Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

Shoulder-season travel to warm places that aren't quite operating at full capacity yet are among my favorite trips to take. There's a quality to it that's hard to replicate in peak summer: fewer people, more room to breathe, more affordable hotel rates, and the sense that a place is still mostly itself. Menorca in the spring fits that exactly.

Of all the Balearics, Menorca is the least built up in the best way. Even Formentera, which used to be the sleepiest of the islands, has developed more of a pulse in recent years, but Menorca has stayed quiet in a way that feels almost deliberate. There isn't a huge amount to do here in the traditional sense. Days are simple and elemental: long seafood lunches by the water, dramatic wild beaches that require real effort to reach, swimming in water that is genuinely some of the clearest in the Mediterranean thanks to the posidonia seagrass that grows along the seabed and keeps it that way. When you're not at the beach, you're roaming around Ciutadella's old town, poking around the fishing villages along the coast, shopping in Mahón, or making the trip out to Hauser & Wirth on its own private island.

I went to Menorca in late April and into early May, when the island was just starting to shake itself awake for the season, and I'm officially convinced that it was the perfect time to visit. Almost everything had just reopened for the season, the temperatures were divine, and I had the beaches largely to myself. By summer, the island fills up. Parking gets tricky, the best beaches require early starts, restaurants require reservations made well in advance, and the whole experience shifts from peaceful to something a bit more planned around logistics than spontaneity.

A few things to understand before you go to Menorca: You need a car or, at minimum, a scooter, which you can rent at the airport. The island has one main road, the Me-1, which runs east–west through the center, and smaller roads branch off toward towns and beaches. Because it doesn't follow the coastline and many beaches are reached via secondary roads, distances that look short on a map often take longer in reality.

Therefore, where you stay sets the tone for how you experience the island. The island divides roughly into three distinct coastlines, each with a different character. The southwest, close to Ciutadella, is the most scenically beautiful. This is where you find the iconic Menorca: hidden coves with impossibly turquoise water, pale sand, and towering limestone cliffs that drop into still, luminous seas. Many of the best beaches require a 20–30 minute walk to reach, but the reward is that cinematic, almost tropical clarity that defines the island's reputation. The southeast, around Mahón, or Maó as it's commonly known, is more accessible and structured. There's easier beach access, more infrastructure, and a livelier harbor-side feel, still offering that same clear water in a more relaxed, everyday setting. The north is something else entirely. It's not about turquoise coves but about raw, exposed landscape: jagged coastline, red-tinged rock, and a wilder, more elemental feel. Shaped by the Tramuntana wind, it feels harsher and more dramatic in a geological sense.

My advice: Don't try to cover the whole island from one base. During this trip, I spent two nights in the southwest near Ciutadella and the rest on the southeast coast near Mahón, which felt about right. If you don't have the time to move around, decide what kind of trip you want—the wilder, more isolated experience or the easier, more connected one—and pick accordingly.

Below, read my guide to Menorca…

Where to Stay on Menorca

I chose to spend my first two nights on the southwest coast close to Ciutadella and the dramatic beaches and coves that define this part of the island. Vestige Son Vell, a beautifully restored 18th-century manor set on a 450-acre estate, sits close enough to the sea that several smaller coves are reachable on foot directly from the property. Driving along the narrow country lane toward the estate bordered by fertile fields and citrus and olive groves, the scent of warm earth and Mediterranean flora drifts through the open window before I even park. The welcome is warm and unhurried, which sets the tone for everything that follows.

The property is built around the original manor house, with a handful of rooms inside and villas spread quietly across the grounds. The bath products are from Rowse, a Spanish plant-based line that feels entirely in tune with the setting—subtle, botanical, and quietly luxurious, echoing the almost ethereal atmosphere of the estate itself. There are two pools, a yoga pavilion, and an outdoor fitness area. The infrastructure is there if you want it, but nothing feels imposed or overtly resort-like. Dining follows the same philosophy: a main restaurant centered on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients—many drawn directly from the estate's own garden—alongside a more relaxed bar for light meals and evening drinks.

Experimental Menorca is one of the largest of the island's farmstay-style hotels with 43 rooms spread across 74 acres, including nine private villas with their own plunge pools. It offers the most comprehensive setup of the group on this list: a main pool with a lively pool bar suited to long, lingering lunches, a central restaurant serving breakfast and dinner, and a spa in the main house featuring treatments with Biologique Recherche products. The wellness facilities are particularly strong for a hotel of this scale. There's a dedicated yoga and Pilates studio, sauna, and steam room, plus a secluded yoga platform reached via a 10-minute nature hike set above the water. A small cove is also accessible within a short walk from the property, and there's even a working vineyard on-site, reinforcing the estate's sense of place. The hotel's curated concept shop highlights local designers and brands, alongside a carefully selected range of resortwear, accessories, and jewelry perfect for island living. Experimental is also the most energetic of the properties I stayed at, whether due to its size or the loyal following that Experimental hotels tend to draw. The atmosphere is noticeably lively, attracting a healthy mix of couples and families.

Son Blanc is the most bohemian of the hotels I stayed in. It has a rawer, more spiritual sensibility and a deeply personal feel, which feels more like staying in a thoughtfully curated home than a traditional hotel. The farmhouse sits quietly amid olive groves and open countryside, lending it a sense of calm seclusion that defines the entire experience. The saltwater pool overlooks the property's orchard and has its own laid-back bar, and an honesty bar inside the main house invites guests to mix their own drinks at any hour. Food is a central part of life here and is almost entirely organic, much of it grown on-site. Breakfast is homemade and generous, with fresh cakes, frittatas, and a juice station stocked with vegetables picked from the garden that very morning. The restaurant cooks over charcoal, and the daily menu is shaped by whatever the farm and surrounding sea provide. On Wednesday evenings, the hotel hosts a communal long-table dinner, an easy, convivial gathering that reflects the property's emphasis on connection. Fifteen rooms, including one reserved for creatives in residence, are intentionally simple and tactile with organic materials throughout: carved limestone bathtubs, braided textile headboards, and impossibly comfortable beds dressed in soft Merci linens. Yoga sessions and curated experiences reinforce the hotel's slower, more mindful rhythm, and there's a clear sense of community woven into everything.

Torralbenc is about 15 minutes from Mahón, set on a 70-acre estate of vineyards and olive groves that you drive through on the approach. You arrive at a cluster of low, whitewashed farm buildings framed by cypress trees and lavender, their scent lightly perfuming the air. There are just 27 rooms and cottages, all limestone walls, natural textures, and a quietness that feels deliberate. The restaurant, housed in what was once a grape and barrel storeroom, serves a refined take on Mediterranean cooking using produce from the hotel's own gardens, and the wine list is centered on the estate's vintages. That connection to the land carries through to the hotel's wine tastings, featuring guided sessions that walk you through their small-production wines, often paired with local bites. There's a saltwater pool, a small spa with treatment rooms, and a fitness center, but the rhythm here is slower, more grounded in the landscape. What lingers most is the light at the end of the day: the sun dropping over the vineyards, the white buildings holding onto it, the entire property turning a deep, honeyed gold.

Amagatay offers an elevated and upscale farm stay in the southeast—a romantic 20-room adults-only boutique hotel set within a 14th-century estate near Cala'n Porter with the kind of modern amenities and polish that set it apart from the more rustic farmstays in the area. Rooms are spread between the main house and across the property, each with a private terrace or garden. There are two restaurants worth knowing about here: El Olivar, a refined Mediterranean dining room surrounded by olive trees, and SUA Parrilla, a grill restaurant drawing on Basque tradition with premium cuts and farm-to-table vegetables. The pool sits in a shaded area that keeps it comfortable well into the afternoon, and the Sunset Bar is on hand for cocktails as the light changes.

Suggestions for city stays: La Cayena in Ciutadella and Cristine Bedfor Guest Houses in Mahón.

Where I'll stay next time: Fontenille Menorca Torre Vella and the new Vestige Son Ermità and Vestige Binidufà in the north.

Where to Dine on Menorca

In the old city of Ciutadella on the western part of the island, Bar Imperi is something of an institution. Open since the 1940s, it sits beneath stone arches on the Plaça des Born and is the kind of place locals have been coming to for breakfast for generations. Order the llonguet, a small Menorcan bread roll stuffed with sobrasada and honey or Mahón cheese, with a coffee. Nearby, Cafè Balear, a family-run restaurant overlooking the port, is the go-to for seafood. It's been in business for over 50 years and is still sourcing fish daily from their own boat. Order the lobster stew, the island's most classic dish, or the razor clams. Just outside Ciutadella, Nonna Bazaar is in a category of its own with a festive farm-to-table restaurant set in a restored 100-year-old dusty-red farmhouse, drawing on the full breadth of Mediterranean cooking across its 21 countries. The menu is eclectic and meant for sharing, most of it sourced from the farm. Its newer addition, Nonna Beach, brings the same spirit to the coast near Son Saura beach.

In Mahón, the capital on the eastern end of the island, Bar Augustin is a small, unpretentious bistro running a short fixed menu alongside a chalkboard that changes daily with whatever the market is offering, including a good wine list, worth a lunch. Sa Bodega, on the Plaza de la Constitución, is more of a wine bar than a restaurant: cheese boards, anchovies, charcuterie, vermouth. Not a full meal, but a very good stop. Oysters Menorca is known as much for its oysters as for its caviar spaghetti, which has developed something of a following of its own. And Arjau, on the port, is the place for lobster and rice dishes, run by a chef with 30 years behind him. If you're looking for a natural wine or kombucha stop, look no further than Après-Sol, Casa de Aperitivos.

If you're staying in one of the southeast farmstays near Mahón, Es Molí de Foc is worth the short drive to the sleepy local village of Sant Climent, a 19th-century mill converted into a restaurant with one of the best wine cellars on the island. The menu revolves around rice done every way: dry, soupy, black, and a banda, cooked in a deep fish broth.

The seaside spots are among the most memorable meals you'll have on the island. Cap Roig, perched on a cliff above Sa Mesquida cove just north of Mahón, has been an island institution since the 1980s; come for the fresh local seafood, the lobster, the rice dishes, and one of the better views you'll find from a restaurant table in Menorca. Just down at the cove, Bar Sa Mesquida is the simpler, more casual counterpart, serving calamari, monkfish, and cold drinks, with feet practically in the water. Restaurant Tamarindos sits right on the beach at Es Grau, a quiet fishing village on the north coast, and is the kind of place Menorcans have been coming to all summer for decades for rice, fresh fish, tapas, and cocktails as the sun goes down. Pintarroja in Es Castell is an informal, no-frills seafood restaurant on the terrace at Moll den Pons—grilled prawns, fried baby squid, and sardines, string lights overhead and water just a few meters away. Bucaneros Binibeca is less about the food and more about the experience, featuring a white cave bar carved into the cliffside overlooking a small, calm, family-friendly beach. Ivette Beach Club at Cala Morell, on the northwest coast near Ciutadella, is the most polished of the lot—Mediterranean and Spanish dishes, grilled octopus, charred meat, a cocktail bar upstairs with views that make it worth the drive.

No visit to Menorca is complete without a long lunch or sunset dinner in Fornells, a small whitewashed fishing village on a wide natural lagoon famous for its lobster, which you can enjoy at beloved spots like Es Cranc, Sa Llagosta, and Sa Xerxa.

Where to Shop on Menorca

In my opinion, the tiny capital of Mahón is the only worthwhile destination for shopping in Menorca. The souvenir you'll actually want to take home is a pair of handmade espadrilles, the island's most iconic craft. Boba's is the place for original rope-sole espadrilles handmade by one craftsman, Llorenç Pons, entirely from natural materials. S'Abarca does leather avarca sandals, the other Menorcan classic, where you choose your sole and have them made to order in minutes.

Ca s'Esparter is a 200-year-old shop still run by the sixth generation of the same family, selling esparto goods, workwear, and exclusive tees from local hot spots like Cap Roig.

The "fashion with a capital F" girlies should visit Hetra for a cool, curated assortment of Latin brands, from Argentina to Colombia.

Can Sab, a multi-floor shop run by a French woman with a good eye, mixes funky clothing with antique furniture and homeware that you won't find anywhere else.

Tiny House Menorca is where to go for white linen dresses, straw bags, and the kind of simple, wearable pieces you'll want to wear straight out of the shop.

Visit Casalma for organic homeware, like ceramics, textiles, and objects that capture the Menorca aesthetic you'll want to bottle up and bring home with you.

Where to Beach on Menorca

Everyone has their favorites along Menorca's wild southwest stretch, and to be sure, everyone's would include the dramatic and beautiful Cala Macarella and its neighboring cove Cala Macarelleta. The former is a large beach with a restaurant that you access via a 20-minute walk down from the parking lot, while the latter is reached via a 20-minute hike around the cliffside, opening onto a postcard-perfect cove with some of the clearest, most turquoise water on the island.

Cala en Turqueta is a small, pine-fringed cove that requires a flat 20-minute walk down from the parking lot to a calm, shallow bay ideal for swimming, where you'll see people lying on both the sandy beach and along the rocks sheltered by the forest trees.

While it's not as dramatic as the tall cliff-lined coves characteristic of the southwest, I love Son Saura not only for its ease and accessibility (it's only a five-minute walk from the parking lot) but also for its simple, long sandy stretch with perfectly still, clear blue water. You'll see hikers walking along the Camí de Cavalls coastal path, which extends around the island, where you can reach other hidden beaches and coves that feel far removed from the crowds. Stop at Cala Mitjana on your drive east and hike to the quieter Cala Mitjaneta for a scenic dip framed by low limestone cliffs and dense pine forest.

The southeast is known for its more accessible beaches and coves. Among them, Playa de Binibeca is a good family beach with flat turquoise water and a cute restaurant on the sand. For something more raw with relatively easy access but with similar dramatic beauty to the southwest beaches, go to Cala Binidalí.

You'll also find the more local spots in the smaller coves like Cala de Biniparratx, Caló Blanc, and Cala Binissafúller.

The northern coast of Menorca is known for being the island's wilder, more rugged counterpart to the postcard-perfect south. Instead of soft white and calm turquoise coves, the north has a raw, untamed beauty shaped by Tramuntana winds and a very different geology. Beaches along the north coast, like Cala Pregonda and Cavalleria Beach, are famous for their reddish-gold sand, rust-colored cliffs, and darker, sometimes moodier waters. The sea here can still turn clear and blue on calm days, but it's less predictably turquoise than in the south and often feels more elemental. This side of the island is also less developed, with fewer beach clubs and more untouched stretches of coastline.

What to See on Menorca

Beyond the beaches, the restaurants, and the lazy roaming between Mahón and Ciutadella, there are a few experiences in Menorca worth going out of your way for.

Hauser & Wirth Menorca sits on Illa del Rei, a small island in the middle of Mahón harbor, home to a decommissioned 18th-century naval hospital that sits alongside Hauser & Wirth's gallery spaces, restaurant, and shop. You reach it by shuttle boat from the port, about 15 minutes, which is very much part of the experience. The program centers on rotating contemporary art exhibitions by internationally recognized artists, often spanning sculpture, painting, and large-scale installations that respond to the island's landscape and architecture. Beyond exhibitions, the space hosts artist residencies, educational workshops, and public programs, with a strong emphasis on engaging the local community, particularly through partnerships with Menorcan schools, environmental initiatives, and collaborations with local artisans and producers. The Cantina restaurant sits outdoors under an olive grove on the island, serving shared plates of fresh fish, seafood, and vegetables cooked over fire.

Booking a private boat day with a skipper is expensive in Menorca year-round, so it's worth being strategic about your itinerary. I'd recommend focusing on coves and beaches that are difficult to reach by land, particularly those along the southwest coast. There are also northern and southeastern routes available (I booked a southwest route with Boat Charter Menorca), but if you only have one day set aside for a boat trip, the southwest is usually the best choice. The beaches there are some of the island's most beautiful and least accessible on foot, making them especially rewarding from the water. For this route, booking with a boat company that departs from Cala Galdana is ideal, as it puts you close to several of the most iconic nearby coves and allows you to maximise your time swimming and exploring rather than travelling.

Wine tasting at a local winery: Menorca has a small but genuine wine culture, producing mostly reds from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, along with Chardonnay whites and some notable sparkling wines. The most established winery on the island is Bodegas Binifadet, which is just outside Sant Lluís near Mahón. Guided tours run a few times a day in English, ending with a tasting of three wines paired with local goat cheese. There's also a restaurant on-site if you want to stay for lunch or dinner.

Menorca has a long, deeply embedded relationship with horses, which you'll notice immediately in the dressage displays at local fiestas and the equestrian culture woven into daily island life. The best way to tap into that is on the Camí de Cavalls, a 115-mile coastal trail that circles the entire island. The name means "horse path," and it dates back to the 14th century when knights were required to patrol the coastline on horseback. Today, it's a fully restored trail used by hikers, cyclists, and riders, passing through wild nature reserves along clifftops, past prehistoric sites and lighthouses, and down to more than 50 beaches and coves. You don't need riding experience to join a guided tour, and several operators offer sections of the route on horseback, which is far and away the most immersive way to see the parts of the island that don't reveal themselves by car.

Nothing humbles you quite like standing at the CVS counter in full glam, mentally spiraling to the melodic chirp of self-checkout scanners. "Could I see it?" I gingerly ask the cashier, who patiently flashed me his computer screen as I inspected the gritty image that would linger for the next decade, clutching my lip liner as if it was a lucky rabbit-foot. Look, I'm realistic. I'm not expecting to magically sprout Bella Hadid's bone structure or anything, but 10 years is a long time, and I want a passport photo that doesn't make me cringe every time I show it to an airport gate agent. Is that such a tall order?

Apparently not, according to TikTok. A quick search on the app will generate countless videos titled something along the lines of "How to take your passport photo like a baddie." The trailblazer is arguably UK-based content creator Georgia Barratt, whose viral 2022 makeup tutorial currently sits at 16.5 million views, but really, the formidable challenge of taking a "good" ID photo is nothing new. Consider Victoria Beckham, who kicked off a legitimate photo shoot—glam team included—at her DMV appointment in the 2007 reality TV special Victoria Beckham: Coming to America. "You don't do retouching?" she deadpans to the government employee. License photos, the great equalizer! Now, in a world where selfies have a shelf life of roughly 10 seconds before the algorithm pushes the next Gen Z content dump, the analog ID becomes a significant memento.

"I also think it's the contentification of everything and the obsession with looking hot in environments where it's not expected," makeup artist Lila Childs explains. (Exhibit B: TikTok's jumbotron trend, where users create AI videos of themselves looking snatched as they catch themselves on the big screen. It's very Pamela Anderson circa 1989, when the star was discovered at a BC Lions game.) A flattering passport photo becomes the ultimate flex—like you've mastered your angles and defied the odds of bad lighting. If a few makeup techniques can shoulder the effort, well, that's something worth saving.

So what does passport makeup entail? Simply put, "the goal is to serve," declares celebrity makeup artist Kelli Anne Sewell, who created a 37-minute video dedicated to perfecting the look. "Think super-sculpted cheekbones, soft-matte skin that blurs in pictures, a defined and lifted eye with a baby wing, and a really pouty lip." It sounds sublime, but achieving that perfect baseline is more difficult than you think. Passport makeup is a bit more camera ready, says Sewell, meaning it requires heavier coverage than you might be used to. At the same time, however, it needs to appear totally clean and natural. Your government document should look like you, after all. "It's less about looking overly glamorous and more about looking naturally refined and confident," adds celebrity makeup artist Kelly Zhang. Given the delicate dance, I asked the three experts to walk me through each step before venturing over to my local CVS. This is on-the-ground journalism, no?

Do you absolutely need to wear full glam for your passport-photo appointment? Of course not—louder for the people in the back. As with any beauty trend, feel free to absorb what you please and leave behind what doesn't serve you. But for those curious about the best tricks and techniques, scroll ahead for the only passport makeup guide you'll need.

1. Contour Generously

Contouring as the very first step might seem confusing, but beauty fans know exactly where I'm going with this. To achieve a naturally sculpted effect, makeup artists recommend the underpainting method, in which you apply your contour and highlighter before foundation and/or concealer. "This carves out all the shadows and gives you that extra-snatched look, especially around the nose," explains Childs. Don't be afraid to really pile on the contour either, especially around the eyes and underneath your cheekbones. Zhang points out, "Cameras tend to flatten the face more than real life, so I usually recommend slightly more definition than you think."

2. Apply a Soft-Matte Base

Dewy, megawatt skin looks ethereal IRL, but in a photo—especially one snapped in suboptimal lighting—all that glow can read a little wonky. "Flash photography can exaggerate shine," Zhang explains, adding that she avoids shimmer, glitter, or anything overly dewy. Rather, she recommends applying a lightweight, skin-like formula on the center of the face ("around the T-zone, under the eyes, forehead, nose, and chin," she instructs) to keep the skin looking dimensional yet natural. "The foundation that always hits with photography is Armani Luminous Silk," Sewell is quick to declare. "It's a makeup-artist staple for a reason."

3. Set With Powder

Setting powder is the unsung hero of passport makeup. Even if you're not someone who typically sets their base (ahem, me), you'll definitely want to spend a few extra seconds to lock everything in place, especially around the T-zone and cheeks, where the camera flash might exacerbate shine. "I don't 'bake' on the day-to-day, but I would definitely do an under-eye powder bake for this look," Childs adds. Bonus points if you grab an option that simultaneously blurs and brightens, like Makeup by Mario's Soft Blur Setting Powder—Sewell's go-to.

4. Add a Touch of Blush

Blush has the power to literally change your face shape—hence why it's my desert-island beauty item! A few strategic swipes can create an instantly sculpted, lifted look, so Childs recommends applying your product of choice right underneath your pupil and sweeping outward, stopping at the temples instead of directly on top of the apples of your cheeks, which results in a more youthful flush. You'd be surprised by how much of a difference that tiny tweak can make.

Contrary to what you might think, though, you don't want to use too much blush here. The most popular passport makeup look is more about sculpted contour and a pouty lip than vibrant cheeks, so there's no need to pack on the pigment. You'll also want to make sure to diffuse any harsh lines for a soft, effortless blend. Pro tip: Go back in with your seasoned foundation brush or sponge to encourage a seamless blur.

5. Elongate the Eyes

When it comes to sculpting the orbs, your eyeliner does a lot of the heavy lifting. "I would tightline the upper waterline to sharpen the eye," shares Childs, who swears by the technique for her everyday eye looks. To wing or not to wing is ultimately up to personal preference, but if you do crave a simple cat eye, I'd suggest a baby flick over extended, razor-sharp liner—just enough to add extra definition without overpowering the whole look.

Next, contour the eye with a neutral brown eye shadow. "Apply through the crease toward the top of the nose and then take the excess along the lower lash line," Childs instructs. As you can probably surmise, this is not the time to break out your glittery eye shadow palette. Remember, "shimmer can reflect harshly in photos," Zhang notes, which is why she recommends matte-brown eye makeup. "Curling the lashes is also extremely important because it instantly opens up the eyes in pictures," she adds.

Whether you use black or brown mascara, make sure to spend extra time coating the outer lash corners, which, according to Childs, perfectly elongates the eyes. She even recommends dragging the wand outward as you're applying to create a flared-out effect.

6. Overline and Gloss

Passport makeup goes hand in hand with a blurred, soft-focus aesthetic, but when it comes to lips, feel free to glob on the shine. First, you'll want to sculpt the shape. "Just overline your heart out," instructs Childs, who praises Sacheu's DoubleDown Liners that "make the lips look twice their size." For lip colors, a neutral pink or brown typically photographs best, Zhang notes, and Sewell adores a "nice mauvy nude." No matter which route you take, a touch of clear gloss on top can create the illusion of full, pouty lips. Just make sure you pop it right on the center for optimal dimension.

Extra Tips to Keep in Mind

• Set all your cream products: "After your cream products, set everything with the powder counterpart: powder bronzer, powder blush, setting powder. This will make the makeup last longer and also bump up the color payoff," shares Childs.
• Avoid too much SPF makeup: Make no mistake—sunscreen is nonnegotiable! But for your passport photo, Zhang advises against an SPF-heavy skin tint, especially if it contains zinc oxide (the primary filter in mineral sunscreens). "Some formulas can create flashback in photos and make the skin appear too white," she explains. It's not a given, but you might want to stick to one layer of sunscreen just to be safe.
• Know your angles: Beyond makeup tips, I had to ask the pros for some posing guidance. They're privy to on-set magic, after all! "I've learned a lot in the past few years working with photographers on shoots," shares Sewell. "Definitely chin down and almost a soft squint to the eyes. I always put my tongue on the roof of my mouth to elongate the neck too." From there, both Childs and Zhang recommend standing up straight—simple yet effective. As Childs states, "I know you can only see your face, but it makes a difference!"

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

Last month, I had the pleasure of heading to the South of France with French luxury hospitality group Maisons Pariente just before the crowds descended on the Azure Coast for peak travel season. I started in a small village in Provence before dropping down to the coast. With Hôtel Lou Pinet as my base, I spent several days exploring the town and coastline of Saint-Tropez.

I think we can all agree that few destinations are as synonymous with effortless glamour as Saint-Tropez. Once a quiet fishing village on the French Riviera, the seaside enclave was catapulted onto the international stage in the 1950s thanks in large part to Brigitte Bardot, whose sun-soaked style and carefree spirit helped define the town's enduring allure in the wake of her star-making 1956 film And God Created Woman. The crown jewel of the Côte d'Azur, there's no question that Saint-Tropez continues to be as buzzy a summer hot spot in 2026 as it was in the '60s. Decades later, the destination remains a magnet for fashion insiders, jet-setters, and celebrities seeking a blend of old-world charm and coastal luxury.

"What continues to fascinate me is the fact that Saint-Tropez is constantly evolving while somehow remaining itself," shares Kimberley Cohen, cofounder and artistic director of Maisons Pariente. Cohen grew up spending summers there before opening Hotel Lou Pinet and like many, says she still finds a strong local identity and rich Tropezien history even with all the international attention. "Some of my earliest memories are tied to the village, its beaches, the market, and long summer days spent with friends whose families had similar traditions." Like the Cohens, it's what keeps so many families coming back generation after generation.

Now, with The White Lotus filming its much-anticipated fourth season on location in Saint-Tropez, Nice, and Cannes, and countless American brands descending for store openings and seasonal activations, the former is only set to garner even more notoriety in the coming months. So if you're dreaming of spending your days lounging on the beach, strolling through the pastel-hued streets, or dining waterfront at golden hour, discover my fashion-editor guide below, including the best hotels, restaurants, beach clubs, and shopping.

When to Visit

Like many of its Mediterranean peers, the high season in Saint-Tropez is unquestionably July and August. These are the months when it comes alive: sleek yachts line the coast, reservations max out at the famed beach clubs along Pampelonne Beach, and every patio table within striking distance of Place des Lices is abuzz. But if you want to experience the town in its quieter shoulder season, plan a trip during the beginning or end of the season: either in June, when everything has just opened and there is a sense of anticipation in the air, or otherwise in September, when you'll get to experience it with softer light, warm water, and a more relaxed atmosphere. "These periods reveal a side of Saint-Tropez that feels more authentic and closer to the village that locals know and love," Cohen explains. Alternatively, time it just right in mid-May, and you might even spot a few A-list faces spending some downtime after the Cannes Film Festival.

Where to Stay in Saint-Tropez

Hôtel Lou Pinet

Tucked away from the bustle of the port, Hôtel Lou Pinet offers a quieter take on Saint-Tropez luxury. With its lush gardens and Provençal-inspired design, the intimate 35-room hotel is the kind of place that invites easy elegance. Everything (and everyone) here feels polished without trying too hard.

"Lou Pinet was conceived as a sanctuary where guests could experience a different rhythm," Cohen says about why she and her team sought to bring the hotel to life. "The idea was never to compete with the excitement of Saint-Tropez but rather to complement it by offering warmth, privacy, and a sense of ease that feels increasingly rare today. Rather than creating a destination within a destination, our ambition was to capture the atmosphere of a private Tropézien residence." The design of the whole property, and especially of the guest rooms, creates a seamless flow between indoors and outdoors, and it gives the whole experience a feeling of nostalgia for the elegant era of the '60s and '70s. I had just watched the film adaptation of the 1954 novel Bonjour Tristesse on my flight over and couldn't help but feel like I was living in one of the scenes.

Airelles Château de la Messardière

Those iconic images you see all over social media of a hypermanicured lawn overlooking the sea? That's none other than Airelles Château de la Messardière, the jewel of Saint-Tropez where celebrities such as Sofia Richie Grainge like to come back summer after summer. It's also one of the locations where the much-buzzed-about fourth season of The White Lotus is currently being filmed, so expect stills of Laura Dern sunning on one of its wrought-iron loungers or Vincent Cassel diving into the rectangular pool.

Hôtel Byblos

Hôtel Byblos is quite possibly the closest place you can get to the glamorous heyday of Saint-Tropez in the 1960s. Built to woo Brigitte Bardot, it's probably best known for hosting Mick and Bianca Jagger's 1971 wedding and remains a fixture of the scene to this day with its on-property nightclub, Les Caves du Roy, where names such as Cher, Grace Jones, and Leonardo DiCaprio have all partied.

More hotels to jot down:

• Steeped in cinematic history, Hôtel La Ponche is the heartbeat of Saint-Tropez and has hosted everyone from Brigitte Bardot to Pablo Picasso.
• Airelles Saint-Tropez, Pan Deï Palais is the smaller sister property to the celeb-adored Château de la Messardière that's situated in the heart of town.
• Hidden among the narrow streets of the old village at the foot of the Citadel is Le Yaca Saint-Tropez, a charming and historic boutique hotel.
• If you're looking for a retreat into nature, La Réserve Ramatuelle is the answer with its five-star spa, sleek modern design, and serene views of the gulf.

Where to Dine in Saint-Tropez

Sénéquier

No trip to Saint-Tropez is complete without having dined at Sénéquier. It's a fixture of town directly overlooking the marina with an eye-catching cherry-red exterior and history dating back to 1887 as the town's first patisserie. "What I love most is not necessarily the famous terrace at lunchtime, but those quiet mornings when the village is just beginning to stir," Cohen says. "There is a sense of continuity there, of generations returning year after year, that captures the true spirit of Saint-Tropez for me. Some places become icons for a reason." Whether you're doing a full lunch or popping by for a coffee or spritz, it doesn't get any better than a table on its sprawling patio complete with unobstructed views of the yachts at port and the best people watching.

Beefbar

Every night, the restaurant of Hôtel Lou Pinet transforms into beloved international steakhouse Beefbar. Set on the leafy terrace overlooking the pool, this is a side of Saint-Tropez that feels understated and effortless but still so lively. The menu is a red-meat lover's lineup of steak cuts and plenty of cheeky shareables that, along with the atmosphere that Cohen describes as more of a gathering place than traditional restaurant, makes this spot perfect for a long, drawn-out evening among friends.

Il Giardino

For a quintessential Saint-Tropez dinner, Il Giardino delivers old-world glamour with a lively garden setting and classic Italian fare. The atmosphere is equal parts romantic and sceney, making it the perfect excuse to lean into evening dressing. Think a sleek slip dress, strappy heels, and understated gold jewelry.

More dining to jot down:

• In association with the luxury label, Arnaud Donckele & Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton is a seasonal, open-air restaurant by the Michelin-starred chef and pastry chef.
• La Vague d'Or is set among the pine trees at the Cheval Blanc hotel, making it an idyllic scene for knockout food.
• Luna Rossa has been one of Cohen's favorite addresses for years for its fresh and uncomplicated menu.
• Named after the famous French novelist, Colette has a plant-based menu that displays the best of Provençal flavors.
• Summer after summer, Kinugawa is one of the most sought-after tables for its legendary sushi and Tokyo-inspired dishes.

The Best Beach Clubs in Saint-Tropez

Le Club 55

One of the most iconic addresses along the five-kilometer stretch of Pampelonne Beach is indeed Club 55. Since its opening in 1955, the beach club institution has resisted all the changes experienced on the private beaches of Saint-Tropez in recent years and stands as the antithesis of the over-the-top day parties that occur further down the beach. "Despite its international reputation, there is still a simplicity and authenticity that reminds you of the Saint-Tropez that existed before the spotlight arrived," confirms Cohen. Its steeped in history, as the famed Brigitte Bardot movie And God Created Woman filmed here, and they originally created Le Club 55 as a lunch-break spot where they’d go when filming. "My order is always a glass of house white, grilled sea bass, and the berries and cream," says bridal stylist and Life of Sponti founder Kennedy Schmidt. "[Chicest] spot ever."

Jardin Tropezina

By the team behind the Airelles hotels comes one of Saint-Tropez's newest and most-buzzed-about beach clubs. Come here for its relaxed yet refined atmosphere, set on the legendary shores of Pampelonne Beach that have defined Saint-Tropez since the days of Brigitte Bardot.

Loulou

Like its sister restaurants in Paris and Courchevel, the Loulou location in Ramatuelle is a go-to spot for the style set. "The atmosphere always feels joyful," Cohen insists, "and lunch there captures the spirit of a perfect summer day on Pampelonne." As for what to order, Schmidt says that the Margherita pizza and spaghetti with clams are her go-tos and adds that there is always a fun DJ.

More beach clubs to jot down:

• La Plage des Graniers is one of Cohen's favorite places in Saint-Tropez because it feels so authentic. "Just a short walk from the village, it's one of the rare beaches you can reach on foot from the centre."
• Gigi's relaxed atmosphere and pristine pool make it ideal for those who want something low-key (and family-friendly).
• Indie Beach is a favorite for its day parties—be sure check the calendar to align with its DJ lineup.
• Also by the Indie Beach group is Playamigos, which has become one of Cohen's favorites because its laid-back vibe makes you immediately feel at home.
• La Réserve à la Plage is the backdrop to a very chic and slower-paced beach day.

Where to Shop in Saint-Tropez

K.Jacques

"I've always been team K.Jacques," Cohen states. "I've worn their sandals for as long as I can remember, and for me they are inseparable from Saint-Tropez. Beyond the craftsmanship and heritage, there is something wonderfully timeless about them. They are the kind of piece that follows you summer after summer and only becomes more beautiful with age."

By Marie

Cohen says By Marie is one of my favorite stops in town, not only for the jewelry but also for Marie's incredibly sharp eye. "Her fashion selection is always thoughtful, highly curated, and full of discoveries. It's one of those rare boutiques where you inevitably leave inspired."

Maison ST

Maison ST is a Tropézien original that's been crafting bespoke fragrances since 2014. Born from founder and perfumer Lora B's desire to capture the essence of Provence and the Côte d'Azur, the lineup includes luxury fragrances, candles, and soaps that are all nontoxic, ethically developed, and exclusive to the Riviera.

Isabella M Vintage

Giovanna Engelbert's favorite shopping spot in town is Isabella M Vintage, a tiny boutique that's filled to the brim with unique vintage designer jewels from bold brooches to pretty pearls end everything in between.

More shopping to jot down:

• Battaglia has a unique mix of vintage pieces and emerging designers from around the world and perfectly reflects the more eclectic side of Saint-Tropez.
• The selection at the Loulou boutique at the beach club captures everything Cohen loves about Riviera style: effortless, sun-drenched, and chic without trying too hard.
• ALO is planting roots across the Côte d'Azur this summer with wellness activations on its branded yacht and a brand-new storefront in Saint-Tropez.
• The Shop on the Corner brings together five British brands for a curation that spans leather goods, clothing, and luggage, and is open until October 5.

What to Pack for Saint-Tropez

Packing for Saint-Tropez is all about tapping into Riviera glamour. "The people who are truly elegant here never look like they've tried too hard," according to Cohen. I couldn't help but agree—strolling around town, I saw so many Tropéziens look put-together but understated. I lined my own suitcase with coastal essentials like an airy white midi dress, my favorite flat leather flip-flops, and, of course, a woven raffia tote that could double as a market bag and a beach carryall. I added a light cardigan to my outfits as it was crisper in May, but during the peak summer months, the temperature can get up to the 80s.

It's all about creating looks that can seamlessly transition from beach days to long seaside lunches. Think effortless linen staples like pretty crochet cover-ups or a pareo picked up at the Saint-Tropez or Ramatuelle market married to elevated swimwear. For evenings, pack a fun printed dress or tailored matching set to wear with low heels—the Saint-Tropez style formula leans glam, after all. But Cohen always recommends small, comfortable heels rather than anything too high. "Saint-Tropez is a village after all, and you'll spend your nights walking across the cobblestones of the old town."

No matter how much you've researched, shopped, outfit planned, and packed, there's no group that can have you immediately rethinking your entire vacation wardrobe quite like the beachgoers of St. Barts. It truly is a chic and well-dressed crowd and, once you get over the shock and imposter syndrome of it all, one well worth paying attention to and drawing inspiration from. The styling ideas alone—from the simple sandals to statement jewels, fun sarongs to classic bikinis—made my recent trip all the more worthwhile. Though, there were countless other plusses too. Whether you're planning to visit the island yourself or simply want a well-rounded beachwear wardrobe for wherever this summer takes you, I implore you to continue on below to read about and shop the nine must-haves your suitcase needs.

Crochet Cover-Ups

Whether you opt for a dress, skirt, set, or cute cardi, you can't go wrong with crochet. It's a summer classic you'll continue to return to year after year.

Beachy Jewelry

It's all in the details, so don't forget your seasonal necklaces, earrings, and more.

Classic Bikinis

I'm so glad we've circled back to appreciating simplicity, especially in beachwear. A classic triangle bikini will do.

Fun Sarongs

The great thing about opting for simple swimwear is that it gives you a chance to go fun with your cover-ups. What better way to do so than with a pretty printed or detailed sarong?

Chic Headgear

This summer, a chic topper is the finishing touch every beach outfit needs.

Mesh Bags

I'm not casting aside my raffia totes just yet, but this season, I'm definitely favoring a mesh bag for the beach.

Balloon Pants

Call me biased because this was actually something I had packed myself, but I really did notice them everywhere!

Simple Sandals

All hail the Olsen-inspired, basic flip-flop.

Sheer Everything

Whether in cover-up dresses, skirts, beach pants, or anything else, sheer is very much having a moment in beachwear right now, and I'm into it.

Spring has sprung, which means temperatures are officially on the rise. One thing about me is that there's a direct correlation between higher temperatures and plane tickets bought. As a frequent flyer and a shopping editor, I have nailed down my in-flight routine by way of a slew of fashion, beauty, and general travel-related items that make the process seamless. If you're looking for a few recommendations to up your in-flight game, you've come to the right place.

Yes, you read that correctly. Ahead, I've curated a list of travel items that are sure to come in handy if you plan on being on a few planes this year. From items to tackle dry skin and elevation to comfy clothing that still looks chic, there's a little bit of everything ahead. Keep scrolling to uncover my top recommendations for little luxuries that'll elevate your flying experience today.

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

Of all the places that linger on our travel bucket lists, Tokyo continues to reign supreme. There are simply few places that are as universally beloved. Just ask anyone who's recently returned, and the answer will almost always be a passionate one—be it the foodies, vintage-fashion lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone in between. The thing about Tokyo, as we've come to learn from our own trips, is that as soon as you mention you're heading there, people tend to flood you with their emphatic recommendations. Everyone has a strong opinion. It's a result of how unending the city is (the size of 37 Manhattans!), which means that no two trips are ever truly alike.

There's never a wrong time to discuss a trip to Tokyo, but as the hype only continues to grow among American travelers, we felt it necessary that we deliver our comprehensive but inexhaustive Who What Wear travel guide to the city. With input from fashion friends—including Elie Inoue, a Japan-born, Paris-based fashion journalist; Diana Tsui, a Substack writer and the head of digital at 10 Magazine U.S.; and accessories designer and Tokyo expat Poppy Lissiman—and, of course, yours truly, consider this your ultimate download on where to stay, dine, shop, and go in Tokyo, all filtered through a fashion-person POV.

When to Visit

The spring is unquestionably considered peak season when the cherry blossoms bloom, but Inoue says she actually prefers the fall, especially October to November. "Unlike Europe or U.S. where the fall can be quite rainy, Japan often enjoys clear skies and mild weather during this time," she explains. "Above all, the scenery transforms into stunning shades of red and yellow, with autumn foliage and golden ginkgo trees creating an especially beautiful landscape." The weather tends to be the most enjoyable and ideal for sightseeing and walking around in both the spring and fall. The only time to avoid? July and August if you can manage to, Tsui says, because the heat and humidity can be stifling and make it much more difficult to explore the city on foot.

Where to Spend Time

For first-timers, Tsui suggests that Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ginza are always safe bets—as are Roppongi and Toranomon. "The bulk of your most well-known hotels are in these areas, with Roppongi, Ginza, and Toranomon skewing more luxury while Shibuya and Shinjuku offer more affordable stays," she notes. "As far as exploring goes, Shimokitazawa, Koenji, and Nakameguro are also extremely fun to shop around in, especially if you're looking for more traditional vintage like denim or deadstock Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Burberry, etc."

If you want to scratch the surface even further, Inoue says that Yoyogi-Uehara and Yoyogi-Hachiman are among her favorite areas. "It's a neighborhood that's popular among locals to live in, and it's full of small, unique shops tucked away throughout the area," she explains. "Shimokitazawa has long been popular as a neighborhood for vintage shopping and experiencing local life, but in recent years, more in-the-know travelers have started gravitating toward Koenji. I have a feeling that Kamata might be the next area to gain attention."

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Aman Tokyo

Hailey Bieber. Kim Kardashian. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. There are few hotels worldwide that are steeped in as much celebrity glamour as Aman Tokyo is. Its arrival marked the hospitality label's first urban location, and as such, it blends a Japanese-inspired aesthetic with the ultra-luxe minimalist design Aman has become known for. Occupying the top floors of the Otemachi Tower in Tokyo's financial district, the sleek and expansive rooms offer dramatic high-floor views, but it's perhaps the sprawling, multifloor spa that remains the hotel's biggest draw.

Bulgari Hotel Tokyo

Ranked as the best hotel in Japan and number 15 on the World's 50 Best Hotels list, the Bulgari Hotel Tokyo lives up to its luxury reputation in every way. Despite being situated in the heart of the capital mere steps from Daimaru Tokyo and Tokyo Station, the space is defined by its unrivaled exclusivity, privacy, and intimacy, making it a true urban oasis. As for the design, the hotel fuses a sophisticated blend of contemporary Italian design with touches of Japanese tradition, bringing together the rich history of Bulgari's house codes with local artisans and culture.

Trunk (Hotel)

If you want to be immersed in the heart of Shibuya's shopping district, fashion people all recommend Trunk. "A boutique hotel that embodies the spirit of modern Tokyo" is how Inoue describes the community-focused spot that's situated right on Cat Street. "I had the opportunity to visit during a fashion-related event, and it truly felt like a place where you can experience the city's creative energy. In contrast to another favorite spot of mine, Hoshinoya Tokyo, which reflects a more authentic and traditional Japanese aesthetic, Trunk offers a more casual, contemporary appeal," she says.

WWW Travels tip: Most bars don't open until 7 p.m., so Tsui advises popping into any of the luxury hotels for a drink when you need to rest in the early evening after a full day of exploring.

Where to Dine in Tokyo

Tempura Tengi

"A long-established tempura restaurant in Kamata founded in 1969," Tempura Tengi is at the very top of the list of traditional Japanese dining for Inoue. "The 82-year-old owner, who trained at high-end tempura restaurants in Ginza, serves exceptional tempura for around ¥2000—an incredible value considering his background," she notes. "With only about eight counter seats, the space feels intimate and hidden away. The interior, with its unpolished, timeworn character, carries a sense of history that adds to its unique charm."

WWW Travels tip: "Tipping is not expected in Japan," notes Inoue. "Instead, people often express gratitude through small gestures, such as offering sweets, drinks, or a handwritten note. Bringing a small gift from your home country can be a thoughtful way to show appreciation."

Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Fans of Quentin Tarantino will recognize Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu. That fight scene from Kill Bill (2003) was shot inside the famous izakaya. Housed inside a sprawling two-floor space, its all-wooden interiors feature bamboo, lanterns, Japanese roofs, and taiko drums. It is an especially fun spot for bigger groups, as the menu is a collection of smaller plates designed to be shared and, of course, because of the live music element.

Kyubey

"Omakase options abound in Tokyo, but Kyubey is a classic with a history of being beloved by politicians the world over. Obama was a frequent patron," says Tsui. "Located in Ginza right around the corner from Dover Street Market, reservations are required if you want to sit at the sushi counter, but otherwise, you can roll the dice with walk-ins. Every bite is beautifully presented and as delicious as it looks. The choice of fish skews traditional with some surprises, like the baby eel appetizer that was a highlight."

The Best Cafés in Tokyo

Nadoya No Katte

Not just any café, this one is set in a traditional Japanese house and oozing with original architecture and charm. "The space feels cozy and intimate," Inoue describes. "[It's] almost as if you've been invited into your grandmother's home while quietly reflecting a refined Japanese aesthetic." Here, you can enjoy carefully hand-dripped specialty coffee in a truly serene atmosphere.

WWW Travels tip: Tabelog will be your best bet for restaurant recommendations, according to Tsui: "Anything above 3.2 stars will mean it's the best meal you've ever had."

Satei Zenkashoin

Should you be near Shibuya Scramble Crossing and find yourself needing a pick-me-up, Tsui advises wandering over to Shibuya Hikarie ShinQs for Satei Zenkashoin, a cute café located within the department store. "With a rotating seasonal menu, every combo offers a tea and a dessert with flavors like red bean, black sesame, matcha, and more. People come here to chat and linger, so sit and enjoy your snack," she says.

Café de l'Ambre

"First opened in 1948, this coffee house is a classic kissaten in Ginza," Tsui shares. "Yes, there will be lines, but they move quickly. Inside, the intimate space is still making drinks like they've done for the last 70-plus years—no scales or fancy devices here. Two standouts include the Queen Amber, made with cold black coffee and sweet milk froth served in a coupe, as well as their egg coffee."

The Best Vintage Shopping in Tokyo

QOO

"Already a well-known destination, QOO in Aoyama may be familiar to many," admits Inoue. "It was here that I finally found the vintage bag I had been searching for within my budget."

Komehyo

"Vintage QOO, Casanova, and Amore are among the places to go and find yourself a designer bag, but should they not have what you want, another spot to check out is Komehyo," says Tsui. Per her recommendation, I checked out the local chain's larger location in Shibuya and was not disappointed. "From Louis Vuitton to Dior, you'll find both runway styles as well as more commercial options spanning ready-to-wear and accessories. There's also an entire floor devoted to jewelry from the likes of Bulgari, Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Chrome Hearts, and more," she adds. I, for one, beelined to the impressive rack of Pleats Please pieces and also found myself trying on several of the store's vast array of designer cocktail watches.

Toro Vintage

"For more affordable vintage and non-designer pieces, I love Toro Vintage in Jingumae. The whole fit-out and edit is very Bode adjacent," Lissiman shares.

What to See in Tokyo

Enoura Observatory

Culture lovers have no shortage of architectural gems to choose from in Tokyo, but take Inoue's word for it and add Enoura Observatory to your itinerary. "A monumental art and architectural complex designed by contemporary artist Hiroshi Sugimoto perched on a hill overlooking Sagami Bay, the site brings together galleries, a glass stage, and a tea house, all carefully positioned in alignment with the movement of the sun, particularly the summer and winter solstices," she explains. It takes about an hour and a half to reach from the city center, but Inoue insists that it's truly worth the trek.

WWW Travels tip: Cash is still necessary, Tsui informs, especially if you want street food or are shopping from smaller or more traditional vendors.

"Japan has a unique cultural institution known as jazz kissa—spaces dedicated to deeply listening to music in an intimate setting," informs Inoue, adding that her favorite is Little Soul Cafe in Shimokitazawa. "Opened in 1999, this music bar houses an impressive collection of 15,000 vinyl records lining its walls, offering a rich and immersive listening experience."

Bathing is a near-sacred ritual for the Japanese, and for a deeper understanding of the practice, Inoue highly recommends watching the comedy film Yudo: The Way of the Bath. "Sento—traditional public bathhouses," she explains, "are part of a long-standing cultural practice that continues today. Bathing is done nude and in gender-separated spaces, which may feel unfamiliar or even challenging for Western visitors. That said, it's an experience I never miss whenever I stay in Japan."

What to Pack for Tokyo

As much as Tokyo is a major city where technically anything goes, let's face it: It's also one of the most elite fashion capitals where the concentration of style per square foot runs high. Overall, the locals in Tokyo prioritize looking put-together and polished, and we've noticed that most women still opt for pants and long skirts even when we visited in the dense heat of August.

Practically speaking, there are a number of packing rules that we quickly learned can make or break the Tokyo experience. Comfortable shoes are the most important item to bring. Trust us—20,000-step days are the norm. "I lived in my Cecilie Bahnsen x Adidas as well as my Nike Muse Sneakers when I was there, but I also love a ballet-flat Tabi or loafers as well," Tsui informs. Think cool sneakers and chic flats that are ideally tried and tested for comfort in your closet already. If you're traveling when it's warm (from April through September), she also recommends light-colored tanks and breezy tops to combat the humidity. Our editor adds that she lived in capri leggings (comfortable but stylish) and an A-line poplin skirt (airy and polished) when she was there.

Inoue mentions that socks are a key item to bring in your purse if you're not wearing them already because you'll often need to take off your shoes at restaurants, temples, and other places. "Also, you really don't need to bring pajamas—most hotels offer them," Tsui adds.

Sure spring has just started, but now that I've gotten a taste of warm weather, the fashion editor in me can't help but look ahead to the next shopping season. Of course, I'm talking about summer. Sets, separates, sarongs, sandals, beach bags, bikinis, one-pieces, and more are not only on my mind but are also flooding all my favorite sites' new-arrivals sections, so there's truly no escaping this fashion itch that must be scratched.

So scratch I did—in the name of research, of course. As a result, you'll find the best of the best when it comes to beachwear to use for the next six or so months below. Simply keep scrolling to see and shop my edit, from investment pieces by way of Missoni and Gucci to the H&M and J.Crew steals that look 10 times their price tags. After all, it's never too early to start building your next-season wardrobe.

Welcome to Out of Office… Who What Wear UK's chic travel guide that provides you with the most stylish take on any destination by tapping creatives who know where to stay, what to eat and, more importantly, which items to pack. This month, acting fashion editor Sophie Robyn Watson shares her tips for a memorable trip to Dublin.

I've always been partial to a city break, and love nothing more than a long weekend exploring someplace new with just a carry-on in tow. Having already dipped my toe into some of the UK's coolest and most discerning hotspots over the years, including Bath, Glasgow, Oxford, Edinburgh, Manchester and Brighton, I've been keen to step a little further afield and give Ireland a go.

First on my hitlist, naturally, was Dublin. Having heard so many great things about it, from its rich Celtic heritage to its gastronomic scene, iconic pubs, scenic parks, illustrious literary history and all-round good craic, I decided to take a three-day trip to cram in as much as I could.

In the run-up to my short and sweet excursion, I tapped a few Dublin insiders for their tips, tricks and unmissable spots that most tourists tend to overlook. Corina Gaffey, fashion stylist and writer, gave me her tasteful picks on the best shopping destinations, as well as suggestions on what to pack to stylishly kit me out for my time in the city; and Anthony Remedy, hospitality consultant and entertainment specialist, opened up his little black book of restaurants, bars and nightlife spots, which you will find below. I was lucky enough to be hosted by The Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin, so a special mention is due for my exceptional stay.

Scroll on to discover my Dublin guide, featuring what to do, where to eat, where to shop and what to pack. You're going to want to bookmark this. Enjoy!

1. Where to Stay

First and foremost, my trip wouldn't have been half as good if it weren't for my stay at The Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin. Boasting five-star credentials and having recently undergone a stunning refurbishment, the hotel sits in a prime position opposite St Stephen's Green, which is perfect for morning runs, light strolls with a coffee in hand and a breath of fresh air bang in the middle of the bustling city. Suites come equipped with four-poster beds, a terrace overlooking the green and Diptique products in the plush bathrooms. Don't scrimp on the breakfast; it's classic, delicious and will set you up for a busy day of pounding the cobbled pavements.

"Dublin has many quality hotels to suit all types of people, whether it's for business, for a city break or going to one of the many concerts the city hosts," mentions Remedy. "Other five-star hotels include The Merrion, The Dylan, The Marker, The Westbury and The Shelbourne. Cooler hotels comprise the newly opened The Hoxton, The Hendrick, The Dean and Zanzibar Locke. Many of these hotels have excellent dining options too, for instance, Glovers Alley in The Fitzwilliam Hotel, or Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud at The Merrion, both of which have Michelin stars. For something a little more casual, try Balfes at The Westbury Hotel."

2. What to Do

There is absolutely something to do for every kind of Dublin visitor, whether you're in the market for arts, culture, galleries, sightseeing or even a concert or gig. First things first: pub culture is synonymous with the Irish capital, and you can't walk 10 feet without spotting (and possibly stumbling into) a Victorian-era boozer, public house or tavern with its own distinct look and feel. The one thing that ties them all together is, of course, Guinness, the world-renowned dry stout, which seemingly fuels the city.

If you like classic pubs, take note of the following, which will all have the iconic beverage on draft: The Long Hall, The Hairy Lemon, Peter's Pub, The Stag's Head, The Dame Tavern, Davy Byrnes, The Duke, Kehoes, The Temple Bar Pub and The Quays Bar. This is by no means an exhaustive list, as there are around 700 pubs in Dublin. Yes, you read that correctly! If you want the full, immersive experience, an afternoon at the Guinness Storehouse, located at the historic St. James's Gate Brewery, will give you a real flavour of why the black stuff is at the heart of the city. Book tickets ahead to avoid any queuing woes.

If cocktails are more your thing, might I suggest the following bars, which are spot on for chic pre- or post-dinner drinks. The award-winning Bar 1661 is like a modern-day apothecary, and its drinks masterfully use classic Irish spirits such as poitín, whiskey, gin and rum. The Sackville Lounge, the sister bar to 1661, is also not to be missed, and specialises in true classics, so head there if you love an old-fashioned, a spicy margarita, a paloma, a negroni or an Irish coffee. If you want old-school 1930s-hotel-bar charm, head to The Sidecar in The Westbury hotel, with a menu stacked full of potions and tonics inspired by the city, its history and its people.

On the nightlife front, Remedy has the answers. "Pre-book The Gate and The Abbey for theatre, alongside Project. Venue-wise, for bands and DJs, check out Whelan's, The Sugar Club, Button Factory, The Grand Social, The Academy, Vicar Street and of course, The Olympia Theatre."

If you're a cinephile, Dublin has a thriving film scene and often hosts film festivals and events. "For cinema fans, make for the Irish Film Institute (you can see an actual Oscar at the entrance to the café) and The Lighthouse. Just outside the city centre is The Stella, which is a gorgeous cinema and often name-checked as one of the most beautiful in the world."

Art-wise, The National Gallery of Ireland is completely unmissable (squeeze in a visit to the Picasso exhibition before it closes!). I also love popping into Marsh's Library, a literary institution which famously opened its doors to the likes of Abraham Stoker, James Joyce and Jonathan Swift. It's a spooky treasure trove!

3. Where to Eat

Dublin is home to a thriving foodie scene, and I couldn't wait to try some of the local grub and buzziest new openings. With only a few evenings and lunch breaks at my disposal, I settled on Fish Shop for my first Friday night. Located in Smithfield, in the heart of Dublin City, it's a small, unassuming and cosy dining spot which specialises in locally caught fish, the freshest Irish seafood and thoughtful wine pairings. This is a place worth booking in advance, as it only has a handful of tables and seats at the bar, but it is totally mouth-watering.

Next up, for my Saturday evening, I nabbed a table at Floritz, a decadent, Asian-inspired restaurant in The Townhouse Hotel (another stellar five-star stay on St. Stephen's Green). It boasts a vibrant menu of yakitori dishes, bao buns, crudo, sushi, soups and small bites, complemented by a selection of full-flavoured cocktails, saké and spirits, making for the perfect pre-theatre dining experience.

I crowdsourced several places for Dublin's top Sunday lunch, and landed on The Legal Eagle, a stone's throw from the historic Four Courts. An old-fashioned boozer full of moody character, the pub has a great, classic roast selection, plus brilliant service and a drool-worthy wine list. My plate was piled high with all the trimmings,

Remedy shares his rolodex of other top dining destinations, plus a word of advice. "A pro tip: if trying a Michelin-rated restaurant, try it for lunch. It will be easier on the wallet and way less hassle getting a table." Find his best eats below.

• Etto— Don't forget to try the prunes!
• 777— Excellent Mexican food, great cocktails.
• Uno Mas— One of the best restaurants in the city, if not the country! From the same owners of Etto. 
• Osterio Lucio, Juniors and Paulies Pizza— All located by the Grand Canal. Three great options when staying at the Silicon Docks area. 
• Chapter One— Arguably the best restaurant in the country, two-star now and pushing for its third. The gold standard of Irish hospitality.
• Pichet— Modern French. Top class. 
• Nomo Ramen— Cheap doesn't always have to be nasty. It's good value for excellent ramen. 
• Yamamori— Another Dublin institution, this Japanese restaurant is celebrating 30 years in business. It's very reliable, and Dubliners eat there day in, day out.  
• Blas Cafe— Excellent-value, casual food in the old chocolate factory! Lunch only. 
• Glovers Alley— The most gorgeous interior with Michelin-star food. 
• Coppinger— Another Dublin classic. It closed a few years ago, but reopened last year under the same owners. 
• Pickle— Incredible Indian cuisine.

4. Where to Shop

Dublin is an extremely walkable city, and with many shopping haunts within close proximity of one another, getting in your retail-therapy fix is easy, convenient and relatively low-lift. Gaffey gave me superb insight into the city's top shops, with affordable buys, luxury investments, secondhand finds and top-tier beauty in mind.

"Drift between Drury Street, South William, Clarendon and Grafton, and you’ll hit a seamless mix of high street, indie boutiques and vintage all within minutes of each other," she begins.

"The Westbury Mall is home to some of the city’s best independent boutiques. Start with Ecru Studios, which stocks accessories and homewares from unique labels you can't find anywhere else. Head to Stable for unique Irish pieces and keepsakes, then pop into Susan Hunter, which has the best lingerie and stunning slip dresses. Beauty lovers should make time for Parfumarija, Dublin’s niche fragrance hotspot, whilst Paula Rowan is unmissable for exquisitely crafted gloves worn by everyone from Lady Gaga to Elle Fanning."

"Just off Grafton Street is New Chapter, a new addition to Dublin. [It's] a standout store that stocks a mix of Irish and international contemporary brands such as Flattered and Veronica Beard. Over on Castle Market is Costume, the chicest boutique with a stellar, polished selection of brands, including Isabel Marant, LouLou de Saison and Saloni. And, for true luxury shopping, you cannot miss Brown Thomas. The high-end department store is full of designer ready-to-wear, beauty, accessories and a constantly rotating roster of pop-ups."

"Vintage-wise, there’s A Store Is Born on Clarendon Street, which is open only on Saturdays, and is cooler for it. Loot on Drury Street, known for its impeccably curated rails (Lana Del Rey is a fan). Jenny Vander is a vintage institution, perfect for statement pieces with history. And you can’t miss Om Diva, the bubblegum-pink boutique with three floors of vintage, Irish design and quirky treasures sourced by owner Ruth on her travels."

Other favourites of mine included Industry & Co, for colourful, soft home furnishings, candles and barware. The Irish Design Shop is full of locally crafted pieces, such as pottery, socks, books and handmade gems, and Scout is brimming with Irish-made clothing, accessories, homewares and small gifts—spot-on for carry-on only! Nine Crows had an amazing selection of men's and women's retro fashion, and, lastly, I adored Lou's Lot, a tiny store nestled in the heart of George's Street Arcade, which is packed to the rafters with vintage Burberry trench coats and Gucci handbags. Divine!

5. What to Pack

In a city like Dublin, you will inevitably find yourself on foot all day, so I would recommend packing trainers that give you substantial support and comfort. I wore Autry sneakers, which are slimline, easy to pack and pair well with everything from jeans to tailored trousers and midi skirts. I'm a jeans girl through and through, so I lived in a Hush wide-leg pair over the weekend, plus my fail-safe khaki denim trousers from Dala.

"Dublin is relatively laid-back and casual," Gaffey advises. "You can do double-duty on most pieces. Pack a slip or a minimal midi dress that you can style up or down, ideal for going straight from exploring to your dinner reservation."

I packed a handful of simple tees and lightweight, cashmere knits to interchange, plus a handful of fun jewellery to add a little sparkle here and there. I loyally stuck to my trusty vintage leather bomber jacket to finish my look each day. Speaking of which, Gaffey has wise words about outerwear. "Depending on the time of year, you’ll always still need a coat, whether a light jacket, a trench coat, a funnel-neck leather jacket or a faux-fur coat for winter. Bonus points if it's rainproof (vinyl or patent is a good shout), and borrow a brolly from your hotel—chances are, you'll need it."

I managed to get everything into a carry-on Antler suitcase just fine (as well as the shopping I inevitably undertook!), and took a Dragon Diffusion shoulder bag on the flight, which doubled as my day bag.

Scroll on to shop what I wore and the best pieces to take on your trip to Dublin.

Packing Essentials

If, like me, you are over the grey, rainy and sunless days of ol' Blighty, you're probably plotting your next escape. As we continue our upward ascent into the new year, the itch to travel is growing. Whether you want to journey to the other side of the globe, to the depths of the countryside or even to another cosmopolitan city, there's a destination for everyone. Wherever you go, there are a few essential items you need to pack that will allow you to get from A to B in style.

To get the inside scoop, I tapped my most well-travelled colleagues here at Who What Wear UK for the items they daren't leave the house without. One of them is a frequent business-class flyer (swish!), and one is always on the train to either the Cotswolds or the coast. Another finds herself constantly chasing the sun year-round, whilst another loves moonlighting as a "digital nomad" in Europe's buzziest capitals. Some pack light (surprisingly, that's me!), some routinely overpack and some take everything but the kitchen sink.

From tech gadgets to flight-friendly beauty essentials and cosy clothing to comfortable footwear, scroll on for their curated picks of travel non-negotiables. Bon voyage!

Shop Our Essential Travel Items:

1. Carry-On Curator

"Wherever I'm headed, and for however long, you can count on me to pack small. I don't like to weigh myself down with non-essential items, and over the years, I've managed to master the art of catching planes, trains and automobiles with a refined kit list to get me to my destination in style. As someone who waxes lyrical on the subject of a capsule wardrobe, it's a sentiment I take to my carry-on, as I favour minimalist, pared-back and hard-working items that help me travel in style, peace and comfort.

"The one thing I won't gatekeep is utilising bags within my bag. My trusty tote is packed with compact pouches to help me keep my smaller items, tech and beauty bits in order, without the worry of things falling out or getting lost in the innermost depths of my bag.

"Clothing-wise, I always reach for a great piece of cashmere knitwear, chunky enough to keep me warm in that plane aircon, plus shearling-lined shoes that act like cosy slippers. Blocking out any noise is paramount for me on any journey, so the latest AirPod Pros have been such a great investment, allowing me to listen to music, podcasts or a TV show in utter tranquillity.

"I like to travel makeup-free, but a gentle face mist helps keep my skin from feeling tight and tired, with classic Wayfarer sunnies protecting my eyes from UV rays and the sun. Lastly, if I fear the WiFi might let me down, or if I want to go analogue, a paper diary will always accompany me in case I want to plan or write down any notes, ideas, thoughts or goals. Whether I'm going to the Outer Hebrides or down under, these essentials go everywhere I do." — Sophie Robyn Watson, acting fashion editor

Shop the Essentials:

2. Serial Over-Packer

"It’s no secret I like to be prepared when I travel. And when I say prepared, I mean for every eventuality. No spontaneous evening date-night outfit or extra cold-weather accessory is left behind. In fact, any time travel plans call for my life to scrunch neatly into a suitcase for a long-haul holiday, I take it as an opportunity to see just how much I can take with me. Call me a maximalist, but why own so many great clothes if you can’t take them around the world with you? To me, weight regulations are more like, well, guidelines, and I live for the thrill of getting through with an extra few layers on my back. And, after years of experience, there are certain hacks and routines I’ve adopted which have allowed me to turn over-packing into an art form.

"Whether it’s a 25kg suitcase, a 14kg shared bag or the dreaded hand-luggage-only situation (this is strictly for staycations only), I’m always the friend with plenty of chic outfit combos to share with my fellow holiday makers. The key? Well, there are the obvious tips, like rolling your T-shirts and jeans to save on space, investing in packing cubes to maximise suitcase surface area and subbing out toiletries for shoes (shampoo is sold in every recognised country in the world, btw). But, aside from the generic TikTok travel tips, my best piece of advice would be to pack with no inhibitions. Don’t be ruled by weather apps and weight restrictions. Why travel light when you could travel with options?

"I like holidays that cover a lot of ground. Take my recent trip to the east coast of Australia. I knew I’d be encountering everything from tropical rainforests to balmy beaches and tonnes of city-stomping in between. This alone accounted for at least four different flat-shoe options: a sporty trainer, knee-high boots, a comfy ballet pump and a kitten heel for Aperol o’clock. As a personal style obsessive, having multiple outfits for multiple eventualities is the key to a successful trip. I like to be able to adapt to my environment, and there’s nothing more fun than seeing a beloved piece of your everyday wardrobe out in the wild.

"If you share my love for excess, don’t own a pair of suitcase scales and can’t think of anything worse than a 'holiday capsule wardrobe', shop my editor-approved over-packing essentials." — Annie Wheatland-Clinch, assistant social media editor

Shop the Essentials:

3. Queen of the Stay-Cation

"I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: a UK staycation can be just as fun, enjoyable and relaxing as any trip abroad. Whilst I love jetting off to a sunny European beach or heading further afield on a city break to experience different cultures, there’s nothing quite like packing up the car and checking into a gorgeous hotel or holiday rental and enjoying some much-needed downtime.

"For this kind of trip, I only pack versatile separates that I’m happy to wear on repeat: a cosy cardigan, a pretty blouse that can be dressed up or down and of course, jeans. When it comes to shoes, I take Birkenstocks and trainers, plus a pair of wellies, depending on the time of year! Beauty-wise, it’s the bare minimum. A great moisturiser is a non-negotiable, but beyond that, I want to wear absolutely no makeup. This is a holiday for truly switching off—getting lost in a good book, heading out on dog walks and drinking copious amounts of tea and red wine." — Poppy Nash, managing editor

Shop the Essentials:

4. City-Break Slicker

Style Notes: "As much as I adore a sun-soaked beachside holiday or relaxing countryside getaway, city breaks are my favourite type of trip. I like places steeped in rich culture and quirky architecture where I can rack up 10,000 steps a day, not to mention a plethora of IYKYK locations unearthed on TikTok. Whether it's a Parisian escapade or a Grecian getaway, there's something inherently chic about a long weekend exploring somewhere new.

"When it comes to packing for a city break, less is always more. With no true aesthetic required, anything goes. A quick trip never calls for a 23kg case, which means liquids need to be minimal and heavy clothes are best worn to the airport to save on precious room. From on-trend trainers which allow you to see the sights in comfort to a trusty pair of denim jeans, below are some of my packing non-negotiables which make for a stylish city break." — Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolaki, junior fashion editor

Shop the Essentials:

5. Beauty-Obsessed Traveller

Style Notes: "For me, the holiday starts as soon as I step on the plane. And as a beauty editor, my carry-on is meticulously packed with hardworking, multi-purpose beauty products that serve me from take-off to landing. My biggest tip would be to pack a hypochlorous acid spray. It's antibacterial mist, so it sanitises your skin mid-flight and makes a huge difference in preventing my breakouts when I travel.

"Also inside my travel bag is the Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask (which was literally made for defying dry skin when you're at 30,000 ft) as well as Rhode's Lip Peptide Treatment, which has a rich, balmy texture that lasts for hours on the lips, even when the plane aircon threatens to dry them out.

I've been testing the Oura Ring for a couple of months now, and it really helps to keep my sleep and health in check whilst I'm travelling (and if you're a wellness geek, you'll love seeing all the insights from it). Lastly, I'll be stepping onto the plane in pure luxury. Not by heading into first class, but by dressing in a cosy cashmere co-ord so I can manifest that upgrade."— Elenor Vousden, beauty editor

Shop the Essentials:

6. Year-Round Sun-Seeker

"As someone who hails from Sydney, it’s in my DNA to be a year-round sun-seeker. Fortunately, the Northern Hemisphere, where I am currently based in London, provides many elegant playgrounds for me to chase this ambition: Positano, Hydra and Mallorca! Growing up by the beach has instilled in me an unrelenting lust for being in close proximity to salty air, hot sand, tranquil waters and a cool coastal breeze. Whilst the UK certainly does offer some moments that scratch this itch, I always find myself seeking out a prolonged stay in some beautiful and untouched coastal alcove when it comes to cementing my upcoming travel plans.

"This year, however, it’s the Southern Hemisphere that’s calling to me. Blame it on a touch of homesickness, but I’ve already booked a trip to the Indonesian islands and a month-long stay back in Australia. Of course, I’ll be making the most of Euro Summer whilst it’s here. But as always, my packing list remains the same, irrespective of the destination: sunscreen, a couple of bikinis and a meaty book. For my next trip away, you’ll always find the following staples neatly packed in the bottom of my luggage. As Lorde said, "Come on and let the bliss begin."— Ava Gilchrist, SEO writer

Shop the Essentials:

7. Business-Class Babe

"I’ve been lucky enough to fly business class from a fairly young age (perks of parents who treated airline points like a competitive sport), so I’ve learned that travel feels infinitely better when you’re comfortable, organised and just a little bit indulgent. For me, packing is about considering the luxury items I can take to make my trip even better—pieces that earn their place in my carry-on, elevate the journey and make me feel polished on arrival rather than depleted. I’m not flashy, just deeply committed to good fabrics, smart tech and the kind of details that make long-haul feel like a treat, not a test." — Humaa Hussain, junior branded content editor

Shop the Essentials:

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

Starting in December through mid-March, brands, celebrities, influencers, and ski fanatics alike all descend on Aspen. Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, Jennifer Lopez—lately it feels like anyone who's anyone is heading there as soon as winter arrives. So now that we're gearing up for the 2025–2026 ski season, it's the perfect time to curate our ultimate Who What Wear–approved travel guide.

Whether you're a seasoned Aspen visitor or are putting together your inaugural trip, let this serve as your North Star for all the chicest places to stay, dine, sip, shop, and ski and snowboard. We tapped two Aspen veterans for their insider intel: Shea Marie, CEO and founder of SAME and Wendy Kunkle, president of the Aspen hat institution Kemo Sabe. From buzzy celebrity-beloved spots to tried-and-true local favorites, we have the insider intel on everything you need to know for your most stylish Aspen trip to date.

When to Visit

Aspen largely comes to life during peak ski season from December through March, which is the best time to visit if you're after Aspen's renowned slopes and its buzzy social scene. But Marie insists that there's no wrong time to visit. "Until this past year, I had only spent time in the winter or summer—both equally as special and stunning," she shares. "Recently, though, I spent several weeks over the past few months, which was my first intro to fall in Aspen and dare I say Aspen's best-kept secret. It’s still warm during the day but crisp at night, the crowds have died down, the wildlife is everywhere, and the trees are golden. I might go as far as to say it’s my new favorite season." Per Marie's advice, go in the summer for hiking, in the fall for a calm and cozy escape, and in the winter for peak skiing, snowboarding, and people-watching.

How to Get There

There are two main ways to get to Aspen: flying directly into Aspen Airport (often a challenge as it's notorious for flight cancellations due to winter storms) or land in Denver and make the mountainous two- to four-hour drive along. There is a secret third way, however, which Kunkle divulged: flying into Grand Junction. "It’s only about two hours away, and the drive doesn’t involve any mountain passes, unlike the often treacherous route from Denver," she explained.

As for when you do arrive in town, Kunkle insists you don't need to rent a car. "Aspen is very walkable with all the best restaurants, shopping, board shops, and even chairlifts onto Aspen Mountain all situated right in the heart of town."

Where to Stay in Aspen

Hotel Jerome, Auberge Collection

"A true Aspen landmark," says Kunkle of the Hotel Jerome. First opened in 1889 during the height of Aspen's silver boom, the Jerome has opened its doors to everyone from pre–ski resort cowboys passing through town to Hunter S. Thompson and is brimming with the character and history to prove it. The aesthetic feels historic yet luxurious, like maybe you’ve stepped into Ralph Lauren’s private ranch house, Marie imagines. "Plus, it’s home to two of the best bars in town," Kunkle adds. J-Bar, which Marie says has the best burger in town, and the cozy Living Room bar and lounge, which is the ultimate place to see and be seen in town.

St. Regis Aspen

The St. Regis Aspen has long been a cornerstone of town. It's the site of the Snow Polo each December and home to Aspen's most famous four-legged friend, the official hotel dog, Kitty Jacob Astor II, a Bernese mountain dog who serves as a mascot and ambassador for the resort. (Do yourself a favor and follow the TikTok page.) Then there's the Snow Lodge, which descends on the hotel terrace during ski season, bringing a roster of buzzy brand activations, DJ sets, and events throughout the winter season.

WWW Travels tip: Hungry when you land? If it’s before 2 p.m., stop at Louis Swiss Bakery. It’s right next to the airport and has some of the best pastries and sandwiches in town.

Mollie

Mollie is the newest addition to Aspen's luxury hotel lineup and is already punching above its weight with a sleek, modern design aesthetic and on-site restaurant imported from L.A. The 68-room boutique spot opened its doors in December 2023 with a blend of contemporary Scandinavian and Japanese designs. Next month, it will add a new restaurant, Petit Trois, Los Angeles's acclaimed French bistro from Chef Ludo Lefebvre.

More stays to jot down:

• The Little Nell is the only ski in, ski out option on Aspen Mountain and has a private ski concierge and what Marie says is the best hot chocolate in town.
• W Aspen is a newer arrival to the town's growing hotel scene and brings its notorious cultural cache to the base of Aspen Mountain.

Where to Dine in Aspen

Caribou Club

An Aspen institution since 1990, Caribou Club is considered the most prestigious private members' club in town. The space is dimly lit with dark wood paneling and tartan carpeting—stepping inside is like uncovering a relic of a past era. It's part restaurant-bar, part nightclub, part catering business, and spotting a famous face isn't just likely—it's almost guaranteed. "If there is a bold name, whether celebrity or business, they have been in the club," the website states.

Casa Tua Aspen

Part Northern Italian restaurant, part members' only club, Casa Tua is one of Aspen's best places to see and be seen while twirling your fork around a plate of cacio e pepe. "All of Casa Tua is great, but the upstairs members club is my favorite place to dine in Aspen," says Marie. "It’s cozy with a fireplace, it has an 'everyone knows everyone' feeling, and looks like you’re dining at a beautiful private chalet."

Betula

Betula is the perfect balance of Aspen's glitz and glamour and its classic, cozy side. Make your way up to the second-floor space and slip into one of the cloud sofa–like booths, and you'll immediately feel right at home, even if home is really thousands of miles away.

More restaurants and cafés to jot down:

• Clark’s Oyster Bar
• Matsuhisa
• Pine Creek Cookhouse
• Sant Ambroeus
• Bonnie's

Where to Après-Ski in Aspen

The Snow Lodge

The team behind the Surf Lodge, Montauk's viral live-music venue, have made their way out West with the arrival of the Snow Lodge. It boasts an impressive lineup of top DJ sets on an outdoor stage at the St. Regis. "It's the number one place for après-ski fun," says Marie. "Everyone is bundled up in their warmest looks—ear muffs, mittens, and all—as the sets are outdoors, snow or shine. You have to try the hot toddy in a mug."

WWW Travels tip: One drink at altitude = three drinks at sea level, Marie warns. Don't forget this on your nights out!

Ajax Tavern

There's no better feeling than coming off the mountain after your last ski run of the day and immediately ordering a round of drinks. If you came to Aspen to ski, then look no further to Ajax Tavern for a prime location at the base of Aspen Mountain and even better people-watching. "It's the perfect spot to sit outside with a Cowboy Coffee and take in the scene," says Kunkle. And if you're stopping in for lunch, I'd add that the grilled cheese and tomato soup is a must.

Belly Up

Despite its small-town feel, Aspen has no shortage of nightlife, and Belly Up is one of the live-music mainstays since 1974 where you might just catch a show—everyone from Willie Nelson to Khruangbin.

WWW Travels tip: Check the Aspen Chamber for current events, Kunkle says, as there’s always something fun happening in town.

More après-ski spots to jot down:

• Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro is famous for its European-style on-mountain parties.
• The wine bar at The Little Nell is a favorite ski in, ski out spot at the base of Ajax.
• J-Bar at the Hotel Jerome is a favorite among locals and in-the-know visitors alike.

Where to Ski and Snowboard in Aspen

Aspen Mountain

"For location, convenience, and ease, [Aspen Mountain] can’t be beat," Marie insists. The chairlift is right in town, making it Aspen's most accessible resort. Even if you're not skiing, take a gondola ride up to the chalet for lunch with a sweeping view. The terrain here is notoriously challenging, however, and Marie warns that it’s not a great mountain for beginners, as there are no green runs.

WWW Travels tip: Drink a ton of water! Aspen is at a high altitude of almost 10K feet (much higher than European ski destinations, etc.), and altitude sickness is a real thing. I always refrain from alcohol for the first 24 hours and drink as much water as possible.

Snowmass

"As a snowboarder, I love Snowmass," Marie says. "The obvious con is that it’s a 20-minute drive from town, but if you don’t mind the drive, it offers so much more terrain—about five times more than Ajax [Aspen Mountain]. You can spend a whole day at Snowmass and not have to do the same run, which is impossible at other resorts. Also, the wide-open long runs are very snowboard-friendly."

Buttermilk

Aspen area's terrain is largely considered expert-level, but Buttermilk is the exception. "It’s perfect for non-expert snowboarders," Kunkle says. "The trails are easy to navigate, and if you get there early, the parking is unbeatable. After a day on the slopes, I always head to Home Team BBQ—the food is hearty, warm, and exactly what you want after being out in the cold."

More Aspen activities to jot down:

• Aspen Highlands is the fourth ski resort in the area and favored for its back bowls and expert-level terrain.
• Pilates classes at High Terrain and O2.
• Hiking Smuggler Mountain Trail—it's the perfect quick fix with rewarding views at the top.

Where to Shop in Aspen

Kemo Sabe

You can't go shopping in Aspen without going to Kemo Sabe. I don't make the rules. Having a custom cowboy hat made at the brand's original boutique is probably the most "Aspen" shopping experience you can have. Beloved by droves of celebs including Rihanna and J.Lo, the store is "laid-back luxury meets the Wild West," says Marie, who also points out that they even have a private bar upstairs you can rent out. It's truly a one-of-a-kind experience.

Revolve and Fwrd

What began as a seasonal pop-up has now evolved into a permanent store that brings the e-tailers' trend-forward worlds to life IRL. The two-floor retail space in nestled in the heart of Aspen and showcases a carefully curated selection of unique collections including from Bode, Max Mara, and Polo Ralph Lauren.

Pitkin County Dry Goods

Although the shopping options in Aspen skew designer, it's still home to local retailers like Pitkin County Dry Goods, where local brands like Pointed Arrow jewelry and Archer Cashmere mingle with labels like Proenza Schouler and Isabel Marant. "The buyers are always on point," Kunkle boasts.

WWW Travels tip: You don’t need to reserve a car. Aspen is very walkable, and a reliable bus system makes it easy to get to other nearby mountains.

More Aspen shopping to jot down:

• The Ralph Lauren outpost with its iconic Western-luxe aesthetic is right at home in downtown Aspen.
• Radio Boardshop is Kunkle and her family's go-to for snowboarding needs.

What to Pack for Aspen

As much as Aspen is a ski resort town at its core, let's face it: It's also far more stylish than what the average. The mood is elevated and chic but still practical. Think fluffy faux-fur outerwear, sleek riding boots, and a few Western touches through a belt or Stetson-style hat. "Aspen isn’t as dressy as people think: Athletic wear rules the day, and anything goes at night," Kunkle notes, but says to avoid high heels due to the cobblestone streets and instead wear cowboy boots. "And, of course, top it off with a Kemo Sabe hat—perfect for rain, snow, or shine," she adds.

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

"In a nutshell, Milan is like a very big small town," says J.J. Martin, founder of lifestyle brand La DoubleJ. The Italian fashion capital has long been an endless trove of style inspiration, and while we keep a close eye on what's happening there during Milan Fashion Week each February and September, the city, which normally possesses a cozier quality, is currently rising among the ranks as a European force to pay attention to throughout the rest of the year too.

Now, with an exciting game of musical chairs happening at the major labels, all eyes will be on Milan and what unfolds as new designers—Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta, Demna at Gucci, and Simone Bellotti at Jil Sander—present their debut spring/summer 2026 collections. Without a shadow of a doubt, Milan is the moment.

Fashion is one thing, but Milan is also a huge design city and home to Salone del Mobile, the annual interior design fair that draws a stylish international crowd to rival that of fashion week. "On top of that," Martin continues, "the city is just swirling in the Italian juiciness of craft and quality and beauty and food and all of the things that make living in Italy just delightful." Of course, what Milan lacks in romance compared to other cities in Italy it gains in elegance and tradition, two things that flourish when it comes to Milanese dining and the unique art deco architecture it's known for.

Silvia Dusci, founder of jewelry label Le Sundial, says that wandering through the narrow historic streets—admiring the beautiful building entrances, gardens, and old doors—is a treasured pastime. "It's a great mix of Italian charm and international energy," she muses. Lately, though, she admits that Milan is earning even more attention and seeing much more growth, making it a perfect moment to spotlight the city and all of its most classic spots.

Where to Stay in Milan

You're just as likely to see the Milanese stopping by for an aperitivo underneath the sweeping porticos of the Portrait Milano as those vacationing, says Kristen Nichols, Who What Wear associate director of special projects, thanks to its prime location and stunning décor. Beloved by locals and visitors alike, the hotel is housed in a former ancient seminary, giving the space a sense of stately significance. The inside, however, tells a different story. It's all sleek, modern furnashings with jewel-toned accents that blend the contemporary with the art deco. It should come as no surprise to learn that it's owned by Italian fashion royalty, the Ferragamo family, and has, therefore, earned a spot as a fashion-person favorite.

Bulgari hotels are the most sought-after stays among the fashion crowd, but none are quite as iconic as the Milan destination, which was, of course, the jewelry house's debut in hospitality. The space is marked by Zimbabwean black marble, teak, and Vicenza stone that give it a quiet grandeur and make it a much-welcomed oasis that, despite being situated adjacent to Milan's main shopping street (Via Monte Napoleone), feels like an exclusive hideaway.

Who What Wear Travels tip: Milan is best enjoyed away from the summer months when many of the shops and businesses are closed for the Ferragosto holiday. Dusci suggests avoiding trips during July and August.

"A little old school" is how Martin describe the Grand Hotel et de Milan, but both she and Dusci effuse their love for the historic gem. "There are definitely some dusty corners, but there's just something stuck in time about this hotel, which I appreciate. It actually has one of the most beautiful restaurants in all of Milan hidden inside. It's like you're in a duke's library," Martin says.

Where to Dine in Milan

"Da Giacomo is my personal favorite," Dusci shares. "I absolutely love their spaghetti with clams. Oh, and you must try their famous Bomba di Giacomo."

Who What Wear Travels tip: Trust your server, insists Martin: "Most Italian waitstaff are truly invested in you enjoying your meal and will give you their honest opinion about the best items and specials on the menu."

"This place never gets old," Martin says of Bice. "It's an upscale classic trattoria. The food is great, and everyone there treats my dog like royalty. Remember, the reason that I like these places is because I know them, and they know me—it's very personal. Keep in mind that, as a tourist, the experience might be different."

The fine dining destination near the Duomo di Milano is a pillar of traditional Italian dining and, although its roots are Roman, feels right at home in the northern capital.

Who What Wear Travels tip: While classic institutions offer a quintessential Milanese dining experience, Dusci warns not to limit yourself to just the popular and well-known restaurants. "In Italy, especially in Milan, small traditional trattorias often serve the best food," she says.

Classic Aperitivo Bars in Milan

"The classic, gritty design haunt," describes Martin. "Still caught in the 1960s, this has a kind of slummy Milan vibe but in the best way possible. Go for the Negroni sbagliato that arrives in a goblet the size of a small child. There are always cool people hanging out there."

As one of the oldest sandwich bars in Milan, Bar Quadronno is an institution known not only for its famed panino with salami, ham, and cheese but also its lacquered wooden bar that make it quintessentially Milan. Come for a bite to eat, but stay for a classic aperitivo.

Who What Wear Travels tip: Take an evening stroll after your aperitivo. Martin notes that the Italian ritual of taking a passeggiata, or a stroll around 7 p.m., every evening has become a favorite pastime to bump into friends and neighbors and take a break from the workday. "It's a beautiful lesson in being present," she says.

Newcomer Minerale is where you'll want to head to experience artisanal and natural wine in the heart of the Corso Genova district. The modernist space draws the city's most in-the-know crowd, so you're sure to have plenty of good people-watching too.

The Best Pasticcerias in Milan

There's something transportive about a stop at Marchesi 1824, whether you're in Milan or London or elsewhere. One of the oldest and most renowned pastry shops in Milan, the elegantly designed space makes it a landmark in its own right. You can stop in for a maritozzo or a box of its very giftable cookies or simply admire the towering cakes in the window display.

Who What Wear Travels tip: "Always drink your coffee at the bar," Dusci insists. "This is a true Italian experience you don't want to miss."

Martin isn't shy about her favoritism toward Pasticceria Cucchi. "At La DoubleJ, we've done product collaborations and takeovers with Cucchi twice here in Milan where we totally redid the café," she says. "I know the original owners that opened the space in 1966. It's now under new management, which actually means you can get your cappuccino within the hour now! I love it for aperitivo as well as for a coffee, but they now do a very decent lunch as well."

Dusci shared a number of her favorite spots for Italian pastries, including the famed Sant Ambroeus, which, she says, really captures the authentic Milanese vibe. "Plus, the food and coffee are absolutely delicious—truly yummy treats that make every visit special," she adds.

Where to Shop in Milan

A spot that Dusci highly recommends for shopping in Milan is Cavalli e Nastri. "They offer an amazing vintage selection," she says, adding that her finds from the boutique include such incredible pieces as a Saint Laurent Rive Gauche shearling coat and a Japanese shantung silk kimono. "It's one of the more put-together vintage stores in the city," Martin confirms.

It doesn't get any more iconic than the city's landmark shopping destination at 10 Corso Como. Now with locations in Seoul, Paris, New York, and Doha, the original Milan address houses a meticulous curation of sought-after designer items, skincare, art, food, and so much more.

"Mazzolari Capelli is a real Milanese institution for hair accessories, from headbands and clips to brushes—everything you need for haircare," Dusci shares.

Who What Wear Travels tip: Don't miss the vintage markets, a perfect spot to find unique treasures, held every third Sunday of the month in Brera and the last Sunday of the month along the Navigli, Dusci insists.

What to See in Milan

For fashion people, no trip to Milan is complete without a pilgrimage to the Prada Foundation, the art foundation dedicated to contemporary art and culture that Miuccia Prada and and her husband Patrizio Bertelli have cochaired since 1995. Spend a day wandering the galleries and then enjoy an aperitivo or slice of princess cake at the Wes Anderson–designed Bar Luce attached to the space.

"Though often seen and revisited, Villa Necchi never loses its quiet elegance. It continues to feel timeless and effortlessly inspiring," Dusci notes.

If you look for it, Milan is a visually rich city filled with beautiful details that reference its past. To fully admire its architecture, Dusci says to head to the Stazione Centrale for incredible art deco features.

Who What Wear Travels tip: Do a church hop. Martin says popping into one of the many baroque churches peppered throughout the city is a favorite way to view Milan's beauty. "I've stumbled upon so many beautiful mosaic ceilings, tiled floors, spectacular stained-glass windows, all by accident," she notes.

"Robertaebasta Gallery is one of those rare places where charm and excess coexist beautifully," says Dusci. "Every piece tells a story, and none of them whisper. Incredible curation."

What to Pack for Milan

When packing for Milan, channel your inner sciura. It's a colloquial term the Milanese use in reference to the city's many glamorous and impeccably well-dressed older women—just peek at the account @sciuraglam to see what we mean. Prada should always be a packing reference, naturally, but also the unofficial uniform of Prada herself: a simple knit sweater, a full skirt, and pretty pumps. It's a walking city, but not as much as its neighboring capitals, meaning you can get away with a little bit of a heel. To dress the part of a local, you'll certainly want to.

The number one rule for Milan dressing is to, well, dress up. "Don't wear sweatpants out of the house or workout gear to the office," warns Martin. "While Milan has certainly become a little more gentrified over the past decade, it still hasn't fallen into the West Coast 'athleisure all day' trend." Leaning put-together, elegant, and chic is the move. Of course, that mood extends even to the airport, where you'll be greeted with the world's most stylish travelers the moment you touch down at Malpensa, and nothing makes as chic a statement as arriving with a Rimowa Rollaboard in tow.

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

When I was boarding my flight from London to Colombo, Sri Lanka, in January, I was admiring the outfit of the woman behind me, and I realized she was actually my friend—a Jetset PR rep who was embarking on the same holiday as I was. This moment was confirmation that the south coast of Sri Lanka has become the winter sun hot spot. Over five friends were starting January with a kottu-filled escape, including a considerable number of my fellow British Vogue editors.

You can build a varied itinerary in Sri Lanka—following leopards in Yala National Park, taking a train that winds through the lush tea region, and climbing the rock fortress Sigiriya—as it is a popular multistop touring destination. Since 2024, Sri Lanka has seen a significant boom in tourism following a number of turbulent decades for the country. There was the crushing impact of the tsunami in 2004, the civil war that ended in 2009, and an economic collapse in 2022 that led many foreign offices to advise against travel to the region. A number of hotel openings and new infrastructure (in 2024, a 300-kilometer hiking route through tea plantations called the Pekoe Trail opened) are leading to a tourism boom in the region.

For those looking to traverse less distance and embrace a slower pace, I advise you snake along the south coast. It is dotted with surfing villages, jungle retreats, and colonial architecture, making it a new hub for wellness and sunshine seekers. The region is often likened to Bali before it became a victim of overtourism. "There's something about Sri Lanka's southern coast that gets under your skin," says Helen Bailey, global head of PR and brand communications at Mr & Mrs Smith. "[It's] a heady mix of salt, spice, and languid afternoons watching the surf roll in—golden beaches, swaying palms, and the easy, leisurely rhythm of island life."

The weather in the south coast is ideal between November and April, making it the perfect winter escape for sunseekers in the northern hemisphere. Days in Ahangama and Hiriketiya follow a similar pace with early mornings in the waves, egg hoppers and coconut sambol for breakfast, rickshaw rides through rice fields to hidden beach spots, and curry-fueled sunsets—a barefoot lifestyle that is also attractive to those who don't have any intention of getting on a surfboard. Like Puerto Escondido, Mexico, design-led boutique hotels have elevated these sleepy towns beyond surf shacks and hostels. However the area hasn't lost its magic with the construction. "This stretch is a sweet spot," explains Bailey. "[It's] less developed than the west coast but buzzing with just the right amount of energy. The surfing scene is world-class, the boutique hotels are effortlessly stylish, and there's a food revolution underway, blending traditional Sri Lankan flavors with a modern, global touch."

The whole of the south coast has the same spirit to it, so you can play with your itinerary depending on the level of adventure you are seeking. You'll see monkeys darting through the trees and turtles along the coastline, and for more wildlife, you can add on a trip to Yala to spot a leopard, Udawalawe for elephants, and Mirissa for whale watching. Other notable spots include surf town Ahangama, Koggala Lake, the Galle Fort, and Dickwella Beach.

There's much more to it than postcard-worthy palm tree views, explains travel journalist Sophie Hay. "Beyond the scenery, the community here is something special," she says. "A mix of expats and locals are thoughtfully developing the area, bringing exciting new businesses while keeping sustainability and local culture in mind. People often compare it to Bali 10 years ago, but I think there's more to it than that. Many of the new businesses—from hotels to surf schools—are making an effort to give back, whether through community surf classes, English lessons for local children, or mindful development that avoids overtourism."

Keep reading for stylish hotels, surf schools, the best beach bars, and more.

Where to Stay

In 2005, the Aman hotel group opened an opulent, charming hotel within the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Galle Dutch Fort district. Rebuilt by the Dutch in the 17th century, it was a former military headquarters and then was later taken over by British soldiers and became a hotel in 1863. "Step into the old-world charm of Amangalla, tucked inside Galle Fort's historic walls," adds Bailey. "With its antique four-poster beds, whirring ceiling fans, and a colonial-era veranda, it's the kind of place that feels timeless. Stroll the 17th century ramparts at golden hour, stopping by boutiques and galleries before sinking into a rattan chair for an arrack sour in the library. Come evening, the candlelit dining room serves up Sri Lankan classics. Don't miss the crab curry."

"Wild Coast Tented Lodge was my favorite of the four hotels I stayed at across Sri Lanka," says travel journalist Gina Jackson. "This safari hotel is tucked within thick jungle and perched along the coastline right by Yala National Park. You'll bed down in cocooning glamping pods that are kitted out with luxe four-poster beds and copper rolltops and head out on sunrise or sunset game drives each day before winding down by the pool. Staying here is an incredibly unique experience and the most luxurious location to experience safari in Yala."

"For a change of pace, head to Ahangama, where surf, style, and creativity collide," says Bailey. "This once-sleepy fishing village is now a hot spot for digital nomads, designers, and surfers drawn to its laid-back energy. Here, you'll find espresso bars, jungle-fringed yoga studios, and buzzy beachfront cafés. Stay at Kurulu Bay, a tranquil jungle retreat perched on the shores of Koggala Lake offering a serene escape from the buzz of the coast while still being just minutes away from the action." At this 1960s modernism–style resort, tree houses are nestled into the lush vegetation, all framing the panoramic view of the lake, and some of the rooms even come with their own private plunge pools.

Where to Dine

Smoke and Bitters is poised above Dickwella Beach and is considered one of the best places to eat and drink on the island. Plus, it was recently named one of Asia's top 50 bars. Everyone who has been to the south coast will recommend you come here, and I found it more than lived up to the hype with its inventive recipes that are cooked over wood fires using Ceylon flavors. Don't leave without trying the Smoking Goat.

Hay says Ceylon Sliders is her favorite restaurant on the island thanks to its "simple but delicious dishes." As for what to order, she advises, "I still dream about their yellowfin tuna." It's all you would want from a surf spot—from sunrise breakfasts to spicy margs at sunset—where waves crash onto the terrace. You'll at least want to leave with one of the Sliders T-shirts.

My friend, a journalist and expert traveler, recommended I try this cooking class in Hiriketiya, and it was an evening I'll never forget. It's almost remarkable that Rosie, the host, isn't a TikTok celebrity already, as she teaches you how to make roti and curries while telling you hilarious stories about her rich life. In the kitchen, a group of amazing women cook up a feast of over 20 curries that you eat along with your own dishes after the lesson. Rosie has created an empowering, female-led space and would laugh that "no naughty beach boys were allowed" in her kitchen.

Where to Shop

"Located in Galle, this boutique is more than just a shop. It's a business dedicated to preserving and celebrating Sri Lanka's visual heritage," says Bailey. "Specializing in vintage travel posters, postcards, and retro-inspired artwork, the brand draws inspiration from the golden age of travel, blending nostalgia with bold, contemporary design. Founded by adventurers Meg Gage Williams and Philip James Baber, Stick No Bills reinvests a portion of its profits into local conservation and community projects, ensuring that its impact goes beyond aesthetics. Whether you're after a striking Ceylon tea plantation print or a classic surf poster, each piece tells a story of Sri Lanka's vibrant past and present.

Hay notes that she first visited Sri Lanka in 2019, drawn in by a handful of design-led but affordable hotels she had seen on Instagram, including The Kip in Ahangama. It has a peaceful design aesthetic with wafting white curtains, natural materials, and muted colors and a courtyard filled with laptop travelers who are working remote over oat milk lattes. The shop is also worth exploring, as it stocks ethically crafted Sri Lankan products, such as linens, candles, and sarongs with the hotel's signature aesthetic. I purchased the perfect pair of brown high-waisted shorts and coffee-and-tobacco soap that has the most intoxicating smell.

Hay also recommends Le Ketiya Boutique for hand-printed sarongs and dresses, and this is the second shop that I made purchases from on my trip. This slow-fashion concept store perfectly encapsulates the surfer, island aesthetic, and it stocks printed swimwear, relaxed cover-ups, and natural beauty products. I bought a soothing, healing balm that I still use as much at home as I did on my trip to treat surf-induced rashes.

What to Do

The south coast is considered a great place for surfers of all abilities, as the gentle, rolling waves in Weligama and Hiriketiya make it an ideal spot for beginners. For those who want to really give it a go, you'll find surf camps dotted along the coastline. I stayed at Kima Surf Camp, which has recently opened renovated rooms and offers two yoga and two surf classes a day, and it is a friendly base to meet other travelers.

"There's a unique magic to Sri Lanka's south coast that's hard to define," says Hay. "The beaches are some of the best I've ever visited—palm-lined horseshoe bays; long, sweeping stretches of sand perfect for walks; and hidden coves where local children take a dip after school." You can easily take rickshaws to visit a number of the isolated beaches. My favorites were Turtle Point Bathigama Dickwella, where you can hire snorkels and swim alongside gentle green turtles (just don't touch them), and Blue Beach Island, which is a tiny island accessible by a slither of sand. You can even camp overnight for a real unplugged beach experience.

One of my favorite things I did in Sri Lanka was a safari in Udawalawe, the national park known for its elephant population. I also got to visit an elephant orphanage, which does important conservation work in the country. I stayed at Kalu's Hideaway, a tranquil oasis only 10 minutes away from the national park, but you can also visit for the day from coastal towns. Seeing herds of elephants up close at sunrise is just magical.

What to Pack

There is a laid-back surfer vibe, so apart from the odd dressier night, you will spend most of your time in low-key beachwear. Think shorts, loose linen pieces, and layers of SPF. This is a vacation where you will live in your bikini. If you get into surfing while you're out there, there are plenty of boutiques that can help you unlock your Blue Crush vision board, with zinc sunscreen, rash vests, and printed T-shirts. For safari excursions, you'll want to focus on layers. You will get out into the national park early in the morning before sunrise, so bring a button-down shirt and light jumper that you can easily remove. Oh, don't forget the binoculars if you are lucky enough to spot a leopard.

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

It seems like every year, a new European destination gets the hotspot treatment, and every cool-girl, fashion person and influencer is flocking there for their high summer getaway. Grecian islands, the South of France and the Amalfi Coast have all been appearing in constant rotation on my social feeds of late, but I know there is one spot which is so iconic and unbeatable, that has become shorthand for hedonistic, sun-soaked, and bohemian-infused escapes for eons. That place can only be the Balearic island of Ibiza.

You may think the island is for party-lovers only, but there are so many facets to the island that there is something for everyone to find here. Sure, there are a number of so-called 'superclubs', but there are many great smaller venues, bars and cocktail spots to take your pick from, and the island is cementing its place as a gastronomic paradise, with a focus on provenance and authenticity within the restaurant and foodie scene.

There is a plethora of sandy beaches, coves, hiking trails and nature reserves for those seeking the big, beautiful outdoors. For those with a few Euros to spend and a keen eye for style, a small niche of boutiques and retailers that support low-impact and planet-friendly clothing and homeware are emerging on the island, particularly in the Old Town, so you can take a little slice of the island back home with you.

Naturally, there are countless chic, cozy and well-catered hotels and properties to reside in for the duration of your trip, ranging from the clean and minimalist five star resorts, to the design-led boutique hotels for those with a discerningly fashionable eye, to the tucked-away agritourism outposts to give you that rustic, but no less chic, experience and classic laid back Ibizan mood.

We have tapped an elite group of industry experts and self-confessed Ibiza lovers to get the scoop on the classic spots and the hidden gems to help you plan your next, and your very best, Balearic adventure.

1. Where to Stay

There is no lack of gorgeous hotels or boutique rental properties on the island of Ibiza, so pick what will suit your vibe, if you want something buzzy and fully catered, or perhaps something more off the beaten track and tranquil. Read on for my exhaustive list of the best stays the island has to offer, across all four corners of the coast, and in the lush countryside too.

Staying at OKU is a non-negotiable for MirrorWater founder Estée Lalonde, which is currently getting the full Missoni treatment. With a focus on slower living and enriching experiences for the curious traveler, the hotel comprises 185 guest rooms and suites, a standalone four-bedroom villa with private pool, two hotel pools, two restaurants, and an intimate spa. OKU's iconic main pool has been reimagined in Missoni's beloved bold and colorful palette of deep blue, ocean turquoise, and emerald green, drawing inspiration from Ibiza’s breathtaking seascape, so you can relax poolside in comfort and style. OKU guests have access to daily meditation and yoga practice, as well as comprehensive spa rituals and fitness programming.

The Standard Ibiza, too, just got the fashion seal of approval, working with iconic British heritage label Burberry on a joyful takeover of the hotel’s seasonal rooftop bar and restaurant, blending the house check with The Standard’s signature yellow resort colour. Sunny! Set in the Old Town and framed by sunset views, the rooftop comes alive with weekly Burberry-curated cocktail evenings, soundtracked by guest DJs spinning from a custom-built booth. Poolside, the vibe sets the scene for golden-hour lounging. Inside, a branded photo booth in the lobby invites guests to capture their summer in style, whilst exclusive Burberry items are available to purchase to you can bring a slice of it home with you.

Suggested by travel, food and fashion enthusiast, Sophie Hay, the Montesol Experimental is a design-led escape blending bohemia and mid-century appeal. Designer Dorothée Meilichzon has reimagined 33 bedrooms and suites with cool, calming colours and cosmic elements, whilst local designer pieces and a touch of sparkle adorn spacious rooms bathed in natural light, complete with king-size beds and views of Ibiza's Old Town. A millennial's dream!

For lazy luxury vibes in the north, pick Cala San Miguel Ibiza Resort, which is a new 5-star, adults-only resort in the north of the island. This year sees the launch of the adjoining Beach House Cala San Miguel, a beachside restaurant complete with a pool. Guests also benefit from a rich complimentary experiences programme, from Ibicencan spirit workshops and cacao ceremonies, to sunset paddleboarding, full moon rituals, and guided open-water swims and hikes.

Los Enamorados is arguably one of the smallest and chicest hotels on the island, set in the northern town of Portinatx. Filled with art and ephemera, Los Enamoradoscomprises of nine rooms, each with a unique decor. It is an adults-only property, which you can also pop to for lunch and sundowner drinks. Having been there before, I can tell you this is the place to be for golden hour.

If you're looking for panoramic views of turquoise waters and pine hills, the Mondrian Ibiza , is made for you. Sofisticated, clean lines and a future-forward design vision are what set it apart. Found directly on Cala Llonga, one of the largest sandy beaches in Ibiza, the hotel is located just a fifteen-minute drive from Ibiza Town and seven minutes from Santa Eulària, and an adjacent boat dock provides convenient ferry connections to Formentera, Ibiza Town, Es Canar and Santa Eulària. Next door, you will find HYDE. Born from the LA club scene in the 2000s, HYDE Ibiza is a more boho-feeling hotel, boasting 401 rooms and two new dining concepts.

Spanning 2,246 sqm in the heart of the Ibizan countryside, the newly opened Soho Farmhouse Ibiza embodies a traditional Spanish farm style with white facades, rustic finca-inspired architecture, terracotta floors, and exposed wooden beams. It features 14 bedrooms situated across the main House, a stable, and two two-bedroom villas. At its core lies a vibrant club space for eating and relaxing, complete with outdoor seating overlooking the House Pool. Members can also enjoy the restaurant serving seasonal Balearic food, a retail boutique, and the Soho Health Club, which offers wellness treatments, hot and cold therapies, an indoor and outdoor gym space, and a poolside yoga deck.

Fans of agritourism will also have their interest piqued by Can Sastre a boutique hotel set within 10 acres of idyllic, rolling countryside, near Santa Gertrudis. A beautifully restored old white finca, surrounded by fragrant citrus groves, vibrant bougainvillea, palm trees and cobbled pathways, it will charm guests with the perfect balance of luxury and rustic charm. Can Sastre is a true private rural paradise, comprising of five beautiful suites, made up of three luxurious casitas and two spacious villa suites, providing the ultimate private sanctuaries for guests. In-house chefs are available to serve breakfast, lunch and dinner upon request.

For something tucked away on the south-west of the island, the Petunia, a Beaumier Hotel embodies the bohemian soul of the island, facing the legendary (and rumoured to be magnetic!) Es Vedrà rock. The boutique hotel offers an intimate and enchanting setting, with lush gardens, a serene pool and nearby calas, combining Mediterranean relaxation, Balearic gastronomy and artsy 70s design.

Los Felices is also a fashion-pack favourite. With just one year under its belt, the fashion-led hotel has already earned its place among Ibiza's most desirable destinations, and hosts fun-filled bingo, karaoke, DJ and cocktail evenings. Resembling the pages of a 60s-themed space-age comic, Los Felices is set on the cusp of San Antonio bay, perfect for those seeking endless nights of dancing till the small hours.

For the five-star treatment, look no further than Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay. Offering a brand new scheme of wellness treatments, programmes and classes, the hotel and spa is in a poised position on the shores of Talamanca Bay. Away from the hustle and bustle, step from the hotel straight onto the soft sandy beach, or your yacht. With the beach promenade right outside your door, in a short walk you can wander through the trendy boutiques and restaurants of Marina Botafoch and the Old Town.

For Ibiza aficionado and property expert, Rupert Baird-Murray, rental properties are the best way to experience the true hedonistic and luxurious nature to the island. Where is the best place to stay, I ask? "It has to be Domus Nova Ibiza’s newest addition to its collection, Can Olivar," he explains. "This architect-designed six-bedroom retreat is a masterclass in modern Ibicencan living, seamlessly blending into its 15,000 square metres of curated gardens and forested valley near San Lorenzo. What sets Can Olivar apart is its immersive connection to nature, think cedar-beamed ceilings, salt-filtered heated pool, a yoga deck beneath the trees, and a particular highlight for me is its Moroccan-style rooftop for stargazing. For those celebrating a milestone celebration, or visiting the new Soho Farmhouse, I recommend staying at the nearby Finca La Inika, the island's chicest party villa that sleeps 18 and features its own soundproof party cave, saltwater pool, yoga deck, private terraces and gardens throughout.” Beyond chic!

SHOP NERE LUGGAGE:

2. Where to Eat & Drink

For long days and long nights on the island, you need good-quality food and drink to fuel you, and there is no lack of healthy, wholesome and gourmet places to eat or pick up a snack on the island.

"I start my mornings with a green juice from Wild Beets before heading out on a hike with Ibiza Hike Station or a walk with my dog on the Campo next to my house, which is the best way to start the day before the rest of the island wakes and soak up the island’s raw beauty," says Rupert Baird-Murray.

If a matcha hit is more your thing, River Island's Senior Social Media Manager, Ruby Cox suggests heading to mui mia cafe. For hidden gems, she loves Los Nidos, which can be found just above the Edén restaurant in Hacienda. "It's the perfect spot to watch the sunset" she shares, also noting Raco as a new restaurant on the island to keep tabs on.

"For lunch, it has to be either La Paloma for their stunning alfresco garden setting or Cala Gracioneta for the freshest fish by the sea." Rupert Baird-Murray shares.

Ottolenghi at Atzaró returns to the island this year for his annual culinary event. Yotam Ottolenghi’s vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine blends with the natural beauty and relaxed luxury of Ibiza’s iconic Atzaró Agroturismo Hotel, set against a backdrop of rambling vegetable garden, countryside views, sunset then starry skies, and rustic elegance, this exclusive event is a celebration of nature’s rhythms, flavour, creativity, and connection, an unmissable highlight of the Ibiza calendar.

Sa Capella is known for one of the island's most unique and premium dining spots. It is housed in a 16th-century chapel that first opened as a restaurant in 1978, feeding the era’s bohemian jet-set. Located in the rural hills above San Antonio, diners will find a menu that focuses on using the best quality ingredients, alongside preparation and cooking techniques that place their natural flavour first. The restaurant has been respectfully restored by the Anadon family, whose commitment to authentic, experience-led dining, drinking and accommodation destinations in Ibiza, spans from founding the island’s original sunset spot, Café Mambo, to more recently, Casa Maca, Cala Gracioneta, and Hostal La Torre.

"The most memorable dinner I’ve ever had was at Casa Maca," notes Who What Wear UK's Branded Content Editor, Rebecca Rhys-Evans. "Magical views, all cooked without electricity or gas (everything is prepared outside using an open-fire oven instead), and they do larger bookings for groups, which a lot of places on the island don’t do." Casa Maca is a unique restaurant with rooms in a beautiful rural location that looks across to Ibiza Old Town and the sea beyond. Set in a 300-year-old farmhouse, they welcome diners and guests like a family home, offering authentic experiences, the favourite being the open-air, grill restaurant. It's a very Instagrammable moment.

"As the sun starts to dip behind the clouds, you’ll find me at Hostel La Torre or Los Enamorados with a negroni in hand," Rupert shares.

Poppy Nash, Who What Wear UK's Managing Editor, keeps a long checklist of foodie spots on her iPhone notes, and has allowed me to share a handful of key culinary places that she and her family have long been fans of:

• The Fish Shack, Sa Punta - very rustic but delicious beach-side fish restaurant
• Casa Jondal
• Es Tanco - best for pizza!
• Beachouse, Platja d'en Bossa -this is one of my absolute favourite places, and my mum has had every big birthday party here
• Six Senses - for a cocktail if you're passing through
• Lucky Bar, Formentera - again, rustic but nice
• Sol Cala Saona - looks unassuming but is delicious - they do a great roast chicken
• Passion Cafe - great smoothies
• La Bodega (my fave!)
• Can Domingo
• Es Xarcu
• Casa Linda
• El Silencio
• Juntos House
• El Olivo Mio
• Plaza del Sol,
• La Dispensa

WHAT TO WEAR TO DINNER:

3. Where to Swim

Poppy Nash is a seasoned beach hopper and knows the perfect sandy dunes dotted across the island for chilled days under the Mediterranean sun. “Cala Jondal is one of my favourite beaches, as is Las Salinas. Cala Gracioneta is also not to be missed. If you're heading to the teeny sister island of Formentera, Cala Saona is peaceful, small and under the radar.” For an IYKYK recommendation, she imparts "Es Vedrà for an alternative island trip that isn’t Formentera". For other sandy spots to note, she lists "Benirràs, Cala Olivera, Sol d’en Serra (which is next to a very busy beach but is way more chilled), and, lastly, Cala Mastella (it's teeny!)"

For Estée Lalonde, a day of reading and napping on the beach at Ses Illetes, Formentera is an ideal way to idle away a few idyllic hours. She also notes Es Vedrà too as a great hiking spot, so pack some suitable walking footwear if you want to get your steps, and panoramic views, in.

Renting a car when on the island is essential for buzzing around with ease. "An ideal weekend would be driving to all my favourite beaches; Cala Comte, Cala Saladeta and Cala Bassa and enjoying a chill day on the powdery sand with a baguette and some aioli," muses emerging London-based DJ, KaYa.

If you're wanting to beach-hop a little more fluidly, with trips to adjoining islands and coves, renting a boat for the day will be your best bet.

WHAT TO WEAR TO THE BEACH:

4. Where to Party

There is a vibrant party scene and electronic nightlife side to the island, which has gone through many eras, including the hippie movement of the 60s, to the rock and roll of the 70s, the high camp pop and electro of the 80s, to the rise and rise of house, techno and EDM in the 90s and 00s. There is still very much a bustling club scene on the island today, with superclub opening parties kicking off the season in early April, to the closing parties wrapping up around the middle of October.

What are the best clubs to head to today, I asked our panel of experts. "It has to be DC-10, which definitely isn’t a hidden gem, but I had the best night of my entire life at this club", says Estée Lalonde. "It’s famously not flashy (it's in an old airplane hangar). Go here if you want music, not bottle service on a Monday night for Circoloco."

"I have my debut at the club Hï in September," shares DJ KaYa. The venue prides itself on being ranked the world's number one club, and its most in-demand nights include Black Coffee’s flagship Saturday night takeover and Glitterbox Sundays.

Pacha (the one with the cherries!) hosts some of the biggest DJs in the house music game, with a Defected Records residency every Thursday and the long-standing Flower Power nights taking place on Saturday, honouring the 60s and 70s boho music scene.

Amnesia and Ushuaïa are also superclubs not to be missed, with Amnesia hosting a brand new Boiler Room slot every Thursday, and Ushuaïa continuing their longstanding partnerships with some of the biggest DJs on the planet, including Calvin Harris, David Guetta and Kygo.

"Sigma in Ibiza Town is a tiny bar/club with an insane Void soundsystem," notes emerging DJ KaYa. "It’s probably only around 150 capacity and usually just full of residents and locals, but it’s got a great vibe."

Finally, no trip to Ibiza is complete without a visit to Pikes. The legendary hotel moonlights as a club venue, and has seen many a celeb walk through its doors since it was founded in 1978, including Grace Jones, Sade, Kylie Minogue, Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell.

It's important to plan, book and pre-pay for tickets for club nights, events and parties ahead of your trip. Check out listings on the venue websites before you fly (you may even want to curate your trip based on who is playing on the island) to ensure you don't miss out on what could be the best night of your life.

WHAT TO WEAR TO PARTY:

5. Where to Shop

"Afternoons are for a bit of boutique-hopping," says Rupert Baird-Murray. "Annie's Ibiza is always a treasure trove, Agora at Six Senses is beautifully curated, and I never leave without popping into Vicente Ganesha for vintage gems. It’s also worth checking out the new store at Soho Farmhouse Ibiza,

Currently, Agora is hosting a pop-up with London-based luxury swimwear label nounou until the 31^st of August, showcasing nounou’s take on vintage 70s-inspired swimwear silhouettes with a modern twist, with clasps designed by renowned jeweller Jessica McCormack. Agora is a boutique based in the world-famous hotel, the Six Senses, and has a keen focus on sustainable, low-impact and planet-friendly fashion, beauty and homeware.

Featuring psychedelic prints, beads, colours and trims, TAAR WILLOUGHBY's clothing, accessories and homeware is unmistakably beachy and Balearic-infused. Her womenswear boutique is nestled in the heart of historic Ibiza Old Town, which is also home to many independent shops, artisan boutiques and cafes, making it the ideal afternoon venture.

Las Dalias is an unmissable hippie market, and opens during the day on Saturdays, and later in the cooler evenings Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, and features hand-made products, crafts, clothing and bric-a-brac, food options and DJs to soundtrack your all-day mooching. Punta Arabí market is also worth checking out, open Wednesdays from 10 am to 7 pm. The Artisan market in San Juan, which comes alive on Sunday, is also worth noting.

SHOP NOUNOU SWIMWEAR:

6. What to Pack

If packing light and in a minimal fashion is your bag, Estée Lalonde recommends choosing items that work for many an occasion. Her clothing essentials include “a lightweight linen shirt, a sexy bikini (grab one at the Pacha store once you land), an easy day-to-night dress (I love this slip by Ariktaip, and The Frances bandeau dress), a good skort (which will take you from hikes, to the beach, to the club), and lastly, a great pair of sunglasses from Jimmy Fairly.” The cool-girl vacay clothing brands on her radar include Fruity Booty, Peachy Den (in particular, the Amelia Dimoldenberg collab), and Asta Resort.

For the maximalists, take notes from DJ KaYa. She prides herself on her individual style, and brings that in abundance when heading to the Balearics for her shows. "When deciding what to wear for a DJ set, the main thing for me is I need to be comfortable and be able to move freely. The way I dress is a huge expression of my creativity, so I always put thought into an outfit, even if I’m just popping to the supermarket. This season, I’m thinking something quite colourful, maybe a loud pattern (think 90s Versace) and, of course, lots and lots of gold. I love to be unique so I will probably have something custom-made by the super talented Liberty Rose."

You might be wondering how to take a look from day to night, especially if you are bringing hand luggage only. "The key to effortless day-to-night dressing lies in versatile base pieces and a few well-chosen accents," notes personal stylist Kate Lauren. "Start with something foundational that can be styled up, for example, a cool, easy throw-on dress, worn over your bikini, paired with a beach tote, sandals and a cowboy hat. Swap the tote for a clutch, some statement gold jewellery, perhaps a cuff and chunky hoop earrings. A lightweight structured blazer over the shoulders instantly adds a more refined edge for dinner and drinks."

I ask her if heels are essential for the island, particularly if you want to hit the club and late-night bar scene. "I wouldn’t bother with heels in Ibiza—they just don’t suit the vibe or the terrain," she says. "The closest I’d go to a heel is a mule sandal or a heeled cowboy boot, both of which give you a bit of height, but still feel grounded and comfortable enough for uneven streets or late-night dancing. Save the room in your case for other accessories!"

Is there a dress code, I wonder? "Ibiza isn’t about strict dress codes," Kate Lauren informs me. "It’s a place that celebrates individuality, and your outfits should reflect that freedom. Forget the heels and bodycon dresses; instead, think interesting textures or silhouettes, bold statement accessories, and effortless layering. That might mean a backless top, a standout boot, or something with fringe or sequins. Most importantly, have fun with it—that’s the real dress code."

In terms of beauty essentials, Estée Lalonde looks to her own skincare and wellness brand MIRROR WATER. "The SMOOTH Body Oil, is super hydrating after a day on the beach, sinking into your skin quickly, giving you the most gorgeous glow for the evening." A good SPF is always a good idea, even on cloudy days, she notes. "I am a big fan of Dr Loretta Urban SPF 40 and Ultra Violette Supreme Skin Screen. For a haircare must-have, Ceremonia Guava Rescue Spray smells incredible and keeps my hair healthy in the sun."

For Kate Lauren, lean into the laid-back appeal of the island with your skin and hair when going from day to evening plans. "A slick bun, a bronzed glow, or a statement lip can completely transform your look without requiring a full outfit change. You’re essentially shifting the tone from relaxed to considered but still keeping that easy, island-ready feel."

7. Shop The Edit

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

I've lived in Southern California my entire life, so I know the region like the back of my hand. I'm brimming with SoCal suggestions, from the best sandwich shop in San Diego (Con Pane) to the most charming under-the-radar hotel in West Hollywood (The Charlie). Right now, I'm focusing my attention on Palm Springs, a desert enclave I've been visiting for nearly two decades. I first started coming to the city as a pit stop on my way to attend the professional tennis tournament BNP Paribas Open in nearby Indian Wells, but I soon realized that Palm Springs merited much more than a quick layover.

While tennis was the first thing that drew me to the area, many others associate the desert with Coachella since the famous festival lies just 40 minutes from downtown Palm Springs. If you've always made a beeline to the Empire Polo Club, you're seriously missing out on Palm Springs' exemplary mid-century architecture, delicious dining, fantastic vintage shopping, and amazing hotels.

To help me curate this Palm Springs travel guide, I tapped Kellie Brown, the content creator and interior designer behind Deeply Madly Modern. After moving from New York City to Los Angeles, she bought a vacation home in Palm Springs and ended up loving it so much she decided to live there full-time. In addition to sharing some of her favorite spots, Brown also offered some advice for your packing list: "Caftans, sunscreen, a large hat, sunglasses with no metal (because don’t want to burn your nose!), sneakers for a sunset bike ride, a good book for poolside lounging, and a Polaroid camera because she’s a cute little town and you’ll want fridge pics!"

Before I delve into specific recommendations, I want to reflect on the city's history. One of my favorite things about Palm Springs is its iconic connection with Hollywood. Beginning in the 1920s and 1930s, the desert oasis became a fashionable getaway for movie stars seeking relaxation away from the spotlight. Film studios required actors to remain within two hours of Hollywood in case they were called back for reshoots, so Palm Springs became the perfect retreat. By the 1940s and 1950s, the city had blossomed into a glamorous playground for stars like Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Elvis Presley, who not only vacationed there but also owned homes.

This era saw the rise of iconic mid-century modern architecture, as many celebrities commissioned stylish homes that matched the area’s desert landscape and luxurious vibe. The Rat Pack often held parties and performed in local venues, embedding Palm Springs into the lore of classic Hollywood culture. As time went on, the city remained a beloved spot for Hollywood's elite, especially during major events like the Palm Springs International Film Festival.

Palm Springs has also become a popular filming location. Don't Worry Darling, starring Florence Pugh and Harry Styles, is perhaps the most memorable recent movie set there. All in all, this lasting relationship between Hollywood and Palm Springs has helped shape the city’s identity as a stylish spot.

Where to Stay

I've never been one to gravitate toward sprawling mega resorts, instead favoring more intimate boutique hotels. If this sounds like you, allow me to introduce you to Korakia Pensione. It's one of the most charming and unique hotels I've ever stayed at. I spent a few nights in the Bedouin Suite, which came complete with a private patio, wood-burning fireplace, kitchen, and, to my surprise, a huge stone tub with a rain shower.

The hotel combines two special properties, both with storied pasts. On one side of the street is a series of Moroccan-inspired villas, suites, and rooms built by painter Gordon Coutts in the 1920s to mimic his life in Tangier. The villas on the other side of the street are more Mediterranean in style and were owned by silent-screen star J. Carrol Naish. I encourage you to scroll through the photos and descriptions of each room before choosing your favorite, as they're all unique.

"The Parker is quintessential Palm Springs luxury," Brown told Who What Wear. "From the moment you enter, you are transported. It’s one of those special properties where you not only envision yourself having a good time; you can imagine staying forever. It’s the perfect mix of style, sophistication, and comfort. It’s chic and playful. The grounds are incredible, and the food is really good."

Because of its kitschy, colorful, themed rooms, the Trixie Motel is kind of like Palm Springs' version of the Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo (but much newer and smaller). Each of the seven rooms and suites at the Trixie Motel has a distinct theme. Clockwise from top left, the above images depict the bee-inspired Honeymoon Suite, the heart-centric Queen of Hearts Room (right), and the '60s-themed Flower Power Suite. It's the perfect spot for a bachelorette trip if you ask me.

What to Do

Sure, you can drive by some cool mid-century homes on your own, but The Modern Tour actually lets you go inside some of the city's architectural gems. Pictured above, one of the most striking properties is the Frey House II (which I should note is only offered on select tours, must be reserved at least 48 hours in advance, and sells out quickly). The tour is operated in conjunction with The Palm Springs Art Museum, which is another "not-to-be-missed" destination according to Brown. "It’s filled with enviable contemporary art and the perfect place to wander around on super-hot days," she told us. "There’s a street fair on Thursdays just outside, and it’s an absolute must."

Technically, Sunnylands is located in Rancho Mirage, but it's a mere 15-minute drive from Palm Springs. Upon completion in 1966, one of this estate's first guests was President Dwight D. Eisenhower, which should tell you a lot about the caliber of visitors that were still to come. Over the years, the property has also welcomed Queen Elizabeth II, President Barack Obama, King Abdullah II of Jordan, and a slew of other diplomats, civil rights leaders, and politicians from around the world. You can tour the 15-acre gardens for free, but you do need to purchase a guided tour if you want to see inside the 25,000-square-foot historic home.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway ascends approximately 6000 feet in just 10 minutes. At the top, there are observation decks, two restaurants, a gift shop, and over 50 miles of hiking trails. Be warned: The temperature at the top is usually 30 to 40ºF cooler than the desert floor and sometimes has snow between December and April, so you'll want to bring layers. The views on the tram and at the top are truly hard to beat.

Where to Shop

When I browsed the vintage selection at Mitchell's in January, I was pleased to find an impressive mix of luxury designers such as Valentino, Pucci, Chanel, Lanvin, Oscar de la Renta, Givenchy, and others. The store stocks vintage pieces from the 1960s to the early 2000s as well as current designer items. I particularly loved the dresses, but the store also sells menswear, jewelry, accessories, and shoes.

Market Market takes up 40,000 square feet of the famed South Palm Canyon Drive. You'll find a mix of vintage clothes, accessories, home décor, furniture, and art, including repurposed and one-of-a-kind gems. The store also houses the Palm Springs Bottle Shop, selling beer, wine, spirits, snacks, and nonalcoholic beverages. Talk about a one-stop shop!

There's a lot to love about the Mojave Flea Trading Post, which touts itself as "both a shopping destination and a cultural hub." There's a great selection of handmade goods by local artisans from the Coachella Valley, including ceramics, art prints, and hand-poured candles. You can also shop vintage and repurposed clothes for both men and women. When I visited, I was tempted to take home one of the colorful scarves pictured above.

Where to Dine

Housed inside the Holiday House hotel, The Pantry is a good bet for weekend brunch, but it's also open for lunch Monday through Friday and for dinner nightly. You can count me in for those lemon ricotta pancakes topped with blueberries, pictured above.

Dimly lit cocktail bar Tailor Shop is another one of my favorites. Original cocktails include Breath in the Afternoon, a mix of absinthe, champagne, lemon, orange, and sugar, as well as Lace Made, which combines Astral tequila, Campari, Ancho Reyes Verde liqueur made with green fire-roasted poblano chiles, grapefruit, lime, and simple syrup.

To get a taste of Old Hollywood in Palm Springs, look no further than Melvyn's, which used to be patronized by the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Marlon Brando, and Frank Sinatra. Opened in 1975, Melvyn's is known for its martinis and nightly live music. You can either saddle up to the bar or sit down for dinner, where the menu includes elevated takes on hearty staples like mac and cheese, chicken pot pies, and burgers.

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

Sandy beaches, laid-back towns, a rich culinary and artisanal culture, and the sheer proximity to the U.S.—I don't need to spell out all the reasons why it's a good idea to book a vacation in Mexico, so let's just agree that the list of draws is lengthy. Of course, the next question is where to go, and there seems to be a singular answer among my most in-the-know friends right now: Puerto Escondido. Beach towns are aplenty in Mexico, but few have the tight-knit feel that Puerto Escondido does. Situated on the Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca, it's a far cry from the throngs of tourists and large-scale resorts in areas like Cancún and Cabo San Lucas, which is naturally part of the draw. In fact, "untouched" is how celebrity and VIP stylist Coco Schiffer describes it after visiting for the first time last year as part of a brand trip with Artless Forever. "You can't see many hotels or properties from the main roads, and it takes a bit of driving before you hit them. However, once you make it to the properties, the architecture and design is unparalleled. Many are built to blend into the natural environment, making it a truly special experience," she says.

Surfers have been making the trek here for decades to chase its legendary waves, and while its roots as a rustic surf town can certainly still be felt, it's taking on a more grown-up feel these days with the arrival of several design-forward hotels, a burgeoning culinary scene, modern and contemporary art outposts, and—perhaps most notably—nonstop flights from the U.S. (United Airlines is adding routes to begin this spring, and it's only a matter of time until others follow suit.) Vogue, Condé Nast Traveler, and the Michelin Guide have all taken notice recently too, with the latter doling out its esteemed Michelin Keys to several new hotels in 2024.

"I first visited Puerto Escondido in the ’90s with my parents, back when it was truly untouched—just endless beaches, a handful of surf shacks, and an energy that felt completely undiscovered," New York-based brand consultant Osmund Allenberg shares. "What makes PE so special is that, despite its evolution, it hasn’t lost its soul. The boutique hotels feel personal, never commercial. The restaurants are thoughtful, never overproduced. And there’s this creative energy—people come not just to visit, but to stay. Even when you know exactly where you’re going, it still feels like a secret.

In Puerto Escondido, you're here for the beach, but if you can peel yourself away long enough, a day trip to Casa Wabi is in order. The art foundation is less of a traditional museum and more of an artist retreat and cultural center. Of course, no trip is complete without lots of time in and around the water—surfing, fishing, whale watching, and beachside horseback riding are all on the menu for a serene getaway here. As for where you'll want to stay, a new crop of boutique hotels has emerged to highlight sustainability and modern Mexican design, and the luxury options are simple yet stylish. With that, I'm taking the opportunity to curate my ultimate guide to the Oaxacan surf town, including everything from the fashion person–adored boutique hotel that's probably already on your Pinterest board to the best beaches, mezcal bar, surf school, and so much more.

Where to Stay

Casa TO is so striking you'd be forgiven for thinking it looks AI generated. The brutalist architecture is defined by exposed cement and an open-plan design with semicircles that look like they were scooped out of the foundation. In other words, it's a Pinterest-board fantasy come to life. The project is a brainchild of renowned architect Ludwig Godefroy and a celebration of various Mexican artisans and design studios. With just nine suites and only its on-site bar Glou Glou, the retreat is about as low-key as it gets—just you and your immersive surroundings.

"This is Puerto Escondido at its most effortless," Allenberg describes of Casona Sforza. The boutique hotel is one of a few select Mexican hotels to receive a Michelin Key in the guide's first iteration of the award, which is a new category rolled out in 2024 to recognize excellence in design, service, character, and attention to detail. Currently, only 13 countries have this distinction, and Mexico is one of them with Casona Sforza. As you'll come to realize, many of the hotels here blend nature and design seamlessly, and the signature curved rattan archways that give the whole property a bohemian aesthetic are one of the best examples. "Mornings spent on a private terrace overlooking the ocean, afternoons moving at their own pace, and evenings sipping mezcal under the stars—it’s a sanctuary in the best way," Allenberg continues, calling out that the service, in particular, is what makes the entire stay feel seamless. "It’s everything you want from PE without any unnecessary fuss."

Sustainability meets modern design at Terrestre, an immersive retreat of 14 villas with an on-site hammam and private beach. It comes as the latest addition to Grupo Habita's family of lifestyle hotels, which is essentially a short list of the best of the best in design and hospitality throughout the country. Perhaps most impressively, the hotel operates completely off the grid using 100% solar power and invites guests to reconnect with nature throughout their stay. "The modernized off-grid concept forces you to be present, which is part of its appeal," Allenberg shares. "The earthen architecture and private plunge pools at night create a surreal, dreamlike experience. It’s beautifully executed but requires a certain mindset—perfect for a wellness reset." An open-air restaurant, a circular pool, and an immersive spa are what you'll find at this sophisticated yet simple hotel.

Where to Dine

Don't let its unpretentious exterior fool you, Cobarde is one of the most exciting culinary additions to Puerto Escondido's growing lineup of more "mature" options. On the outside, it's a rustic bar pouring up small-batch mezcal you won't easily find elsewhere, and to an extent it's a perfect spot to grab a nightcap. But sit down for dinner here and you might just be blown away by the traditional Mexican dishes that are done in a very modern, elevated way. "The chef has done an incredible job of combining unexpected flavors, without compromising the food to want to be trendy in a forced way," Allenberg shares. "The ambiance is moody and intimate, the kind of place that feels like a secret but is filled with people who seem to just know. It’s the kind of place where dinner seamlessly transitions into late-night drinks, and every moment feels unforced. Even if you’ve been before, it still feels like a discovery."

An omakase restaurant isn't the first place you'd expect to find in a traditional surf town, but then again, Kakurega Omakase isn't quite so traditional either. Chef Keisuke Harada serves up cuts of fish that are exclusively caught in the local area that's set underneath a palapa roof in the Oaxacan jungle next to the stylish Hotel Escondido. "It has very limited seating, and the chef only uses the most local fresh fish," brand consultant Sydney Schiff says. "The cuisine was out of this world." She also suggests stopping by the mezcal distillery next door for a sip before you dine.

There was one restaurant that was mentioned by almost everyone I spoke with about where to eat in Puerto Escondido—Chicama. Phoenix Anderson, an NYC-based model, put it simply: "The ceviche is insane—go!" The Peruvian spot is everything you want in coastal cuisine—ceviche, yes, but also seared octopus, fried plantains, and passion fruit margaritas. "Get whatever fish is on the menu and a mezcal sour—the bartender Marco makes the best in the entire world," Schiff insists, adding that the vibes are immaculate. "There's always a wait after sunset in La Punta, so go before then and wait in line (it's worth it, trust me)." The move is to have dinner here and stick around for a cocktail when it turns into one of the few hot spots for nightlife in town.

What to Do

In Puerto Escondido, you surf. If you're brave enough to hop on a board for a lesson, Anderson gushes about the programs at Oasis Surf and Spanish School. "I thought I knew how to surf until I came to Puerto and saw how powerful the waves were," she says. "For me, it was intimidating, but the coaches at Oasis are super involved and knowledgeable. They have photographers taking photos of you, which is not only great for memories, but they also have sessions where you look back at the photos and point out what you're doing wrong and how to improve. It's extremely helpful." Playa Carrizalillo is the calmer of the beach breaks, she notes, and the main La Punta Zicatela is where you'll find more advanced surfers.

Even if you spend 99% of your time being horizontal by the beach or pool, no trip to Puerto Escondido is complete without a visit to Fundación Casa Wabi. "This was honestly such a crazy experience," Schiffer tells me. "You drive for what feels like hours down this bumpy dirt road and then pull up on this massive horizontal concrete structure. It's such a shock to the system because it's in the most random location. We had a tour guide take us around the exhibit, and he told us about the art installations and how each artist who is featured takes up residency at the property for a few months while creating the pieces. They are all inspired by the land itself. I loved the neon-red rocks—they felt out of place but stood out dramatically."

By now, it should be abundantly obvious that Puerto Escondido isn't where you come to fill up your itinerary from morning straight until night. Sightseeing is largely limited to Casa Wabi, which you'll certainly want to set aside at least a half day for, in addition to day trips to some of the beaches that sit along the coast an hour or less from town. Immersing yourself in nature is the primary goal, whether that means getting on a surfboard or simply being horizontal next to the closest body of water. If you can muster enough courage for the former, then I'd venture that you can do the same to saddle up on the back of a horse. Guided sunset rides are easy to come across and will, no doubt, end up becoming one of the trip's core memories—or, at the very least, make for a few pretty Instagram posts. "While staying at Hotel Escondido we ran into some very nice vaqueros who were hanging out on the beach and they took us riding at sunset," Schiff recounts, pointing out that it's always a good idea to have some pesos on you in order to jump on adventures like this at a moment's notice. "It was amazing to be galloping down untouched beaches where the river met the sea. It was a memory I'll never forget."

Where to Beach

Stretching for over two miles along the Oaxacan coast is Playa Zicatela, and right at the southern end is where you'll find Playa La Punta, one of only a few beaches in the area. Here's where to head to try your surfing skills on more advanced waves or to simply soak in some of the most breathtaking sunsets.

Schiff tells me that she'd be remiss not to mention several nonprofit groups that have emerged to combat serious issues facing the area as the community sees a rise in tourists. "If you visit, please be sure to donate to SOS Puerto, and leave this special place cleaner than when you arrived, taking care of the nature around you," she says, adding that part of the experience is a respect for the land, the ocean and the Oaxacan people.

Set in a sheltered cove west of the center that's reached by a stairway of 157 steps, Playa Carrizalillo is where you'll want to head to actually swim and get in the water to snorkel, as it's more protected from the harsh currents you'll find at the main beaches. It's also incredibly photogenic and a place that encapsulates the magic of the area. Schiff says the experience feels like you just jumped out of a mermaid movie. "I've been to hundreds of beaches, and this is my favorite," she beams.

What to Pack

Puerto Escondido is a beach destination, after all, and both Allenberg and Schiffer advise on filling your suitcase with a wardrobe that's effortless yet refined. "The less clothes the better. It's hot." Schiffer advises. Not only that, but as most of the structures feature an indoor-outdoor situation, a focus on heat- and humidity-proof pieces like breezy linens, the perfect bikini, a woven tote, and simple slide sandals are not only recommended, but perhaps crucial. To that end, the style vibe is very minimal and low-key here, so the move is to go for a lineup of easy essentials and punctuate your outfits with standout accessories. If you opt for a fancier dress and heels for dinner, you may be the only one. In fact, Schiffer suggests leaning into the Japanese influence of the surroundings and keep your looks minimal—a few fun necklaces and accessories will do the trick. Nothing is perfectly streamlined, but that’s part of the charm, Allenberg adds. "[Puerto Escondido] is perfect place to slow down, and enjoy the comforts of a Mexico that still feels somewhat untouched."

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

It feels like every time we open up Instagram from June through Labor Day, someone else is posting a carousel of images with the hashtag #Eurosummer. Low-lit wine bars, melting cones of gelato, dramatic cliff beaches, heaping plates of pasta, afternoons spent jumping off a boat. Like clockwork, we expect to see the same few destinations in the geotags on these posts (Positano! St. Tropez! Mykonos!).

Don't get me wrong, the jet set certainly delivered on this front all the same, but this summer, there was one Mediterranean island where it seemed like every single person in our orbit (from close friends to runway models and A-list celebrities) was touching down—and no, it wasn't on the usual circuit in Italy, France, or even Greece. I'm talking about Mallorca, the largest of Spain's Balearic islands and the destination where it seemed like every cool person was vacationing.

And we do mean everyone. Emily Ratjkowski has gone every summer since she was 11 years old. The Jenner sisters documented a stylish family trip there this past June. And Italian model Vittoria Ceretti made headlines when she and rumored boyfriend Leonardo DiCaprio were spotted on a yacht just off its rocky shores. Mallorca has always been somewhat of a hot spot (for one, it happens to be the island in Love Island UK), but it seemed to jump to new heights this year with even more celebrity buzz.

With that, we're taking the opportunity to curate our ultimate guide to the island, including everything from the fashion-person-adored boutique hotel that's probably already on your Pinterest board to the stunning cove beaches where you'll find the most intense turquoise-blue water.

To uncover the best places to stay, dine, drink, shop, and swim in Mallorca, we recruited a handful of insiders from the fashion and travel worlds who know the island best. Following annual pilgrimages to the Balearic Islands, Australian designer Lucy Folk is currently based in Mallorca where she's taken on a residency at the buzzy boutique Hotel Corazón. The jewelry and clothing from her eponymous line will be on offer there throughout the summer.

Fora CEO and Co-Founder Henley Vazquez has been coming to the island for over 15 years, returning both for work and family trips, for its idyllic combination of mountains and beaches. In fact, she fittingly describes it as the "Santa Barbara of Europe."

Alicia Gutiérrez, a model and journalist who was born and raised in the capital, Palma, has always called Mallorca home. Though she moved to Madrid for university and is currently based in NYC, she still spends every summer here.

Who What Wear UK's very own Managing Editor Poppy Nash is also a wealth of Mallorcan knowledge as she has gone every year since she was a baby and has stayed all over the island.

WWW Travels Tip: The island isn't small and there's a lot to see all over the map. The move is to rent a car, but Fora advisor Claudia Riegelhaupt says to avoid renting from the airport and instead take a transfer to your hotel and have your rental car delivered to you there.

Where to Stay in Mallorca

"My top recommendation is undoubtedly Hotel Corazón," Gutiérrez proclaims. And she's not alone. The Vogue-recommended boutique hotel has been a buzzy destination since its inception by British fashion photographer Kate Bellm and artist Edgar Lopez in 2023. Nestled in the Tramuntana mountains halfway between the towns of Deià and Sollér, it attracts those looking to connect with nature and the island's most bohemian side. Instead of modern-day features like in-room TV, here you'll find amenities like artist workshops, sound healing, and guided hikes to explore the surrounding areas. The 15-room property may be intimate in size, but owners and artists themselves Bellm and Lopez have aimed to create a sense of community with Corazón as much as they have a hotel.

"I can personally attest that [Bellm's] priority was to create a space where artists could both enjoy and feel inspired," says Gutiérrez. "She has exceeded all expectations. Each of the 15 rooms at the hotel is custom-made by local artisans using materials from the island." Indeed, Bellm explains that the rooms are designed and furnished so that guests feel as if they're staying at a friend's house, not just any hotel. The on-site boutique is equally as inspired, from hand-painted ashtrays and plates by Lopez to chic snorkels, the most luxurious intellect repellent, Bellm's books, Corazon Farm tinctures, bikinis, and more, describes Folk.

If you’re after some real downtime, Nash says that the hotel/wellness retreat Es Racó d'Artà in the northern part of the island is just a dream. "It’s only a short drive from the airport, but a world away from busy Palma. Situated on a farm, it’s rural but also incredibly luxurious, with a stunning spa, two beautiful pools surrounded by olive trees, and daily meditation and yoga classes." Dotted with wildflowers and even donkeys, Folk insists that you don’t even have to leave the property which she describes as serene and enchanting. "I would recommend a villa with a pool for complete privacy and nudist swims. The meditation room itself is transcendent," she adds.

WWW Travels Tip: Don't be afraid to stay inland. Despite the island's beachy draws, surprisingly few of the hotels are directly on the water—at least, the more unique and stylish ones aren't, informs Riegelhaupt. "Be open to staying off the beach and visiting different beaches during your stay," she suggests.

Recently renovated and reopened by the team behind Andalucia’s Finca Cortesin, Vazquez gushes that Son Net is getting all the rave reviews these days. "It’s set down a small lane in a quiet part of the countryside, easy to explore that part of the island but also perfect for hiding away from the crowds," she muses. "A must."

WWW Travels Tip: Split your time between two different spots—one in the north and one further south— to get a feel for the whole island. If you prefer to stay put, it only takes about an hour to cross from one side to the other and explore from one home base.

Where to Dine in Mallorca

"La Residencia may be known as one of the island’s best hotels (and it is), but even if you’re not staying, come by for a dinner in the magical courtyard at El Olivo," says Vazquez. "Not far from here is Ca’s Patro March, the waterfront lunch spot made famous by The Night Watchman. It may have popped in popularity a few years ago due to the show, but it’s a classic and one to reserve well ahead of time for long lunches of fresh seafood and chilled wine."

WWW Travels Tip: Don't worry about being late to have lunch or dinner. Gutierrez explains that in Spain, lunch can begin as late as 5 p.m. and dinner as late as 11 p.m., so if you go out to eat on the early end, you'll find more tourists and if you go later, you'll dine alongside the locals.

In the tiny village of Biniaraix, Folk raves about Bar Bodega which she notes has been gaining a cult following for its foodie pop-ups by local chefs, its olive leaf lattes, and its community spirit. "Set in the square, it's full of locals and is great for the family," she says. "Local chefs celebrate their skills throughout the season with alluring menus and it's fast becoming booked out."

Located within the oak forest and almost hidden among wild vegetation between Caimari and the Lluc Monastery is Es Guix, one of Gutiérrez's favorite spots for a romantic dinner. Quality products, good service, and an extensive wine list are all of its highlights, she notes, offered in one of the most beautiful and captivating environments on the island. "Before or after eating you can take a swim in its natural pool with water that comes straight down from the mountain. A special and unforgettable place."

WWW Travels Tip: Nearly everywhere will take card, Nash informs, but it doesn't hurt to have cash for tips (or cans of beer on the beach!).

Where to Shop in Mallorca

As you might imagine for an island most often described as bohemian and rustic, the shopping options highlight its handcrafted traditions and slow-living ethos. One such destination in the town of Deià is the boutique Datura Studio Isla. The brand itself hails from New York and at their Mallorcan outpost you'll find exclusively sustainable high-end and natural fabrics. "One can purchase beautiful garments, shoes, sunglasses, bags. All wonderfully curated and chic," says Folk.

When in Mallorca, it would be a shame not to leave room in your suitcase for some handcrafted Spanish textiles. Each summer that Nash returns to the island, she makes a point to pop into this shop for charming and colorful ceramic souvenirs.

At Gres Gallery, you'll find family-made ceramics by Dora Alzamara Good. According to Folk, these are the ultimate artifact souvenirs. She notes that luckily they ship everywhere, which is the ideal scenario for over-packers like her (felt). It's not all ceramic pots and objects, though. Interesting jewelry and furniture sit alongside the ceramics, she says, and advises you to make sure you ring ahead before a visit.

Where to Swim in Mallorca

"One of my favorite beaches to visit in Mallorca is Sa Calobra," Who What Wear assistant shopping editor Ana Escalante tells me. "It feels like another world, nestled in between two rocky cliffs on the north shore of the island. The best way to access it is by cycling or arriving by boat, meaning it's not as congested as other scenic spots in peak summer. Whenever my family and I head to Mallorca, it's one of the spots I look forward to visiting the most. Plus, it certainly helps that it's Jenner sister–approved."

WWW Travels Tip: If you’re staying in self-catered accommodation and want to do something like rent a boat, make friends with the local hotel and enquire there, advises Nash. If you can, it's 100% worth renting a boat for the day to go swimming and travel between secret beaches, she insists.

Crystal-clear water isn't hard to find here as most of the beaches boast some of the most intensely turquoise hues in all of the Mediterranean. Still, Nash adores Cala Llombards for its views. "Pretty but tiny" is how she describes the cove and suggests getting there early for a quiet swim.

Mallorca has no shortage of perfectly picturesque beaches to post up at for the day, although the majority of them are clustered on the southern end of the island, including the glimmering aquamarine cove at Cala d'Or.

What to Pack for Mallorca

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

When I was traveling through Greece last summer, there was a single island everyone I encountered was talking about. They were either just coming from it, heading there next, or considering a visit, and it had me seriously considering extending my trip just to see what all the chatter was about. Milos is the Cycladic island that enjoyed an under-the-radar reputation for decades, but amid a post-pandemic travel boom, it's undeniably having a moment.

In case you were unaware, there are more than 6000 islands that make up Grecian territory. Only 227 of these are inhabited, which is still an arresting figure to confront as a casual tourist. For many, a trip to Greece is a once-in-a-lifetime ordeal (even getting there from the U.S. can often be a multiday journey), so choosing the right island to visit is no small feat. There are the well-known choices—Santorini and Mykonos—but for those looking to branch out, it can feel impossible to know where to go.

Milos is a visual feast of rocky white cliffs set against the most brilliant crystal-blue water. Its otherworldly beaches and colorful fishing villages are the main draws, and over the past several years, it's seen a steady uptick in international travel, especially with Americans. What sets Milos apart from nearby Paros and Naxos is its truly remote feel. There isn't one town that everyone flocks to at the same time. Without one central village, the island is more spread out. Yes, this means that you'll probably need a car, but also, even in the height of its travel season in July and August, it rarely feels overcrowded. "There is a lot of range there," explains Yolo Journal founder Yolanda Edwards. "You can go high-end on the hotel and restaurant scene or more middle, and you'll also see a backpacker here and there. I find it so refreshing in that way."

"A few years ago, Milos featured prominently in an ad campaign for Louis Vuitton and was cited as the inspiration for Dior's cruise collection," notes luxury travel consultant Rebecca Bullen. "While the secret is out, it still remains far more chill and cruisey (pun intended) than Santorini or even Paros."

Who What Wear Travels Tip: According to Edwards, mid-September until late October is the time to visit. The sea is warm, and the crowds are gone.

"Compared to the very touristed islands of Mykonos and Santorini, yes, Milos is more up-and-coming," Edwards continues. "But consider that Mykonos and Santorini also became famous over decades when the only way to hear about them was through magazine articles or word of mouth. Milos, Paros—they are quickly becoming very well-known because of the power of social media."

In fact, part of what makes Milos so charming and intimate is its lack of major hotel chains. Instead, you'll find an array of boutique accommodations that range from a private stay in one of the converted waterfront fishing huts the island is known for to a luxury villa that sits atop a seaside cliff. Angela Fink, a Los Angeles–based content creator, chose to renew her vows in Milos last summer. "I was mesmerized by the surreal white volcanic rocks shaped in incredible forms, resembling a landscape from another world," she muses. "At that moment, I knew, without a doubt, that this was the place."

Who What Wear Travels Tip: If deciding between the ferry and flight to transfer between Athens, go for the flight. "The ferry is hot and chaotic," photographer and National Geographic contributor Jessica Sample warns. "The flight is, too, but it's shorter and easier."

Skinopi Lodge is just seven stone villas nestled into the craggy landscape of the island with a footprint so discreet you would be forgiven for forgetting the buildings are there. It is the passion project and brainchild of Nausika Georgiadou, who spent over a decade mindfully bringing Skinopi to life. "The villas are über-minimalist, and the lines between indoor and outdoor blurred. The décor is minimalist so as not to compete with the natural beauty of it all. There are no TVs, and even lighting has been kept to a minimum to minimize light pollution," Bullen says. Skinopi is strategically positioned to face Milos's epic sunsets and maximize the northern breezes that have long been relied upon to cool down spaces. "As Milos becomes a well-known island and tourism increases, these values will become even more rare and important," Georgiadou adds.

Going upscale here means booking a suite at Domes White Coast, a design-forward stay that encapsulates Grecian luxury. Its boho rattan furnishings and sleek infinity pools are set against clean-looking, whitewashed buildings. "It's maybe the most expensive and high-end option on the island," informs Sample. She also gushes that the private plunge pools are dreamy, the sunsets are spectacular, and the service is top-notch. "The restaurant felt fussy and deserted for dinner, but the included breakfast was great," she continues. "Overall, a fantastic location."

Terra Mare Suites is another stay I heard repeated throughout all the recommendations I sifted through. "We didn't stay here, but I wish we had if it had been available," says Sample. "[It's] a white-and-blue fishing house on a secluded cove of turquoise clear water with a little patio. There are so many nearby bakeries to stock up for breakfast, and it's near lots of towns for lunch or dinner. It's also 10 to 15 minutes from the famous white cliffs."

More stays to jot down: For a truly unique experience, rent one of the converted fishing huts Milos is known for on platforms like Airbnb. Bullen also suggests Melian Boutique Hotel and Spa, a property of 15 whitewashed suites that she says showcase the best of traditional Cycladic design. Milos Breeze Hotel is a wonderful boutique option in Pollonia.

If there's one thing I learned about Milos, it's that nobody leaves the island without a meal or two at O! Hamos! The bistro is serving up traditional Greek dishes like horiatiki salad and grilled halloumi, and the move is to order a bunch of small plates to share. From the handwritten menus to the terra-cotta dishware, it's filled with plenty of traditional Greek charm, which Edwards echoes. "It's incredible—everything is from the owners' garden. It's also popular, so go for early or late lunch," she suggests.

Edwards also mentions the recently opened Okto, which is run by a local Greek chef. "Nikos had worked in Paris kitchens for many years and returned here several years ago, bringing a farm-to-table approach," she explains. Expect an elevated take on classic Greek dishes using local and in-season produce. Another plus? It's open from breakfast until dinner. Sample says to request a table in the courtyard and not inside or on the side patio.

Who What Wear Travels Tip: Greek wines, often the cheapest option, are not to be missed here. They're harder to find at home in the U.S., so make the most of trying the local varieties, especially the whites and rosés.

For Fink, Medusa was a dining highlight, where its fresh octopus is dried out in the sun a few steps away from the restaurant. Incredibly fresh seafood is one of the treasures that comes with a trip to Milos, and from what I gleaned, Medusa is one of the top places on the island to enjoy it. Sample echoes her love for the Milos favorite and its legendary seaside location in the charming fishing town of Mandrakia, highlighting that the swordfish souvlaki and cured white anchovies were menu standouts. "They don't take reservations, so [it's] best to queue up at noon and get your name on the list while you wander in the village," she adds.

More restaurants to jot down: Edwards also recommends Astakas in Klima for the perfect sunset dinner on the beach and Emborious Tavern, where you can always get a table without a reservation. Georgiadou is a fan of To Kyma in Kimolos, and Utopia Cafe in Plaka is the undisputed place to be at sunset, says Bullen.

With its swath of otherworldly rock formations, Sarakiniko is the must-see item for any Milos itinerary, and for many photographers and creatives, it's not only a stop along the way—it's the main attraction. Our experts describe exploring the sculpted volcanic rock at this beach (if you can call it a "beach") as stepping foot on Mars. While it does tend to garner a crowd during peak sun when beachgoers line up to jump off one of the cliffs into the glimmering Aegean Sea below, many tell me that they returned at sunrise for a serene and visually striking experience.

Who What Wear Travels Tip: The consensus is to wake up before dawn and watch the sunrise at Sarakiniko before the crowds descend.

Firopotamos isn't so much a beach as it is an "enchanting little cove," as Fink puts it. While there is a sandy beach, it's also a quaint seaside town with old ruins. You'll want to dock a boat here and dive into the water, but she ensures that you can drive there as well. "The water is perfection," Sample adds.

Even though Kleftiko is more of a dramatic rock formation than a traditional beach, it was hard not to feature it, as it ranks high on everyone's list for the top swimming spots around the island. Charter a boat for the day—Sample recommends hiring Excellent Yachting for a full-day cruise from Adamas port—and stop here to snorkel and swim through the stunning sea caves.

More beaches to jot down: There are many wild beaches that you can have to yourself, Edwards informs. She's a fan of Kastanas and Fyriplaka. There are also plenty of organized beaches, such as Plathiena, which has umbrellas, loungers, and a taverna.

While Pollonia and Plaka are the two most upscale towns and where you'll likely find yourself dining and shopping the most, Klima is a must-visit. The picturesque fishing village is a former fisherman's village where you'll find colorful homes nestled along the water's edge, many of which have been converted into Airbnbs that make for a very unique stay.

Built by the Venetians who ruled Milos, the castle that is now a Greek church is on the second-highest peak on the island, making for an epic sunset view.

Who What Wear Travels Tip: Renting a car is a must here, as everything is spread out. Prioritize an SUV or four-wheeler that can best navigate the rocky terrain.

One of Georgiadou's favorite things to do when she's not running things over at Skinopi Lodge is to hike through the ancient city—which is close to her resort—past the ancient theatre and the catacombs, and on to the sea.

More sights to jot down: Edwards suggests a hike up to Nychia, the ancient obsidian quarry with incredible views that is accessible via footpaths surrounded by wild thyme. She also mentions Pollonia, the more upscale town that always has a new restaurant or store every season. Fink suggests planning a visit to the Marmara Sand Museum "if you are a rock nerd like [her]."

The general consensus is that a Milos-bound suitcase should adhere to the standard island wardrobe rules: light, airy layers that can withstand the heat coupled with practical but beachy accessories that you can pair with any number of outfits. "A hat that ties under the chin is a must!" Edwards insists. "Whether you're hiking, sitting on the beach, or taking a boat trip, the wind can kick up, and you'll thank me that you had yours tied down."

Footwear should be minimal but walkable—a pair of rubber flip-flops won't cut it here. Instead, you'll want to opt for sandals with a substantial sole that can keep up with all the rocky beaches you'll be exploring, like the Chanel Dad Sandals that Fink relied on for her trip. Since nightlife here translates to an evening dinner overlooking the Aegean, you can skip the party attire and focus on easy, elevated ensembles like airy linen and silk dresses. The main event of your suitcase should, naturally, be swimwear along with cover-ups and SPF-adjacent accessories, like a good sunhat.

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

"Miami is growing a lot in every single way," explains model Isabela Grutman. And she's not wrong. In 2020, when cities like New York experienced a drain of residents escaping for a more agreeable lifestyle, cities like Miami were the destination for many. In fact, so many New Yorkers moved to South Florida over the last three years that you're reminded of the city's outsized population everywhere: in the traffic, in the new construction across the city, and in the trend of New York restaurants opening their doors in the zip code.

But it's not just the pull of a perpetually sunny forecast and proximity to the beach that's drawing many south. "There are a lot of new artists, designers, and creative talents moving here," Grutman continues. "Besides that, the different cultures that you find here are always very inspiring to me." Éliou co-founder Duda Teixeira agrees. "I think Miami has changed a lot in the past five years. It is slowly flourishing with creatives, and a community is growing. … Before, it was a fleeting destination—a place where you stopped to figure out the next step (which usually meant New York)," she explains.

The city is a melting pot of cultures and has strong influences from Latin America and the Caribbean. These are "cultures unafraid to immerse themselves in a vivid palette of colors," according to Teixeira, who adds that Miami still has a lingering essence of island life although it is a major city.

Who What Wear Travels Tip: For the best weather, Teixeira and Éliou co-founder Cristina Mantilla say to come during the winter months of December to March: "Miami is a tropical city with warm weather and lots of rain depending on the season. Summers can be tough for those unaccustomed to intense heat and humid climates. It also tends to rain a lot."

Although Miami tends to project a strong image of what it is, there are many different facets of this city to be discovered. We tapped four fashion-industry locals to divulge where this city's style set actually goes to dine, drink, shop, and explore.

Wherever A-listers are in Miami, you're likely to find Isabela Grutman there too. The Brazilian-born model moved to Miami nearly nine years ago after meeting her now-husband, the hospitality mogul David Grutman of Groot Hospitality. In addition to running her ready-to-wear line Rangel, Isabela Grutman advises on the creative side of the hospitality business to oversee the aesthetic and experience of the venues.

Mantilla and Teixeira launched Éliou five years ago with the goal of creating jewelry and now clothing that "capture the lingering feeling of summer—an extension of what it feels like living in Miami and [Teixeira's] time in Brazil." Mantilla grew up in Key Biscayne, a small island next to Miami, and Teixeira hails from Rio de Janeiro, but the two came together to launch a creative agency to fill the void of creative talent in Miami before starting their endeavor with Éliou.

Sofia Tcherassi is the director of ready-to-wear at Silvia Tcherassi, the brand started by her mother Silvia and grandmother Vera 30 years ago. Originally from Colombia, Tcherassi moved to Miami at the age of 6 and has immersed herself in the city's creative community ever since. Both the city and her family's brand are completely intertwined, she says, from the architecture of Miami's two Silvia Tcherassi boutiques to the collections the city inspires.

What to Pack

The last time I was in Miami, I stayed at Soho Beach House, and I truly can't speak highly enough of my experience. The entire property felt like a home away from home right from the second I walked in. From the Pilates instructor who taught class on a sunny balcony to a group of regulars to the server who knocked on my door promptly at 5 p.m. to offer a craft cocktail made in-room, everything about Soho Beach House is curated to feel like you're part of the local community, which I appreciated as a New Yorker who only dreams of splitting time between the two.

As a guest, you get full access to all the amenities of the house, which makes it the best of both worlds: a chic and cozy hotel coupled with the exclusivity of any Soho House. Since I'm not a member myself, I relished accessing the many private spaces there are to choose from to take meetings and get some work done. Even the beach chairs get WiFi, something I didn't need to hear twice before padding down to spend the day with my laptop on one side and a club sandwich on the other.

Sometimes, a Miami Beach trip is in order, but shelling out a small fortune to stay right on the beach isn't. That's where Esmé comes in. The charming boutique hotel has a prime location right on Española Way, but you wouldn't know it when you're inside. The Spanish Mediterranean architecture feels worlds away. "I'm a frequent visitor in Miami, and Esmé has been my home away from home ever since my first visit to the hotel for a work trip," associate editor Sierra Mayhew shares. "Everyone knows how busy the hustle and bustle can be in South Beach, but whenever I enter the doors at Esmé, I feel like I've escaped the noise. The interior design aesthetic is just as bright and colorful as what you're used to seeing in Miami but with much more of a sophisticated edge. If you head up to the rooftop pool, you're definitely sure to spot a fashionable crowd."

"The Standard Hotel is always my top choice for stay," shares Teixeria, whose brand Éliou opened a pop-up shop there last year. Set on Belle Isle in the channel between Miami and Miami Beach, The Standard offers an exclusive oasis that plucks the best of the city without the crowds or chaos of the beach. "There is just such a sense of calmness when you're there," she continues, adding that its café serves one of the best matcha drinks in town. The hotel may be one thing, but the Standard Spa is a destination in and of itself that describes itself as part recovery center and part new-age ashram and boasts a stunning futuristic design and Turkish-style hammam.

More stays to jot down: Mantilla adores Mr. C in the Coconut Grove neighborhood that everyone agrees is the hidden gem of Miami. The Miami Beach Edition, with its gorgeous marble lobby bar, is the unofficial fashion-person outpost in South Beach. Tcherassi loves the well-lit rooms and minimalistic feel of the 1 Hotel. If committing to an aesthetic gets you going, then the Goodtime Hotel is a must.

Miami newcomer Casadonna is the latest project from Groot Hospitality, the same team behind Miami cornerstones Swan and Papi Steak. The sprawling waterfront restaurant has a coastal Italian-inspired menu with staples like campanelle and the delizie al limone dessert that Grutman says is one of her top Miami meals.

Who What Wear Travels Tip: Make reservations and consider traffic and long distances, advises Tcherassi. "Get to the beach earlier and think ahead when planning beauty appointments. I plan mine at least three weeks in advance!" she adds.

If you're willing to venture slightly off the beaten path to the neighborhood of Little River, I can guarantee that you won't be disappointed when you score a table at La Natural, a beloved outpost for sourdough pizza and natural wine. The concept first came to life in owners Javier Ramirez and Andreina Matos' backyard, where the duo would host alfresco dinners for friends and family. Ramirez made the pizzas in a wood-burning oven, and Matos poured up natural wine. Now, of course, word is out, and the restaurant is one of the hottest tables in the city, earning a Bib Gourmand award in the process.

So many New Yorkers have made the move to Miami in recent years that they've started to import their best restaurants. Carbone, Sadelle's, and Pastis have all opened outposts in the zip code, but now, Miami gets to boast about one spot that New Yorkers will want to beg for. Set among the luxury retail stores in the Design District is Contessa, a Major Food Group–run restaurant with an interior design so good it might rival the fusilli genovese on the Northern Italian–inspired menu.

More meals to jot down: Mantilla loves The Dunes, a small tiki hut with a bar wrapped around it that sits right on Key Biscayne's beach. Peel Soft Serve has become a weekend haven for Teixeira, where she and her friends gather for the signature banana-based soft serve. Joe's Stone Crab, a 100-year-old Miami Beach institution, is simply a must for any newcomer to the city. Wynwood's Uchi serves up some of the best Japanese in Miami. Teixeira also adores Macchialina and insists on ordering the off-menu caponata. For a quick and cheap pit stop, don't miss La Sandwicherie, a small window with French-inspired sandwiches and smoothies.

Thousands of art admirers from around the world may descend on South Beach each December for the sprawling Art Basel exhibition, but it's the smaller interior design showcase Design Miami/ that's the real star of the week, if you ask me. It calls itself a "global forum for collective design" and shows museum-quality contemporary furniture, lighting, and objets d'art, but I like to think of it simply as my Pinterest dream home come to life. Last year, the highlight of exhibitions was the resin chairs that Bottega Veneta commissioned from Italian designer Gaetano Pesce.

"The Rubell Museum is one of my favorites," Teixeira shares, "showcasing an extensive collection of contemporary art, including works from both emerging and established artists. In its collection, there is a painting from Oscar Murillo with the word 'Mango' on it. It feels very nostalgic to me because, growing up in Miami, we always looked forward to mango season and joked about life's essentials—having a friend who is a lawyer, a doctor, and, of course, one with a mango tree."

Who What Wear Travels Tip: "Miami has a great nightlife, but I personally prefer activities during the day," says Tcherassi. "Plan a beach day, an afternoon in Bal Harbour, and have lunch on the terrace at Lido, or visit the Rubell and have lunch at Leku."

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens isn't just another museum—it's an immersive cultural destination. Set on a waterfront estate in Coconut Grove, the property is complete with 32 decorated rooms in the main house and a sprawling 10 acres of formal gardens. Built between 1914 and 1922, it was the former villa and estate of businessman James Deering, but today, it serves as a historic time capsule and impressive private art collection. The gardens are dotted with statues, busts, and vases that range from antiquity to the Renaissance and Baroque periods and include modern art from Deering's time.

More sights to jot down: Art Basel is a must if you're in town in early December when the art world's most impressive contemporary works are fixtured in the Miami Beach Convention Center. The Pérez Art Museum Miami has done a wonderful job elevating the art scene in the city, says Tcherassi, and currently boasts a Joan Didion exhibition. She also loves the De la Cruz Collection in the Design District.

"As any local will tell you, the nightlife in Miami is constantly evolving," says Tcherassi. Despite the clubby reputation the city gets, a closer look at the Miami nightlife scene reveals a lineup of smaller and more intimate spaces where talented DJs and craft cocktails are highlighted instead of strobe lights and bottle service. (Hey, no shade if that's your thing.) "A personal favorite right now is ZeyZey," Tcherassi continues. "They have a cool, unpretentious vibe, and the music is amazing. I may be biased, though—my brother Mauricio recently played a great set there!"

Since Miami Beach is on the west coast, watching the sunset over the horizon isn't really a thing here. But at The Standard's bar, catching the sunset over a drink on its dock is a must if you're visiting from out of town, Teixeira says. She adds that the mezcal selection is especially noteworthy.

As the name suggests, an excellent listening experience is inevitable at Dante's HiFi. But just because it's considered a "listening bar" doesn't mean everyone is sitting around in silence—this is Miami, after all. DJs take turns spinning songs from the incredible record collection while bartenders serve up great cocktails and Japanese-inspired snacks.

More late-night spots to jot down: Jaguar Sun comes recommended by the Michelin Guide, having earned the Florida Exceptional Cocktails Award this year. Miami Sound Bar is a downtown cocktail bar inspired by Japanese listening bars. According to The Infatuation, Medium Cool occupies a sweet spot between a club and a cocktail lounge.

Set in a historical art deco building on Collins Ave in the heart of South Beach, The Webster doesn't feel at all like a global retail chain. Instead, its flagship location inside of a 20,000-square-foot historic hotel designed by famed architect Henry Hohauser reimagines the luxury shopping experience into one that feels like stepping into someone's very well-curated home where everything just so happens to be on sale. Each year, the store hosts a slew of events and launches designer exclusives for Miami Art Week and Art Basel.

Who What Wear Travels Tip: Don't be afraid to be overdressed. "Miami is where you can always get away with taking it up a notch style-wise," says Tcherassi. "Use it as an opportunity to wear your favorite outfits."

When Tcherassi isn't focused on her mom Silvia Tcherassi's boutiques, she's probably making a trip to Antiques & Design on Biscayne Blvd. The mall is Florida's premier destination for antiques, collectibles, mid-century furniture, and art, and Tcherassi insists it's a great place to get one-of-a-kind heirlooms like the beautiful art deco jewelry box she recently scored there.

Directly across the street from the famed Faena Hotel is Curio at Faena Bazaar, a truly unique shopping experience featuring fashion, jewelry, art, objects, and more in a 20,000-foot space. While you can certainly come here to source something specific from the selection of designers like Proenza Schouler and Rosetta Getty, you're more than likely to stumble upon something serendipitously from one of the many emerging labels that hosts pop-ups here.

More shopping to jot down: The celebrity-adored source for fine jewelry and rare timepieces, Material Good, recently opened its door in Miami Beach; More than just another neighborhood, Miami's Design District is the ultimate shopping destination featuring stores from established and emerging brands alike. Fly Boutique is a fashion-person favorite for vintage shopping. If you're in the mood for a luxury splurge, there's no better place to do it than at Bal Harbour.

This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

If you've been keeping up with Who What Wear Travels, you know we're tapped into the best of the best when it comes to must-visit destinations. It seems like every one of the coolest people in my orbit across L.A. and NYC is either getting back from a trip to Mexico City or planning one. I managed to visit last spring, and I can say with certainty that the hype is very real. From the food scene, which is bursting with exciting Michelin star-level restaurants like Pujol to the incredible art scene and the Spanish colonial-meets-Brutalist architecture, Mexico City is a must-visit destination for anyone with even a single creative bone in their body. From a style perspective, there's nothing more exciting than seeing and discovering emerging fashion designers, and Mexico City provides a gold mine of local creatives who showcase distinct craftsmanship, style, and personality. 

Mexico City is one of Latin America's biggest fashion and design industries, and the city is a cultural hub whose local fashion scene is increasingly capturing the attention of worldwide design enthusiasts. The city has undergone a powerful cultural awakening and has seen an influx of young people who are revitalizing the local art, party, and fashion scenes. 

Everyone needs to visit, insists Chava Studio founder Olivia Villanti. "So many people talk about coming for the food which, yes, is excellent but of course there’s so much more," she explains. "It isn’t a coincidence that many artists have called Mexico City home because there is something about this city that really provokes your imagination: A must-visit if you’re feeling stuck and need some inspiration."

We tapped a group of the city's fashion insiders to give us their shortlist of go-to spots. Karla Martinez de Salas is the head of editorial content for Vogue Mexico and Latin America and has been in the fashion industry for over 15 years. She relocated to Mexico City from New York in 2015 and is drawn to its many contrasts, especially the mashup of Spanish colonial architecture mixed with Brutalist-style buildings.

Olivia Villanti is also an industry veteran, having worked in magazines' marketing and content departments for over a decade, including working as editorial director of Madewell. Now, she's relocated with her family to her husband's hometown of Mexico City where she launched her made-to-order clothing brand, Chava Studio. 

Roberta Maceda is the founder of Octavia Casa, a boutique hotel in La Condesa that takes its name and stylish POV from Maceda's original venture, a clothing line called Octavia which mainly wholesales for department stores in Mexico. 

Nia Thomas is the founder and designer of her eponymous fashion label, a line of ethically made knitwear that has earned her digital shelf space at Moda Operandi and Shopbop. Originally from New York, Thomas has been based in Condesa, Mexico City for the past two years and credits the weather, people, food, and green space as some factors that drew her there.

"Octavia Casa is extremely special," beams Who What Wear Editorial Director Lauren Eggertsen. "It's a peaceful oasis tucked away in the La Condesa region of Mexico City that has only seven rooms, which makes the entire stay feel very intimate. Octavia Casa originates from the Mexican clothing brand Octavia, so taste is exuding from every corner of this minimally designed space. The hotel serves a stunning small breakfast every day in the lobby and drinks and snacks in the evening. You might be thinking this sounds like a bed and breakfast, but I can assure you the atmosphere here is much more refined and private than what you would expect, especially due to the size of the property. The staff is extremely friendly, the location could not be more idyllic, and your camera rolls will definitely thank you since every corner of this property is wildly photogenic."

Who What Wear Travels Tip: Book as many things as you can prior to your arrival. Ask the hotel you’re staying at for help. Do not worry if you don’t get to see everything—it will be another excuse to come back.

Wide, tree-lined avenues, stately art nouveu mansions, and art deco apartment buildings are what give the La Condesa neighborhood its distinctly European feel. Named after its posh surrounds is Condesa DF, a design-forward hotel situated ideally on a shaded street adjacent to the Parque España. It was one of Mexico City's first boutique hotels and its arrival in 2005 marked the beginning of the city's pull on the trendsetting crowd. Housed in a French neoclassical building, Condesa DF also boasts a classic car art installation by the Mexican visual artist Betsabeé Romero which is permanently parked outside and contributes to the hotel's Old-World-meets-New-World feel.

Who What Wear Travels Tip: Try to learn some basic Spanish if possible, Villanti says. A lot of Mexicans try to speak English or do speak English, but it's so appreciated when the effort is made. You don't have to be fluent—just give it a shot!

"These are simple rooms in one of the most romantic and beautiful converted haciendas in the city," Villanti tells me. "Proyecto Publico Prim offers free meditations every day and weekly programming, plus it has a wonderful restaurant, Taverna Prim. The rooms can be noisy, but I think staying here really brings you inside the city, rather than staying at a traditional hotel.” 

More stays to jot down: Casa Polanco is in a renovated Spanish Revival-style mansion in the posh neighborhood of Polanco and earned a spot on CN Traveler's Hot List; By the same team who brought us Condesa DF is newcomer Circulo Mexicano, a stylish meditation in simplicity in the historic city center; Martinez de Salas recommends Casa Ignacia, an exclusive bed-and-breakfast in Colonia Roma

Before you roll your eyes, let me just say, I know. Featured in seemingly every travel guide across the internet, the hype around Contramar can make you feel outsized. Even I questioned whether it was worth it to try my luck at grabbing a table sans reservation, yes, even at 1 p.m. on a Monday. But if it's your first time visiting Mexico City, I'd say a meal here is absolutely required. The seafood-focused restaurant is situated in the charming Roma neighborhood and is best experienced during the day when the airy dining room turns into one big daytime happy hour filled with the city's most stylish visitors, who flock here from all over to sip white wine and dine on the restaurant's famous tuna tostadas and whole fish dressed in red and green sauce. Finish off your meal with the fig tart and a stroll through nearby Parque México in Condesa, and you'll have yourself a properly indulgent afternoon. Thank me later.

Who What Wear Travels Tip: Get ready to sit at lunch for a long time, Martinez de Salas notes. People usually eat at around 2 p.m., so plan meals accordingly.

Casa Seminario is Mexico City's oldest family home. It was restored in the early '90s and then again in 2022, and it now hosts a cultural program, art studio, guest rooms, and a unique dining experience by Colectivo Amasijo. Villanti gushes that it's "a gorgeous restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine in the oldest inhabited home in the entire city." She loves the neighborhood, Centro, which is the historic district. "You'll be dining right next to the Templo Mayor, which is a must-visit here in Mexico City as well,” she adds. Dining experiences take place Tuesday through Saturday and are reservation-only through the Instagram page @colectivo_amasijo.

 Who What Wear Travels Tip: Be a good tipper. People working in the service industry live off of tips and Thomas suggests 15% as the bare minimum.

You'll quickly come to learn that Mexico City is a breeding ground for Michelin-star quality dining and the list of the city's best restaurants tends to repeat many of the same names like Pujol, Contramar, and Rosetta. But one spot that doesn't get nearly enough attention as it should is Botánico. Eggertsen told me she was shocked to learn that no one was talking about it because it was the most memorable meal of her recent visit. The art deco–designed space features a secret garden-esque patio that makes for the perfect backdrop to people-watch and enjoy something off its constantly rotating menu.

More meals to jot down: El Turix is a no-frills taquería vetted by Bon Appetit and CN Traveler serving up cochinita pibil in Mexico City's Beverly Hills district of Polanco; Ranked as one of the World's 50 Best Bars, Baltra is a mixology bar with a Darwin-esque Galápagos theme and some of the best cocktails in the city; Panadería Rosetta is a must-visit bakery with multiple locations—you won't regret the guava-and-cheese pastry; Martinez de Salas suggests the traditional Mexican dishes at Nico's for any meal of the day; Maceda adores Mi Compa Chava for seafood and suggests going for a late lunch during the week to avoid the weekend crowd.

Casa Orgánica is less of an architectural destination and more of a complete experience for the senses. "Upon entry, you're immediately overtaken with a sense of serenity," Elissa Abd, head of influencers at Aritzia, tells us. "At Casa Orgánica, we walk around barefoot, walking through curved walls in the same sand-colored hue. The architect, Javier Senosiain, is considered to be one of the first architects to explore organic architecture in Mexico, so it was incredible to experience his work so vividly." Set outside of the city center, Abd insists that the house is worth every minute of the one-hour drive it takes to get there. While it is currently closed to the public for visits, we suggest checking back ahead of your next trip to the city in case it reopens in time.

Who What Wear Travels Tip: Uber is the way to get around unless you want to brave the public city bikes, Villanti says, which are also a great way to get around (especially on Sunday mornings when they close one of the city's main avenues Reforma to allow for bikers only).

If the name Casa Gilardi doesn't ring a bell, the imagery of it definitely will. The Luis Barragán–designed residential home is a must-see when in Mexico City and images of its fuchsia and lavender terrace are a dime a dozen on Instagram. The house was the Mexican architect's last completed project and private tours of the residence are given by the family who currently resides in it. 

Who What Wear Travels Tip: Museums will be fuller on Sunday, Maceda says, so the best day to go to museums is Thursday or Saturday.

Frida Kahlo has left a lasting influence on Mexico City, and her works can be seen in many of the museums across CDMX, including at Museo Dolores Olmedo, where the world's largest collection of her works resides. But a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum is a singular experience. It inhabits the late artist's former residence and visiting it not only offers a glimpse into her oeuvre but also a deeper understanding of her life through her surroundings. For fashion buffs, don't miss the smaller section that houses Kahlo's wardrobe, including the full body cast that she wore after her accident which she painted and transformed into a movable sculpture.

More sights to jot down: Museo Jumex houses a world-renowned collection of modern and contemporary works by the likes of Andy Warhol and Damien Hirst; Casa Ortega is a lesser-known home designed by Barragán and was among the architect's first residential properties in Mexico City; Villanti tells us that Museo Anahuacalli houses artist Diego Rivera’s personal collection of pre-Hispanic art.

Who What Wear Travels Tip: Traffic in Mexico City can be rough, so plan your day accordingly. Villanti suggests planning your days around which part of the city you will be in and trying to stay there instead of hopping around too much throughout one days. She also recommends to minimize going from the center of the city to the south during the weekdays at peak hours. 

The may get a lot of chatter about its art and design scenes, but there's undoubtedly a set of rising fashion designers putting CDMX on the global style map. Just take Chava Studio, for instance, a shirting label whose founder Olivia Villanti we tapped as an expert for this guide. Villanti launched the brand in 2020 and each one of her bespoke cotton and linen tailoring is designed and developed in partnership with Gilly e Hijos, a 30-year old family- run fabric and shirting studio.

By now you should be getting the sense Mexico City is a place where fashion, art, and design collide and flourish. After all, the city is considered to be Latin America's biggest design hub, and now its local makers are starting to capture international attention, too. One such local studio is Perla Valtierra, a ceramicist who makes gorgeous vases and table ware with a distinct scalloped design in a variety of earthy shades. Fellow creative Villanti insists her work is simply gorgeous and relies to Valtierra's pieces to make great gifts.

If your idea of a perfect shopping day includes getting lost among shelves of art books and stylish magazines, then head to Casa Bosques. The charming bookstore is set in a colonial-style mansion in Roma Norte and features an expert curation of printed matter on art, architecture, photography, design, and fashion for the aesthetic-minded crowd. "My friends and I spent over an hour in Casa Bosques," Who What Wear's associate social media editor Kayla Allen tells me, gushing that "it has such a great selection of everything from poetry collections to magazines and fun little goodies. A great place to get souvenirs." 

More shopping to jot down: Ethical knitwear label Nia Thomas has a showroom which you can email (info@niathomas.co) to make an appointment for; Vogue called Hi-Bye Mexico City's "coolest concept store"; Goodbye Folk is a multilevel vintage store in the Rome Norte district; Villanti and CN Traveler suggest fragrance boutique Xinú for fragrances based off Mexico’s indigenous flora.

Mexico City is not as hot as people think, informs Maceda. "For this city, you have to prepare to experience all types of weather on the same day from hot to cold to rainy to sunshine again almost always. I would pack a long poplin dress, ankle boots, and light jacket or jumper. You don’t see a lot of people walking around in shorts or strappy tops showing off too much skin." 

With an altitude of over 7000 feet, the mountain climate is far from the vision of hot and humid beaches that most of us associate with Mexico. It means that it can get warm during the day but quite chilly at night, making layering a must. A hat is helpful to shield off the sun, says Villanti, which, again, due to elevation can be strong, and if you’re like her, an oversize button-down to wear with shorts, pants, over tanks, etc. is always suitcase-bound.

Who What Wear Travels Tip: Mexico is a walking city, Martinez de Salas insists, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes and help avoid traffic.

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a new series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

It doesn't take much to see that Sicily is the moment right now. The southern Italian island and largest in the Mediterranean is the subject of endless fascination by the international crowd. This is, in no small part, because of the influence of the second season of HBO's highly acclaimed series The White Lotus, which was set in the chic resort town of Taormina. But if you travel roughly 50 miles to the north, you'll land in a corner of Sicily where the crowds of camera-happy tourists thin out dramatically, and in their place lies the very picture of Italian coastal bliss—the Aeolian Islands.

The Aeolian Islands, an archipelago of seven volcanic islands, sit just off the northeast coast of mainland Sicily but somehow feel worlds away. Though they were deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, the islands have been the subject of fascination for far longer. References to the islands date all the way back to Greek mythology, including a mention in Homer's The Odyssey. Even today, the region continues to be a source of inspiration for all manner of artists—from Michael Radford, who filmed key scenes for his 1994 classic Il Postino on the beaches of Salina, to the many writers, designers, and architects who relish in the primitive beauty of these remote islands. The list of noteworthy names who own homes here is as varied and surprising as the islands themselves and includes names such as sculptor Maurizio Cattelan, conceptual artist Marina Abramovic, and fashion designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana.

There's a reason you might not be very familiar with the Aeolians, though. Vogue referred to them as the "secret islands Italian keep to themselves," and it's not hard to see why locals and those in the know would want to gatekeep. "The quality of the blues, from crystal clear to bright aqua to deep azure, will mesmerize," shares luxury travel advisor Rebecca Bullen. Jutting up dramatically from the Tyrrhenian Sea, the islands reveal themselves as a bizarre primordial mix of black lava beaches and lunaresque rockscapes. In fact, Bullen adds, Stromboli and Vulcano are still active. If you're lucky, you'll get to see the most amazing light shows at night, as Stromboli—nicknamed "the lighthouse of the Mediterranean"—is quite active. When toured by boat, she likens parts of the islands to Hawaii or Kauai.

With Mars-like landscapes and Photoshop-blue water, the main draw is their unfettered access to nature. This is where you go to swim all day, eat the freshest seafood of your life, and gain a deeper understanding of dolce far niente, or "the sweetness of doing nothing." Up until now, the Aeolian Islands have enjoyed a very "if you know, you know" feel, but we have it on good account that they won't be that way forever.

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The islands each have their own distinct personalities. The inner islands of Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, and Panarea have the most to offer, while the outermost Alicudi, Filicudi, and Stromboli offer little more than their rugged landscapes and community with nature. 

For practical reasons, it doesn't make much sense to see them all, but if you have a few free months to spare, the thought of spending a week on each one sounds like our idea of heaven. Our recommendation is to prioritize the breathtaking Salina and its posh neighbor to the east, Panarea. If time allows, a sojourn over to the more rural and artsy Filicudi is not something you'll regret. For this guide, we narrowed our focus to these three.

"Panarea is a photogenic visual feast," shares Bullen. "Think whitewashed buildings covered in shocking pink bougainvillea [and] olive and lemon trees surrounded by the most turquoise sea." Meanwhile, Salina is a crowd-pleaser, Bullen says, and perhaps it's the most common answer to "What's your favorite island?" In addition to boasting some of the best beaches in the archipelago, Salina is where you'll want to head if hiking is your thing. Bullen suggests Maremma Safari Club, which offers a five-day small-group hike around the island.

"Each island is very different," echoes Pia Baroncini. "But I would absolutely recommend staying on Panarea or Salina, as they have the most to offer. These are very much still small islands, and they don't have great beaches—it's about day-tripping and jumping off a boat in a cove."

A note on getting there. While there are not yet any direct flights to Sicily from the U.S., you'll likely be connecting through another major European city and flying into either Catania or Palermo, the two major airports in Sicily. Our recommendation is to plan a day or two of sightseeing here to break up the trip. From there, you can choose to charter a private helicopter straight to the islands or go the more common route, which is to board a hydrofoil or ferry from the ports in Palermo and Milazzo.

WWW Travels Tip: It's common to find only one ATM on the island, so you'd be wise to get cash at the airport before your arrival. 

We wanted our experts to be well-versed in travel to the Aeolian Islands but still have a fashion-person perspective. We tapped two women who each have a distinct POV on the region, but both share an emotional attachment to it that, you'll come to learn, is impossible to avoid.

Up first is Bullen, who is a luxury travel advisor and former fashion executive for brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Burberry. She puts it best, explaining that her job is to provide access to the best destinations and experiences around the world. Her area of expertise includes travel to Italy, of course, but also to France, Japan, Southeast Asia, and Australia. Bullen is extremely well-versed in what the luxury consumer expects thanks to her long career in luxury fashion houses, which, according to her, has made the transition to the travel industry quite seamless.

"Fashion people love to travel and always seem to be one step ahead when it comes to where to go next," Bullen says of her insider intel on the hottest destinations. "Thanks to a tip from a colleague—the VP of merchandising at Louis Vuitton at the time—my husband and I honeymooned in Tulum 12 years ago when it was still off the grid and showers were filtered seawater." We're not sure about you, but we're inclined to listen to her based on that anecdote alone.

Next, we tapped Baroncini, who you may know as the creative director of LPA. She's the co-founder of Baroncini Import & Co. and host of the Everything Is the Best podcast. Baroncini has such a special relationship with Sicily, as it's her husband's home, and she's spent the last eight years going there multiple times a year. "It's an incredibly large part of our life," she adds. Baroncini is also fresh off the heels of a very Instagrammable trip to the Aeolian Islands, where she celebrated her brand LPA with fellow It girls Elsa Hosk and Shay Mitchell. 

The list of luxury and high-end accommodations on the islands is limited, but that's definitely part of their rustic charm. There are locally owned and family-run boutique hotels that we think are the best way to experience the Aeolians, but you'll also find a number of sprawling private villas to rent.

WWW Travels Tip: There are no cars on the islands, but there are golf-cart taxis, so we suggest packing light and keeping your oversize luggage at home.

On the more remote island of Filicudi is La Sirena, a charming boutique hotel that's run by Italian gallerist Sergio Casoli. It features a restaurant and five rooms that boast panoramic views of Mount Etna and mainland Sicily.

As seen in Vogue and Condé Nast Traveller.

Between the mini Revolve trip with LPA and a recent J.Crew trip in Taormina on mainland Sicily, The Thinking Traveller is quickly earning a spot as fashion's go-to for luxury Italian stays. It operates a cluster of unique private villas throughout the Mediterranean but has two sprawling properties to rent on the Aeolian Islands that are complete with panoramic terraces, dreamy pools, and bespoke details. While these stays are certainly on the luxe side, they make great options for families and larger groups.

On the island of Salina is the Hotel Principe, and really, the photos speak for themselves here. It's a petite hotel but features whitewashed walls and cozy corners filled with Persian rugs and breathtaking perches over the Tyrrhenian Sea. It's also no wonder why it has become a wedding destination. There are no bad angles or views from here.

More stays to jot down: Beyond these three stays, Panarea's glamorous Hotel Raya is a summer hot spot vetted by Condé Nast Traveller, Forbes, and The New York Times. Also on Panarea is the romantic family-run Hotel Signum, where the cast and crew of Il Postino made their home during filming. Opened just last summer by the son of photographer and poet Giovanni Gastel is Casa G, a stylish four-bedroom villa on Filicudi with mentions in Vogue and Italy Segreta. Meanwhile, the rustic La Locanda del Postino is a charming hillside stay with sweeping views of Salina and comes recommended courtesy of Forbes. Soprano Villas offers an array of stunning private villa stays across the archipelago as well.

Once you make the by-no-means direct trip to the Aeolians, you're in for a treat—or many. It's hard to have a bad meal here, as everything you'll encounter is either a local spot that may not even be on Google Maps or a gourmet creation that blends modern cuisine with traditional cooking. Either way, expect some of the freshest seafood of your life, the Southern Italy specialty of granita, and lots of pasta (naturally) in addition to distinct volcanic wines.

Capofaro Locanda and Malvasia is so many things it's impossible to put it in a box. It self-describes as a "wine resort," and with one look at the neat rows of vineyards that stretch out over the sea, you'll understand why. Practically speaking, it's a boutique resort with whitewashed cottages that give more Santorini than Italy, a sprawling vineyard, and a relaxed open-air lounge and restaurant where Italians from neighboring islands descend in the summer months. In addition to having dinner there, you might attend one of its wine tastings or winery tours led by the head sommelier, have picnics in the winery, or take a cooking class with the executive chef. 

"I'm a big breakfast person, and Capofaro's fresh baked bread and pastries and fresh ricotta are just perfection," gushes Bullen. "Relais & Châteaux [the hospitality group who manages the property] is where hospitality and gastronomy meet, so of course, the dinner here is divine as well. On the current menu? Aeolian-style crudo of Salina prawns, red snapper meunière, and Aeolian tiramisu to top it all off."

As seen in Forbes and CNN.

Baroncini raved to us about this little seaside cafe Da Alfredo that's a must-stop when you're in Salina. It's known for its almond granita, which is a type of shaved-ice dessert, and the photogenic terrace painted in Tyrrhenian-inspired blues.

This is on the property of the Hotel Signum, and it's run by one of Italy's most exciting Michelin-star chefs, Martina Caruso. It's considered one of the best restaurants in the Aeolian Islands, and you'll find hyper-local ingredients, handmade pasta, and the freshest fish on the menu here. It's completely open and feels pretty rustic like the rest of the islands, but the food is anything but forgettable.

More restaurants to jot down: Beyond these, Ristorante Da Pina is widely considered one of the best restaurants on Panarea. Baroncini gushes, "I'll remember the tuna carpaccio forever." Fashion designer Alejandra Alonso Rojas recommends a stop at family-owned bakery Il Forno for boat-day provisions, which is also on Panarea. L'Anfora comes recommended by the Michelin dining guide and is located on the easier-to-reach island of Lipari. On Salina, Condé Nast Traveller suggests Porto Bello. Therasia Resort on Vulcano is home to Michelin-starred Il Cappero, Bullen informed us.

By now, you might be starting to get the sense that the Aeolian Islands aren't where you go to check a tourist site off your list. There's no main attraction here like ancient ruins or world-renowned museums that you'd find throughout the rest of Italy. But then again, that's the excitement of exploring off the beaten path.

On the island of Salina, Pollara beach is a must-see that's been recommended across the internet for its jaw-dropping views. Nestled beneath a rugged volcanic crater, it was also where many scenes in Il Postino were filmed. Bullen notes that "the beach that would be recognizable to fellow film fans has mostly disappeared, but the fisherman's huts that are built into the cliffside still remain." She added that nearby Punta Perciato, a picturesque volcanic arch that extends over the sea, is a must-see as well.

As seen in Condé Nast Traveller and The New York Times.

Panarea has a number of inlets and alcove beaches that are reachable only by boat, including Basiluzzo, Dattilo, and Lisca Bianca. The general recommendation we've heard over and over is to charter a boat for the day and go around the island to a few of these, where you can drop anchor to swim. 

WWW Travels Tip: Be aware that this is a place that absolutely requires a boat, as many of the beaches on Panarea are not very swimmable due to the abundance of jellyfish off the shore. You'll want to make arrangements to charter a boat for the day. Pick up lunch from a local bakery and a bottle or two of wine on your way to the dock so you can enjoy a post-swim lunch on the boat.

"If a bit of glitz and nightlife get you going, then run—don't walk—to Panarea before the secret is out," Bullen notes. The nightlife she's speaking of is none other than Hotel Raya, a hotel with an epic rooftop terrace bar that qualifies as one of the Aeolian's only destinations for some late-night fun. "In July, and especially August," she continues, "the yacht set descends here, and while not glam by French or Italian Riviera standards, this is about as glossy as it gets on the Aeolians."

Between the islands being largely carless and devoid of too much nightlife, the packing list for a trip here is decidedly minimal. "Less is more," Bullen warns. "Though, definitely plan for unpredictable weather patterns (think summer scarf or light windbreaker)." Unless your plans involve Hotel Raya during peak summer season, you can leave the tall heels and traditional going-out looks at home. Instead, we suggest focusing on essentials for the beach, boat, and pool and leaning into versatile resortwear that can take you from a casual lunch to an elevated dinner.

LPA is an excellent starting-off point, and Baroncini even admits that she "designed most of this collection with these vacations in mind, so honestly, everything LPA [is] just perfect [for the trip]." Other than that, she leans into easy-to-wear summer staples like woven totes, simple slides, and denim shorts.

Forget function. This year's coolest beachwear accessories trend prioritizes fun and fashion over all, and I'm so into it. Summer-ready jewels are the most important finishing touch to any vacation outfit, and no one can tell me otherwise. So what if it's not waterproof, you possibly have to take it off before your dip, and it provides no SPF or sun protection whatsoever? Live a little! Whether you opt for a statement necklace, earrings, a bracelet, or all of the above, throw on something that matches or perfectly contrasts your swimsuit, and prepare to seriously level up your beachwear game for your next trip. Simply keep scrolling to shop my picks of the best summer jewelry finds for the travel season ahead, from colorful beads to shells, starfish, suns, and more.