OLTRE - Volume 10: The Entertainment Issue

ÓL • TRE

THE ENTERTAINMENT ISSUE

Welcome to the newest volume of OLTRE, our exclusive quarterly magazine filled with inspiration and ideas for your next trip — and beyond.

In this issue, it’s summertime and the living is fun! Find hundreds of ideas for celebrating the season, from cultural events and music performances to hotel happenings, Broadway-worthy shows at sea and more. Plus, we’ll give you 80 reasons why now is the perfect time to celebrate the City of Angels. Enjoy.

Jacq

Harriet (Chess)

Hannah wears

a full look by

Chloé

Tobias wears a Siedrés top, Beams

t rousers, John Varvatos l oafers and an Hermés watch.

YOUR PASSPORT TO THE EXTRAORDINARY

From storied cities to secluded shores, Four Seasons invites you to discover the exceptional. With legendary service, Michelin-starred dining, and breathtaking destinations across the globe, every stay is a journey in itself—crafted with care and curated just for you.

CONTACT A TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE BENEFITS AVAILABLE WHEN BOOKING FOUR SEASONS HOTELS AND RESORTS

AT A GLANCE SOUND/BAR

Costalegre, Mexico

Four Seasons Tamarindo lured one of Mexico City’s most celebrated chefs to the coast. Her restaurant is great, naturally. But there’s far more to the story than that.

Have tickets; let’s go: dance, theater, music, art and more. Sometimes the show is the destination.

the Long Hauls

See which airlines just introduced the poshest new suites, amenity kits and designer pajamas in first class.

THE LEGEND

If only these walls could talk. The Palace — which has hosted the likes of

Hemingway, Gorbachev, King Alfonso

and countless other dignitaries — just unveiled a fabulous $100-million renovation.

OLTRE’S Volume 10 playlist channels the vintage Felliniesque vibe of the new Don’t Worry Music Bar at Le Sirenuse on the Amalfi Coast.

A renowned mosaic artist ’s stunning celebrity portraits force us to look deeper into their personal stories.

Positano, Italy

Madrid, Spain

Picasso, Dalí,

XIII

Ooh la la.

Delray Beach, Florida

London, New York, Sardinia, Hokkaido...

80

66

67

68

68

69

Ways to Have Fun in Los Angeles

65 Speakeasies: Secret knocks and hidden doors.

Where to eat: The city’s hottest neighborhood for dining.

Culture club: The ultimate art crawls.

Curtains up: Live theater, because not everything is on film.

Date-night concerts: Intimate lounges and music stages

Ready, set, shop: Dior, Hermès, Prada, with a twist.

70 Classic Hollywood: The things we’ll never take for granted

Jacq Harriet (photo). Wardrobe credits can be found on page 65.

LIGHTS. CAMERA. EXTRAORDINARY.

Unlock the world’s finest destinations with the IHG Luxury & Lifestyle Collection. From tranquil shores to iconic peaks, these properties offer extraordinary experiences designed for your most discerning clients.

Contact your Luxury Travel Professional to book today.

Hot new hotels, bars, airport lounges and luxury boutiques from Osaka to Santa Fe.

One of the Caribbean’s leading voices on art and design gets the last word.

FAR FROM ORDINARY. SIMPLY PERFECT.

#1 RESORT IN CALIFORNIA

#2 HOTEL IN CALIFORNIA

#6 RESORT IN THE U.S.

U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT 2025

#2 RESORT IN CALIFORNIA

#11 RESORT IN THE U.S.

TRAVEL + LEISURE’S WORLD’S BEST AWARDS 2024

Fun Bougie &

Here’s an interesting exercise: Ask your family what words they would you use to describe you. You never know what you might hear, but I’ll take what my college-age son said about me: “Sophisticated, fun and bougie.” In fact, I think those words also describe OLTRE, which strikes just the right balance of fancy and fun.

A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS IN THIS ISSUE:

1. We love LA: Our editorial director and art director both live in the Los Angeles area, so the wildfires earlier this year, as well as this summer’s recent discord, hit close to home, literally. It’s always been a city of contrasts – grit and glamour, struggle and success – and now’s the time to celebrate its spirit of creativity, resilience and reinvention (page 64).

2. The OLTRE playlist: When my friend Antonio Sersale, owner of Positano’s Le Sirenuse, told me about his iconic hotel’s new Don’t Worry bar with a vinyl-spinning DJ, I knew it would be perfect for this issue’s Sound/Bar (page 20). Our signature playlist makes the ideal summer soundtrack.

3. Shows at sea: I love cruising but admit that I’ve not given much attention to the entertainment offerings on stage – until now. I want to set sail and catch them all! (page 32)

4. Speaking of shows: Our “What to Do Next” (page 48) features stage productions and performances on terra firma. When it comes to performances and events, your travel advisor often has the connections to get you VIP access, meet-and-greet opportunities and more.

5. The OLTRE Q&A: I’ve wanted to feature Bahamian artist John Cox (page 96) since we first met at a luxury travel industry event at Baha Mar a couple of years ago. The resort boasts an impressive collection of Caribbean art, programming and exhibits under his curatorial direction; it’s definitely worth a visit.

Enjoy this issue and have fun!

Senior Vice President, Content

Elaine Srnka

Evens Leandre (portrait), John Cox (artwork)

Senior Vice President, Content

Elaine Srnka

Vice President, Publishing

Laura Sport

For reservations, please contact your travel advisor

Editorial Director

Brad A. Johnson

Art Director

Devin Duckworth

Copy Editor

Jennifer Weston

International Correspondents

Cibele Maciet (Paris), Carolyn O'Neil (Caribbean), Kathryn Romeyn (Bali), Chris Schalkx (Bangkok), Laura Schooling (London), Marina Spironetti (Milan)

Contributors

Toni Andres, Steven Biller, Ceci Blackwell, Bryan Carr, Tanvi Chheda, Carole Dixon, Amber Duarte, Merle Ginsberg, Jacq Harriet, Anna Kato, Charissa Kroeger, Britt Layton, Don Nichols, Gabriella Onessimo, Ramona Saviss

Advertising & Marketing

Partner Relations

Dennis Grunden

Brian Hegarty

Stephen McGillivray

Vanessa McGovern

Haisley Smith

Pam Young

Account Management

Marshall Davenport

Melissa Dobmeier

Giselle Garvey

Sam Holloway

Catherine Johns

Ronald Laing

Pam Massey

Teresita Meadows

Sinead O’Connell

Michael Payan

Loyde Pires

Becky Serdar

Jeanne Watters

Danielle Whitmore

Advertising Consultants

Lisa Calderone-Spierings, Madelyn Roberts

Marketing Operations

Alexandra Rivera

Melissa Ghazi

Jessica Gularte

Laura Marchesano

Mariana Ramos

Database Marketing

Jocelyn Acosta

Elizabeth Broehl

Felipe Castro

Adam Kemerer

James Nathan

Daniel Tennant

Katarzyna Turska

Direct advertising inquiries to advertising@oltremag.com

Internova Travel Group

Chief Executive Officer

J.D. O'Hara

Chief Financial Officer

Robert Klug

Chief Information Officer

Jeremy Van Kuyk

Executive Vice President, Partner Relations

Albert Herrera

Executive Vice President, Partner Relations

Peter Vlitas

Senior Vice President, Public Relations

Elizabeth Gaerlan

Internova SELECT and CURATED Hotel & Resort Rate Key

$ = Less than $500

$$ = $500 – $1,000

$$$ = $1,000 – $1,500

$$$$ = More than $1,500

Categories reflect average mid-season rate for standard room. Your travel advisor can secure complimentary Internova SELECT or CURATED perks such as hotel credits, breakfast for two, early check-in/late checkout (based on availability) and other extras.

ON THE FRONT COVER:

Shot on location at Downtown L.A. Proper hotel. Photography by Jacq Harriet. Both women wear Monday Swimwear bikinis and a dress by Paco Rabanne. Male model wears a full look by Hiromi Asai.

ON THE BACK COVER:

Shot on location at Alonetogether in Bangkok, Thailand. Photography by Chris Schalkx.

President, Global Travel Collection

Angie Licea

President, Nexion Travel Group

Jackie Friedman

President, Travel Leaders Group

John Lovell

OLTRE is published quarterly by Internova Travel Group, one of the largest travel services companies in the world. Internova brands represent more than 100,000 travel advisors in more than 6,000 company-owned and affiliated locations throughout the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, with a presence in more than 80 countries. Publisher assumes no responsibility for representations or changes to travel information and pricing described herein, which are subject to change and availability, and restrictions may apply. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written consent of Publisher. Direct editorial and subscription inquiries to editors@oltremag.com and advertising requests to advertising@oltremag. com. Internova Travel Group is headquartered at 1633 Broadway, New York, NY 10019; Internova. com. Copyright © 2025 Internova Travel Group.

Step into the spotlight with shows that dazzle and captivate. Lose yourself in the electric energy of Rolling Stone Lounge, where you can rock out to the classics. Or sway to the soul of Memphis at B.B. King’s Blues Club, where world-class musicians bring the Delta to the deep blue sea.

On a Holland America cruise, the curtain never falls on extraordinary entertainment. From live music to theater, every night on board offers a new front-row experience.

Contact Your Travel Advisor to Book Today

The Making of Volume 10

BEHIND THE SCENES OF OUR SUMMER ISSUE

Los Angeles, California – For this issue’s cover shoot, art director Devin Duckworth assembled a 20-person fashion crew and took over one of the city’s most spectacular penthouse suites, the Pool Suite at the Downtown L.A. Proper — because what’s more L.A. than a pool party inside your hotel room? Here’s a glimpse of Hannah, mid-glamup, as the hair and makeup teams work their magic to prep her for the next shot. And later that day: “Next shot. Where’s Hannah?” Oh, there she is, locked in a poolside dominoes match with Tobias.

Costalegre, Mexico – “Hold on very tight, just in case we crash a little,” said the paratrike pilot to editorial director Brad A. Johnson as they were coming in for a landing on the golf course at Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo in Mexico. Until then, Johnson hadn’t been the slightest bit nervous about his flight over the resort for aerial photography. Luckily, they didn’t crash, not even just “a little.”

Jacq Harriet

(Los Angeles). Hannah wears bikini’s by Monday Swimwear

Join us on our elegant ships for the voyage of a lifetime

BOOK ONE OF OUR EXCEPTIONAL ITINERARIES BY CONTACTING YOUR PREFERRED TRAVEL ADVISOR. PART OF ABERCROMBIE & KENT TRAVEL GROUP.

LIFE IN PICTURES

A CLOSER LOOK AT THESE METICULOUSLY COMPOSED PORTRAITS REVEALS HUNDREDS OF TINY MOMENTS THAT TELL THE COMPLEX STORIES OF ENTERTAINMENT ICONS.

Delrey Beach, Florida

WRITING: STEVEN BILLER

British expat and renowned pop artist, now living in Florida, Robin Austin sees himself less as a traditional creator and more as a biographer, weaving narratives of cultural icons — Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Mick Jagger, The Beatles — through mesmerizing photomosaic portraits. Each intricate piece begins with exhaustive research into the life of a luminary from film, music, sports or current events. Austin secures and archives hundreds of images representing significant career and life moments, then composes his bounty into a visual odyssey presented in high-resolution detail. The portraits blend nostalgia and contemporary expression, inviting us into the photographs and the stories that nourish our collective cultural memory. robinaustinart.com

Clockwise from top:

“ The Long and Winding Road " archival print on aluminum

“ The Long and Winding Road " (Detail View) archival print on aluminum

“ His Majesty " archival print on aluminum

Opposite:

“ Gorgeous " archival print on aluminum

SOUND/BAR

THE AMALFI COAST IN SUMMER WILL NEVER GROW OLD, ESPECIALLY AT THE DON’T WORRY MUSIC BAR, WHERE THE SOUNDTRACK CHANNELS THAT ETERNAL FELLINI SPIRIT.

Positano, Italy

Le Sirenuse

An icon in the heart of Positano, the 58-room hotel spills across seven levels of cliff-side terrain on the Amalfi Coast. Your travel advisor can secure Internova SELECT perks, including a $100 spa credit and daily breakfast for two. $$$$

“Parole Parole” by Mina

“L’Appuntamento” by Ornella Vanoni

“Fiori Rosa, Fiori di Pesco” by Lucio Battisti

“Meraviglioso” by Domenico Modugno

“Rose Rosse” by Massimo Ranieri

“Tristezza (per favore vai via)” by Ornella Vanoni

“Ma Che Freddo Fa” by Nada

“La Bambola” by Patty Pravo

“Kobra” by Donatella Rettore

“Dieci Ragazze” by Lucio Battisti

“Eppur Mi Son Scordato Di Te” by Formula 3

“Tuca Tuca” by Raffaella Carrà

“Ma Il Cielo è Sempre Più Blu” by Rino Gaetano

“Viva La Mamma” by Edoardo Bennato

“Sarà Perché Ti Amo” by Ricchi E Poveri

“Kalimba De Luna” by Tony Esposito

“Yes I Know My Way” – 2021 Remix by Pino Daniele

“Nel Blu Dipinto Di Blu” by Domenico Modugno

“Eri Piccola Così” by Fred Buscaglione

“Tu Vuò Fà l’Americano” by Renato Carosone

Le Sirenuse had only eight rooms when the Sersales family transformed their private home into a hotel in 1951, and it immediately captured a vibe that would captivate the world. The hotel's charisma has never waned. Last year, Le Sirenuse doubled down on its vintage sound by opening a 50-seat cocktail lounge, the Don’t Worry Music Bar, where resident DJ Paolo Sciabu curates and spins Italian vinyl from the 1950s and adjacent eras — still a vibe

WRITING: BRAD A. JOHNSON

Don’t Worry Music Bar

WHERE STYLE SETS THE TONE

AT THOMPSON HOTELS, ENTERTAINMENT DOESN’T FOLLOW A SCRIPT—IT FINDS YOU. INTENTIONALLY DESIGNED. EFFORTLESSLY STYLISH. RICH WITH TEXTURE. THE SPACES ARE THE SET, AND EVERY MOMENT FEELS UNSCRIPTED YET UNFORGETTABLE.

THOMPSON DENVER • THOMPSON HOLLYWOOD • THOMPSON MADRID • THOMPSON MIAMI BEACH (COMING SOON) THOMPSON NASHVILLE • THOMPSON PALM SPRINGS • THOMPSON SAN ANTONIO – RIVERWALK • THOMPSON SAVANNAH THOMPSON SEATTLE • THOMPSON WASHINGTON D.C. • THOMPSON ZIHUATANEJO EXPLORE PARTICIPATING THOMPSON HOTELS

THOMPSON ATLANTA – BUCKHEAD • THOMPSON AUSTIN • THE BEEKMAN, A THOMPSON HOTEL THE CAPE, A THOMPSON HOTEL • THOMPSON CENTRAL PARK NEW YORK • THOMPSON CHICAGO • THOMPSON DALLAS

London, England

June 30 – July 13

WHAT’S ON

SAVE THE DATE: THESE ARE JUST SOME OF THE PREMIERES, EXHIBITIONS, FESTIVALS AND SPORTING EVENTS ON OUR AGENDA THIS SEASON.

Wimbledon, The Championships

Lake Geneva, Switzerland

July 4 – 19

Venice, Italy

August 27 – September 6

Seoul, South Korea

September 2 – January 1

Paris, France

September 4 – 13

Las Vegas, Nevada

July 16, 18, 19

Kent, England

July 19 – October 19

Munich, Germany

September 20 – October 5

Montreux Jazz Festival

“Lee Bul: My Grand Narrative” at Leeum Museum of Art

Paris Design Week

Venice International Film Festival

Lady Gaga, The Mayhem Ball Tour

Folkestone Triennial Art Exhibition

AELT

C/Edward Whitaker (London), Emilien Itim (M ontreux), LVCVA Archive (Las Vegas), Thierry Bal (Kent), Andre Blanco (Venice),

Galerie BSL (Paris), Frank Bauer (Munich)

YOUR FAVORITE LOUNGE’S FAVORITE LOUNGE

What you thought was the best pre-flight experience just became better—and more exclusive.*

*Delta One Lounge is for eligible passengers.

HOT

SHOTS

JET-SET INTEL, FROM THE AMERICAN SOUTHWEST TO THE ITALIAN ALPS.

HOTEL : HOUSE OF THE RISING FUN

Osaka, Japan – The 252-room Waldorf Astoria Osaka has just opened atop the city’s new 39-story South Park Tower, offering sweeping views of Osaka Bay and snowcapped mountains in the distance. Designed by André Fu, the stunning, residence-like interiors marry Japanese minimalism (Kumiko woodworking using no nails, no glue) with art deco elements (jewel tones, vintage-style lighting). Don’t miss the jazz-inspired Canes & Tales bar.

NIGHTLIFE : SOUTHWEST PASSAGE

Santa Fe, New Mexico – A medieval-apothecary-meetsmodern-tavern opened in April in Santa Fe’s lively Railyard district. And if the moniker Milk of the Poppy sounds vaguely familiar, that’s because it draws its name from the powerful painkiller and anesthetic used in the fictional world of Westeros in George R.R. Martin’s A Game of Thrones , the first novel in fantasy series A Song of Ice and Fire (also turned into a show by HBO, of course). Martin opened the stylish, 1,200-squarefoot bar adjacent to his popular bookstore and indie cinema. And while this vision of Westeros doesn’t offer any psychedelic elixirs, it does serve some of the state’s prettiest cocktails. milkofthepoppybar.com

REPORTING: TANVI CHHEDA, DON NICHOLS, KATHRYN ROMEYN, CHRIS SCHALKX AND LAURA SCHOOLING

Canes & Tales bar and (right) the pool at Waldorf Astoria Osaka

The Paraíso cocktail at Milk of the Poppy

The perfect pairing

of luxury and adventure.

Imagine sailing on a smaller, more intimate ship living the perfect balance of laid-back luxury and effortless adventure. Our signature Caviar in the Surf transports you from ship to shore, where Champagne and caviar magically appear in the crystal waters of Thailand or the Caribbean, topped off by a beach barbeque complete with local fare. These are the moments you live for, that you’ll only find with Seabourn.

Contact your travel advisor for more information.

Intimate ships with a private yacht-like atmosphere | Intuitive, personalized service | Curated voyages to all seven continents | All ocean-front suites, luxuriously appointed

AIR : LOUNGE ALERT

Los Angeles, California – The sixth Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse debuted in March inside the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX in Los Angeles, and it is oh so chic, adorned with ruby-red carpeting and plush red-velvet seating. Special features include a cinema, a Zen Den for meditation, a workout space, a quiet area with acoustically sealed work pods, and even a special section set aside exclusively for those of us lucky enough to be designated VVIP. (Oh, but aren’t we all?) There’s an expansive cocktail bar, of course. And servers will deliver food orders to wherever guests are seated throughout the lounge.

South Tyrol, Italy – The 62-room spa resort Forestis — with its fabulous restaurant and mind-blowing vistas of the Dolomites — has just opened a new stand-alone, five-bedroom, 13,000-square-foot villa. Completely hidden from view of other resort guests on the mountains' southern slope, it is bathed in sunshine and entirely surrounded by forest. The exclusive chalet comes with a private chef and wine cellar and — get this — its own 4,300-square-foot spa.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse LAX

The spa lounge and kitchen at the Forestis villa

VILLA : A SECRET IN THE FOREST

Perry Graham (Virgin)

Absolutely. Brilliant. Entertainment.

High-octane showstoppers to intimate performances — our newest ship’s lineup is full of can’t-miss experiences.

Drama, intrigue, and award-winning performances are on full display aboard our newest ship, Brilliant Lady. Cap off the evening with an interactive, 1980s-inspired murder mystery in The Manor — or experience Red Hot, a brand-new, high-energy, dance-forward show that taps into the Virgin record archives.

In the mood for something more sentimental? Duets is our new, classic sit-on-a-stool-and-sing event, highlighting hits across your favorite genres. Indulge in world-class entertainment you’d normally have to travel the globe for — every night of your Brilliant Lady voyage.

Bangkok, Thailand – In the high-octane heart of Bangkok, the new Aman Nai Lert Bangkok has opened. Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, the 52-suite hotel is a quiet marvel, blending city views with earth-toned interiors, sultry jazz and subtle nods to the owner's ancestral residence, the century-old Nai Lert Park Heritage Home next door. Other highlights include a 16,000-square-foot spa, a ninth-floor pool, and a duo of hush-hush omakase counters — all wrapped, of course, in signature Aman calm.

HOTEL : THE CALM BEFORE CHAOS

Chris Schalkx

YOUR INVITATION TO COAST THROUGH THE DAY

Meticulously curated journeys designed for your most elite travelers are our everyday pursuit. Discover a destination that delivers elevated accomodations and Michelin-rated dining seamlessly balanced with the serenity of pristine natural sanctuaries and the beckoning call of soft coastal waves.

Contact your travel advisor to embark on your Newport Beach adventure today.

HOTEL : QUEEN OF THE DESERT

San Pedro de Atacama, Chile – Tierra Atacama, Chile’s most luxurious desert lodge, has reemerged even more exclusive after a $20-million facelift that introduced four next-level suites — each with a plunge pool, private vehicle and dedicated guide — reducing the resort’s total inventory from 32 to 28 units. While the expectation is that guests will immerse themselves in the otherworldly surroundings, the lodge itself is a microcosm of what’s outside, including art and furnishings by 40 local artists and designers, a wine cellar bursting with fine Chilean vino, and a restaurant serving up jagged Andes panoramas and vibrant takes on regional culinary traditions.

London, England – Though technically Swiss, Rolex launched in London in 1905, so the stately new four-story headquarters in Mayfair — finally open years behind schedule — is a worthy tribute to the brand’s time-tested legacy. Watch connoisseurs will be captivated by new (of course) and classic timepieces from the brand, but more tantalizing for many might be the certified-pre-owned watches (buy vintage without the risk!) and museum-worthy exhibitions featuring rare heritage pieces. There’s even an authorized service center. Dotted with plush seating throughout, the interiors are awash in marble, including an accent wall in signature Rolex green. rolex.com

SHOPPING : IT’S ABOUT TIME

Tierra Atacama

Rolex London

Matthieu Gafsou (Rolex)

In a world full of stars, one outshines them all

Theater lovers, get ready for a dazzling debut this fall. Star Princess® is a showstopper with top-deck Dome – pool by day, stage by night – shape-shifting Princess Arena and Spellbound by Magic Castle that enchants with themed rooms and top magicians. Here the show doesn’t just go on, it goes big.

Contact a travel professional for

SEA DAYS AND

CURTAIN CALLS

CRUISE-SHIP ENTERTAINMENT

DOESN’T HAVE TO BE CRINGE. SOMETIMES IT’S REALLY, REALLY FUN.

Virgin Voyages’ Duel Reality show — an acrobatic spectacle that puts a modern twist on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet — made history when it became the first theatrical production at sea to jump ship and establish a residency on land. Until then, the trend had always been the other way around. That show is still playing on all the line’s ships, including the upcoming 2,762-passenger Brilliant Lady, which launches in September. Brilliant Lady will usher in a fresh slate of boundary-pushing entertainment, from musical productions to interactive, immersive events. Will there be more hits among them? Consider these:

Red Hot — This musical revue, inspired by five decades of Virgin Records’ biggest hits, features fast-paced choreography, archival clips and iconic performances.

Out of Time — A raucous journey ensues when a time machine malfunctions, revealing music and fashion of vastly different eras, including dazzling flappers, acrobatic cavemen and more.

Up With a Twist — The ship’s Manor nightclub converts into Lady Valentina’s Emporium of Excess, a Roaring Twentiesstyle supper club where audience members determine the story’s ending.

Murder in the Manor — The hapless sleuths of this “delightfully deranged whodunit” keep missing obvious clues, so the audience must come to the rescue.

Scarlet Night — OK, this one's a holdover from the previous Virgin ships. But it's the ultimate nighttime pool party at sea. Definitely a hit.

Details:

Brilliant Lady's inaugural season sets sail from New York City, Miami, Los Angeles and Seattle. Rates from $1,688.

REPORTING: DON NICHOLS

MORE MUST-SEE SHOWS AT SEA

The ship : Regent Seven Seas Explorer Hot ticket : The Wild Cards transport us to a 1940s-inspired underground dance club.

When : Debuts in August

The ships : Norwegian Encore , Norwegian Escape Hot ticket : Icons: The Bands is a new musical tribute to era-defining groups such as Journey and The Police.

When : Now showing

The ship : Crystal Serenity Hot ticket : Gloria Gaynor: Concert at Sea. She's back for another very limited engagement.

When : October 7 – 14, sailing from New York

The ship : MSC World America Hot ticket : Momentous , one of the largest illusion shows ever created for a cruise ship.

When : Now showing

Showboats: (Clockwise from top) Scarlet Night pool party, the new Brilliant Lady and cast members getting ready for Electric

PAGE-TURNERS SUMMER

THESE GREAT READS TRANSPORT US TO ANOTHER TIME AND PLACE, FROM SHANGHAI TO PARIS AND BEYOND.

“The books you read stay with you and can profoundly change you,” says Jhoanna Belfer, a Filipina-American poet who, last year, opened Bel Canto Books in downtown Long Beach, California. The independent bookstore borrows its name from one such book for Belfer — a title that’s since been banned from Florida public schools. Bel Canto was the fourth novel by American author Ann Patchett. We caught up with the former book-club host turned bookstore owner to discover what she'll be reading this summer. “I like books with different perspectives, books about immigrant communities that have made America such an interesting place.” Here’s what’s on her list:

Shanghailanders by Juli Min

A family saga told in reverse, this story follows a wealthy Shanghainese couple and their daughters from 2040 backward to 2014, as fortunes and relationships rise and fall.

The Storm We Made by Vanessa Chan

This historical fiction debut centers around a housewife-turned-spy in Britishcontrolled (and then Japanese-occupied) Malaysia during World War II. “Chan does such a beautiful job of telling us what it was like to be in this place,” says Belfer.

The Hidden Life of Trees: A Graphic Adaptation by Peter Wohlleben and Fred Bernard, and illustrated by Benjamin Flao Set in the German forest, Benjamin Flao’s gorgeous adaptation of the bestselling book will make you see and appreciate trees in a whole new way. “It’s great for adults and kids and will captivate anyone who loves beautiful art.” Nonfiction Nonfiction

The Perfumist of Paris by Alka Joshi This literary page-turner set in Paris’ luxury perfume world completes Alka Joshi’s captivating Jaipur trilogy. “People wear perfume, notice it in the air, but don’t necessarily know what goes into making it.”

On Gold Hill: A Personal History of Wheat, Farming, and Family from Punjab to California by Jaclyn Moyer This deeply moving debut memoir braids together personal history and the struggles of starting an organic farm in Northern California.

Fiction Fiction Fiction

Mind Bender: Jhoanna Belfer at Bel Canto Books in California.

A Canvas of Tranquility

Tucked between jungle and sea, La Casa de la Playa is Riviera Maya’s most intimate luxury escape. Just 63 oceanview suites. Michelin-starred dining. Personalized butler service. Art, culture, and nature—seamlessly woven into every moment.

With exclusive access to Xcaret parks and curated experiences at every turn, this is Mexico redefined.

Discover your perfect escape with your travel advisor and Luxe by Funjet Vacations.

Funjet Vacations is not responsible for errors or omissions. Funjet Vacations materials (including, but not limited to, names, trademark, service marks, logos, marketing materials, etc.) shall not be used, reproduced, transmitted or distributed in any way, except with the express written consent of Funjet Vacations. CST #2139014-20. 47288 04/25

Notes from Afar

TAKE A JOURNEY AROUND THE WORLD WITH THESE FRESH, EXOTIC FRAGRANCES.

CONTRIBUTING BEAUTY EDITOR: GABRIELLA ONESSIMO

BYREDO

The scene: Dakar, Senegal

The scent: BAL D’AFRIQUE ABSOLU

Notes of: Bergamot, Black Amber and Cedar

A soulful tribute to Africa deepens into a dreamscape where vibrant energy meets warm, lingering memory.

D.S. & DURGA

EAUSO VERT

The scene: Sintra, Portugal

The scent: SINTRA

Notes of: Italian Lemon, Orris and Ylang-Ylang

A historic crossing of cultures wrapped in lush natural beauty, reflecting the region’s warm breeze and sunlit citrus groves.

The scene: Mumbai, India

The scent: RADIO

Notes

A

KISMET OLFACTIVE

The scene: Oaxaca, Mexico

The scent: WEDDING IN OAXACA

Notes of: Coconut, Tuberose and Pink Pepper

The romantic mystique of Mexico comes to life in a bouquet of florals and punchy pink pepper.

GABAR

The scene: Bagan, Myanmar

The scent: GROUND 02

Notes of: Saffron, Fig, Oud, Vetiver

A romantic blend of warm spices and deep woods captures the karmic energy of the spiritual ancient city.

BOMBAY

of: Sandalwood, Copper, Coconut Musk

dynamism interpreted through a balance of sweet, creamy musks and smoky woods.

Most Awarded Safari Company.

A safari is unlike any other experience and Micato Safaris is unlike any other company: For every safari sold, we send a child to school. Contact your travel advisor for details.

ALTITUDE SLICKNESS

Air France has completely revamped La Première. Currently available only on flights between New York and Paris, the next-gen first-class suites measure 10 feet long — that’s five windows, if you’re counting — and come outfitted with drapes, an ergonomic armchair and a plush chaise that unfolds into a bed nearly 6-and-ahalf-feet long. There are no overhead bins. Instead, each suite comes with a coat closet and large drawers for carryons and shoes, plus a host of other amenities such as wireless charging, Denon headsets and — looks like we might have buried the lead — Jacquemus pajamas. Also included in the rollout are new amenity kits by Sisley Paris: leather boxes filled with hand cream, eye-contour balm, moisturizing cream and an antiaging day cream, plus a pen, wooden comb, earplugs and night mask. The new design will soon be added to flights between Paris and Los Angeles, Singapore and Tokyo.

For those slumming in business class, great news from there, too. Starting in July, the airline is introducing Sofitel MY BED mattress pads on all long-haul flights. Plus: This cabin’s new amenity kits have been curated by Clarins — think stylish little pencil cases stuffed with the brand’s classic balm and a moisturizing matte gel, plus earplugs, a pen, a bamboo toothbrush, French organic toothpaste, a night mask and socks that might or might not fit.

WRITING: DON NICHOLS

SUMMER TRAVEL SEASON BRINGS NEW SUITES, PAJAMAS AND GOODY BAGS GALORE.

AMENITY WARS

Lufthansa partnered with BABOR and Augustinus Bader for its new Allegris first-class kits (leather or aluminum, depending on the route), which are filled with a skin cream, a facial cleanser, a foldable wheat-straw hairbrush, a bamboo toothbrush and a shoehorn. Also new: van Laack pajamas and wireless Sennheiser headphones.

Singapore Airlines just rolled out new Le Labo kits for business class on all flights of six hours or more. The waxed canvas pouches contain the fragrance brand’s hand pomade, a face mist and a lip balm.

And in first class on Air India : new dust bags from Ferragamo include Eau de Parfum, a body lotion, a hand cream and a lip balm, as well as a little Maharaja charm. Passengers in business get the same kits, minus the perfume.

Viking Cruises

Comfort and Joy: Jacquemus pajamas on Air France.

Cabin Pressure: Air France’s new Sisley Paris kit in first class.

Sleeping Beauty: Van Laack pajamas in Lufthansa first class.

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THREAD

& BUTTER

A FORMER BIKER GIRL SET OUT TO TRANSFORM LEATHER’S HISTORIC BAD-BOY IMAGE.

Nashville, Tennessee

WRITING: MERLE GINSBERG

VINTAGES & VOYAGES

Indulge in a luxurious river cruise through Bordeaux with Avalon Waterways—where world-class wines, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes await.

CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL TO PLAN YOUR NEXT VACATION.

The year leather came to define cool: 1953, when Marlon Brando’s bad-boy biker screeched onto screens in The Wild One wearing a rough-hewn steerhide-leather moto jacket. In the decades after, Elvis, James Dean, the Ramones and even Joan Jett further toughened leather’s image. But now leather’s gone soft.

Savannah Yarborough — a petite blonde who previously hung out in biker bars — had a better idea: buttery-soft jackets of smooth, supple leathers and suedes that fit like you never want to take them off. She bought enough leather to make 10 jackets. They took off, and Savas became one of the hottest boutiques in Nashville.

“Butter” is, after all, the technical term for soft, pliable hides. Savas’ velvety textures — and traditional British tailoring style — elevate jeans and T-shirts to almost cocktail status. Leather connoisseurs are drawn to the brand’s singular attitude, which Yarborough calls “the rock 'n’ roll country-club vibe,” a modern, more elegant expression of masculinity.

She counts musicians Jack White and Jason Isbell and tough-guy actors like Brian Cox, Jason Momoa and Damian Lewis as clients, alongside a steady customer base of moguls, finance guys, doctors and architects. Much of that business is bespoke.

Savas’ current silhouettes include the brand's signature shirt jacket, plus a bomber and a blazer, all in a wide range of leathers and colors, including some traditionally masculine neutrals, but also pale greens, blues, cognac — even cheetah, for the right personality.

(Opposite) Sabah founder/CEO Mickey Ashmore.

Leather Mama: (Top) Savas founder/designer Savannah Yarborough and (above) The Denham jacket in suede. (Opposite) The Denham in classic black.

Brett Warren and Danielle Atkins

From live steel pan at sunset to starlit soirées in private villas, the British Virgin Islands know how to set the stage. Think island elegance with a touch of glam —where your days drift between art walks, yacht parties, and dance floors on the sand. With our collection of luxury vacation homes, every stay is a front-row seat to paradise.

Contact your travel advisor today.

Savas’ velvety textures — and traditional British tailoring style — elevate jeans and T-shirts to almost cocktail status.

Another coveted item — often sold out — is the Legend boot, for both men and women, in neutrals as well as hues of jade and saffron. “They’re made in Italy but with a rugged Western influence" and a zipper on the back so they slide on effortlessly.

Savas’ website spells out a range of custom leathers: Antico Lamb, Layered Lamb, Sanded-Calf Nubuc... “When a skin is full-grain calf leather, nothing was done to make this happen," says Yarborough. “It’s natural grain. So much work goes into each of these pieces, all done by hand.”

A few years ago, Yarborough opened a men’s club-style shop on Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood. But she recently closed it to the public, instead traveling as needed from Nashville to her coastal customers. The studio now serves only private clients, stylists and personal shoppers, a concept she’s contemplating for New York next because she already has a one-of-a-kind workshop there. And while most of Savas’ customers are men, she does count women as some of her best clients. “If someone wants a chic leather miniskirt, we’ll whip one up.”

Image Maker: (Clockwise from above) Savannah Yarborough working on The Lowry jacket, her Nashville shop and suede collar detail of The Noone bomber.

Brett Warren and Danielle Atkins

LIGHTS. LUXE. LEISURE.

Buckle up for a standing ovation kind of getaway — because Royal Caribbean ® entertainment doesn’t just raise the curtain, it blows the roof off. From jaw-dropping high dives at the AquaTheater to chart-topping live music and dance-till-dawn nightlife, the thrills keep coming long after the sun dips. And with Royal Suite Class, get the VIP treatment all day, every day — with exclusive access ship wide, next-level perks, and a dedicated Royal Genie who makes the impossible happen.* This is your backstage pass to bold — only on a Royal Caribbean adventure.

Contact your travel advisor to book today.

Just don’t ask her to make anything with vegan material. “It’s not leather if it’s vegan,” Yarborough scoffs. “Some of that comes from plants; much of it, from plastic. Look, if you throw a Savas leather jacket with silk lining into the earth, it will disintegrate. It’s environmentally correct, but it also lasts generations. It’s an heirloom piece people can leave to their kids. That’s something you can only do with real leather.”

Details:

Savas is open Mondays and Saturdays by appointment only; on Tuesdays through Fridays, it's open to the public. Jackets from $3,000; boots from $825. ateliersavas.com

Attitude Adjustment: (Clockwise from above) Savas’ signature leather bomber, inside the atelier and The Roving shirt jacket in blue suede.

Brett Warren and Danielle Atkins

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What To Do Next

DANCE, THEATER, PERFORMANCE ART, NIGHTLIFE... BECAUSE SOMETIMES THE SHOW IS THE DESTINATION.

WRITING: BRAD A. JOHNSON, DON NICHOLS, CAROLYN O’NEIL, KATHRYN ROMEYN, CHRIS SCHALKX, LAURA SCHOOLING AND MARINA SPIRONETTI

THE ORIGIN STORIES

Sardinia, Italy – Reviving the great ballet classics and bringing them into the future, fully restored (not reinvented): This is the goal of TAM Ballet , the ambitious new company of Teatro Arcimboldi in Milan. The dance ensemble premiered in February with Swan Lake , featuring the extraordinary presence of English National Ballet soloists Vsevolod Maievskyi and Anna Nevzorova. The company’s next can’t-miss production will be The Nutcracker , December 12 – 23, at the Teatro Lirico in the city of Cagliari on Sardinia. teatroarcimboldi.it

Dance Music

Nassau, The Bahamas – As palm trees sway in the Caribbean breeze outside, guests inside can sway the Nassau night away at the new Jon Batiste’s Jazz Club at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar. It’s the first nightclub foray for the Oscar-, Grammy- and Emmywinning singer, songwriter and composer. The 13,000-squarefoot club offers three live stages, serving up a mix of high-energy vocal performances and big band standards seven nights a week. The club kitchen’s menu — jambalaya croquette, spicy creole lobster roll — takes a note from Batiste’s hometown of New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz. @jazzclubbahamar

Jon Batiste’s Jazz Club

Theater

WEST END GIRLS, EASTERN BOYS

London, England – Based on filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki’s 1988 Japanese fantasy film of the same name, the theatrical production of My Neighbour Totoro took London by storm when it debuted for a limited run in 2022 — and took home six Olivier Awards. Well, now it’s back through March 2026, at least, and it is currently one of the West End’s hottest tickets. At the Gillian Lynne Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company beautifully captures the magic of Miyazaki’s iconic tale — a coming-of-age story that explores the transformative power of imagination — with the assistance of puppets by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. totoroshow.com

My Neighbour Totoro

Manuel Harlan

Dance

U.S., Europe – After spending the last year touring Europe and Canada, acclaimed French choreographer Hervé Koubi brings his groundbreaking Sol Invictus to the U.S. this fall, with stops in Chicago, Milwaukee, Cleveland, Charlotte and Washington, D.C. Then it’s back to Europe for an extended tour through France, Sweden, Italy and more. Koubi's revolutionary show mixes traditional ballet with martial arts, high-energy hiphop and B-boy street moves. The troupe of 17 artists displays breathtaking physicality in a mesmerizing visual spectacle. The message: Dance unifies in a turbulent world. @hervekoubi

TOUR DE FRANCE

Sol Invictus

Nightlife

¡

BABALÚ ! THE LATE, LATE SHOW

San José del Cabo, Mexico – The hottest show in Los Cabos right now is Rosalia de Cuba at La Botica . La Botica (“drugstore” in English) is the glamorous, apothecary-inspired speakeasy tucked into Rosewood Las Ventanas al Paraíso in the heart of the region’s tourist corridor. After a sultry warm-up with the live band and dancers, the flamboyant Cuban crooner takes the stage late-night Thursdays through Saturdays to perform festive, must-see sets of Latin jazz infused with Afro-Cuban rhythms. You’ll want to reserve well in advance. Or just come on a Monday night instead, when the bar transforms for an intimate magic show. @laboticaspeakeasy

Rosalia de Cuba at La Botica

Performance Art

PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENTS

Bangkok, Thailand – Taking over a former printing house on the fringe of Chinatown, the new Bangkok Kunsthalle is neither a gallery nor a theater, but rather a shape-shifting stage for experiments in art, architecture, cinema and performance. Deep within the building's dark, exposed-concrete bowels, artists from Thailand and abroad are tasked with leaving their marks by way of site-specific productions ranging from novel interpretations of traditional khon mask dances to experimental Thai indie films and boundary-blurring dance. bangkok-kunsthalle.org

Dance

SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER

Las Vegas, Nevada – Expect to be catapulted to another time at Spiegelworld’s new DISCOSHOW , an all-consuming extravaganza where the concept of “audience” becomes fluid. (Spiegelworld is that crazy circus/vaudeville group responsible for Absinthe , one of the best shows in town for nearly 15 years.)

Inside DISCOSHOW’s LED box theater, guests are invited to join the dancing and roller-skating cast amid their electrifying moves before exploring further into a moody nightlife labyrinth of art and performance that includes an upscale diner and two separate cocktail bars (one appropriately dubbed The Glitterloft). Packing tip: You might want to dress the part. It’s flamboyantly '70s-themed. spiegelworld.com/shows/discoshow

Bangkok Kunsthalle

Theater

GODOT’S BIG ADVENTURE

New York, New York – Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter, stars of the Bill & Ted films, are teaming up again for more theater of the absurd — but this time at the Hudson Theatre on Broadway. The real-life pals will play friends Estragon and Vladimir in a revival of Waiting for Godot , Samuel Beckett’s classic and selfproclaimed tragicomedy. Limited run, September to January. godotbroadway.com

Music

New York, New York – Gustavo Dudamel shocked the classicalmusic world when he announced that he’d be leaving the Los Angeles Philharmonic — which he’s conducted since 2009 — to become music and artistic director of the New York Philharmonic. Arguably our greatest living conductor, Dudamel doesn’t officially lead the Philharmonic-Symphony Society of New York until 2026. However, he’s already begun conducting the orchestra with guest appearances throughout 2025. It’s been a busy year for classical music’s biggest star. In April, he conducted L.A.’s orchestra at the Coachella music festival in California — with guest appearances by LL Cool J, Maren Morris and Laufey — the first time an orchestra had ever performed a featured set at the popular desert festival. nyphil.org

CUE THE VIOLINS

Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter

Gustavo Dudamel

Lee Jeffries (Waiting for Godot), Hiroyuki

Ito/Getty Images (Gustavo Dudamel)

ELECTRIC DAISY CARNIVALESQUE

Hokkaido, Japan – TeamLab , the fast-spreading Japanese multidisciplinary art collective from Tokyo that’s been creating immersive worlds of digital art around Asia and, soon, the Middle East, has just revealed a wildly beautiful permanent exhibit at Sapporo’s J Art Foundation. Titled “Infinite Life Proliferating on the Ruins of a Church - A Whole Year per Year,” this latest interactive creation allows viewers to affect the life cycle of radiant flowers with their touch.

burlap linen Darliston skirt, worn as a head scarf ($1,095), AGMES Turner ring ($500) and locally sourced traditional Moroccan Khussa slippers.

Infinite Life Installation

EDUCATION

WHEN THE NIGHT FALLS ON BANGKOK, OUT COME THE SEQUINED DRESSES, BUTTERY VOICES, SAXOPHONES AND RHYTHMIC SCATS. THIS CITY DOES JAZZ LIKE NOWHERE ELSE.

Bangkok, Thailand

In the dark-paneled cocoon of The Bamboo Bar , the clink of martini glasses mingles with the dusky timbre of a tenor saxophone. Keithen Carter, the star of tonight’s show, croons “Fly Me To The Moon," filling his interludes with anecdotes from a life spent working alongside some of the greatest voices in contemporary jazz. The crowd, a mix of globe-trotting connoisseurs and well-heeled locals, sits sunken into rattan club chairs as the band eases from smoky blues to brassy swing, letting each note rumble deeply under the mirrored ceiling.

Since opening in 1953 at the heart of the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok ( @mo_bangkok ), this storied cocktail spot has grown into the city’s spiritual home of jazz. Over the last 70 years, legendary performers from Louis Armstrong and Ray Charles to Eric Clapton have graced its tiny stage; their sepia-toned photographs still peer down from the bamboo-clad walls. And while the interiors have received a few tasteful updates and the cocktail menu has grown more modern, the candlelit elegance of this old jazz den remains timeless.

Smooth as Silk: (Opposite) Keithen Carter and (this page) his bassist performing at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok’s historic Bamboo Bar.

Bangkok’s passion for jazz is far from confined to fivestar surrounds. Across town, a constellation of smaller — and, in many cases, scrappier — venues has fostered a culture of musical improvisation that’s as multilayered and unpredictable as the city itself. This is one of the world’s most interesting destinations for jazz and blues.

“Bangkok’s jazz scene has its own unique flavor,” says Nakarin Teerapenun, a guitarist, songwriter and jazz instructor at Bangkok’s Silpakorn University. “It’s not huge, but it’s vibrant. Musicians here come from every genre — Thai classical, reggae, rock and pop — which, somehow, all get filtered through the jazz mindset. The result is a scene built on creativity, a little bit of madness and love for the craft.”

Among the city’s other stalwarts, is Saxophone Pub ( @saxophonepubthailand ) near Victory Monument, which, since opening in 1987, has helped launch the careers of many Thai jazz ensembles, including Teerapenun’s own ska-inflected band, T-Bone. Similarly iconic is Brown Sugar ( @brownsugarbangkok ), which has been around for nearly five decades, and whose current incarnation, a brickwalled townhouse on the fringe of Chinatown, still delivers its signature easygoing, old-timey atmosphere in spades. Set among vintage posters and mismatched furnishings, the stage hosts a nightly roll call of established names and music-school students alike, playing everything from bebop to acid jazz. “It’s an institution,” Teerapenun says. “You walk in and feel the history. It’s still alive today.”

One Night in Bangkok: (Above) Bamboo Bar at Mandarin Oriental and (below) a cocktail table at Alonetogether. (Opposite) The vinyl listening lounge at Alonetogether.

Musicians here come from every genre — Thai classical, reggae, rock and pop — which, somehow, all get filtered through the jazz mindset.

More recently, a new wave of clubs has brought a more youthful energy to the scene. Among them is Buddha & Pals ( @buddhaandpals ), a neon-lit, crystal-chandeliered lounge taking over the crumbling remains of a century-old former medicinal oil factory in the historic Nang Loeng district. Opened by Peerasith Seemoolsathien, a selfproclaimed jazz head, the venue ditches purism in favor of good vibes and playfulness: On any given night, you could drop in to hear gypsy swing from local group The Loner Manouche, Siam Cubano’s Latin jazz or experimental acts that fuse jazz with hip-hop or Japanese city pop. “We don’t take it too seriously,” Seemoolsathien says. “Some jazz spots can feel somewhat snobby and intimidating, but we wanted to create a place to gather with friends, where jazz can feel classy yet easygoing.”

Fusion Reactors: (Opposite and this page) The live stage at Buddha & Pals and the neon sign above the entrance.

A similar renegade spirit infuses Alonetogether ( @alonetogetherbangkok ), a hush-hush bar tucked down an unassuming Phrom Phong side street. Taking its name from a Chet Baker ditty and design cues from the backalley listening bars of Tokyo and New York, this dark, wood-paneled hideaway pairs seriously inspired cocktails — ginger-spiked Pimm’s and tonic, or a piña colada with smoked coconut liquor — with soul, funk and jazz from both Thai and international artists. Highlights include local duo Sunny Trio & Natt Buntita, who blend Thai folk with jazzy piano runs and rhythmic scats, and powerhouse neo-soul singer Cherryl J. Hayes. Perhaps the most ambitious of newcomers, though, is the Crimson Room ( @crimsonroombkk ), a velvet-draped music hall off ritzy Lang Suan Road where house bands glide through jazz standards and big-band swing before passing the mic to pop-forward performers who turn up the volume closer to midnight.

Traditionalists might argue that these newer venues lack the grit of the old guard, but for Teerapenun, they add spice to a scene that’s constantly evolving. “Each place has its own vibe, its own community,” he says. “And that diversity is what keeps the scene alive.”

Stay

Home of The Bamboo Bar, the 331-room Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok is the historic riverfront hotel formerly known as simply The Oriental, which eventually joined forces with The Mandarin, Hong Kong. $$

The 65-room Aman Nai Lert Bangkok debuted in April. Situated atop the hotel — and open exclusively to hotel guests, residents and club members — the Aman Lounge offers live music nightly. $$$

Your travel advisor can secure Internova SELECT perks, such as $100 dining credits and daily breakfast for two, at these hotels and others.

Power Chords: (Above) A live set at Crimson Room and (below) a cozy nook at Alonetogether. (Opposite) The bar and the night’s band roster at Alonetogether.

Each place has its own vibe, its own community. And that diversity is what keeps the scene alive.

INSIDER INSIGHT

Drinks with a view? Bangkok is insane. Consider:

Sky Bar , the legendary spot atop the 68-story lebua State Tower in Bang Rak. @skybarbangkok

SEEN Restaurant & Bar , 26 stories above the Chao Phraya River with a great DJ and breathtaking views. @seenrestaurantbar

ZOOM Sky Bar & Restaurant , a hidden gem in Sathorn, relaxed but still chic. @zoomskybar

Moon Bar , classy and iconic, the best spot for sunsets from 61 stories up in Sathorn. @moonbarbangkok

And I’m obsessed with the vintage vibes and incredible jazz at The Speakeasy Rooftop Bar, 25 stories up near Lumphini Park. @speakeasyrooftopbar

—Duncan Greenfield-Turk, travel advisor

in L.A.

80 ways to have fun in L.A. have fun 80 ways to

HOW, AND WHERE, TO CELEBRATE THE GOOD TIMES LIKE A LOCAL: HIDDEN CINEMA, INTIMATE CONCERTS, ROOFTOP NIGHTLIFE, SECRET SHOPPING AND BEYOND.

Los Angeles, California

The entertainment capital of the world took a punch to the gut this year — but stands strong and more resilient than ever. Los Angeles, and all the cities and neighborhoods that make up this metropolis, weaves a diverse cultural fabric that’s always exciting to explore. No matter how you define fun, we've got it covered. Just 80? Oh, who's counting? Yes, there’ll be traffic, but don’t stress it. There’s no shortage of Escalades in this town, so get yourself a driver for the week. (Your travel advisor can easily arrange that.) We're highlighting what’s hot and new, but also some classic good-times stuff that Angelenos will never take for granted.

#1-8

SECRET KNOCKS AND HIDDEN DOORS

Speakeasies are suddenly everywhere. The recently opened Andys hides behind a magazine rack façade in West Hollywood, sandwiched between the hallowed ground of the Troubadour and Dan Tana’s. It’s a 1970s-themed, live-musicinfused bottle service wonderland co-owned by rapper/ songwriter/drummer/producer Anderson .Paak. The best part: It features a deeply Californian menu by chefs Brandon Kida and Chris Oh — think hamachi crudo with leche de tigre and prime New York strip slathered with Vietnamese herb butter, plus tiki-inspired cocktails, including some with punch-bowl vibes. Meanwhile, just a few miles south on Slauson in View Park-Windsor Hills (aka the Black Beverly Hills), actress/author/producer Issa Rae recently debuted the John Sofio-designed Somerville, which has quickly become the see-and-be-seen spot for live jazz with a side of caviar and fried-chicken sliders.

Elsewhere on trend: You’ll find more dinner-and-a-show vibes in Beverly Hills at Cipriani, in Long Beach atop the Fairmont Breakers at Alter Ego, in Toluca Lake at the supper club Verse, in West Hollywood at the burlesque-themed Puzzle, in Hollywood at the dark and classic Catalina Bar & Grill, and in the hills of Bel Air at legendary musician Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Grill, Jazz, Etc.

#1, #2, IYKYK: (Above) A perfect martini and retro vibes at Somerville in View Park-Windsor Hills. (Below) Andys speakeasy in West Hollywood and proprietor Anderson .Paak.

(Opposite page, from left) #73, The Perfect Entourage Suite: Pregaming in the Pool Suite at Downtown L.A. Proper, Mikey wears a full look by Hiromi Asai . Hannah wears a full look by Chloé . Bethany wears an Yves Saint Laurent dress from Paumé and KHAITE earrings. Tobias wears a Wax London sweater, Siedrés top, BEAMS trousers, John Varvatos loafers and Hermès watch. Richard wears a Samavai shirt and Officine Générale suit. Sylvia wears an Another Tomorrow top and skirt, Jimmy Choo heels and Nathalie Jean ring.

DTLA: HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD FOR DINING

For great dining of all genres, no area has been consistently hotter in recent years than the entire swath of downtown that stretches from historic Chinatown to the emerging Arts District. And the most exciting development in this urban jungle right now is the rooftop complex dubbed Level 8 , a labyrinth of food and drinks from some of the city’s most acclaimed chefs and mixologists, including South American barbecue spot Qué Bárbaro by Ray Garcia and teppanyaki bar Maison Kasai from Joshua Gil, plus Golden Hour , a poolside carousel bar with fire-breathers and underwater contortionists, and the cleverly hidden Mr. Wanderlust , a library-style piano bar with aerialists and a roving emcee.

Elsewhere in DTLA, world-famous humanitarian/chef José Andrés serves his Spanish signatures at San Laurel inside The Conrad, and David Chang’s Majord ōmo still beckons in Chinatown. Meanwhile, at the Downtown L.A. Proper, Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne of A.O.C. fame operate Caldo Verde (downstairs) and Cara Cara (on the rooftop). At the sprawling, multi-block, mixed-use development known as the Row, rising-star chef Jon Yao’s omakase-meets-Taiwanese tasting menu at Kato is one of the toughest reservations in the city. And in the adjacent Arts District and Little Tokyo, restaurants like Girl & the Goat , Damian , Bavel and Camphor have completely redefined what it means to live and dine in L.A, for both scene and cuisine.

#10, #19, Downtown Calling: (Above and below) The dining room and a bone-in short rib at Qué Bárbaro inside Level 8. (Right and bottom) The bar at Damian and a mural in the DTLA Arts District.

Bryan Carr (Qué Bárbaro) and Brad A. Johnson (Damian and the Arts District)

INSIDER INSIGHT:

“In case you’re thinking of getting a tattoo while in L.A, the Everly has just launched a Tiny Zaps residency inside the hotel to connect guests with a network of local tattoo artists.”

—Benjamin Palmer, GM, Kimpton Everly Hollywood

#22-33

CULTURE & MUSEUMS

Home to more than 50,000 artworks from classic to contemporary, the Hammer Museum in Westwood — under the new leadership of director Zoë Ryan — always champions emerging and under-recognized artists with diverse programming ranging from rare-film screenings to lectures and workshops. Plus: Alice Waters has a restaurant, Lulu, on-site.

Other cultured stops to consider: the quirky, must-see Mr Brainwash Art Museum in Beverly Hills and the breathtaking Hauser & Wirth gallery in the downtown Arts District, along with the nearby warehouse known only by its address, 1700 S. Santa Fe, which houses a collection of independent galleries (Vielmetter, Nicodim, Patricia Sweetow, Wilding Cran, Gavlak and more) and, for an indoor/outdoor version on the Westside, the storied Bergamot Station in Santa Monica. Plus: the more obvious stops such as LACMA in the Miracle Mile (with the David Geffen Galleries set to debut next spring), The Broad downtown, the Getty Center in the hills above Bel Air (amazing views), The Huntington in Pasadena and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Beverly Hills (where you can accept your own Oscar, in case you didn’t win the real one). Coming soon: The world’s first AI arts museum, Dataland, will open later this year in DTLA, near MoCA

#22, The Ultimate Art Crawl: The Hammer Museum on the Westside.

#34-42

LIGHTS, SOUND, CURTAINS UP!

Surprise: Not everything is made for the screen. Live theater here is superb but doesn't get much attention. Few venues can compare with the range of year-round programming at The Wallis Annenberg Center for Performing Arts in Beverly Hills. The Wallis’ schedule this year varies from the LA Opera to modern dance, music and visual art. The theater itself is designed so that patrons spill out onto a leafy patio during intermission — it’s so L.A.

Other stages not to miss: You’ll always find engaging theatrical productions downtown at the Mark Taper Forum and at the REDCAT , tucked behind Walt Disney Concert Hall. On the city’s Westside, there’s the Geffen Playhouse in Westwood and the BroadStage in Santa Monica, while on the Eastside, the Pasadena Playhouse always impresses. Farther south, at Hollywood Park (the new entertainment district near SoFi Stadium), CineVita brings a cinema-inspired musical/theatrical show to the world’s largest circus tent. And, of course, in the heart of Hollywood, Broadway’s biggest productions always come to the gorgeous Pantages Theatre

#43-51

THE ULTIMATE DATE-NIGHT CONCERTS

This city might be the best place in the world for smallcrowd concerts by A-list artists. While we impatiently wait for the Blue Note Jazz club to debut in Hollywood (soon, they promise), our favorite spot for now to catch an intimate show is The Sun Rose , a music lounge inside the Pendry on Sunset, where Charlie Bereal has a residency and everyone from Bruno Mars to Mariah Carey has popped in to catch a friend’s gig, if not also perform. For other intimate performances by the up-and-coming artists everyone will be talking about next year, head to Hollywood's diveychic Hotel Cafe — which is neither a hotel nor a cafe but rather a hidden complex of small stages with an alwaysstellar lineup, often scheduled last-minute. Also watch the calendar for the cozy El Rey Theatre on the Miracle Mile, the art deco Wiltern in Mid-Wilshire, The Mint on Pico, The Roxy in WeHo and the iconic Palladium in Hollywood. Or, here’s a twist: For classical music in a church — with an ensemble that reinterprets everyone from Coldplay to The Beatles — consider Candlelight Concerts , currently in residence in Koreatown through summer.

#34, Analog Nights: The Wallis Annenberg Center for Performing Arts in Beverly Hils.

Sophia Schrank (Tei Shi)

#44, Almost Famous: Singer/songwriter Tei Shi at The Sun Rose music lounge.

INSIDER INSIGHT:

“I recommend taking our Rolls-Royce to the Burbank Airport to catch a helicopter tour over the downtown L.A. skyline and the Hollywood Sign. Then come back to the hotel and unwind with live piano music in our Living Room.”

—Offer Nissenbaum, Managing Director, Peninsula Beverly Hills

#52-61

DIOR, HERMÈS, PRADA, WITH A TWIST

Forget Rodeo Drive for one hot minute. Since this is the global epicenter of red-carpet premieres — and nobody wants to be caught by the paparazzi in the same designer duds twice — L.A. has a vintage and resale-couture scene like nowhere else in the world, often more expensive the second time around. The new It shop, ending soon studios , just opened in trendy Melrose Hill, an area filled with galleries and destination cafes. The shop's loft space, inspired by the early days of Barneys, holds the appointment-only Taste Studio , an ultra-private salon filled with curated finds and upcycled one of a kinds. Other tried-and-true spots for Gucci gowns and Birkin handbags include the iconic Decades , The RealReal , Resurrection Vintage and The Paper Bag Princess , all on Melrose, plus What Goes Around Comes Around in Beverly Hills, LILY et Cie in West Hollywood, The Way We Wore on Beverly Boulevard and, by appointment only (if they take your call), Aralda Vintage in Beachwood Canyon. Meanwhile, Capsule Parfumerie is a chic little shop in West Hollywood that takes the community’s love affair with luxury vintage to new olfactory heights. Bring in a favorite old bottle of perfume, and they’ll recreate a bespoke scent exclusive to you — and you get to be the nose in the process.

#53, Red-Carpet Approved: Designer vintage at ending soon.

INSIDER INSIGHT:

“Stay for the weekend, and do not miss our brunch at Casa Madera, followed by Skybar's Swim Club Saturdays pool party with live DJ sets.”

—Carl Hubbard, GM, Mondrian Los Angeles

#62-70

AND LET ’ S NOT FORGET THE CLASSICS

Experiencing a summer concert at the Hollywood Bowl — with a picnic and bottle of wine at sunset beneath the palm trees — is not just a rite of passage in L.A. but an annual must-do, be it to see the LA Philharmonic with fireworks (July) or the likes of Cyndi Lauper (August) or John Legend (September). Dig a little deeper still, and you’ll find the city’s under-the-radar gems like the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, named for the late puppeteer who worked on E.T. and other blockbusters, going strong since 1963 and now in a new location in Highland Park (Eastside) that holds only about 100 people — and more than 3,000 handcrafted puppets. For cinephiles, Greystone In the Movies is a monthly series inside the famous Greystone mansion’s private theater that showcases films connected to the mansion, with titles ranging from The Day Mars Invaded Earth to Ghostbusters II

Other L.A. requisites include the Walt Disney Concert Hall , The Comedy Store and — for old-fashioned, star-studded dining — the Georgian Room in Santa Monica, Musso & Frank in Hollywood or the Polo Lounge and La Dolce Vita in Beverly Hills. But, please, no flash; we’re trying to eat! Wink, wink.

#63, Strings Attached: The Bob Baker Marionette Theater in Highland Park.

Featured SELECT & CURATED Hotels & Resorts by Internova

SLS Playa Mujeres

CANCUN, MEXICO

Striking design and beachside luxury meet just north of Cancun, where sleek suites offer private terraces and butler service. Expect rooftop DJ sets, ArgentineJapanese dining at LEYNIA, oceanfront spa experiences at Ciel Spa and cabanas at a private beach club. A bold and sensual escape with a distinctly modern edge.

ette Hotel

ORLANDO,

FLORIDA

A refined retreat in the heart of Orlando, earth-toned interiors offer a calming escape. Indulge in restorative spa treatments, linger over inspired cuisine at Salt & the Cellar by award-winning chef Akira Back and enjoy quiet moments in curated garden spaces. A stay defined by taste, tranquility and thoughtful detail.

Regent Santa Monica Beach

On Santa Monica’s iconic shore, rooms and suites feature ocean views and a calming sense of space. Orla by Michael Mina offers coastal dining and crafted cocktails, while the Guerlain Spa channels the Pacific’s rhythm for restorative rituals. Thoughtful touches and a dedicated Guest Experience Agent complete each stay.

Tortuga Bay

PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

The only Leading Hotel of the World in the Dominican Republic designed by Oscar de la Renta, this coveted beachfront retreat offers VIP airport arrival, direct-tovilla access and personal butler service. Guests enjoy daily breakfast, private transport and access to top-tier dining, golf, spa and an ecological reserve.

SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA

A lot of resorts have rooms with a view. Ours are designed to be part of it. From Overwater Bungalows to Rondoval Villas shaped like mountaintops, book your Caribbean home away from home today.

whereto stay:

Whichever hotel fits your vibe, plan on bringing the fun to your suite, because Los Angeles has some truly over-the-top penthouses, signature suites and private villas — too many to mention them all. Here are 10 of our favorites, from downtown to the beach: some with pools, others with ocean views — all fabulous.

#74, Quintessential L.A. Living: The Presidential Suite at Hotel Bel-Air.

#72, Rooftop Drama: Conrad Los Angeles Penthouse.

#78, The Ultimate Beach Pad: The two-story Atrium Suite at Regent Santa Monica.

#75, View Master: Penthouse at Casa del Mar.

PHOTOGRAPHY: JACQ HARRIET

CREATIVE DIRECTION: DEVIN DUCKWORTH

STYLING: BRITT LAYTON

PROP STYLING: TONI ANDRES

HAIR: AMBER DUARTE

MAKEUP ARTIST: ANNA KATO

MODELING: BETHANY & RICHARD @ LA MODELS, HANNAH @ PHOTOGENICS, MIKEY @ IMG, SYLVIA @ STORM, TOBIAS @ MINELLI

LIGHTING: DYLAN TATEM GORDON

MOVEMENT DIRECTOR: CHARISSA KROEGER

PHOTO ASSISTANT: TYLER FERGUSON

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT: CECI BLACKWELL

STYLIST ASSISTANT: CHRIS CHIDI

MAKEUP ASSISTANT: YANA KAVALERCHIK

HAIR ASSISTANT: RAMDASHA

LOCATION: DOWNTOWN L.A. PROPER

#71-80

BEVERLY WILSHIRE, A FOUR SEASONS HOTEL

The Veranda Suite of the iconic Beverly Wilshire redefines star sightings. The suite’s 750-square-foot rooftop terrace is outfitted with a large canvas tent and firepit for the ultimate in urban glamping. 395 rooms, $$$

CONRAD LOS ANGELES

With its sprawling patio and floor-to-ceiling windows, the 1,633-square-foot Conrad Penthouse Suite brings downtown Los Angeles — including the shimmering, Frank Gehry-designed Walt Disney Concert Hall — into focus like never before. 305 rooms, $$

DOWNTOWN L.A. PROPER

The 2,777-square-foot, Kelly Wearstlerdesigned Pool Suite (our choice for this issue’s cover shoot) perched atop a beautifully restored vintage tower, is always fully booked during awards season. It’s got an indoor pool and private bar. It’s totally ballin’. 147 rooms, $

HOTEL BEL-AIR

The 2,265-square-foot Presidential Suite compound at the Bel-Air remains ultra-private and, of course, ultra-luxurious. Guests bypass the hotel entrance, using their own secret driveway instead. The villa has multiple pools in the backyard and a grand piano in the living room. 103 rooms, $$$

HOTEL CASA DEL MAR

The region’s OG beach resort (since 1929) offers glittering ocean views from its two-story, onebedroom, 1,500-square-foot Penthouse. Located on the seventh and eighth floors, it’s like a beach house in the sky. 129 rooms, $$$

THE MAYBOURNE BEVERLY HILLS

With panoramic views of the city, The Maybourne’s one-bedroom, 2,025-square-foot, pastel-hued, Bryan O’Sullivan-designed Presidential Suite exudes contemporary elegance. Put your piano lessons to the test on the beautiful baby grand. And the huge closets should accommodate all that shopping you’ll do nearby. 204 rooms, $$$

PALIHOUSE SANTA MONICA

While this preppy-styled Pali outpost in SaMo offers two gorgeous penthouses, we prefer Penthouse One, a 1,200-square-foot apartment with two bedrooms, large living and dining areas and (here’s the kicker) two separate outdoor spaces, with ocean breezes. Easily bike to the beach. 38 rooms, $

REGENT

SANTA MONICA BEACH

This contemporary redux is the region’s most talked-about new hotel in recent memory. One reason for that might be its 2,180-square-foot, two-story, two-bedroom Atrium Grand Villa suite — an impeccable beach pad with vast ocean views. 167 rooms, $$$

SANDBOURNE SANTA MONICA

At only 660 square feet, the one-bedroom Ocean Suite might be less rock-star-inclined than the others on this list. But those views of the Pacific and the fab indoor/outdoor vibe make this one of the best bargains on the shore. 175 rooms, $

SUNSET TOWER HOTEL

This 1929 art deco landmark on Sunset Boulevard will always be a celebrity favorite. The hotel features a residencelike, 2,000-square-foot, one-bedroom Penthouse with wraparound terrace and the ultimate views of the Hollywood Hills. 81 rooms, $$

Your travel advisor can secure extra perks, including resort credits and complimentary breakfast for two, at these and other Internova SELECT and CURATED hotels.

REPORTING: RAMONA SAVISS

* PICTURED

#73, Party Pad: Chilling in the Pool Suite at the Downtown L.A. Proper, (from left) Bethany and Hannah wear Monday Swimwear bikinis. Mikey wears AKILA eyewear, a CODE 22 top, Wax London pants, and ARMANDO CABRAL shoes.

Welcome to the Heart of Arabia

As a land of dramatic landscapes and astonishing cityscapes, Saudi Arabia is easily one of the world’s most intriguing travel destinations. This diverse country has it all: ancient heritage sites, glittering modern metropolises, beautiful beach resorts, global events, thriving coral reefs and verdant oases surrounded by seemingly endless desert. No matter where your travels take you in Saudi, one thing is for sure — expect to be pleasantly surprised and delighted.

Hegra, AlUla

Discover the Highlights

10-Day Guide

Dramatic deserts, modern cities, rich heritage and beautiful beaches: Saudi has it all. Experience the best of the country with this can’t-miss guide.

Across the country, the duality of Saudi is apparent: This is a land of both treasured links to the past and rapidly evolving modernity via its many bustling cities and cultural hubs. There’s a reason this country is considered the heart of Arabia — the spark of life flows within it and radiates outward. Every way you look, there’s something to marvel at: Natural and historical wonders, trendy neighborhoods, architectural feats and otherworldly landscapes all combine to create a patchwork of everyday life both stunning and simple in its beauty. You could spend a lifetime in Saudi and never stop finding sights to take your breath away … is it any wonder that a trip here deserves 10 days at the very least?

Days 1 & 2:

Riyadh & Diriyah

The heart of the country — the Saudi capital of Riyadh — is a haven of culture. Skyscrapers have sprung up around the many museums, mosques and heritage spots.

Fuel up for your day with a hearty breakfast at Elements restaurant at the Four Seasons. Your first stop should be the National Museum: It’s a stunning collection of Saudi artwork, history and jewelry. From there, the possibilities are endless: World-class shopping at boutiques or countless souqs. Jaunts to the great outdoors at the King Abdulaziz National Reserve or Al Kharrarah National Park. More delectable treats and restaurants than you have room for in your stomach. One can’t-miss experience? Diriyah. Perched about a 20-minute drive outside Riyadh proper, Diriyah is a town renowned as the birthplace of Saudi Arabia. Strolling its

maze of winding alleyways and mud-brick architecture has you tracing the footsteps of visionaries and kings. UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif is a regal citadel that set the stage for the birth of the country as we know it today.

Days 3 & 4:

AlUla

Arguably the centerpiece of any and every itinerary, AlUla is a sight to behold. You could dedicate days to exploring it … starting with the ancient city of Hegra. Consisting of over 110 remarkably well-preserved tombs, defensive walls, towers and gates, the sum of these remnants adds up to be the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Arch and Face Rock are can’t-miss spots, as is the chance to have dinner next to the iconic Elephant Rock. The real can’t-miss sight? The nighttime sky. Unless you happen to be an astronomer, you’ve never seen the cosmos quite like this.

The next day, opt for a guided tour through the ancient capital of Dadan. Visiting the extensive, pre-Arabic rock inscriptions at Jabal Ikmah makes for a fascinating contrast to AlUla’s more modern enticements, like Maraya. As the world’s largest mirrored building — 108,000 square feet gleaming in the desert — Maraya seems almost to shimmer in the landscape, like a futuristic mirage.

Days 5 – 8:

The Red Sea

The Red Sea might just be the world’s best-kept beach resort secret. These are world-class private islands and overwater villas, popping up gradually like coral on a shipwreck. There is no wrong way to do a beach trip — you could spend all three days staring out at the Red Sea,

meditating on its beauty — but you’d be remiss not to immerse yourself in it. There are countless ways to experience it firsthand: snorkeling, sailing, kayaking … if you’re certified, you should scuba dive. This is one of the world’s largest and least-explored coral reefs — an absolute bucket-list experience for those enchanted by underwater realms. Naturally, you’ll want to recover with a session at your resort’s luxury spa.

Days 9 & 10:

Jeddah

Cap off your Saudi trip in Jeddah, a historic port city alive with music, markets and vibrant murals. Get acquainted with the city’s ancient heritage on a breezy stroll around Tayebat Museum, where Jeddah’s 2,500-year history comes to life through

fascinating exhibitions and displays. Then, head over to Old Town; the echoes of yesteryear harmonize with the bustle of the current day at this UNESCO World Heritage site.

For a no-frills lunch, stop at Abu Zaid for a hearty mutabbaq (fried or baked bread stuffed with garlickly mincemeat). Then, explore the Qabil Street Souq, one of the city’s oldest markets, for the opportunity to stock up on a trove of authentic souvenirs and local delicacies: everything from dates and nuts to jewelry and shoes. In the evening, catch a live performance at the Music Space, have a picnic by the Jeddah Fountain or enjoy a lavish dinner at Mataam Al Sharq or Le Traiteur — all of which make for fitting finales to your trip. 

Jeddah

Above from top left: Red Sea beach; Hegra; AlUla; shopping on Qabil Street Souq, Jeddah

Left page from top: Exhibit in the National Museum; At-Turaif outside of

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

There’s no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts throughout Saudi — here are some of our favorite options by destination.

AlUla

Habitas AlUla

Nestled within AlUla’s ancient desert, Habitas AlUla is a sustainable home base perfect for pursuing wonder and adventure in this one-of-akind environment. Its selection of luxury villas provides chic respite within the dramatic sandstone canyons. The range of experiences available — be it sunrise yoga or live music showcasing local talent — center on being grounded in the present moment. Whatever your day entails, the tastes of Tama, their regionally inspired restaurant, quell any appetite with dishes that bring Saudi Arabia’s unique flavors to life.

Banyan Tree AlUla

This tranquil desert retreat draws inspiration from the magical surroundings of the Ashar Valley, resulting in a 5-star hotel perfect for experiencing modern oasis living. Each of its elegant, tented villas harkens back to tales of Arabian opulence; curated experiences and thoughtful touches take an already bespoke stay into a new stratosphere of luxury. The dual restaurants provide you riches of fine dining — all with the dramatic AlUla landscape serving as the background.

Jeddah

The Rosewood Jeddah Designed for both business and leisure travelers, this luxury hotel in Jeddah offers unparalleled personal service across 127 rooms and suites, with 80% of the rooms facing the sea.

A popular destination for dining, the hotel offers both fine and casual dining with a rich array of cuisines, from traditional Middle Eastern to European and Chinese, all with stunning views across the Red Sea.

When booked through our agency, you will enjoy these SELECT Hotels & Resorts by Internova benefits: 100 USD hotel/resort credit; complimentary breakfast for two; early check-in and late checkout for rooms and suites, subject to availability; and high-speed Wi-Fi.

Jeddah EDITION

Located in the heart of the Jeddah Yacht Club (conveniently near the city center, the Red Sea Mall and the F1 racetrack), The Jeddah EDITION boasts sophisticated lodging in all 63 rooms — expect to find faux fur throws, Le Labo amenities and a scenic balcony with any and every room. Across the resort, there’s no shortage of stylish spaces to relax and unwind in between your escapades throughout Jeddah.

Habitas AlUla

Jeddah EDITION

Riyadh

Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh

Perched atop the iconic Kingdom Tower, the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh serves as a landmark of style, sophistication and warm hospitality in Saudi’s vibrant capital. Here, authentic Saudi heritage seamlessly blends with modern luxury, with exceptional service and worldclass amenities combining for an unforgettable stay. The result? No matter if your stay is in one of the elegant rooms or expansive suites, you’ll find comfort, style and breathtaking views of the city.

When booked through our agency, you will enjoy these SELECT Hotels & Resorts by Internova benefits: 100 USD hotel/resort credit; complimentary breakfast for two; early check-in and late checkout for rooms and suites, subject to availability; and high-speed Wi-Fi.

Diriyah

Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Just a short drive outside of Riyadh, Diriyah is a historic hub of Najdi culture. Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, promises to be the ideal gateway for exploring the soul of Najdi culture. Blending authenticity with modern sophistication, all 134 rooms provide a tranquil and thoughtfully designed escape, pairing handcrafted details with modern amenities and spacious layouts. Pair your literal adventures with epicurean journeys at Jareed — where you can savor tender Muqalqal and aromatic Kabsa — or at Taleed, where Chef Michael Mina combines regional traditions with Mediterranean flair, forging a original dining experience.

The Red Sea

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

A totally unspoiled sanctuary within a secluded archipelago of the Red Sea, Nujuma is where uncharted meets extraordinary. With 63 villas either set amid pillow-soft white sand or directly above the azure sea, every villa comes equipped with panoramic windows, open living space, a sea-view pool and telescope for admiring the star-studded night sky.

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort

Set atop a pristine private island in the Ummahat archipelago, the St. Regis Red Sea Resort presents a serene vision of exquisite living a world away from the mainland. Accessed from the Saudi coastline via speedboat or seaplane, this collection of 90 overwater and beachfront villas sports timeless glamour, spacious layouts and a private pool per room — and the perfect position to catch the vibrant, violet, Red Sea sunset. A wealth of selection awaits you at mealtime, with three restaurants providing a profusion of culinary experiences.

Six Senses Southern Dunes,

The Red Sea

Set inland less than 15 miles from the Red Sea, Six Senses Southern Dunes is a desert resort escape located along the historic incense trade route. Secluded rooms, suites and pool villas marry privacy with sweeping vistas across the Alnesai dunes — the desert plains and Hijaz Mountains make for a dramatic backdrop to your day’s events. With the diverse culinary experiences, hands-on exploration of Nabataean heritage and specialty spa treatments, your days will be awash in desert bliss. 

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel

HOW

to EAT FRIED WORMS (or not)

FOUR SEASONS LURED ONE OF MEXICO CITY’S MOST FAMOUS CHEFS TO THE WILD JALISCO COAST, BUT HERS IS NOT THE ONLY NOTABLE STORY HERE.

Costalegre, Mexico

The worms weren’t part of the plan, but here they are: bright-red caterpillar larvae, alongside some grasshoppers, scattered atop my guacamole at Nacho, the super-cute taqueria at Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo.

I got so distracted by the beautiful tacos — with zucchini flowers pressed into their tortillas — that I apparently didn’t read the menu closely enough when ordering the guacamole. But upon second glance, I see it clearly spelled out: “maguey worms and grasshoppers.” So I own it. And there’s only one way out of this.

“A local treat,” says my server, encouragingly.

“High in protein,” adds the handsome man sitting next to me at the bar, the spitting image of tennis star Carlos Alcaraz. Wait, is that him? I stare too long, and now we’re both uncomfortable.

Feigning nonchalance, I stuff another taco down my throat and reach for another swig of margarita before bringing a worm (technically, it's an insect) to my tongue. I close my lips around it. A gentle crunch. A vibration of salt. A faint rush of fat. Tastes almost like a chicharron.

But I’ve gotten off track. The worms are not why I’m here. Nor is it these flower-printed tortillas, although I could certainly eat daily at this taco shack and never get bored.

No, I came to the Jalisco coast for Coyul, the resort’s signature restaurant — a partnership between Four Seasons and chef Elena Reygadas, whose wildly popular Rosetta in Mexico City I’d enjoyed years prior. She owns a string of restaurants and bakeries, but this is her first and only one outside the city.

Surprise, Surprise: (Above) Executive chef Miguel Soltero. (Opposite) A mushroom, purslane and panela taco with zucchini-flower tortilla and (below) guacamole with fried gusanos and grasshoppers.

INSIDER INSIGHT:

The newly opened Panoramic Five-Bedroom Villa is perfect for families or groups traveling together. Right on the beach, it is the epitome of luxury.

—Ritam Bhalla, travel advisor

Outside the city is an understatement. We’re in the middle of nowhere on a 2,000-acre compound surrounded by jungle, on the edge of a private peninsula overlooking the sea. The hotel’s modular suites and villas cascade down a cliff and continue along the beachfront. The view from mine triggers a confusing sense of melancholy deep in my chest, perhaps from knowing that I’ll eventually have to leave.

When Coyul opened in 2021, only a handful of the 157 rooms were ready to receive guests, so the restaurant flew under the radar, almost a secret, while construction inched forward.

The miles-long private road that connects Tamarindo to the highway took nearly 20 years to build, says Herve Fucho, resort manager and one of the hotel’s first hires. He helped assemble the team and shepherd development of what would become, essentially, an entirely new village built from scratch.

“We even built a school,” he says.

The rooms are finally complete this year, and the two cooks from Rosetta who had relocated for the opening have since returned to the city. The majority of the team now hails from the region, from the Costalegre to the north or Colima to the south.

Coyul serves breakfast and dinner, but not lunch, which partly explains why I keep returning to Nacho, as well as the resort’s open-air beachfront restaurant, Sal, where executive chef Miguel Soltero and sous chef Aharon Pando serve fantastic seafood: tuna and mahi-mahi from local fishermen to be dry-aged in house, plus tropical ceviches, gorgeous aguachiles and whole, salt-roasted snapper.

Hotel breakfast could seem like a downgrade for a celebrity chef, but Reygadas is famous for baking. The morning pastry display is pure spectacle, and I’m tempted more than once to fill my tote with chocolate croissants and conchas and make a run for the beach.

Come sunset, Coyul’s terrace is fully booked, and as the sky fades from orange to red to purple, I feel my heart smiling as I bask in the breeze, relishing handmade hoja santa pappardelle in a silken sauce of queso Ocosingo. And when I’m confronted with a risotto crafted not from rice but nixtamalized corn, heady with the aroma of pecorino cheese and a heavy dollop of manzano-pepper mayonnaise, bite after bite I find myself breathless. It's truly extraordinary.

“More Taittinger?” asks the server, just in time.

Sunset Strip: The bar terrace at Coyul at Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo. (Opposite, clockwise from top) Elena Reygadas in Mexico City, her hoja santa pappardelle and nixtamalized corn risotto at Coyul, and the pool deck of the resort’s new Panoramic Five-Bedroom Villa.

Much of what’s on the menu at Coyul, as with Nacho and Sal — purslane, herbs, chiles, heirloom corn and beets, but also chicken, eggs, lamb — comes from the resort’s selfoperated farm. “We’re constantly discovering what the land wants to offer,” Reygadas says.

“Squawk, squawk, squawk, squawk!” It’s 7 am, and I’m jolted out of bed by a covey of chachalacas who’ve mistaken the pool on my terrace for their morning birdbath. The wildly talkative birds, native to this jungle, look like a cross between oversize roadrunners and small pheasants. And while I wish they would discover their indoor voices, I welcome their wakeup call because I’m supposed to be having breakfast at the farm today and, “Yikes, my driver’s going to be here any minute! ”

A charming valet with a lead foot retrieves me in an electric buggy, and we race across the resort at F1 speeds,

The farm's flock has grown to 200 chickens, but that's not nearly enough yet, given that the resort goes through 450 eggs per day.

zigzagging up, down and around hairpin curves until we reach the graveled entrance of the farm, where we skid to a stop under a giant palm tree. But for chef Soltero and his crew stoking fires in the outdoor kitchen, I’m the first one here. The air smells alive with herbs, smoldering pork, fried eggs and charred tortillas.

As the last plates from breakfast get cleared, here comes Fucho, all smiles. A former chef himself, he led the kitchens at Four Seasons Hong Kong years ago, when that hotel collected more Michelin Stars for its restaurants than any other hotel in the guide. Now embracing his Old MacDonald phase, he’s been the mastermind behind the farm. He takes me inside the chicken coop and the bee shed and the greenhouse where they grow seedlings for the quelites (native greens and herbs).

Force of Nature: (Left) Resort manager Herve Fucho in the chicken coop on the farm. (Above) Tacos al pastor with charred pineapple at Nacho.

“Corn is our most important project,” he explains. “Corn is everything.” And that's not just for Tamarindo, but also Mexico at large — including the neighboring village of La Manzanilla on the other side of the mountain (population 1,500; not to be confused with the larger Manzanillo, where the airport is). “We made too much masa last year at Christmas, so we sold the surplus to some locals. Now the entire town wants to buy our tortillas.”

Still in its early stages, the farm’s flock has grown to 200 chickens, but that's not nearly enough yet, given that the resort goes through 450 eggs a day. “If I’ve done the math right," Fucho says, “we’ll need about 600 chickens before we’re fully self-sustaining.”

The farm's goal is to supply its own pork, too. Tamarindo just bought six Mangalitsa pigs, massive creatures, which Fucho says he plans to breed with Durocs from Jalisco. Seeing the pigs makes me think again of Nacho: not of worms, but fondly of tacos, specifically the tacos al pastor — chile-marinated pork slowly roasted on a vertical spit until crisped and fragrant — a family recipe of chef Pando.

“I better get back to the hotel,” I declare with startled urgency, waving to the valet to get the buggy revved up.

I came for Coyul. But it’s lunchtime again, and the competition for delicious memories here is strong.

Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo

The closest commercial airport is in Manzanillo, 50 minutes south. For a more luxurious arrival, the resort offers private jet transfers from Puerto Vallarta to the local landing strip. Your travel advisor can secure Internova SELECT perks, including resort credits and complimentary daily breakfast for two. $$$

Margarita and Sal: (Above) Coyul’s escabeche margarita with pickle juice and ginger beer. (Left) Locally caught fish in the dry-aging locker at Sal.

Inside the Kaleidoscope: La Cúpula restaurant at The Palace Madrid and (opposite) a reflected glimpse of the new Palace Suite.

SWEET DOME

DOME

PICASSO, DALÍ, HEMINGWAY, GORBACHEV, KING ALFONSO XIII… IF ONLY THESE WALLS COULD TALK.

Madrid, Spain

Unless you’re a Madrileño, it’s probably not every Sunday that you find yourself savoring seafood and cava beneath an art deco glass dome as whispers of Verdi and Puccini soar through the air. Ocean-blue panels and rose garlands glow above our heads, casting their reflections onto dark tables. The palm-shaped chandelier gleams beneath the glass, blending with lush greenery to create a magical solarium feel. The atmosphere is timeless and utterly cinematic. Sundays at La Cúpula, the restaurant of The Palace Hotel in Madrid, brunch feels like theater.

The Palace has always been more than just a hotel; it’s a stage on which history and elegance have long danced hand in hand. Inaugurated in 1912 after King Alfonso XIII invited Belgian entrepreneur Georges Marquet to invest in Madrid, Europe’s then-largest hotel also had facilities that were second to none — every room boasted a telephone and en suite

bathroom. More than a century later, it dazzles once again after a jaw-dropping $100 million renovation.

Ruiz-Larrea Arquitectura and Catalan designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán elevated the historic legacy with a contemporary aesthetic, bringing its belle époque spirit into the 21st century — a two-year process, which was longer than the hotel’s original construction. A true restoration, beginning with the façade, saw layers and layers of paint stripped away, revealing floral ornaments and garlands that hadn’t seen daylight in decades. The designers discovered traces of its original shade — a warm beige, now known as the “Palace color."

As for the wrought-iron-and-glass dome, the real pièce de résistance, its 1,875 tiles were dismantled, catalogued and restored, piece after piece. The most complex sections were sent to a studio in Barcelona — the same one working on the stained-glass windows of Gaudí’s Sagrada Família.

Framed by Madrid’s most iconic landmarks — including the renovated Neptune Fountain, the Thyssen-Bornemisza and the Prado — The Palace stands proudly within the Landscape of Light, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The large-scale statement lanterns at the entrance, known as “isabelinas" in honor of Queen Isabella II, lead the way into a world where the spirit of the city echoes in every detail. Upstairs, the corridors alternate between dark marble from 1912 and a whimsical, forest-patterned carpet populated with mythical animals and optical illusions. A surrealist energy continues in the walls' bespoke paintings, which reveal different subjects depending on the viewing angle. It’s Madrid, seen through a dream lens.

The tribute to the Spanish capital continues throughout The Palace's 470 redesigned guest rooms, including all-new signature suites where hand-painted wallpapers depict bucolic scenes from the nearby El Retiro Park. Meanwhile mosaic tiles in the bathrooms feature a bird’s-eye view of the central fountain of the Real Jardín Botánico, inspired by a postcard Lázaro Rosa-Violán found at El Rastro, the local flea market. Marble fireplaces (original to the suites on the fifth and sixth floors), exquisite parquet flooring and velvet textiles evoke a charm that is unmistakably Madrileño.

Wallflowers: A mural detail and sitting area and (opposite) the bedroom of the Palace Suite.

A surrealist energy continues in the walls' bespoke paintings, which reveal different subjects depending on the viewing angle. It’s Madrid, seen through a dream lens.

“You can't beat this location. At the base of the hills leading to Palacio Real and the Old Town, it's close to three of the most important museums in Madrid: the Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofía.”

—Helen Land, travel advisor

No wonder such a tribute to beauty acted as a magnet from day one. Hidden behind a discreet door, the hotel's legendary bar has been reborn as the 27 Club, a tribute to the Generation of ’27 poets and artists who were regulars here — among them Federico García Lorca, Salvador Dalí and cineast Luis Buñuel. Still more: Picasso signed the guest book at least three times. And Hemingway, an adopted son of Madrid, immortalized its bar in The Sun Also Rises

The fascination refuses to fade. In the 1970s, The Palace briefly housed Madrid’s first Chinese embassy, tucked away on the fourth floor; in 2001, it hosted a closed-door summit with 35 world leaders, including Bill Clinton and Mikhail Gorbachev.

Dead Poets Society: (Left and above) The 27 Club bar at The Palace Madrid. (Below) The hotel’s historic facade.

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Picasso signed the guest book at least three times.

To recall those times: velvet armchairs, honeyed lighting and a cocktail list that nods to the past with La Violetera (named for the city’s violet candies), Hemingway’s dry martini and Ma Jolie, a tribute to Picasso’s muse. A modern soundtrack and the low hum of conversation keep the atmosphere alive, not frozen. History doesn’t weigh here — it shimmers.

And Hemingway immortalized this hotel’s bar in The Sun Also Rises.

The Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid

Your travel advisor can secure Internova SELECT perks, including a $100 resort credit as well as complimentary breakfast for two. $$

Pleasure Dome: Scenes from La Cύpula bar.

THE OLTRE with

Q&A

JOHN COX

At Baha Mar in The Bahamas, John Cox wears many hats — artist, curator, executive director of arts and culture — all in pursuit of the same mission: helping others discover the beauty of Bahamian art. A majority of the artists he showcases throughout the various Baha Mar resorts are Caribbean based. “I want to shape and reshape people’s expectations and definitions of this place,” says the Nassau native. Previously the chief curator for the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, Cox began his own work with relief printing and silk screens and has evolved to include installations made with broken furniture, found wood, fabric and painting on various surfaces. “The Caribbean is a melting pot of so many cultures, yet I don’t think people view it that way,” he says. “An artist can peel back some of the layers of the paradise.”

How many passports do you have?

One: The Bahamas. I was born in 1973, the year of independence from Great Britain, so I just missed being able to get a British passport by less than a year.

Your most gratifying passport stamp?

Hong Kong. It marked my first significant exhibition when I was just out of art school.

Earliest memory of travel?

Summer visits to The Bronx with my mother.

For a one-week trip, how many pairs of shoes do you bring? Four pairs, all sneakers, different colorways.

Worst travel misfortune?

I lost my passport in Gatwick Airport. Luckily, it was found, and I got it back. I still get anxious thinking about that.

Last road trip?

Frankfurt to Zurich, spur of the moment, with some other Bahamian artists.

A dream vacation?

Pietrasanta, Italy, to work in Studio Sem for three months.

Any place you just didn’t enjoy?

Magic Kingdom when my kids were small. I’m still traumatized.

Favorite museum? MoMA, New York.

A favorite hotel for art/design outside of Baha Mar? Rosewood Mayakoba in Mexico.

WRITING: RAMONA SAVISS

Time Traveler: John Cox and his painting “Shot gun.” (Below) Eccho museum at Baha Mar’s The Current art center.

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