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Our top five favorite things to do in the living metropolis of México City. 1 National Museum of Anthropology A massive mushroom-like umbrella balances atop a sequoia-sized pillar, perpetually bestowing a mesmerizing rain dance onto the museum courtyard below. Inside, galleries dazzle with artefacts from México's indigenous Maya, Aztec and Olmec cultures. A must-see, must-absorb experience in beautiful Polanco. MÉXICO CITY, MÉXICO 2 San Ángel Inn A Colonial era Eden where shaded verandas and verdant courtyards meet like lovers. Temptation here is the signature margarita, served “up” in salt-rimmed martini glasses. One’s second dose is kept chilled in a personal-size silver ice bucket. Any pain or suffering carried in upon arrival no longer registers as of the 2nd round. The table-side Caesar salad takes two waiters to whisk to perfection, but leave room (and time) for the bakery and gift shop! MÉXICO CITY, MÉXICO 3 Diego Rivera & Frida Kahlo Studio Standing in artful contrast with its Colonial-era San Angel neighborhood, “Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo” appears like an architectural space craft. Its Martian-orange moderne facade glows like the masterworks that were created inside. The co-habited home/studio of iconic artists Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo still seems abuzz with their artworks and tools displayed just as they left them. MÉXICO CITY, MÉXICO 4 Juárez Home to artists and intellectuals in past eras, this historic neighborhood now thrives with contemporary shops and restaurants nestled comfortably in 19th century townhouses. Modern Korean cuisine sizzles in the area’s K-Town, as does a proud gay community in its “Pink Zone”. Juarez is all about bespoke clothes, cultural curios, swank salons, and dreamy cafes. MÉXICO CITY, MÉXICO 5 Panadaría Rosetta The best reason to wake up in México City, no matter how bad the jet lag. Slip onto a stool and just ponder the truly phenomenal array of pastry options. We’re talking the best pastries of all time. This is why we travel to México City. Not to mention Rosetta’s scrumptious cortado, which assures a bright-eyed start to your CDMX morning. MÉXICO CITY, MÉXICO Image courtesy of Panadaría Rosetta Back FIVE FAVES Next

A medieval jewel set in a silvery fjord, hidden from time and the outside world. Its cobblestone paths are a crosshatch rendering of life in previous centuries. KOTOR, MONTENEGRO A medieval jewel set in a silvery fjord, hidden from time and the outside world. Its cobblestone paths are a crosshatch rendering of life in previous centuries. Stairway to Heaven Mount Lovcen slants straight down to sea level, framing the village like a theater curtain. One’s early morning hike, straight up a Roman era staircase, the Ladder of Kotor , is a view so sweeping it seems perched at the top of the sky. ___ Bay of Kotor The sensuous bay is host to all variety of vessels, from the world’s largest square-rigged sailing cruise ship, the Royal Clipper twinkling in its evening mooring, to the tiniest fishing boat that somehow stays afloat despite its ballast of two full-grown Montenegrins intent on catching their illusive dinner. ___ Kotor by Candlelight Stroll this walkable walled village through narrow stone lanes, each lined with curio shops, cafes and ample antique stores, beckoning one’s curiosity. At night, the plazas are luminescent with laughter and clinking glasses at The Square Pub as plans for the next day come together. ___ Back DESTINATIONS Next

Considered the "Oxford" of Portugal, Coimbra is the alma mater of kings and presidents. Nowhere in Portugal does the heart and mind come together quite like this hallowed University town. COIMBRA, PORTUGAL Considered the "Oxford" of Portugal, Coimbra is the alma mater of kings and presidents. Nowhere in Portugal does the heart and mind come together quite like this hallowed University town. Caped Crusade The fashion inspiration for the notable coeds of Hogwarts in Harry Potter was in fact the cape-draped students of Coimbra. Founded in 1290, Coimbra is among the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world. ___ Fado Ao Centro It is here, in the town square on a balmy night where one’s heart hits its high note, as “men’s Fado” is performed on the steps of the main cathedral. Different from the women of the Alfama, down in Lisbon with their torch songs of heartbreak, the men in Coimbra sing of comraderie, brotherhood in battle, and the pride of victory. ___ Blinded with Science At the (incredible) Coimbra Science Museum , one encounters grand halls of glass cases featuring vintage scientific instruments along with examples of botanical, zoologic, anthropologic, mineralogical sciences, plus ancient tools of astronomy. In the stairwells linking the collections, centuries-old windows “display” the historic campus itself and the beautifully terraced town below. ___ Joanine Library At the heart of the Coimbra campus, the Joanine Library is one of the most stunning libraries anywhere in the world. Inside, tall walls and gilded ceilings rise like inspiration, almost flying overhead, –coincidental metaphor for the library’s unique archival protection system. Bats are used to protect the timeless content, released in the night from their in-wall cubbies to eat the parchment-hungry insects who might otherwise consume the library’s largess. Not to worry, the library is cleaned of all bat guano each morning before opening. ___ Back DESTINATIONS Next

Like a vertical jewel box, Tokyo dazzles at every angle. Blinking red marker lights define the height and width of all tall buildings for aircraft, giving the skyline a strange visual continuity despite the variety of architectural styles and sizes. TOKYO, JAPAN Like a vertical jewel box, Tokyo dazzles at every angle. Blinking red marker lights define the height and width of all tall buildings for aircraft, giving the skyline a strange visual continuity despite the variety of architectural styles and sizes. FIVE FAVES / TOKYO Shibuya Shuffle The Tokyo cityscape at street level can be impossibly frenetic, even comical in time-lapse, but in contrast to the insane Shibuya crossing, many neighborhoods such as Shinjuku take on a more personal scale and easy-going feel. ___ Tsutaya Books, Ginza Crowning the 6th floor of the Ginza Six shopping center is the remarkable Tsutaya Bookshop . Its skylit atrium illuminates the mind and heart the way a good book does. Art books are presented in an exhilarating space, blending beauty with inspiration. –and a favorite Tokyo photo op. ___ Asakusa Culture and Information Center A tourist bureau so beautifully designed that it itself is a sightseeing attraction! This towering latticework of timber and glass, designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma is both modest and bold in its design, looking like a stack of wooden buildings from the neighborhood casually piled atop one another. An eclectic monolith that playfully looms over the stunning Sensoji Temple and the charming Asakusa district. ___ d-47 Museum A Japan-themed space exhibiting the designs, products and creative individuality of the island nation's 47 prefectures. Presented on 47 tables, each display focuses on the unique regional artistry and local culture. The namesake d-Department stores and online shops are equally inspiring. ___ Photo by Daici Ano Windows on Ginza Ginza, which means “Place of Silver” has been the main commercial district of Tokyo since the early 17th century, and that still stands today, –literally. The height of wealth here is matched only by its architecture. Timeless luxury brands such as Mikimoto, Louis Vuitton, Dior and Hermes, among others flaunt new gleaming facades, each as gorgeous and distinctive as the wares inside. Mikimoto Ginza 2-chome building Designed by Toyo Ito & Associates, the undersea window shapes appear random but each is precisely sized and positioned to lend structural support, allowing the interior to be column-free. Louis Vuitton / Ginza Wrapped in an undulating glaze of pearlescent glass that references the nearby Tokyo bay, this graceful design is the work of Jun Aoki & Associates with flowing interiors created by Peter Marino. Private Architectural Tour of Ginza ___ Muji Ah, the little heart flutter that happens when one enters a Muji store. Here in Tokyo, this flagship in Ginza really gets the blood pumping with an expanded array of retail, plus an art exhibit space, an irresistible bakery and a Muji hotel to top it all off. Refined design at affordable prices. Shop, sleep, eat and enjoy. ___ The Okura Hotel A tale almost as lovely as the design itself, the Okura Hotel, a masterpiece of Japanese modernism is a triumph of father and son architects, working decades apart. The hotel’s original balance of light and form was the vision of Yoshiro Taniguchi in 1960. After years of neglect, a thoughtful and comprehensive restoration was overseen by his son, Yoshio Taniguchi. Now, in all its modern and airy grace, it appears as though time has stood still since opening day in May, 1962. ___ Kabukiza Theater In 1629, a law was passed in Japan that, to this day has kept women actors from the Kabuki stage, yet there are many female roles in the centuries-old tales portrayed. Instead, male actors train for years to become “onnagata”, crafting an astonishing performance as women. Not so much an imitation of women, but an embodiment of a special artistic convention unique to Kabuki. Another true attribute of Kabuki is “mie”, where a strong pose is struck in “stop-motion” poses, accompanied by loud wooden clapper beats. Not meant to be realistic, this over-the-top tableau freezes a powerful picture of the emotion or conflict. Amazing to watch and to think that it’s been performed this way for centuries, yet continuously adapting to modern times. Including the Kabukiza Theater itself, reimagined by architect Kengo Kuma in 2013. A design that honors tradition, while providing a stage for the future of this art form. ___ Photo by David Davis Photo by Udatsu Sushi Udatsu Sushi “A space that is not just about sushi, but also a place representative of the city of Tokyo; where people from diverse backgrounds can interact and deepen their mutual understanding of each other.” —Chef/owner, Hisashi Udatsu The son of a butcher and next-door neighbor to his hometown’s only sushi restaurant, Hisashi’s young eyes witnessed daily the artistry of Japanese culinary traditions. By age 14, he informed his friends that he will be a chef. Today, Hisashi sets a humble table where storied meals are masterfully staged on dreamy Jenny Sharaf ceramics. ___ Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku A zen stillness is palpable in this simple but remarkable high rise hotel in Shinjuku. Materials that one would expect in a craftsman home or a temple appear natural in this modern space. An interior path of black slate leads to the spa elevator that escorts guests to the rooftop onsen. A breathtaking spa experience, with its open-air views of Tokyo twinkling under the stars. One’s focus softens in the rising steam of the onsen pool sheltered from any breezes 18 floors above the city. Later, float down a few floors, where one’s bed awaits in the form and feel of a cloud. ___ Raising the Bar (and lowering it) Suntory Lounge Eagle, (top image) a Tokyo classic since the early ‘90’s, this sunken highball bar features a grand staircase descending from street level, fit for a swooning diva’s entrance. Escape the strobing LED night and slip into a chandelier-lit sanctuary where the shaking of chilled Japanese vodka sets the rhythm for conversation and people watching. Main Bar Brilliant (bottom two images) is a swank hideaway in plain sight at the Keio Plaza Hotel in the middle of Shinjuku. If the 1970’s Johnny Carson set had included a bar, it might have looked like this. A modernist grid of brick and wood lines the long, low-slung bar, while round swivel chairs populate the space like orange planets. Tuxedoed bartenders construct perfect cocktails with precision, their surreal presence vaguely familiar, perhaps from a Stanley Kubrick film. ___ Photo by David Davis Shinjuku Golden Gai A tangle of six narrow alleys shingled in a cacophony of neon signs leads to tiny shanty bars with seating for a lucky few. Off each alley are even narrower passageways, barely wide enough for a single person to win their way through. But so worth it! 200+ little bars, clubs and eateries, all squeezed into a maze of unexpected delights. Be respectful with your camera. Taking pictures without permission is frowned upon and could lose you that coveted bar stool. ___ INSPIRATION : A touch of Japan for your world at home. Sparkling Yuzu Gimlet When in Japan, on the winter solstice, consider bathing in yuzu, as is the custom dating back to the early 18th century. But at home, there’s the Yuzu Gimlet, sparking like moonlight in your glass. Originally from central China and Tibet, Yuzu was introduced to Japan and Korea during the Tang dynasty, and its citrusy pleasures quickly squeezed their way worldwide, adding a splash of East-Asia here at home. Recipe: Food & Wine ___ Back DESTINATIONS Next

A treasure tucked into coastal cliffs, this shelter from the Adriatic draws one in as if by song, to study the striations carved by the ages into the rising reaches of limestone. OMIS, CROATIA A treasure tucked into coastal cliffs, this shelter from the Adriatic draws one in as if by song, to study the striations carved by the ages into the rising reaches of limestone. History by the Sea Before the Cetina river reaches the ocean, it greets this tiny seaside village, 25 kilometers south of Croatia’s second-largest city, Split. Stone walkways are tucked into the folds of rugged seaside cliffs like bookmarks, each making its way up toward gaggles of modest homes and well tended gardens. Views of the river and the glow of the sea come into view the higher one climbs. ___ Rent-A-View Colorful tour boats sit like swans along the shore of the Cetina river where it widens to meet the sea. Handsome boatmen escort visitors upstream to behold its soaring stone cliffs. ___ Back DESTINATIONS Next

Indulge in timeless charm on this island between Italy and Croatia. Life between the rolling azure sea and the rows of verdant hillside vineyards is like a dance on this romantic outpost on the Adriatic. VIS ISLAND, CROATIA Indulge in timeless charm on this island between Italy and Croatia. Life between the rolling azure sea and the rows of verdant hillside vineyards is like a dance on this romantic outpost on the Adriatic. Dress Code : Swimsuit Giving new meaning to “Palm Sunday”, fireworks-shaped palm tree shadows lead the way from an afternoon dip back to the boat, where the only question will be whether to stay in your wet swim trunks or change into dry ones. After that, the island of Vis awaits further exploration, be it by land or sea. Either way, you’re guaranteed a beautiful time, as only a Croatian island can deliver. But one thing’s for certain, those trunks won’t be dry for long. ___ Intoxicating Beauty The swim-up town of Vis rests in the nook of a yacht-studded bay. The westernmost island of the south Dalmatian archipelago, Vis is located 32 miles from the mainland of Croatia and 94 miles from Italy. This comfortable distance in either direction has kept Vis less crowded than its neighbor islands. Terracotta rooftops and verdant hillsides, etched with family vineyards make the beauty of Vis all the more intoxicating. ___ Stiniva Beach A jewel treasured since the 4th century BC when Dionysus settled a Greek colony here, Vis is rich in turquoise coves and blessed with tranquil waters that beckon an afternoon dip. Secluded Stiniva Beach is reached only by boat or a steep cliff trail that's not too terrifying (once you're down) where the gods have saved you a spot. ___ Back DESTINATIONS Next

Like pearls on an elegant chain, each Hawaiian island glows with unique luster that took ages to form. 8,000 ocean miles from the US mainland, it is hard to grasp that these ruggedly lush islands are part of the United States. A state of incredible natural beauty, that rose from the sea to form its own world. HAWAII Like pearls on an elegant chain, each Hawaiian island glows with unique luster that took ages to form. 8,000 ocean miles from the US mainland, it is hard to grasp that these ruggedly lush islands are part of the United States. A state of incredible natural beauty, that rose from the sea to form its own world. A paradise that eluded discovery until Captain Cook approached its shores in 1778. In its modern incarnation, Hawaii honors its heritage and native language with “talk story” teachings, and blooms anew with the spirit of aloha. KAUAI The Garden Isle OAHU The Gathering Place HAWAII ISLAND (Coming Soon) MAUI (Coming Soon)

JAPAN A land where mindfulness flows in many forms: architecture, cuisine, garden design, fashion, music, stage, packaging, transportation. Each craft thoughtfully explored and realized with exquisite simplicity. Tokyo efficiently shelters an impossibly large populous with welcoming grace. Kyoto inspires the soul and spirit with humble sophistication. Naoshima delights the eyes and mind with groundbreaking originality. Together, they are the glow of the rising sun that is Japan. KYOTO Inspiration Meets Tranquillity TOKYO A Vertical Jewel Box NAOSHIMA (Coming Soon)

The American landscape stretches out intently across half a hemisphere. A scene so vast it takes two oceans to frame it. Great forests and deserts meet patchwork farms that hopscotch their way to the bustling cities circled in highways. Add to that, the beauty of Alaska and Hawai’i waiting on the adjacent horizon. UNITED STATES The American landscape stretches out intently across half a hemisphere. A scene so vast it takes two oceans to frame it. Great forests and deserts meet patchwork farms that hopscotch their way to the bustling cities circled in highways. Add to that, the beauty of Alaska and Hawaiʻi waiting on the adjacent horizon. CALIFORNIA Treasures of the Golden State HAWAII The Spirit of Aloha ARIZONA (Coming Soon) LOUISIANA (Coming Soon) NEW MEXICO (Coming Soon) NEW YORK (Coming Soon)

Évora has everything one could ask for in a historic village, from an intimate chapel with human bones as the interior design theme, to a grand cathedral where one may take a walk on the roof. AND the columns of a Roman temple standing sentry at the very center of town. ÉVORA, PORTUGAL Évora has everything one could ask for in a historic village, from an intimate chapel with human bones as the interior design theme, to a grand cathedral where one may take a walk on the roof. AND the columns of a Roman temple standing sentry at the very center of town. The Road to Ruins Ham and cheese with a temple on the side. The Roman Temple of Évora maintains its timeless stand atop this inland Portuguese town, where locals and visitors traverse its cobbled roads to ruins. Évora is home to monumental Roman archeology, soaring cathedrals, small shops and the inevitable lunch at an outdoor cafe in the shade of centuries past. ___ Gothic Glow A fortified church dating back to 1186, Évora Cathedral is the largest in Portugal. Its cloister, added in 1325 invites a climb to the rooftop where its tapering roofline feels like a bridge to somewhere. Lined with castle-style battlements, the roof provided a 360 degree defense from the highest point of this hilltop city. Portals that today offer a peaceful panorama of the entirety of Évora and beyond. ___ Interior Design to Die For The Chapel of Bones was built by Franciscan monks in the late 16th century, tasked with relocating human remains from cemeteries around Évora due to the high value of land. Hence a rethinking of cemetery internment. Simultaneously, these enterprising monks reimagined interior design for churches, festooning the surfaces with all things skeletal. They topped it off with an ominous greeting above the door: “Nós ossos que aqui estamos, pelos vossos esperamos,” or: “We bones, are here, waiting for yours.” They also offered a traveler advisory, inscribed on one of the bony pillars: “Where are you going in such a hurry, traveler? Stop, for the sake of your journey. For the more you pause, the further on your journey you will be.” ___ Stonehenge’s Southern Sister The Cromlech of the Almendres is the Stonehenge of Portugal and one of the largest megalithic stone circles in Europe. Positioned on an east-facing axis, at sunrise it aligns to the spring and autumn equinoxes. On those dates, when the day and night is of equal length, the sun and moon rise at the same point on the monument’s principal stones, including the imposing Menhir dos Almendres, rising four phallic meters towards the stars. Located without fanfare in the middle of a cork tree forest, this monumental site is unfenced, free and open 24/7. ___ Back DESTINATIONS Next