said vegans can’t enjoy junkfood?

Reguliersdwarsstraat 57, 1017 BK, Staringplein 22, 1054 VL, Marie Heinekenplein 9, 1072 MH

Deer Mama

In need for food that will uplift your mood? Deer Mama serves vegan and homemade streetfood, such as funky burgers, KFC nuggets (Korean Fried Cauliflower, that is), nacho buckets, a vegan version of the classic Dutch bitterballen and mushroom croquettes with pink mustard. Do you have more of a sweet tooth? Your cravings will be satisfied by their creamy soft serve, extravagant ‘mylkshakes’ and brightly colored layer cakes. Make sure to visit this pink restaurant on an empty stomach, because you will eat your heart out!

Ceintuurbaan 71, 1072 EW

Mastino Vegan

The best pizza in Amsterdam (Photo courtesy of Mastino Vegan Pizza)

Crispy on the bottom and melty on top, the pizzas of Mastino vegan will send you straight to vegan heaven. According to many, these are the best vegan pizzas they’ve
ever tasted, so don’t forget to add this place to your list. The large menu offers many flavours, like truffle focaccia, marinara and tutto mushrooms, topped with homemade vegan cheezes such as red lentil mozzarella, pesto ricotta and cashew cheddar. Moreover, their cakes and tiramisu are a dessert-lover’s dream come true. Mastino is located in De Pijp, one of the most trendy and cosmopolitan neighbourhoods of Amsterdam.

Eerste van der Helststraat 78h, 1072 NZ

Margo’s

Set your expectations high, because some say this is the best vegan bakery in the Netherlands. Minimalist and Scandinavian inspired, this place is located close to the Anne Frank house. Good thing Amsterdam is such a walkable, because it’s the perfect excuse to explore on foot while tucking into a sweet bun or a crisp and flaky croissant. Is your stomach rumbling for something more filling? Don’t miss out on Margo’s delicious sandwiches on homemade bread or try the ‘ham and cheese’ croissant (made from
seitan). Make sure to save their special Danish pastry with pistachio and rosewater for later or grab a coffee on the go.

Eerste Tuindwarsstraat 2A, 1015 RV

Koffie ende Koeck

Vegan treats in Amsterdam (Photo courtesy of Koffie ende Koeck)

Anyone who’s on the hunt for wonderful vegan pastries should run to Koffie ende Koeck. The name is written in old Dutch and means ‘coffee and cookie’. This 100% vegan
cafe near Westerpark is the perfect spot to unwind from busy city life during the day. Whether you want to catch up with a friend over a cosy afternoon tea or you are just in the mood for cakes and pastries – no excuse needed – this is the place to go. The coffee-brown interior with its floral wallpapers reminds us of a visit to Grandma’s – in the best way possible. Koffie ende Koeck is a warm place to feel at home, while taking a bite out of the iconic victoria sponge cake, delightful passionfruit vegan cheesecake, scones, spinach quiche or anything else that warms your heart and fulfills your needs.

Haarlemmerweg 175, 1051 LA 

Vegabon

This charming vegan deli in Amsterdam Oud-West is an ideal stop for a nourishing meal at any time of the day. Enjoy their large menu with roasted veggies, spreads and warm meals such as lasagna, curry and Italian stew. In need of some extra protein to make it through the day? Try their Queens Quiche, Korean Bunless BBQ Burger or Bang Bang Tofu. Grab an açaí bowl, croissant or spinach lentil-‘feta’ roll for brunch, enjoy their banana bread or raw cakes during a sweet break and take a moment for yourself with their matcha and golden lattes. You might need an extra suitcase to get back home, because there’s a vegan concept store next to their in-house deli. Here you’ll find a wide variety of cruelty-free products, such as handmade vegan cheese, egg substitutes, vegan ice cream, beauty products,
sustainable lifestyle items and more. Find Vegabond in the middle of the city centre, just a 20-minute walk from Dam Square and a 10-minute walk from Leidseplein.

De Clercqstraat 48, 1052 NH

Plant Based Sushi

Eating the rainbow (Photo courtesy of Plant Based Sushi via Facebook)

South African expat Claudia Deken was frustrated with the bare minimum of available vegan options at traditional sushi restaurants. She decided to change the game and started Plant Based Sushi, the first vegan sushi restaurant in Amsterdam. The menu changes every three months and always features five different sushi rolls, such as uramaki, futomaki, nigiri (made with smokey tomato ‘salmon’) and gunkan (made of pulled jackfruit, kombu mayo, spring onion and dulse flakes). Order the rolls seperately or enjoy a mixed plate. Don’t forget to try different kinds of gyoza, Japanese croquettes and vegan karaage (Japanese fried chicken with a tofu twist) on the side. Find them near the much loved neighbourhood the Jordaan and close to the Westerpark.

Kostverlorenstraat 11, 1052 GS

Men Impossible

Ready for a whole new ramen experience? Men Impossible is the Japanese all-vegan ramen
restaurant that lives up the hype that surrounds it. The friendly staff welcome you
into their noodle heaven, where you can expect an explosion of flavours that unfold over four courses: cold appetizers, warm appetizers, main course (ramen) and dessert. Contrary to most egg-based ramen noodles, the main ingredient here is 100% plant-based and, we confirm, absolutely exquisite. We recommend their ‘katsu sando’ for lunch (an Instagrammable seitan sandwich). Do you prefer to keep it spicy? Try the ramen with red hot chili pepper. Find Men Impossible in the midst of Amsterdam’s busy city
center, close to the famous Nine Streets. Reservation is required.

Hazenstraat 19H, 1016 SM

Mr. Stacks

Pancake lovers love to indulge themselves at Mr. Stacks. And no, this isn’t your standard order with maple syrup, fresh fruits and whipped cream. Over-the-top is almost an understatement here. Close your eyes and picture stacks garnished with cotton candy, caramelized apple and vanilla ‘creamcheese’. Can’t choose between sweet and savory? Try their most unexpected options: pancakes served with a vegan protein burger on top, stacks with ‘gyros’ or some filled with vegan scramble, guacamole or sweet potato.

Govert Flinckstraat 122, 1072 EM

Mooshka Vegan Soul Food

Vegan soul food in Amsterdam (Photo courtesy of Mooksha via Facebook)

What makes a great meal outstanding? It’s a rare mystery ingredient that our eyes can’t perceive, but that we can definitely taste and will remember for a long time. Reading this, you may be thinking back to that one special meal that left you with a comforting, hearty sensation. Mooshka Vegan Soul Food is one of those places where you’ll form memories like this. Inspired by African-Caribbean cuisine, you can choose between many soulful options, like a Caribbean burger, avocado fries, fried okra, no-chicken with waffles, and injera, an Ethiopian/Eritrean dish with fermented flat bread and six different stews. All dishes are organic and produced with quality ingredients. A feel-good bonus: 5% of the income from every order goes to the Sendafa Children project, ensuring Ethiopian children from low-income families receive clothes, shoes, access to education and two square meals a day.

Van Woustraat 110H, 1073 LS

YB

The story of YB (formerly known as Yoghurt Barn) is inspiring and contagious. With over 13
locations throughout the country, it was long known by locals for their all-day breakfast and brunch menu. Main ingredient? You guessed correctly: yoghurt – the local product that Dutch farmers are so proud of. In 2022 YB changed its name and completely switched to plant-based ingredients, acknowledging that the future is vegan and eating accordingly is a better choice for the environment, animal welfare and our health. You can now personalize your non-dairy mylks yoghurt with a wide variety of toppings: fudge brownie chunks, healthy granola, fruits, sauces, nuts, seeds and more. Or level up with overnight oats, chia puddings or toasts, wraps, pastries, cakes and coffee specials. Find YB at Amsterdam Central Station and in the Foodhallen in Oud-West.

Stationsplein 17b (near IJ-passage) 1012 AB / Foodhallen unit 1, Bellamyplein 51, 1053 AT 

Meatless District

Meatless District (Photo by Rob Smalley, courtesy of Meatless District)

Forget about all the colourful Instagrammable food spots for a moment. Vegan locals in Amsterdam prefer a cosy, refined lunch or dinner over candlelight at Meatless District. This vegan restaurant is A’dam’s answer to the meatpacking district in New York and opened its doors in 2016. Indian curries, salads and burgers will impress even the most skeptical carnivores. Don’t miss out on their mushroom bourgignon, beetroot trofie (beetroot pasta with creamy thyme sauce and in-house whipped ‘goats cheese’) and ‘faux gras’. Leave room for one of their enticing desserts such as rhubarb crème brûlée or chocolate cappuccino. Their selectin of vegan wines, beers and cocktails makes a splash.  Meatless District has two locations in Amsterdam: one in Oud-West and one in De Pijp.

Bilderdijkstraat 65-67, 1053 KM, Van Woustraat 189 -191, 1074 AM

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The final touches on a cocktail at Planter’s House (Photo courtesy of Planter’s House)

The Gateway to the West, St. Louis, Missouri, is a Midwestern city with a huge heart – and an equally ample appetite for delicious food and tasty cocktails. If you’re out on the town in ‘STL’, these ten cocktail bars won’t let you down. Drawing on St. Louis’ rich history of breweries and distilleries, they have become local favorites thanks to that irresistible recipe: ambiance and decor, an interesting clientele, and artfully concocted elixirs.

Saturn Lounge

Cherokee Street is an area of St. Louis known for its eclectic mix of culture, shopping, food, and drinks. Found in the heart of the Historic Antique Row District and co-owned by John Curtis and Doug Morgan, Saturn Lounge offers craft beers, classic cocktails, and wine in a modern and intimate setting. Formerly a blacksmith shop, the building boasts a brick patio that’s ideal for savoring your drink on a warm, sunny day, while the retro interior may feel like you’ve stumbled into an episode of That ‘70s Show. The owners care deeply about the music experience, and you’ll find vinyl records stacked alongside the whiskey bottles. Its short cocktail list is creative and offers one-of-a-kind drinks like ‘Slow Jam’ (a decadent blend of coffee caramel pecan liqueur, whiskey cream, coffee and orange bitters) and La Scala (mezcal margarita with basil and peach liqueurs), adding further flavor to the music-inspired vibe.

1915 Cherokee Street, St. Louis, MO 63118

Small Change

Near Saturn Lounge, on the other side of Benton Park, Small Change is a casual venue with a dog-friendly patio and a bevy of signature cocktails, mixed strongly and delicious to boot. The bar proudly displays its STL brewing heritage with a vintage illuminated Falstaff sign above the entrance. The cocktail list features classics and handcrafted brews tailored to each season, like ‘A Full Desert Sled’ (PH Single Barrel Rebel Bourbon, Cynar 70, Orange Bitters) or ‘Follow Me To the Eighth Hole’ (1220 Encrypted Vodka, Lemon, Lavender Lemon Syrup, Seltzer). Their mocktails are no less sophisticated (try the refreshing ‘That Salad Can Wait’ with passionfruit, pomegranate and green tea syrup, lemon and Seltzer). Feeling brazen? The mixed shots are particularly potent. Toss back a Pickle Back – any rail drink with a shot of homemade pickle juice.

2800 Indiana Ave., St. Louis, MO 63118

Frazier’s

A Soulard favorite for a special night out, Frazier’s is located among historic St. Louis homes in one of the city’s most beautiful districts. The cocktails are works of art, crafted with precision, with plenty of seasonal specials. Every October, for instance, they feature a mysterious ‘Witches Brew’, while in summertime, you’ll be treated to CBD seltzers and lemon drop-based cocktails. The cocktail monikers (try James and the Spicy Peach’) will certainly break the ice. Doubly refreshing when paired with food offerings like chorizo-stuffed dates, BBQ shrimp, oysters, and pork schnitzel.

1811 Pestalozzi Street, St. Louis, MO 63118

Planter’s House

Planter’s House, Saint Louis (Photo courtesy of Planter’s House)

Planter’s House is an award-winning bar and restaurant that presents gorgeous and delicious hand-crafted cocktails. Flowing with the seasons, themed cocktails might include the likes of the Nippon-inspired ‘Our Carpets Match Our Drapes’ (Bols Genever, Toki whisky, matcha-Porcini, orgeat) or the bold combinations of ‘Tan In Real Life’
(North Shore Aquavit, Banhez Mezcal, coconut, lemongrass). They also have an extensive cocktail list based on their exclusive ‘barrel picks’ of whisky and bourbon. This date-night-vibes spot has high ceilings, leather booths, and a long, elaborate bar. Its cozy
and elegant interior with brick walls and curved ceilings will make you feel like you’ve just
stepped into a bar from the Golden Age of Hollywood. Here’s looking at you, kid.

1000 Mississippi Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104

Trust

Trust – once a speakeasy in a 19th-century bank (Photo courtesy of Trust bar)

At this cool, downtown bar, you’ll get to sip drinks in what used to be a bank. Originally the Mississippi Valley Trust Company bank, with stunning architecture in the Parisian Beaux-Arts style, this was the site of a speakeasy that is said to have been supplied alcohol by AL Capone. Steps away from the iconic Gateway Arch, today this craft cocktail bar and cafe will have you buzzing with excitement at the abundance of offerings on their list, divine drinks served with stately ice cubes and sipped from delicate vintage glassware. You’ll also find a selection of local beers here.

401 Pine Street, St. Louis, MO 63102

The Gin Room

Gin is the magic word here, with hundreds of variations of the spirit at your fingertips from a true expert, the self-proclaimed ‘gin girl’, Natasha Bahrami. The Gin Room offers house-made tonics, martinis and classic cocktails, alongside more creative fare. The Gin Room was named a James Beard Semi-Finalist Nominee for 2023 for “Outstanding Bar,” and it’s easy to see why. Classics like the Mad Men Gimlet and Dry Rye Old Fashioned offer a touch of class, and each drink packs a terrific punch. Their gin and tonics (‘English Rose’, ‘Summer Garden’) are crisp, refreshing, and fragrant. Nibbles include charcuterie plates and cheese boards, and some truly decadent desserts that you won’t want to skip.

3200 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63118

The Fortune Teller Bar

Fortune Teller, where you can have an oracle reading with your cocktail (Photo courtesy of Fortune Teller)

A good bartender should be able to read your mind… But could they also see your future? This one-of-a-kind spot on Cherokee Street welcomes the weird, the wacky, and the wild, with some eccentric cocktails to match. You’ll find intriguing objects d’art, crystals and skulls to tickle your fancy; there’s even an antique scale that tells your fortune – best steel yourself with a good stiff drink. This cabinet of curiosities is perfect for hosting a memorable birthday party or event, not least because it features a sunny backyard patio (where the owners grow witchy herbs, of course). Visit on a day when the in-house oracle readings are in session. We sense a delicious cocktail in your future.

2635 Cherokee Street, St. Louis, MO 63118

Brasserie

Brasserie bar and restaurant (Photo courtesy of Brasserie)

It doesn’t get much more sophisticated than St. Louis’s Brasserie by Niche, a beloved French restaurant and bar in the Central West End. The food is mouthwateringly
gourmand – Parisian brasserie classics like croque madame sandwiches, steak frites, and
mussels that pair well with divine cocktails concocted by Melinda Cooper. Always crowded, this fan-favorite is home to a loyal clientele. Order the Manhattan Noir, the Parisian (bien sûr!), or the Missouri Daisy. Even the mocktails are moreish, like the Zir Royale: a tasty treat made of luxardo syrup and ginger beer.

4580 Laclede Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108

The Whiskey Ring

Founded in 2013, the Whiskey Ring has the feel of a corner bar: cozy and easy-going, with affordable drinks, tons of different whiskies, classic cocktails and friendly, knowledgeable bartenders. It’s a hipster’s paradise: tattoos and pinball machines aplenty in this laid-back space. Outdoor seating adds to the lazy Sunday-afternoon vibes to be enjoyed at the Whiskey Ring.

2651 Cherokee Street, St. Louis, MO 63118

The Lucky Accomplice

Smore garnish at The Lucky Accomplice (Photo courtesy of The Lucky Accomplice)

This chic but welcoming establishment, helmed by Logan Ely and Justin Bell, enjoys
a fun and lively atmosphere featuring local cuisine and a well-curated cocktail list that includes the Sunday Driver, Turning Red, and A Street Corn Named Desire. Their cocktails are created as a complement to the sharing plates. At this arty, trendy spot, you’ll get big-city vibes at a small-city price.

2501 S. Jefferson Ave, St. Louis, MO 63104

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Katz’s Deli on the Lower East Side is New York’s oldest Jewish deli. (Photo by Tracy Kaler for TravelMag)

Manhattan’s illustrious immigrant neighborhood, the Lower East Side oozes history through its pores. Its streets and tenements are a reminder of the late 19th and early 20th centuries when scores of Germans and Eastern Europeans fled their homelands in search of a better life. Today, the “LES” as it’s sometimes called, is a trendy district overflowing with restaurants serving every type of food one can imagine.  Here are TravelMag’s picks for seven of the best restaurants on the Lower East Side.

Ernesto’s

Spain’s Basque Country presents a mélange of tapas, or “pintxos” in the region’s native language, and Ernesto’s delivers its rendition of some of the culinary capital’s traditional small plates. For an intro, try the ham croquettes, shrimp toast, white asparagus, and the “Gilda”––supposedly the first-ever pintxo with roots in San Sebastian in the 1940s––a skewer layering a pickled guindilla pepper, briny olives, and a salt-cured anchovy. Move on to the Spanish salt cod, duck breast in port and foie sauce, and other specialties on the main plates side of the menu. Pair your meal with a glass from Castilla y Leon, Murcia, or Rioja or go with the Spanish G&T––an inventive take on the American gin and tonic adding grapefruit, juniper, and rosemary.

259 East Broadway

Katz’s Deli

While this eatery has graced the silver screen numerous times over the years, the most iconic of the lot is Meg Ryan’s fake orgasm scene in When Harry Met Sally, making Katz’s world-renowned. As New York’s oldest Jewish deli, this legendary haunt began serving the city in 1888 when the Lower East Side was an immigrant haven. The restaurant prides itself on curing meats for 30 days, assuring customers will taste the difference between Katz’s corned beef and the usual 36-hour cured alternatives. That said, it’s no surprise locals and tourists queue for the “mile-high” pastrami sandwich, arguably one of the best in town. Although the deli fare here is undoubtedly worth the trip, don’t lose the ticket you receive upon entering. It’s Katz’s way of tracking orders, so you’ll need the slip to pay; otherwise, management will charge you $50.

205 E. Houston St

Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya

The acclaimed Bromberg Brothers’ foray into sushi began in 1995 when the duo and Blue Ribbon founders collaborated with sushi master Toshi Ueki and his team. Fast forward to 2012, Sushi Izakaya––a Japanese tavern and sushi bar––landed in the hotel, SIXTY LES. Fresh sushi and sashimi, broiled miso-cured black cod, a seven-color rainbow roll, yakitori, and the renowned Blue Ribbon fried chicken adorn the menu. Meanwhile, Japanese beers, a noteworthy sake and wine list, and shochu-style cocktails round out the adult beverages. Beyond the delicious Japanese cuisine, the restaurant’s American-style breakfast ranges from avocado toast to steak and eggs and build-your-own omelet.

187 Orchard St

Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya offers rolls, sashimi, yakitori, and the famed Blue Ribbon fried chicken. (Photo by Tracy Kaler for TravelMag)

Scarr’s Pizza

There’s no shortage of pies in the Big Apple––pizza is as ubiquitous as yellow cabs––but this retro pizzeria ranks among Manhattan’s best. To be straight, Scarr’s is no ordinary pizza. The eatery mills its own grains in the basement, then sifts, blends, and ferments the dough. That’s a lot of labor before maneuvering and crowning a pie with all the goodness that goes into crafting ultra-flavorful pizzas. Choose from a medley of regular crust, Sicilian, and Grandma, plain or decorated with toppings like pepperoni, meatballs, and cremini mushrooms. Unlike most other pizza joints, Scarr’s caters to vegans, offering vegan pizza, vegan Caesar salad tossed in a cashew-based dressing, and vegan garlic knots, while pouring natural wines and tapping fountain, slushy, “over ice” cocktails.

22 Orchard St

Dirty French

Despite the name, there’s nothing dirty about this French-inspired restaurant. Set in the eternally cool Ludlow Hotel, this spot from Major Food Group prepares timeless classics but with a modern spin. The feel-good interior design consists of a dimly lit space reminiscent of the French countryside; it’s almost as gratifying as oysters Bourguignon, steak au poivre, and the signature duck à l’orange (put in a special request when you reserve a table). An impressive French bottle list: think Sancerre, Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Cháteauneuf-du-Pape, with an abbreviated version by the glass, will undoubtedly please wine lovers. Don’t miss brunch at Dirty French, either. Start the weekend with a Ludlow egg sandwich: tiers of bistro ham, cheddar, and Dijonnaise atop a flaky croissant.

180 Ludlow St

Dirty French’s decor reminds one of the French countryside. (Photo by Tracy Kaler for TravelMag)

Saigon Social

This laid-back outpost attempted to open in 2020, but the pandemic halted its launch. After filling to-go orders and serving front-line workers during the thick of Covid, the Vietnamese eatery is thriving with dine-in service. New Yorkers head to Saigon Social for stuffed bánh mi, satisfying plates of garlic noodles and prawns, and soothing bowls of beef pho from Chef Helen Nguyen. Though the Seattle-raised cook was schooled in classical French cuisine, her heart lies with her roots––her parents emigrated from Vietnam to the US––and preparing upscale renditions of the nation’s comfort foods. Other menu items to sample include the black pepper-braised pork belly, Ha Noi-style vermicelli, and one of the signature dishes: bánh beo: steamed rice cakes sprinkled with shrimp, fried shallots, and scallion oil.

172 Orchard St

Freemans

For a cozy vibe, wander down the street art-covered Freeman Alley until you reach the end, where a clandestine Colonial-American tavern by the same name stands tucked away from the chaos of Bowery. The hideaway cooks up five cheese macaroni, devils on horseback, half Amish chicken and brown butter spätzle, and a dry-aged porterhouse steak for dinner. A decadent lunch and weekend brunch feature New England lobster roll, shrimp and grits with red-eye gravy, and the Harlem favorite: fried chicken and waffles. Offering an international wine list including a solid selection of Champagne and specialty cocktails, Freemans guarantees guests have plenty of boozy options to imbibe while soaking in the rustic décor and hip downtown atmosphere.

Freeman Alley

Freemans is a clandestine colonial-American tavern at the end of street art-covered Freeman Alley. (Photo by Tracy Kaler for TravelMag)

The post 7 of the Best Restaurants on Manhattan’s Lower East Side appeared first on TravelMag.

(Photo: Frita Batidos)

Michigan’s ‘Wolverines’ – as they are known – can be a ravenous bunch, which makes them fortunate to be surrounded by restaurants ranging from “cheaper than food” joints to gourmet restaurants. Some student eateries have been around for generations and have even opened multiple locations, while other newer places remain secret go-tos. Here are ten that students claim as their favorite eateries.

More than a Burger: Frita Batidos

No one needs a boring burger. Frita Batidos has the solution. Inspired by Cuban burgers, hungry patrons start by choosing which base they want: chorizo, black bean, chicken, fish or beef. Each comes with a different condiment and is topped with shoestring fries. They also offer a selection of traditional and unique toppings. The second part of the name is the Cuban milkshake made with fresh fruit and ice cream – and rum, if you are so inclined. Order at the counter and then grab a picnic table with a group of friends. Some even hold birthday parties there.

117 W. Washington

Hip and greasy: The Fleetwood Diner

(Photo: The Fleetwood Diner)

Sometimes students need comfort food at 2am. That’s when they head to The Fleetwood Diner for breakfast food, hamburgers, coney dogs, or just about anything that can be fried on a grill. While it has a reputation as a greasy spoon, it does serve up salads and sandwiches for those who are going to pass on the hippie hash (hash browns and veggies) or burgers. They’re open 24 hours a day, which makes them especially popular during midterms and finals.

300 S. Ashley Street

Heaps of cheap food: No Thai

U of M students know you don’t have to shell out a lot of money or commit to tongue-burning spice to enjoy great Thai food. Not when there’s No Thai. The menu invites you to choose between five spice levels (no spice, weak sauce, medium, yoga flame and dim mak), five flavorings (sweet, salty, savory, sour or spicy) and a choice of proteins (chicken, beef, tofu and shrimp). It’s the sort of place, one student said, where you go when it is game day and you need a fast infusion of carbs. There are two Ann Arbor locations: one downtown near all the classes, and another in Kerrytown, where many students live.

1300 S. University Ave / 226 N. Fourth Ave

Tiny but awesome: Rich J.C.

Sometimes the smallest and newest establishments offer the greatest treasures. Such is the case for students who love Korean food. Rich J.C. is a tiny café with a counter and maybe 15 seats. It serves generous portions of traditional Korean food ranging from mandu to bibimbap and bulgogi. Most meals come with soup and an assortment of side dishes. As for the origins of the restaurant’s name, we’ll leave that to your imagination.

1313 S. University Ave

Game Day Brunch: The Jagged Fork

(Photo: The Jagged Fork)

Whether needing a good solid brunch before a day at the Big House cheering on the local sports teams or just a cosy vibe for when the parents when they’re in town, The Jagged Fork is a popular breakfast place that serves up a variety of pancakes, skillets, omelets, crepes and other specialties from 8am to 3pm every day. If you’re able to resist such things as red velvet pancakes, s’more French toast, chicken Pomodoro omelets, breakfast tamales and ‘pesto benny’ eggs Benedict, then you are welcome to select from their menu of burgers, salads and other sandwiches.

414 S. Main Street

Cheaper than Food: Krazy Jim’s Blimpy Burger

Since 1953, Krazy Jim’s Blimpy Burgers has been serving up sliders with an interactive ordering system. They claim that the only thing fresher than the beef is the attitude. Rules for ordering: Get in line and don’t switch places. Grab a tray if you don’t want your food to-go. No cell phones – they need your attention. Expect to get attitude if you dally or don’t order correctly. Each spot in the line is a place to order something different for your burger, or other side items. The burgers are small and you’re expected to order them in multiples unless you are under five – then you can have one. You can get up to five for the same price. Don’t even mention cheese until the burgers are grilled.

304 S. Ashley Street

Sports fans delight: The Brown Jug

Football traditions are practically sacred in Ann Arbor and restaurants are quick to cater to fan-fueled hunger. In 1936, The Brown Jug opened downtown and is still a place to catch every U of M game. The restaurant is named after the Michigan vs. Minnesota football trophy, the oldest in college football. The rivalry dates to 1892 with the earthenware jug first exchanging hands in 1903. The restaurant is a favorite of students whether for happy hour or to enjoy special game day menus. Every dish commemorates a U of M athlete or coach, though you might have to Google who they are unless you are a college sports historian.

1204 S. University Ave

Beer tours: Ashley’s

It’s hard to describe the student experience without talking about beer. Ashley’s opened in 1983 to celebrate good food, good drink and good friends – and they’re very big on beer. In fact, they say they’ve traveled the world to find the best beers from Bohemia to Flanders to Michigan micro-brews. They sponsor a beer tour and give out rewards at various levels for trying different beers, from a free snack for five different beers to a personalized ‘beer hunter’ hooded sweatshirt for 100 different varieties. (Achieving that level also guarantees their name immortalized on the Beer Tour Plaque). Their beers come with a rating that ranks their flavor, body, hop bitterness and aftertaste.

338 S. State Street

Immigrant spirit: Jerusalem Garden

(Photo: Jerusalem Garden)

Known as ‘a corner of Palestine in Ann Arbor’, Jerusalem Garden is the creation of Ribhi Ramlawi. He fled Jerusalem in 1948 with his family and then immigrated to the U.S. in 1962. In 1987, he used a severance check to open Jerusalem Garden, which has become a favorite among students for its Middle Eastern fare. Determined to continue their father’s legacy, his three children took over upon their father’s death and continue using his recipes. While the restaurant itself is popular, it’s especially well-known for catering and many people who have never stepped through their doors attest to how delicious their food is.

314 E. Liberty Street

When the parents pay: Zingerman’s Deli and Zingerman’s Roadhouse

(Photo: Carl Collins / Courtesy Zingerman’s)

Zingerman’s has become an institution in Ann Arbor, though their commitment to fine ingredients and paying their employees a living wage mean that it can be steep on a student’s budget. It’s the sort of place students go to when their parents are visiting and picking up the tab. The deli was established downtown in 1982 and serves high-quality sandwiches, soups and salads. The Roadhouse has earned James Beard nominations for outstanding hospitality two years in a row. The chef creates new specials each week including weekly ‘blue plate’ specials that aren’t quite so hard on the pocket.

Deli: 422 Detroit Street / Roadhouse: 2501 Jackson Ave

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(Photo: Bamboo Detroit)

Michigan’s largest city, Detroit is best known for its eye-popping street art, vintage cars, ear-tingling jazz clubs, and top-class museums. And in recent years the city has also been at the cutting edge of the burgeoning trend for coworking spaces, where remote workers find the perfect environment to be at their productive best among like-minded folk. Here are 7 great coworking spaces to pick from across Detroit.

Bamboo Detroit

(Photo: Grand River WorkPlace)

Established in 2014 with the vision of filling the gap of economic development support within the local community, Grand River WorkPlace is both a co-working incubator and pop-up retail space. They pride themselves on providing an affordable working environment for small businesses and sole workers, helping connect entrepreneurs to resources to aid in their development and growth. Flexible plans from general co-working all the way to private offices and pop-up retail space are all available. Coworking membership is priced at a$100 per month, which includes 24/7 access and two hours’ conference room use per week. Members also gain access to workshops, curated events and meet-ups.

9120 Grand River Avenue / www.grandriverworkplace.com

Regus

One of the biggest names in the coworking sector, Regus’s Detroit venue offers a choice of hot desks, permanent desks, and private offices. Membership includes access to amenities and facilities such as printers, scanners and photocopiers, plus invites to networking and community events. Contracts are available on a monthly rolling basis, or you can ease your monthly payments by locking into a long-term contract. Coworking prices start at $319 per month for full-time access to their coworking areas. Five or ten-days a month packages are also available for cheaper rates.

GM Renaissance Center, 400 Renaissance Center / www.regus.com

The Green Garage

(Photo: The Green Garage)

Located in the historic Cass Corridor neighbourhood of Midtown Detroit, the Green Garage continues to fly the flag for sustainability having originally been founded as a demonstration centre for what sustainability in an urban setting could look like. Today it is also a community within a wider community, with members able to enjoy easy access to locally-owned cafes and restaurants, independent shops, and cultural institutions. Coworking rates start at $75 per month for access to the first-come, first-served non-dedicated workspace, including use of amenities such as a kitchen, dining room, lounge area and meeting rooms, as well as invites to regular social and networking events.

4444 2nd Avenue / www.greengaragedetroit.com

SpaceLab 

Founded in 2017, this professional, dynamic coworking space offers a choice of private offices and shared desks in the heart of Detroit. With an emphasis on the needs of the built environment professions, they provide all of the services and amenities that architects, designers, engineers, contractors, real estate professionals, artists and others require from an office space. A range of flexible membership plans are available, with hotdesking rates starting at $250 per month, including 24/7 access, superfast WiFi, and 8 hours conference/meeting room use a month. There are also weekday passes priced at $20 and bundled day pass packages too.

607 Shelby Street Suite 700 / www.spacelabdetroit.com

Hunt Street Station

(Photo: Hunt Street Station)

Housed in a historic building near Detroit’s famous Eastern Market, this downtown coworking space for independent professionals and small businesses offers a true personal community experience. Entry level membership is called Elbow Room, which is priced at $104 per month and gives you access to a shared workspace without any extras such as conference rooms, but use of all other on-site amenities. Alternatively, for $159 you get a dedicated desk and unlimited use of community areas, conference/meeting rooms, and more. Among the facilities available to all members are free parking for cars and bikes, free tea/coffee, an outdoor deck area, and weekly events including yoga and fitness.

2200 Hunt Street / www.huntstreetstation.com

Venture X

Featuring a chic industrial loft design and striking floor-to-ceiling windows, Venture X offers members access to communal work desks for prices starting at $299 per month. Boutique hotel-style hospitality gives the space’s community of freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small- to medium-sized businesses the perfect environment for growing personally and professionally. On-site amenities include a large lounge area, a café, and high-tech meeting rooms. The venue also puts on frequent events, ranging from talks and seminars to yoga sessions and parties.

220 West Congress Street / www.venturex.com

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A caramel cocktail at Prei speakeasy (Photo: preiphnompenh.com)

While Phnom Penh’s mixology scene might still be on the rise compared to Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City, bars in the Cambodian capital are flourishing. Their inventive, cosmopolitan menus reflect the city’s diversity, resilience and youthful energy. Signature cocktails tend to be tangy and refreshing, blending local Khmer herbs, spices and liqueurs with international staples. Phnom Penh has no shortage of breathtaking rooftop bars from which to admire the cityscape, happy hour conveniently coinciding with sundown. After dark, explore confidential cocktail lounges where Khmer locals, expats and travelers gleefully rub shoulders. A tipple might cost as little as US $5 or $6, and even an elaborate concoction on the most sophisticated rooftop will set you back less than a drink in most European cities (though this should be no excuse not to savor in moderation).

Sora Sky Bar

Sora Sky Bar, Phnom Penh (Photo: Rosewood Hotel)

Perched atop the 37th floor of the Vattanac Capital Tower, a cantilevered terrace haloing the Rosewood Hotel, the stylish Sora Sky Bar is by far the highest in Phnom Penh. Soaring 188 meters (617 feet) over the city, the panoramic views make a chic first-date impression. Get there at sunset for a picture perfect cocktail: refined creations from head mixologist Udom. Try the Slek Chak (Kampot pepper and coconut-infused rums, frothy egg white and house-made mangrove palm orgeat), or Sora’s Milk Punch with kaffir lime, Rinomato Scuro, Wedges gin and clarified milk. A range of ‘eco-conscious cocktails’ reduces packaging waste and guarantees a tree planted for each beverage ordered. Drinks are served with olives and local cashews, or choose from the Asian fusion sharing plates. Every month, Sora welcomes guest mixologists from the World’s 50 Best Bars affiliation for an experience that is about much more than the view.

Rosewood Hotel, Monivong Boulevard 66, Phnom Penh 12202

Prei 

Prei speakeasy and restaurant, Phnom Penh (Photo: preiphnompenh.com)

When your tuk tuk pulls up out front, it looks like you’ve arrived at a liquor store, and that the store is closed. Don’t be fooled.  It’s all a front for Prei cocktail bar and bistro, elegant yet cosy with its plush velvet chairs and vintage Cambodian posters and records adorning the walls. The most modern touch: browsing through menus on tablets. Founded by husband and wife team Stephen Hansen and Liza Kao,  Prei claims to offer the largest classic craft cocktail menu in Cambodia, with reimagined classics (apple and cinnamon old fashioned, rice paddy gimlet with lemongrass tincture) and adventurous signatures (the Conquistador, with Mezcal, Plantation OFTD, campari, grapefruit liqueur, chocolate and truffle) prepared with flair by Liverpool-born Conor Giles. Prei also offers bespoke cocktails on request, to surprise you with an original creation based on your tastes. The refined sharing plates menu has been created in collaboration with the local restaurant Fat Passion.

#15 street 214 , Sangkat Boeung Riang, Khan Daun Penh Phnom Penh, 12211

Samai Distillery

Samai Distillery, a Thursday night in Phnom Penh (Photo: Samai)

Behind unmarked, heavy wooden doors in a quiet street in the trendy BKK1 district lies one of Phnom Penh’s busiest bars – though perhaps that’s because it’s only open Thursdays. A DJ spins at the entry, setting the mood for hip Cambodians and expats perched around wooden barrels in a converted warehouse space. In plain view, the fermentation tanks and distillation machinery used by Samai to make the smooth Cambodian rum you’ve been sipping. Try a Walnut Old Fashioned (Samai gold rum, maple syrup, black walnut bitters) or a Tropical Escape (Samai white rum, Tomoka banana and spice liqueur, passionfruit syrup and lime). The rum here is pretty special on its own; sample four glasses of their signature brews (including the zingy Kampot pepper rum) for around $12. Expect a creative cocktail menu for special events like Christmas and Chinese or Khmer New Year.

#9b, Street 830, 830 Samdach Sothearos Blvd, Phnom Penh 12301

Uniga

Uniga bar, Bassac Lane (Photo: Uniga Facebook)

The Bassac Lane area has been Phnom Penh’s thriving pub-crawl destination since 2013, and at the very end of the alley of the original Bassac Lane lies Uniga, a recent edition opened in 2021. Just look for the striking mural painted by the bar’s co-owner Yimmay Visith. Welcome to Uniga (a portmanteau meaning ‘prosperity, equality and friendship’), where the bar staff are certainly friendly. Their specialty cocktails are wildly eclectic and don’t shy from bold Khmer flavors: the signature Oun Saat Avey Mles (‘You Are So Beautiful’) features prahok, the pungent fermented fish paste found in savory Cambodian dishes, extracted into its essence and mixed with whiskey, honey, lime, and ginger, for a salty and surprisingly refreshing brew. Other playfully named cocktails contain no less exotic touches like coconut syrup, jackfruit jam and sticky rice syrup (‘I am single’). But it’s not just the ingredients that make Uniga special; it’s the storytelling behind each cocktail on their vintage-inspired drinks list.

M111 Street 308 Phnom Penh, 12301

Elephant Bar

The Elephant Bar Phnom Penh (Photo: Raffles)

The fabled, impossibly elegant Elephant Bar at Raffles Hotel Le Royal opened in 1929, and little seems to have changed of the decor since then with its vaulted ceiling, sumptuous frescoes and ceramic and brass elephants surveying their kingdom. Overlooking the garden in the east wing of this vast colonial mansion, its most famous cocktail (aside from Raffles’ Singapore Sling) is the Femme Fatale, created for Jacqueline Kennedy during her 1967 visit to Cambodia. The signature menu offers exotic mixes, several award-winning concoctions like the Sensory Mango Boulevardier (Bruichladdich Classic Laddie, Campari, Cocchi Vermouth, mango cordial), and the largest selection of gin in Asia, including its own Elephant Bar Gin. Not sure what to order? The head bartender Pisai will orient you. Line up some tapas or a lavish high tea and settle in for a generous happy hour spell (4-9pm).

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, 92 Rukhak Vithei, Phnom Penh 12302

Bar Odin

No sign illuminates this discreet wooden lodge in the BKK1 district. The first thing that stands out is the music, as you enter the narrow, candlelit bar; the 1930s jazz soundtrack seems to usher you back to the Prohibition, and under its spell. The next thing that stands out is the bottles lining the walls: Odin carefully curates its collection of spirits and rare whiskeys. It’s the pride of owner and head barman Ryoichi ‘Shimo’ Shimoda, who prepares cocktails with the surgical precision, grace and inscrutable flair you might expect from a bar in Ginza. From the timber counter (the only pace to sit, really), watch him prepare a smokey espresso martini or a Godfather (Scotch and amaretto). The cocktail menu may not stray from the classics, but it’s rare to experience them with such pure, harmonious subtlety, drawing new sensations from old staples. Sushi and cigars also available à la carte.

#22A St. 282, BKK1 Chomkarmorn, Phnom Penh 08860

Mawsim

Mawsim Distillery, Phnom Penh (Photo: www.mawsim.shop)

Taking its name from the Arabic word for season and the root word of ‘monsoon’, Mawsim is a Japanese gin manufacturer based in Cambodia, using native botanicals such as Mandulkiri pepper, makrut lime and cardamom to infuse its elixirs. The intimate, wood-panelled headquarters function as a micro-distillery by day and tasting room by night. There is attention in every minimalist detail, from the copper countertop forged by Siem Reap artisans, handmade Japanese Gifu lanterns, the nibbles (gin-infused raisin butter on crackers, Japanese-style fried eggplant) and the cocktails themselves: works of art (just watch them smoke the smokey negroni). Mawsim takes gin and tonic to new heights: a base of either tropical citrus or spices and herbs with their in-house tonic water (or try it with a special twist, such as matcha green tea). Feeling indulgent? Opt for the unlimited ‘free flow’ tasting of four gins, or reserve for a gin and food pairing dinner.

#133E1, St.108, Sk.Sras Chhork, Kh.Daun Penh, Phnom Penh

Voodoo Blvd

Voodoo Boulevard Phnom Penh (Photo: Facebook)

Luscious tiki decor, hip live bands, a young and energetic team, and colorful cocktails make Voodoo Boulevard one of the most Instagram-worthy bars in town, with guaranteed good vibes. Following the success of their sister bar in Kampot, Voodoo Blvd keeps its inspired creations flowing in the Wat Botum neighborhood of Phnom Penh: signature drinks like the Ninkasi (Mosaïc Hops infused Bombay Sapphire, Peach Liqueur, basil, rosemary and thyme, lime juice and tonic) are beautifully presented, with a limited-edition potion of the week keeping things fresh for regulars (such as the ‘Dill or No Dill?’ with dill and cucumber-infused Stolichnaya, lychee liqueur, lime juice and egg white). A fine way to wash down the Italo-Asian fusion tapas before dancing up a storm.

Voodoo Boulevard, St 258, Phnom Penh

Bar Eve

Narrow stairs and a mysterious, illuminated sign lead to this intimate bar with modern, minimalist design. Bar Eve was co-founded by gifted young New Zealand mixologist Morgan Taua (one of the personalities behind Bar Pearl, another cocktail den to try in Phnom Penh). The specialty cocktail list may not be extensive, but each creation merits being ordered again and again. What makes their espresso martini so moreish? It’s that little splash of peanut butter-flavored tequila. Eve is undeniably where all the cool kids hang out in BKK1, especially on Fridays when guest DJs start spinning RnB and hip hop beats until late. (It’s a two-minute walk from Odin, if you feel like bar-hopping with style.)

37 St 310, BKK1 12300, Phnom Penh

Seekers Spirit House

Seekers Spirit House, Phnom Penh (Photo: seekersspirits.com)

The garden to glass concept is taking hold in Phnom Penh, with yet another local distillery opening its doors to the public with a cocktail menu artfully designed to shine the spotlight on its gin and vodka wares. Seekers may be a little off the main drag in the south of the city, but well worth a visit, with its relaxing garden (a pool table, petanque terrain and occasional concerts enrich the space) as well as an indoor bar in the light-filled warehouse. Be sure to try at least one drink featuring the Jason Kong Mekong Butterfly gin, giving off a luminous purple hue which naturally changes color depending on the ingredients added. (Lychee and coffee-infused gins serve as a base for those who like to sub dessert for a martini.) Tapas and signature cocktail pairings complete the experience.

Taty 1577, B3, National Road 2, Chak Angre Phnom Penh

The post 10 of the Best Cocktail Bars in Phnom Penh appeared first on TravelMag.

The oldest café in Montevideo (Photo: Café Brasilero)

Montevideo is known for its enviable city beaches, rich Uruguayan cuisine and a cultural offering to rival any European city, all of which is fueled by an overflowing coffee scene. The love of Uruguayans for their native yerba mate has evolved to encompass a fondness for all things warm, brewed and stimulating. Especially a good cup of coffee. Every neighborhood boasts many coffee shops, no two alike, but those that follow stand out for their ambience, the quality of their coffee, and their unique history.

Candy Bar

This quaint and intimate café is the perfect place to start the day with a savory brunch and your choice of coffee. Like many cafés in Montevideo, the building has its own story. The new owners have kept the original sign and façade built in 1963, maintaining its classic charm. The attention to detail and careful design make you feel right at home upon entering. A variety of antique lamps sway above the cushy leather booths inside and the café also offers terrace seating located on the corner of one of the many tree-lined streets of the historic Palermo neighborhood. Candy Bar is open throughout the day and well into the evening, so you can pop by almost any time for a café and their famous “banoffee” dessert.

Durazno 1402

Candy Bar’s original sign and façade from 1963 (Photo: Candy Bar)

Café La Farmacia

This antique pharmacy has now transformed into the alluring Café La Farmacia. Located in Ciudad Vieja, the owners opted to keep all the original decor, from the drawers and cupboards to the old medicine jars and marble mortars that were once used to make medicine. It’s a local hotspot, not just for its cozy and historic appeal but for its carefully crafted coffees and exquisitely prepared fare. They stick to the basics here with their coffee menu, from espressos to lattes, but what stands out instead is the consistent quality and the skill with which each of these classics is made. In the early hours the natural light beams through La Farmacia’s grand windows, shining light on its intricate tiled floors and unique interior design. A perfect way to spend a morning in the old town of Montevideo.

Cerrito 550

La Isla Café

Created by two surfers inspired by the surf culture of California, owners Mathías and Juan Pablo, set out to create a café designed around healthy food and great coffee, the perfect nourishment before a long day of surfing. Even for those who don’t strive to catch the biggest wave of the day, it’s still worth a visit, to recharge on a cappuccino and one of their fresh, nutritious sandwiches. La Isla is laid out in the cafeteria style, with a small counter to place your order and ample outdoor seating. Located in the Carrasco neighborhood and just a two-minute walk from the beach, it’s a perfect place to catch some sun, read a book, people-watch, and sip on some stellar coffee.

Francisco Saez 11500

One of Montevideo’s best known coffee houses (Photo: Café Brasilero)

Café Brasilero

Café Brasilero was a haven for musicians, artists, and famed Uruguayan writers like Mario Benedetti and Juan Carlos Onetti. The latter famously wrote parts of his first novel, El pozo (The Pit) here. Uruguayan author and journalist, Eduardo Galeano, frequented the café every Wednesday for 20 years, and a large portrait of him hangs on its wall to this day. Upon its first opening in 1877, Café Brasilero was the epicenter of the bohemian arts scene in Montevideo. The café sadly closed in the 1980s, but reopened in 2010 and has honored its tremendous past, with photos, poems and newspaper clippings hanging on its walls. It is the oldest café in the city and the first to be named a café of cultural interest in Montevideo. If the rich history isn’t enough to entice you, they also serve up a menu of coffee drinks all named after famous writers. Also located in the neighborhood of Ciudad Vieja, Café Brasilero is the perfect place to grab a coffee, drink in the city’s artistic heritage, and maybe even get inspired to start writing a classic of your own.

Ituzaingó 1447

Flora Café’s indoor herb garden (Photo: Flora)

Flora

The newly opened Flora Café is nestled on the corner of Canelones and Convención in the city’s center. The concept here is ‘Conscious food,’ serving food and drinks with organic and fresh ingredients. In the center of the restaurant, there is an herb garden that the chefs and baristas use for their dishes and beverages. On the menu, you can find classic dishes with a healthy twist like pancakes made from oats and topped with fresh fruit or their stuffed focaccia – stuffed with tempeh, eggplant, greens, and white bean hummus. Locals, laptop in hand, also flock to Flora for co-working, as one of the best cafés in Montevideo to work from. You’re likely to find them sipping on a warm latte with oat milk, encompassed in the scent of fresh herbs from the indoor garden.

Canelones 892

A fresh, flaky and buttery croissant (Photo: Bar Brecha)

Brecha Bar and Café

Visitors are welcomed to this corner retreat by the smell of warm bread and focaccia baking in its ovens and the aromatic scent of coffee being brewed to order. The indoor sanctuary, with art from local artists decorating its walls, is a laid-back, cozy spot to enjoy a fresh, flaky and buttery croissant alongside a cortado. On warm and bright mornings, locals take advantage of their sidewalk seating to catch some rays while biting into their baked goods. In the afternoon, Brecha serves pizzas on artesian dough, sandwiches and desserts, and into the evening this bakery turns into a bar offering beer and wine and live music.

Brecha by night (Photo: Bar Brecha)

Aquiles R. Lanza 1201

The Lab Coffee Roasters

The family-run business, Lab Coffee Roasters, opened its first location in 2016 and since then has become fundamental to the lives of Montevideo’s coffee lovers. Now the growing business has six locations throughout Montevideo, each with its own specific charm and all guaranteed to offer exceptional coffee and delicious snacks. The ideal coffee shop for networking, studying, catching up on work, or just relaxing over great coffee, Lab Roasters serves it all amidst comfy and modern interior design. They source coffee from around the world, from Colombia to Rwanda and Ethiopia, and transform these worldly coffee beans into lattes, flat whites and cappuccinos, with the option of ‘Nude’ oat milk – a specialty milk made specifically for baristas. Their desserts are in a class of their own: from the fresh and tart lemon pie topped with generous heaps of whipped cream to their smooth and decadent red velvet cake, you’ll be sure to find the perfect pairing for what is one of Montevideo’s finest coffees.

Av. Tomás Giribaldi 2283

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(Photo: Knowle Golf Club)

Straddling the River Avon in the West Country, southwest England, Bristol was at one point a relatively humble port city, but in recent decades has grown to become a major cultural hub. For golfing fans, the city’s bucolic surroundings have also given rise to a number of top-class golf courses. If you’re looking to play golf in or around Bristol, we’ve picked out 5 of the best courses the region has to offer, listed by distance from the city centre.

Knowle Golf Club

Situated in the aptly named suburb of Fairway, four miles south of Bristol city centre, Knowles Golf Club is home to a popular par-70 course that flows through mature parkland and features tree-lined fairways draped across a pleasantly undulating landscape. The JH Taylor-designed layout lends itself to an occasional change in elevation, providing a challenge for golfers of all experience levels. The Brislington Brook, a tributary of the River Avon, also provides an obstacle for some holes, making precision rather than power the order of the day. Notable holes include the picturesque 17^th and the par five 18^th, the latter offering a grandstand finish with the fairway sweeping down the hill to the large home green.

Bristol & Clifton Golf Club

(Photo: Bristol & Clifton Golf Club)

Just under six miles west of the city centre, close to the historic Ashton Court Estate, sits Bristol & Clifton Golf Club. Here, a steady stream of golfers come to test themselves on the beautifully mature and undulating parkland course, which has earned its reputation as one of the finest in the region. In summertime, the course plays firm and fast, with zippy, true greens , while come winter the course drains well, helping keep it open in all conditions. There’s also a historic clubhouse first bult in 1899 that combines its rich history with plenty of modern amenities.

The Bristol Golf Club

Located on the site of a former deer park in the village of Almondsbury, 12 miles north of Bristol city centre, the Bristol Golf Club is one of the more recent additions to the region’s golfing landscape. Set in the heart of 200 acres of countryside and with panoramic views across the Severn Estuary, it combines an idyllic setting with the opportunity for some top-notch golfing for players of all abilities. Despite being a new build, the impeccably maintained main course with its challenging championship layout  benefits from well-established woodland, giving it a maturity that belies its youth.

Book tee times at Golfscape.com

Lansdown Golf Club

(Photo: Lansdown Golf Club)

Venture 20 miles east of Bristol, towards the historic Georgian city of Bath, and you’ll find another exceptional course at Lansdown Golf Club. Designed by renowned golf course architect Harry Colt, the superbly conditioned parkland course, which is built on the southerly edge of the Cotswold escarpment, affords breath-taking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, over the Bristol Channel and even as far as the Brecon Beacons National Park. Built on a plateau, the par 71, course has no hills to negotiate but still provides a stimulating and testing round for golfers of all standards. Meanwhile the clubhouse features a spacious lounge and dining room, a bar and a large patio overlooking the 1^st tee.

Book tee times at Golfscape.com

The Wiltshire Hotel, Golf & Leisure Club

Positioned on the fringes of the North Wessex Downs, 34 miles west of Bristol, is one of the region’s finest accommodation options. Overlooking rolling countryside, the Wiltshire Hotel, Golf & Leisure Club is home to an array of great amenities, including an on-site par 72 golf course that’s open to both hotel guests and visitors alike. Initially designed by Peter Allis in 1991, the Lakes Course, as the name indicates, is strategically laid out around the numerous natural lakes that can be found in the area. As a result, water hazards can be found on as many as 13 holes, serving up a real test for golfers striving to avoid the dreaded splash and sink.

Book tee times at Golfscape.com

The post 5 of the Most Charming Golf Courses near Bristol appeared first on TravelMag.

Giensch vintage, Maastricht (Photo: courtesy of Giensch, via Facebook)

The Dutch admire the capital of the Limburg province for its historic churches, charming cobbled streets, vast vineyards and authentic feel. They say it almost feels foreign – and not just because of the strong accent. Though it’s easy to take pleasure in the distinctively Burgundian way of life, Maastricht can feel more cosmopolitan than other small towns in the Netherlands, offering high quality food and wine alongside a range of exhibitions and live performances. The locals love to dress up and to hunt for treasures to add to their wardrobes, so you’re bound to notice some elegant and original style around town. If you can’t resist picking up some pre-loved fashion while traveling, don’t miss these five vintage clothing boutiques in Maastricht.

Secondhand4all

Secondhand4All Maastricht (Photo courtesy of https://secondhand4all.nl/)

Do you go weak at the knees when you see a stunning vintage designer piece? Then you’re likely to need to sit down when you enter Secondhand4all. Two shops facing each other in the same street sell beautiful secondhand items that are looking for a new, stylish home, from Prada boots to Dsquared sneakers. Need a second opinion? Owners Leonique and Fermand will gladly help while offering you coffee, tea or even a glass of wine with this very personalized shopping experience. Locals feel at home in this boutique, and naturally navigate towards the carefully curated clothing racks when looking for new jeans or blouses from a variety of brands.

Bredestraat 16, 6211 HC, Bredestraat 33, 6211 HB

We-ar Vintage

With two locations in the city centre, We-ar Vintage proudly identifies itself as a ‘twee vintage store’.  Whether you’re on the hunt for authentic 60s jeans, or funky grandma floral dresses, one thing is guaranteed: you won’t leave empty-handed. Looking for boots, bags or bomber jackets? Their selection is affordable, with something for everyone. Rummage through unisex items and a wide variety of accessories, or look for inspiration in the colorful window displays to get your retro fashion fix.

Rechtstraat 52, 6221 EK, Achter het Vleeshuis 33, 6211 GR

Dotnsquare Vintage

Dotnsquare shopfront (Photo courtesy of Dotnsquare Vintage)

Clothes might be one of the most important tools we have to express ourselves, day to day. Dotnsquare Vintage believes that what we wear should always proudly display our personality. The boutique is also dedicated to the positive impact that vintage shopping has on our planet, enthusiastically sharing that mission with its customers. The selection brings back the 80s and 90s vibe of abundance, with a particular penchant for female designers. They also stock a range of LGBT-themed stickers and buttons from playful brands such as Afroditi’s Art, sustainably produced jewelry and other locally crafted accessories. Whether you’re looking for a statement leather jacket, tweed waistcoat , over-the-top prom dress or a preppy blouse, if you’re aiming for a unique look, this is the place to go.

Heggenstraat 5, 6221 CW

Vintage Island

Vintage Island is a household name when it comes to vintage shopping in the Netherlands, with six shops throughout the country. In Maastricht, you’ll be lured in by the eye-catching accessories, such as scarfs and barrettes, an abundance of cowboy boots, and an extensive 90s collection. You’ll find items in all colours, sizes and price brackets. One thing is for sure: you’ll definitely lose your sense of time in this flamboyant island oasis of vintage threads.

Platielstraat 1A, 6211 GV

Giensch

Giensch Maastricht (Photo courtesy of Giensch, via Facebook)

Got an eye for new designers as well as vintage one-offs? Not to worry: Giensch has both. In the back of this inviting store with the yellow facade, you’ll find recent preloved items, such as shoes, coats and purses. Towards the entrance, expect new items and European brands, all in an undeniably retro style. Faux furs, bold 70s prints… The team clearly enjoys mixing different colors, textures and eras on their creatively styled mannequins.

Achter Het Vleeshuis 19, 6211 GR

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