CONTRIBUTORS

For our winter issue, we asked our bold travellers where they dream of going in 2023

Dick Snyder

Amanda Ross

Darcy Rhyno

Suzanne Morphet DICK SNYDER Detroit, America’s Best-kept Secret (P16)

“A wine region that I’ve not visited yet, such as South Africa, New Zealand or Alsace, Beaujolais or Bordeaux in France. Then again, it’s also time I get back to Newfoundland with the family —perhaps an RV tour is in our near future.” Snyder is a Toronto-based editor, food writer, and a professional wine drinker. @citybites

AMANDA ROSS Grey’s Anatomy (P50)

“After taking up tennis, it’s the new Sensei Porcupine Creek in Rancho Mirage, California. Its Tennis Optimal Wellbeing program improves your health and your game by dovetailing technology and lifestyle habits around the idea of move, nourish and rest. Hoping the rest is spa!” Ross is a Vancouver-based writer whose favourite drink is Kir Royale. @the_amandaross

DARCY RHYNO The Power of the Volcano (P62)

“A few years ago, we spent a January in Lisbon and discovered that the mild weather paired with rich culture and culinary scenes in southern Spain and Portugal make them great winter destinations. We’re Seville bound in February.” Rhyno is an award-winning writer and recipient of the 2020 TMAC Awards ‘Best Food & Drink Feature.’ FB.com/darcy.rhyno

SUZANNE MORPHET The Wild West (P66)

“Antarctica, with Aurora Expeditions on their new ship, the Sylvia Earle. With only 132 guests, there will be lots of opportunities to explore one of the last places on the planet that is still relatively pristine.” Suzanne is a Vancouver-based writer whose favourite food is anything with Lao Gan Ma’s spicy chile crisp. @suzannemorphet

BOLD

Traveller

CEO + EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Marlon Moreno ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Catalina Gordon

SENIOR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Vawn Himmelsbach

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Liz Fleming, Ruth J. Katz, Jacob Seguin

EDITOR-AT-LARGE Vivian Vassos

ART DIRECTION AND DESIGN Megan Cronje

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rachel Cheeks, Anita Draycott, Paul Gallant, Suzanne Morphet, Darcy Rhyno, Amanda Ross, Dick Snyder

PHOTOGRAPHY Tishan Baldeo WEB DEVELOPER Komodo Innovations Inc. Rahul Nair

ADVERTISING For Advertising, Promotion, Reprints and Sponsorships inquiries: publisher@morenoco.com 1.647.780.8082

HEADQUARTERS 77 Bloor Street West, 6th Floor Toronto, ON M5S 1M2

CORRESPONDENCE The Hudson Bay Centre 20 Bloor St. East P.O. Box 75075 Toronto, ON. M4W 3T3

BOLDTraveller® is published quarterly by Moreno and Co. Opinions expressed in BOLDTraveller® are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the publisher or advertisers. BOLDTraveller® not assume liability for content. www.boldtraveller.ca

THE BOLD LIST

WHERE TO GO IN 2023 After so many years of limitations, it’s time to celebrate your freedom to go again. And, although we know you are global citizens, there are a few places that have made their way onto our editors’ Where Next? radar that we just had to share. Some are closer to home; some may still seem a world away. But that’s the beauty of it. Taking a trip can mean a revisit to an old favourite or a discovery of somewhere new that also just happens to be very close to your own backyard—but you don’t have to limit yourself to our suggestions. The point is, go, and go as often as you can. It’s good for you, and good for the communities you visit. For more places to go, visit boldtraveller.ca

THE BOLD LIST

Mystical Bonds Mural by artist Conrad Egyir, located in Detroit’s “The Belt” art alley

DETROIT

America’s bestkept secret

With its emphatic embrace of art and design, and its unmistakable impact on North American culture, Detroit is so much more than Motor City—and it’s ready for its moment.

TEXT BY DICK SNYDER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FELICIA BYRON

East African influences are on the menu at Baobab Fare

Highlands Detroit On the Downtown Detroit Tour Candy Bar at Siren Hotel in downtown Detroit, one of the most beautifully designed bars in Michigan

D

DETROIT SURE HAS CHANGED a lot in 15 years. The last time I visited, I did not walk 15,000 steps a day and marvel at an outpouring of art and music every time I turned a corner. Not to mention meeting random strangers and chatting up a storm—at shops, on transit, in cocktail bars and just walking around and looking lost (something I excel at).

Detroit’s decline through the early 2000s and subsequent rise over the past decade or so has been well reported in the media, though I suspect the “rise” is still a bit of a best-kept secret. This is a city that should be on any list of “Top 10 American Cities”—in fact, Time magazine declared it one of the world’s 50 best places to visit in 2022.

And I’ll tell you why.

First of all, the walkability of the downtown core quite surprised me. Isn’t this Motor City? Sure it is, but the city has many designated pedestrian zones, parks and playgrounds (for adults too) in the downtown core—a bold and smart move designed to heighten the liveability and urban culture of the city.

Hang out a bit in the Spirit of Detroit Plaza, just north of the famous installation aptly known as “The Fist” in honour of boxing champ Joe Louis, and you’ll see what I mean. Here you’ll find lunchbreaking citizens enjoying their food-truck finds or indulging in a quick game of “fowling”—a Detroit-invented hybrid of bowling and football in which you throw a football at 10 bowling pins and … the rest is pretty obvious.

The massive Spirit of Detroit bronze monument anchors the scene. To the south, just a few hundred metres across the river, you can gaze from the Detroit River Walk toward Windsor. Note that you are, in fact, looking south-southeast toward Canada. That river continues south to Lake Erie, and then there’s Pelee Island right around the corner.

The monuments, murals and displays of public art tell Detroit’s story—with noteworthy candor—in an urban narrative that makes effective use of outdoor space. Alleys have been transformed into lively gathering places, painted with scenes historical and fantastical, or purely artful. “Rising from the ashes” is a slogan you will read and hear many times, as this city—once 1.5 million in population and now about 700,000—continues its re-ascendance.

Meantime, this is a heck of a fun city. Architecture fans will find eye candy galore, starting with the monumental 40-storey Guardian Building, a fine example of Art Deco magnificence that is the de facto anchor of the downtown core.

The Fisher Theatre, too, makes a bold statement—the opulent 2,000-seater, renovated in 1961, offers a full slate of top visiting performers as well as Broadway shows. It’s located in the 441-foot-tall Fisher Building—“Detroit’s largest art object”—and another of the city’s sky-scraping landmarks. You can treat it like a museum: pop in for a coffee and take in the intricate décor, resplendent in frescoes, mosaics, marble and brass.

It’s thanks to buildings like these—and also an emphatic embrace and expression of art and design—that Detroit was designated as a UNESCO City of Design in 2015. It’s the only city in the U.S. to receive this recognition.

Detroit has the largest population of Black people in the U.S., and the permanent and rotating exhibits at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History tell their powerful story from both a global and North American perspective.

There is almost too much to see and do at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, where an overwhelming collection demonstrating feats of human ingenuity are on display, with many interactive elements. History is made real here, and the Rosa Parks bus invites deep contemplation. You can board the bus, take her seat and ponder a not-too-distant past.

On Detroit’s River Walk Tour

Bold architecture features in Downtown Detroit

As for the city’s impact on North American culture, Detroit’s contributions to music of all kinds cannot be overstated. This means a visit to Hitsville U.S.A.—aka the Motown Museum—is a must for music fans, where a guided tour elicits more than a few goosebumps.

I could enumerate at least two dozen “must do’s” for this city, but space is prohibitive and there are some things best discovered on your own—but just ask any friendly citizen for advice and it will be generously delivered. That’s how I found the delightfully quirky Peoples Records, with its excellent Motown section, adjacent to the city’s famous Eastern Market.

The market is a collection of mostly open-air sheds—massive garages, really—where farmers and food vendors hawk their wares. It’s surrounded by a warren of streets lined with artisan boutiques, restaurants and cafés, making it an outstanding place to while away an afternoon—even when it rains, as there is plenty of shelter. On weekends, catching the outdoor blues revue at Bert’s Marketplace—a music venue and soul-food restaurant—is an unbeatable way to relax, especially with a platter of ribs from the outdoor smoker.

Detroit feels like it’s ready for its moment. This is a great time to visit the city—it feels like a best-kept secret that’s about to go, for want of a better term, viral. Travellers who like to be ahead of the curve … you know what to do. visitdetroit.com

“The Fist,” in the Spirit of Detroit Plaza, anchors the city’s art scene

Musician Tony Hightower, at Cliff Bells

Meantime, this is a heck of a fun city. And architecture fans will find eye candy galore”

The speakeasy vibes at Cliff Bells

A mural at Bert’s Marketplace, chronicling Detroit’s history

TRIP ESSENTIALS

STAY

The SIREN HOTEL is full of turn-of-thecentury boho chic character, and the Candy Bar, just off the lobby, is the place to indulge in late-night boudoirinspired shenanigans. ash.world/hotels/the-siren

The SHINOLA HOTEL (yes, it’s related to the lifestyle brand) is emphatically arty and bluntly hip, with a comfortable lounge chock full of artsy books and tchotchkes. The couches are dangerously comfortable. shinolahotel.com

The historic WESTIN BOOK CADILLAC, built in 1924, occupies pride of place on Washington Avenue, an easy jumpingoff point for downtown exploration. marriot.com

NIGHTLIFE & MUSIC

Catch outstanding local and visiting jazz musicians at CLIFF BELLS, where the potent cocktails and dimly lit speakeasy vibe—and outstanding cuisine (try the seafood chowder)— make it very difficult to leave. cliffbells.com

Fancy a little karaoke with the locals and a real live piano player? SID GOLD’S REQUEST ROOM is the place—and the cocktails are outstanding. sidgolds.com

For serious cocktails and a playlist that ranges from funk to funkier, BAD LUCK BAR is an alley-access speakeasy (bring your phone in case you need to call for admittance) guaranteed to make you feel special—or magically transformed. badluckbar.com

Takoi

EAT & DRINK

Grab a loaded hot dog at AMERICAN CONEY ISLAND—the perfect grab-andgo snack and a Detroit institution. americanconeyisland.com

Lunch at BAOBAB FARE is an immersion in the cuisine of the east African nation of Burundi, with aromatic stews and delightful service. The Detroit Free Press ranked it as one of the top new restaurants of the year. baobabfare.com

Dinner at TAKOI is a Thai-inspired pan-Asian experience—think coconut milk curries, brightly flavoured salads and delicious cocktails—in a beautifully boisterous atmosphere. takoidetroit.com

TWO JAMES is a distillery and tasting bar in the artsy Corktown neighbourhood—try a classic or seasonal cocktail or a flight of spirits. The Absinthe Verte is a rare treat. twojames.com

THE BOLD LIST

Old Town Square in Prague

Prague, Czech Republic

TEXT BY VIVIAN VASSOS

WHEN THE LATEST season of Jack Ryan, the CIA super analyst and ex-naval officer whose ongoing mission is to save the world, features Prague as one of its main backdrops, you know something’s up. The Czech capital, known for its “Paris of Eastern Europe” rep, is one of the most well-preserved and gorgeous medieval cities on the continent. But that doesn’t mean Prague—or its surrounding towns—aren’t present in the here and now. It’s a good thing, then, that the city will also see some new hotel openings in 2023, including the Almanac X, on the site of the former Alcron Hotel; W Prague, which will see its debut after repurposing the Hotel Evropa on the storied Wenceslas Square. Throw in the Mozart Hotel, which should open later in 2023, and there will be no shortage of cool places to hang your hat. Of course, there’s always our favourite Czech pilsner on tap. Wenceslas Square will also see the opening of Urquell Pilsner’s visitor centre and experience, which will take beer fans on a tasting tour of one of the country’s favourite brands of suds. If that doesn’t float your active boat, how about Timber rafting? Reviving the ancient tradition of building rafts and navigating them for a float down one of Czechia’s rivers as a form of commercial transport, is now on the UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. Relive this boating tradition in Český Krumlov, about two hours from Prague, where you can stroll these darling streets—used as the set for many scenes in Amadeus. Mozart may not be Czech, but his larger-than-life ghost certainly lives here. visitczechrepublic.com

THE BOLD LIST The United Kingdom

Stags and the highlands of Scotland

The Tower Bridge in London, over the River Thames A copy of Shakespeares First Folio 1623

TEXT BY VIVIAN VASSOS

IF THE LONDON OPENINGS

of some of the most luxurious hotels in the world –Raffles OWO and the Peninsula, we’re looking at you –isn’t enough, let’s toss in a stately Scottish stay at Gleneagles Townhouse, smack dab in central Edinburgh. The Crown aside, we’d be royally remiss not to mention a certain Charles having his coronation in London in May (that same month, the Eurovision extravaganza will crown its latest victor in Liverpool); and a newly minted Prince and Princess of Wales (they lived on the Welsh Isle of Anglesey for three years when William was an air ambulance helicopter pilot) continue to draw well-wishers to Great Britain. Another popular William, as in Shakespeare, celebrates the 400th anniversary of the printing of the Bard’s first folio, a collection of his works released in 1623, seven years after his death. There will be examples on display at The British Library in London, as well as plays, parties, charity events and

King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort

Gleneagles Townhouse

historical re-enactments around the country and closer to Shakespeare’s home, StratfordUpon-Avon, to mark the occasion. And then there are the Scottish Highlands, the late Queen Elizabeth’s favourite summer escape (her mother, Elizabeth Bowes Lyon, was raised at nearby Glamis Castle, and her sister, Margaret, was born there; and where they spent many childhood summers). The Highlands are also where, at Balmoral Castle, a gift from Prince Albert to her great great grandmother, Queen Victoria, Elizabeth II performed her last official duties. Both castles are open to the public a few months of the year. Coupled with Outlander and the time-crossed lovers, Jamie and Claire, Scotland continues to capture our hearts and minds. Speaking of television, we’ve laughed and we’ve cried with The Derry Girls, the Netflix show based in Londonderry during the religious-and republic-fueled “The Troubles,” putting Northern Ireland at the forefront of the TV Tourism trend. Visitbritain.com

THE BOLD LIST Los Angeles Reimagined

The entertainment capital of the world continues to build on its storied past, while enthusiastically embracing the new and encouraging everyone to dream a little.

TEXT BY SHARON LINDORES

The famed Hollywood Sign

1. For the film buff

It may seem kitsch, but if you really like movies you’ve got to look for your favourite stars on the Walk of Fame along Hollywood Boulevard. The sidewalks along this stretch of about 18 blocks have brass-and-terrazzo stars inlaid in them to commemorate everyone from Marilyn Monroe to Daniel Craig.

The Academy Museum of Motion

Pictures, which opened at the end of September 2021 is the largest museum in the country devoted to moviemaking. You can learn about the early days of film and about Hollywood classics. Everything from Dorothy’s ruby shoes, complete with 2,300 sequins, to Bruce, the last shark made from the original mould used for the Great White in Jaws, is here. Of course, there’s also a very good gallery on the Academy Awards, which were first held on May 16, 1929.

If you really want to get a feel for what goes into making movies then you should check out a studio tour. Warner Bros. lets you see some of the buildings and sets on its 110-acre studio in Burbank. The tour guides are movie savants who can rhyme off all sorts of trivia about films and shows that have been made here since the studio opened more than 90 years ago. You’ll see the Friends fountain, the café from La La Land and the courthouse where Frank Sinatra sang. Plus, there are lots of interactive exhibits and memorabilia on display inside the museum space, which you can browse at your leisure.

THERE’S A REASON

stars have been captivated with Los Angeles for decades and still are; the second-biggest city in the U.S. has a creative frisson, world-class art and year-round sunshine.

And it’s the perfect getaway for Canadians who are starting to travel again but might not want to go too far.

The greatest challenge is making the most of your time because there’s simply so much on offer in this vast metropolis. Whether you’re heading out for a change in scenery, or for a date with the stars, here are some recommendations for your stay in the area.

Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, Saban Building

Los Angeles Reimagined

The Broad

3. For the foodie

You’re really spoiled for choice in this city and there are too many restaurants to mention, but here are a few that are worth checking out: Providence, which has two Michelin stars, is well known for its sustainable seafood. Chifa has a Michelin Bib Gourmand and serves a unique mix of ChinesePeruvian fare. Manzke also draws on cultural intersections with a fine tasting menu and optional wine pairings.

Chifa Restaurant

2. For the art connoisseur

The Broad, which opened to rave reviews in 2015, is home to about 2,000 pieces and is considered one of the world’s best collections of postwar and contemporary art. You can see works by household names such as Jeff Koons, Cy Twombly and Andy Warhol, alongside less familiar figures making it a great place to enjoy and explore the fascinating art collected by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad.

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art features 150,000 objects and is conveniently located on Museum Row, making it easy to take in the Academy Museum, the Architecture and Design Museum and the Petersen Automotive Museum, to name but a few of the attractions in the area. LACMA is home to works by Frida Kahlo, Henri Matisse and Paul Klee. It also has art from ancient civilizations and more. Plus, you can catch concerts and films here.

The Getty is so extraordinary there are two must-see locations: The Getty Center, one of the best art complexes in the world, sits on a hilltop in upscale Brentwood. The gardens and outdoor sculpture alone are worth a visit. You can see pre-20th century European art, furniture and photography here. The French decorative arts from Louis XIV to Louis XVI are renowned. And you can also feast your eyes on the likes of Rembrandt, Van Gogh and Monet.

The Getty Villa, perched above the Malibu coast, is modelled on a villa buried by volcanic ash near Pompeii. The setting is beautiful and you could almost imagine you’re in Italy’s Campania region. This is the home of J. Paul Getty’s incredible collection of Greek, Etruscan and Roman antiquities. You’ll find mosaics, jewellery, sculpture and more on display.

Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica

4. For the outdoor types

Runyon Canyon Park, in the Hollywood Hills at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains, is a popular place with locals. You’ll see people practising yoga, walking their dogs and running in this green oasis. It’s a great place for people-watching and has a mix of routes for all skill levels. A short, uphill walk offers sweeping views of the City of Angels.

Take in some fresh ocean air in Santa Monica. The nearby coastal city has a sandy, spacious beach that stretches for 5.6 kms. It has a reputation of being a wellness hub and it’s easy to try some outdoor yoga, take a surfing lesson, or cycle along the oceanfront bike path. And if you want to explore the coast some more, Malibu and the scenic Point Dume are about 30 kms to the west. discoverlosangeles.com

THE BOLD LIST Churchill, Manitoba

TEXT BY VIVIAN VASSOS

BISON, BELUGAS and bears, oh my! Yes, this is northern Manitoba, a treasure trove of wildlife, both on land and on sea. Churchill is Canada’s only arctic seaport, historically a centre for trade, and now also for tourism and the cruise industry. From the arctic fox on the frozen tundra to the unicorn-like narwhals navigating the icy waters of Hudson Bay, it’s Canada’s place to see the Manitoban version of the “Big 5.” Here, Caribou take their own great migration, working their way down from Nunavut; the predator wolves, hunting in packs, howl at the night sky filled with a blanket of stars that pierces the darkness; polar bears can be spotted gallivanting with their cubs or stalking their elusive seal prey; snowy owls take to the skies, their wings white as winter; while Belugas breach the waves, and sidle up close and personal to the catamarans that bring humans to their home. The Aurora Borealis (or Northern Lights) act like a beacon; a display of natural wonder that leaves you breathless.

The stewards of these lands—and much of the wildlife, as we’d be remiss not to mention that certain Caribou breeds, Beluga whales and the polar bear are endangered or vulnerable—include Inuit and First Nations Cree and Dene. Many tours are owned and operated by locals, giving visitors an opportunity to meet and learn from the people most connected to this remote yet achingly beautiful part of Canada. travelmanitoba.com/churchill/

Cartagena, Colombia

TEXT BY VIVIAN VASSOS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TISHAN BALDEO

SAVOURY COFFEE and the undiscovered Amazon, electric salsa and sunshiney sandy beaches. In our mind’s eye, this is Colombia, wild and untamed, yet at the same time, hauntingly familiar. This is the country of Gabriel Garcia Marquez, of Fernando Botero, of Shakira and, now, of historic destinations made new, and new discoveries made a reality. Did you know, for example, that Colombia is also one of the world’s most biodiverse, with more than 15 percent of its eclectic landscape nationally protected, from volcanoes and mountains to rainforests and beaches.

The walled city of Cartagena, which is also protected by its UNESCO World Heritage designation, has seen its colonialist past give way to a deeper understanding of its history; strolling its cobblestone streets, one can imagine Marquez stumbling home as a young man from one of his favourite watering holes among the awe-inspiring architecture. At the Sofitel Hotel Santa Clara, one only wishes these walls could talk. From its humble beginnings as a convent established in the 1600s, to hosting such boldface names as Marquez and Mick Jagger to Sofia Vergara and Sofia of Greece, there’s no shortage of glamour.

But, if it’s privacy you’re after, check in to Santa Clara’s little sister property,

Hotel Boutique Bóvedas de Santa Clara

by Accor, just a five minute walk. Got five more minutes? That’s about all it will take to stroll to the sparkling blue of the Caribbean. Go ahead, dive in. colombia.travel/en

THE BOLD LIST

Yum Cha Cha Cha!

Top foodie experiences in Hong Kong, from dim sum to sustainable dining

TEXT BY VAWN HIMMELSBACH

FROM THE CRAB MEAT dumplings with black truffle to the layered silk tofu topped with gold leaf, the food here is almost too beautiful to eat. But it’s too delicious not to eat. At the Cordis Hotel in Hong Kong’s buzzing Mong Kok neighbourhood, Ming Court—which fuses contemporary Cantonese cuisine with influences from Japan and Europe—lives up to its Michelin star. It’s one of 71 starred restaurants in Michelin’s 2022 guide for Hong Kong. And while that’s an impressive amount of stars, Hong Kong’s street food stalls, dim sum teahouses and Bib Gourmand eateries are equally splendid. In this food-obsessed city, there are more than 17,200 licensed restaurants (as of October 2022) to choose from—up from nine per cent in January 2020. That means, while many restaurants closed during the pandemic, many more new ones have opened, reshaping the city’s food scene. In Sham Shui Po, for example, new artsy cafés have sprung up, and along Victoria Harbour an array of new restaurants, bistros and ontrend bars have opened their doors. The growing number of restaurants is a testament to Hong Kong’s resilience—and love of food. The city also continues to advance culinary trends, such as sustainability and the reinvention of Chinese cuisine. From Michelin-starred restaurants and international fare to dim sum and street food, here’s how to experience Hong Kong’s diverse culinary fare:

The Michelin Fan

When it comes to fine dining, the options in Hong Kong can be downright overwhelming. In addition to popular stalwarts, there are always noteworthy newcomers—and this year’s Michelin Guide

adds 11 new restaurants to Hong Kong’s roster, including foodie favourites like Chaat, Belon, Mono and Hansik Goo.

But in Hong Kong, a Michelin star doesn’t necessarily mean the restaurant is impossible to get into. There are a range of experiences, from three-starred Caprice, featuring contemporary French cuisine in elegant surroundings with harbour views, to Tim Ho Wan, considered the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant in the world with its authentic—and truly delicious—dim sum.

Bib Gourmand Eats

Hong Kong has a vast selection of Bib Gourmand eateries, a distinction bestowed by the folks at Michelin upon venues that serve high-quality food at moderate prices, as well as street food stalls that reflect authentic culinary traditions. Michelin’s 2022 edition includes 64 Bib Gourmand eateries in Hong Kong.

Worth seeking out are Both Street for its gua bao (stuffed buns) with fusion elements like pineapple spicy fried chicken; Ding Ba, which serves Taiwanese street snacks like crispy oyster omelettes and braised minced pork rice; and Kung Wo Beancurd Factory, known for its made-from-scratch tofu (try the tofu faa pudding).

On The Waterfront

Over the past couple of years, new culinary experiences have emerged along the waterfront, offering views of Victoria Harbour from all angles—day and night. Watch the iconic Star Ferry glide across the harbour over lunch, soak up golden hour in the evening or catch “A Symphony of Lights”—a multimedia light show that takes place at Victoria Harbour every night—after sundown.

Don’t miss Hutong—situated on the 18th floor of the H Zentre with floor-to-ceiling views of the harbour—a refined, modern take on northern Chinese dishes and contemporary dim sum paired with cocktails inspired by Chinese botanicals.

Another notable entrant is Chinesology, which offers views of Victoria Harbour and the Tsim Sha Tsui skyline, while it serves up “new elements to reactive Chinese cuisine without deviating from the manifesto of traditional Chinese culinary art.” Cocktails like Bamboo Punch and Chinese Apothecary pay homage to traditional Chinese herbology.

Raising The Bar (And The Lounge)

Hong Kong’s home-grown talent and world-class mixologists keep breaking boundaries. Opening its doors in July 2021, ARGO—a cocktail bar housed in the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong—made an impressive debut in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2022 at 28th place, alongside Mexican-inspired craft cocktail bar, Coa, at 17th place.

ARGO, in a prime location by Victoria Harbour, combines Asian-sourced ingredients with forward-thinking concepts—think: AI-produced gin and molecular-aged whiskey. The World’s 50 Best Bars made note of the Skynet Old Fashioned, with miso caramel, coconut husks and olive oil.

Then there’s the DarkSide cocktail parlour at Rosewood Hong Kong—set above the iconic Avenue of Stars on the Kowloon waterfront. Its terrace offers epic views of the Hong Kong Island skyline while you indulge in rare aged spirits, vintage cigars and classic cocktails to the sounds of sultry live jazz.

Argo Cocktail Bar Interior

Hutong Restaurant Interior

A traditional dai pai dong

Hweh Muchim (Japanese Snapper) with cho-doenjang (Korean vinegar and soybean sauce)

Conscious Dining

Sustainability is a growing trend in Hong Kong’s culinary scene, and some of the city’s top chefs are embracing sustainable concepts in their practice, both on the menu and in the dining experience—from sourcing locally to using seasonal ingredients to creating zero-waste policies.

Chefs like Richard Ekkebus of the Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Ashley Salmon of Roganic and Michael Smith of Moxie source locally and regionally as much as possible to reduce their carbon footprint. Some restaurants like Amber at the Mandarin Oriental source sustainably harvested seafood—caught via line fishing or hand diving—and don’t offer seafood vulnerable to overfishing.

These chefs and restaurants are being recognized for their efforts. Roganic, Simon Rogan’s one-Michelin-star restaurant that serves trademark British fare with local ingredients, like New Territories pork with tapioca and shrimp—also has a Michelin Green Star for sustainability.

Taking To The Street

Another can’t-miss experience is Hong Kong’s street food—notably, Michelin added a street food category to its guide that recognizes exceptional local dishes. A dai pai dong is an open-air street food stall, usually accompanied by foldable tables and chairs set up in the street. In Hong Kong, dai pai dong were introduced (and licensed) by the government after the Second World War in an effort to boost the local economy.

In the Tsim Sha Tsui neighbourhood, the Haiphong Road Temporary Cooked Food Hawker Bazaar has been around for more than 40 years, tucked under a flyover—and though it recently got a makeover, it retains its nostalgic atmosphere with ceiling fans and red lanterns. There are several food stalls to choose from: try Hap Hueng Garden’s satay beef noodles, Wah Heung Yuen’s secret recipe pork chops and Tak Fat Beef Ball’s homemade beef balls.

Dim sum teahouses

Dim sum at a yum cha, or teahouse, is a quintessential Hong Kong experience. Typically a yum cha has an expansive menu with as many as 150 items, including dumpling dishes, steamed buns and other snack-size bites, accompanied by Chinese tea. For a traditional experience, look for a yum cha where waiters wheel carts past your table stacked with dim sum in bamboo baskets.

Popular must-try dishes include siu mai (open-face steamed dumplings with shrimp and pork, garnished with orange crab roe); har gow (shrimp dumplings in a translucent dough wrapper), char siu bao (baked BBQ pork buns) and cheong fun (sheets of glutinous rice wrapped around shrimp, pork or tripe, served with soy sauce).

Plan Your Culinary Journey

Don’t know where to start? (There are 17,200 restaurants, after all.) Book yourself on a foodie tour to discover Hongkongers’ favourite dishes and neighbourhood gems. Or time your trip with one of the city’s many food and wine festivals. To find out more, or plan your own itinerary, visit discoverhongkong.com/ca/explore/dining.html

THE BOLD LIST

Lake Charles Boardwalk Mardi Gras

Shrimp Boil Birdwatching along the nature trail

Lake Charles, Louisiana

TEXT BY JAKE SEGUIN

WITH SPIRITED

GUSTO, the “Bayou State” embraces a mosaic of natural and cultural attractions. Beyond New Orleans, Louisiana is home to historic towns and buzzy cities. Take Lake Charles, for example. Here, to the southwest of Baton Rouge, people live loudly and joyously, basking in the timeless appeal of lazy days on the water mixed with the bright lights and entertainment of the big city. Luxury casino resorts mingle with storied family restaurants and venerable music houses. Barbecues sizzle with mouthwatering seafood while migratory birds play their own brand of jazz with their trill notes. The city's reputation as “Louisiana's Playground” is well-earned: this is a place where the flavours, sounds and scenery of the American South are celebrated and elevated. Energetic Cajun and washboard Zydeco music are two regional specialties, often erupting spontaneously at popular venues like Paul’s Rib Shack and Luna Bar & Grill. Bountiful bowls of jambalaya, gumbo, alligator bites, cracklins and crawfish are spread out atop chequered tablecloths across the city, diverging from the Creole and Cajun culinary traditions of New Orleans in their eschewing of rich sauces. Of particular culinary note is the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail, a curated tour of local eateries that feature the specialty pork and rice-stuffed sausages known as boudin, the area’s favourite finger food.

Speaking of trails, the diverse lands surrounding Lake Charles deserve their own accolades. Biking, hiking, and boating through some of the most accessible wetlands in the country are a worthy expedition, as is the 180-mile trail Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, which crosses pink-and-orange sand beaches, fens, and stretches of the Gulf Coast. Kayaks and canoes navigate glistening waterways as speedboats cut through marshes teeming with flora and fauna in search of the day’s catch. Sprawling wildlife refuges encompassing coastal prairies and centuriesold rice fields showcase Louisiana’s aquatic and avian populace, serving as home to both endangered waterfowl and the American Alligator. Unspoilt nature, Creole soul, a small-town heart with big-city energy. Let the good times roll. VisitLakeCharles.org.

Susurros del Corazón Agave Infused cocktail Auberge Resorts’ Susurros del Corazón

Taco de Barbacoa

Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

TEXT BY VIVIAN VASSOS

CULINARY TRAVEL HAS

long been a motivator in our books, but now we’re thinking it’s time to give it some focus. How does tequila tourism sound? Good? We thought so, too. To wit, the Riviera Nayarit on the west coast of Mexico is seeing the growing global fascination of the spirit come home. New and innovative ways to enjoy this made only in Mexico libation go deeper than just tequila. After landing in Puerto Vallarta, in Jalisco (said to be the birthplace of agave spirits), we take the 45 minute drive west to Nayarit and Pacific surfside Punta de Mita on the Bay of Banderas. Agave, the mother plant of the distillation, is the base for Sotol, Mezcal, Raicilla and Tequila. Each has its own character, each its own distinct personality. At The Conrad Punta de Mita, which bravely flew in the face of the pandemic and opened its doors to guests in September 2020, you can pull up a bar stool at the Agave Room and Experience. Take a culinary trip, indulging in the hotel’s Executive Chef’s picks of antojitos (or snacks) paired perfectly to reflect every sip’s flavour profile. (conradpuntademita.com)

But why stop there? At Auberge Resorts’ newly opened Susurros del Corazón, also in Punta de Mita, you can get to know the “Roots of Raicilla,” what mixologists are calling tequila’s rebellious little sister. Yeah, we like the sound of that, too. Roughly translated to little root, according to the experts, Raicilla is the Mexican ranchero version of moonshine, a hooch now made legitimate, with its Denomination of Origin designation in 2019, and being favoured by surfers for its clean characteristics for years. The secret’s out. Save me a seat at the bar. aubergeresorts.com/susurros

THE BOLD LIST

Ramon Crater in the Negev Desert in Israel

ISRAEL

ISRAEL IS WHERE the Mediterranean meets the Middle East. A place of arid deserts, lush landscapes, blue on blue coastlines and urban playgrounds that have stood for centuries. Beachside Tel Aviv beckons, with its youthful energy backed by vibrant traditions and diverse culture; the Dead Sea keeps us joyously buoyant; and our spirits may be lifted in Jerusalem, but it’s the mystique of the Negev desert that is tweaking our sense for exploration now.

Miles of weather-worn sand stretch as far as the eye can see, yet there’s an oasis ahead. The nomadic Nabateans, the architects of Petra in neighbouring Jordan, had their start in the Negev, trading on their proximity to the incense routes. The indigenous Bedouin tribes still make the Negev their home, where they share their ages-old way of life with their guests. Yes, we said guests. Get a better understanding of this desert culture with a truly authentic and personal experience: book a stay in a Bedouin Hospitality Tent. Listen to the stories, share a traditional meal and then sleep under the stars. Yet, for the modern adventurer, this stretch of serenity is less than two hours from both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

And, contrary to its desert designation, the Negev is anything but barren. Geological formations carved by mother nature over thousands of years, may just rival the beauty of the Grand Canyon – and there’s not one, but three wondrous crater phenomena in the Negev where you can hike, be surrounded in the swirls of ochre, yellow and gold, and breathe in the air, untouched by present-day machinery. Surf the dunes on a sandboard, akin to snowboarding; rent a bike or go old school and take a camel ride and hit one of the many trails.

If you're a foodie, get ready for delicious. Enterprising farmers and winemakers have found ways to bring water to the crops, using computerized drip irrigation systems that are a mix of science and ancestral desert magic to grow an abundance of vegetables and fruits, making it a farm-to-table experience unlike others. Vegetarians will delight in Israeli dishes rich with dates and lentils and eggplants, parsley and garlic, doused with a generous dollop of buttery olive oil and accompanied by a local wine. If it’s not enough to simply have a seat at the table, take part in the area’s well-developed agritourism by booking a farm stay. The community welcomes its visitors with open arms and there’s always a way to immerse yourself and live like a local.

This is the land of the communal kibbutz, after all, and the “Zimmers,” the Israeli word for a local bed and breakfast. Once the hard work is done, reward yourself with a 5-star stay in Eilat, Israel’s resort city on the shores of the Red Sea. Snorkel, scuba dive, swim, recharge. negevtour.co.il; goisrael.com

TEXT BY VIVIAN VASSOS

Marina in Eilat

hike, surrounded in the swirls of ochre, yellow and gold”

Traditional Israeli lunch

Floating on the Dead Sea Riding along Tel Aviv beach

THE BOLD LIST

Bird’s eye view of the stunning Orient Beach, St. Martin

CARIBBEAN Dream

Fun in the sun? Check. Gourmet cuisine? Check. Top resorts, with unmatched hospitality? Check and check. Here, the ultimate guide to chasing the sun.

TEXT BY VIVIAN VASSOS

THE BOLD LIST

Santosha Estate

Anguilla T

HIS CORAL AND LIMESTONE gem in the northern Caribbean may be diminutive, but it’s big on chic places to stay, delicious food, a thriving watersports culture and more than 33 beautiful white sand beaches to explore.

Villa Real

Long known for that private island feeling—no wonder superstars like Jennifer Aniston are fans—Anguilla is a leader when it comes to living the villa lifestyle. But private doesn’t mean remote: many properties are just a short walk away from the action and come with housekeeping, butlers, chef services and drivers. Alkera, a five-bedroom architect’s dream, overlooks Shoal Bay East. Take a dip in the home’s infinity pool and enjoy the view.

Other villa properties of note include Cé Blue Luxury Villas, with its eight, five-bedroom villas resplendent with all the bells and whistles, perched high above Crocus Bay, reopened in November under new management. Santosha Estate is living like a local, whether you choose the main house, a guest house or a private apartment; stroll the gardens, hit the surf with a kayak or just sit back and relax.

Quintessence Hotel

Scrub Island Cave

If a hotel is more your thing, there are plenty of fabulous choices: Quintessence Hotel, one of the island’s favourite boutique properties, has added three luxe-for-less guest suites above Long Bay Beach, which they’ve called Quinn.

Sunny Days and Fairways

If a great round of golf tops your vacation itinerary, Aurora International Golf Club Anguilla has got it covered. Even better, the club, which offers the island’s only golf experience, has players who want to hit the links but also still make the most of a Caribbean holiday in mind. With the opening of its nine-hole Avalon Links, a world-class short course created by Greg Norman Course Design, complete with views of Rendezvous Bay, you can get your game on and still play in the sand and the surf.

Need another reason? D Richard’s Steakhouse, in the golf club, is serving up steaks for dinner—and cocktails, naturally. That’s a holein-one in our books. Also of note is Tokyo Bay Japanese restaurant, which opened in December 2022 under the direction of acclaimed Executive Chef Joe Richardson. It features the island’s largest collection of Sake!

Get your Limin’ (and Dining) On:

There are many new ways to experience some of the best food in the Caribbean: Go barefoot on the beach at Sandbar, perched on the beach at Sandy Ground. It’s helmed by island restaurateurs Carrie and Jerry Bogar of Veya restaurant fame. Also at Sandy Ground, local fave chef Dale Carty has expanded, adding an al fresco cocktail and dining spot he’s called Tasty’s POV, a nod to the panoramic vistas from almost every table. Look for laid-back vibes at Vincy on the Beach from chef Vincia “Vincy” Hughes, right next to the iconic Johnno’s beach bar.

Mead’s Bay will see the relaunch of Ocean Echo, with a menu that focuses on local flavours—mahi mahi, crayfish and conch all make an appearance on the menu. If you’re up for a party (and who isn’t?) while you’re at Mead’s Bay, check out Savi Beach, which brings Euro club Nikki Beach to mind; toss in a Japanese-inspired menu, and a location not far from the Four Seasons and Barnes Bay, and let’s go.

Spiny Lobster at Sandy Island Restaurant

Go Local

See Anguilla through the eyes of an Anguillian with these locally-led excursions. Book Quest Experiences, run by a pair of Anguillians for an off-the-beaten-path perspective; volunteer to help out with the National Trust’s endeavours to conserve the turtle population and Anguillian heritage. Last but certainly not least, there’s music everywhere. Bankie Banx, the godfather of the island’s scene, is known for his eclectic mix of reggae, folk, jazz and R&B. He launched the annual Moonsplash reggae festival in 1991 at his bar The Dune Preserve; the festival takes place March 10 - 12 this year.

Get there

Anguilla can be reached from three major gateways: Miami, FL (MIA), Puerto Rico (SJU), and St. Martin, (SXM), and by private air. ivisitanguilla.com

THE BOLD LIST

Antigua & Barbuda

THESE SISTER ISLANDS offer two distinct vacation experiences in one amazing destination. Antigua, the largest of the Caribbean’s Leeward Islands, covers 240 square kilometres, while its diminutive partner, Barbuda, clocks in at 160 square kilometres— but is also home to a 17-mile stretch of pristine pink sand beach.

Sail Away

If you’re a boating enthusiast, Antigua should be on your must-visit list. Its world-renowned Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, which started as a friendly show-off in the 1960s, takes place this year, from April 19 to April 24, while a few days later, beginning on April 29th, the country’s annual and world-renowned Sailing Week begins.

What a Racket

Pickleball, the suddenly popular again racket sport also from the 1960s, is played all over Antigua, but nowhere as avidly as St James’s Club and Villas and Hammock Cove. Both resorts have updated and added more pickleball courts, giving the island the unofficial title of Caribbean Capital of Pickleball. In the wake of celebs like George Clooney and Leonardo DiCaprio playing a few sets, it’s always best to be prepared for a chance celebrity meeting.

It’s a Festival

Unlike many other “carnivals” that centre around Mardi Gras, in Antigua, the carnival is a summertime affair, taking place the first week of August this year. The multi-day street party and parade is a celebration of Antiguan culture and Caribbean music, filled with local food and colourful costumes.

Past Meets Present

If you’re a history buff and need a break (as if!) from the beautiful beaches, book a room at The Admiral’s Inn and Gunpowder Suites. As one might gather from the intriguing name, the boutique hotel is a page out of history, with architecture dating to the 18th century. With a stunning view of English Bay, the property is only a stroll away from Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fun fact: The dockyard is named after British admiral Horatio Nelson, who lived at the Royal Navy Dockyard in the 1780s.

For The Birds

Along with the unique pink sand beaches (Bahamas and Bonaire can also boast about this rarity), Barbuda is also where the western hemisphere’s largest sanctuary of Frigate Birds is located. And, with its sister Antigua, there are 365 beaches to explore. visitantiguabarbuda.com

BAHAMAS

WE’VE ALL HEARD IT: ‘It’s Better in the Bahamas’ and, when it comes to world-class Caribbean culture, its 16 beautiful destination islands, including Grand Bahama, Bimini, Eleuthera, Abaco, Long Island, Cat Island, Inagua and Andros, among more than 700 islands and 2400 cays, live up to the hype. Here are six reasons why we agree:

It’s Always Paradise

… and there’s always something new or notable happening at Atlantis Paradise Island. In 2023, foodies will have even more reasons to book. Michelin-starred Chef Michael White will make his resort debut with his new restaurant Paranza, featuring the chef’s innovative Italian cuisine.

Yachts, Please

The Moorings Luxury Yacht Charter Company has returned to sailing The Abacos after a three-year hiatus. Locals call The Bahamas a boating capital, so why not experience it all from the water? Charter your own catamaran or book one that comes with a captain and onboard chef. The luxury is that you can sail into secluded bays, swim off the side of the boat, hit a deserted beach for a picnic, and have the captain mix up a tray of sundowner cocktails while the chef takes the best of local ingredients, for meat eaters and vegans, alike.

Tiger (Woods, That Is)

If playing a round or two at Albany’s par-72 Championship Golf Course isn’t enough, it might make it even more brag-worthy knowing that one of golf’s biggest stars, Tiger Woods, relaunched his annual HERO World Challenge here, an exclusive golf tournament he hosted in The Bahamas in November 2022. Be on the lookout for dates in 2023.

Bimini Really Is The Best

Resorts World Bimini celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. But, long before this milestone—in the 1930s to be exact—Bimini was on every fisherman’s bucket list, and still is today, with the catch of the day varying from marlin to yellowfin. The writer (and also an avid fisherman) Ernest Hemingway immortalized the island when he set his novel Islands in the Stream here; Papa Hemingway also called Bimini his summer home.

Join The Club

The newly opened Club Med Columbus Isle on San Salvador island has that traditional all-inclusive offering that you’ve come to expect, but with a Bahamian backdrop of sun, sand and blue-on-blue sea and sky. The resort features 20 different activities from snorkelling and scuba to spas and nature getaways. Add the spacious, bungalow-style accommodations and, although children are welcome, the minimum age is 11.

Junkanoo

The pandemic may have kept us down, but not out. To wit, Junkanoo, the national cultural festival and street parade, made its return in December 2022 to downtown Nassau after a two-year break. It happens annually on Boxing Day, and the party continues for a week. Festival goers are immersed in a celebration that represents the rich heritage of the African diaspora, a colourful tradition our friends in the Bahamas say speaks to the strength and resilience of the Bahamian people. bahamas.com

THE BOLD LIST

ST. MARTIN

WHEN IT COMES

to island style with a soupçon of European flair, we say mais, oui to St. Martin. If you’re in need of a few French Caribbean lessons, may we suggest you start with these five ways to get your magnifique on.

Dual Citizen

The beauty of St. Martin is its double life, French on one side, Dutch on the other; the Atlantic on one coast; the Caribbean on the opposite. And, although it’s the smallest territory to be shared by two nations, covering a petite 88 square kilometres, it punches well above its weight, especially when it comes to culture and cuisine.

French Flair

Ooh la la, gastronomy! From bistros to the South of France cafe vibes, we’re here for it. Dubbed the most romantic restaurant on the island, La Cigale has served up French fare for 25 years. Take a seat on the beach at Nettle Bay Lagoon, toes in the sand, with the ocean as your soundtrack. Not far is La Samanna, a Belmond Hotel, and L’Oursin, its culinary entry into all things français. Simply merveilleux.

Beach Bebe

We’ve all heard of a signature colour or a signature fragrance, but a signature beach? Yes, St. Martin has one of those, too. Orient Bay and its namesake beach have been likened to the French Riviera, but without the formality. Stretching more than two kilometres, it’s popular with the surf—from jet skiers to parasailers—and the turf set (belly up to seaside bars such as Bikini Beach or Kontiki Beach).

Do Your Duty (Free)

Most people say yes when asked if they include a bit of shopping in their vacation itineraries. Bonus: In St. Martin, the shopping is also duty-free. Marigot, the island’s capital, offers up luxe brands along with local specialties at Le West Indies Mall, but also, it’s one of the prettiest places, with pastel-hued homes and seaside views. You won’t mind carrying an extra bag or two when you’re surrounded by such loveliness.

Take a Hike

Pic Paradis, on the French side of St. Martin, is a hiker’s haven. The trails are wellmaintained but still fairly challenging. The average hiker can take about 45 minutes to an hour to climb steep terrain from Loterie Farm to the peak, but you can also drive until the road runs out, and hike the rest. Speaking of Loterie Farm, there’s an active adventure to be had at this former sugar plantation and current nature sanctuary. Play among the treetops, crossing rope bridges and overlook platforms. Other curated hikes start at Pic Paradis, and end up in places like Orient Bay and Concordia Hill, but all feature breathtaking views. st-martin.org

Bonaire I

T MAY BE THE B in the ABC islands, but Bonaire is A-List all the way when it comes to coral reefs, culinary cool and a hint of European edge. It’s also one of the fastestgrowing destinations of choice in the Caribbean. Let’s take a tour:

Going Dutch

As a part of the ABC Islands, Bonaire is a slice of the Netherlands in the Caribbean. Bonaire is a former plantation island that was under the rule of the Dutch West India Company, one of the world’s biggest trading companies of the 1600s, but the first settlers were an offshoot of Arawak Indians from Venezuela—who have inhabited the island for more than 1000 years.

Stretch it Out

Better get your downward dogs and sun salutations in shape, as the island will host its first annual Yoga Festival during the month of June. Bindu, a holistic wellness centre, has also just opened its doors in Bonaire’s capital, the port city of Kralendijk. Sorobon Beach Resort is also now offering morning ocean yoga sessions. Namaste.

Feeling Blue

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that Bonaire is the world’s first “blue destination.” The Bonaire National Marine Park, also the world’s first when it was established in 1979, was only the beginning. The designation indicates that a destination makes sustainable use of ocean resources for growth, well-being and jobs, while protecting the health of the ocean ecosystem. Clearly, it’s working, as Bonaire has some of the healthiest coral reefs and diving ecosystems on the planet. To wit, Courtyard Marriott Bonaire Dive Resort has just opened the WhatSup WaterSports Center for a splash or two of fun.

Multi-Tasking

We love a place that combines more than one activity but makes them equally easy to enjoy. Take the “Snacks of Bonaire” tour with H2O Visions Bonaire, where you combine island history and local neighbourhood life with stops at small, open-air spots for snacks and drinks; or hop on Bee Caribe’s The Street Art & Street Food Tour: an emissions-free electric scooter experience where you learn about local food and the Street Colors Project at your own pace.

Rest Your Head

The Art Hotel Bonaire has just opened its 14-room property in Kralendijk; next up is Belnem House Bonaire, a new boutique hotel with apartments, terrace suites and penthouses, also in Kralendijk.

Sip, Sip, Hooray!

After the success of the island’s first rum festival in the summer of 2022, the powers that be have decided to make it an annual event. Bonaire Rum Week returns in June 2023, but in the meantime, stop in at Cadushy Distillery, where award-winning rum and other spirits, including its proprietary Bonaire Liqueur—distilled from cactus— and its special Jubilee edition release, can be had at the distillery in Bonaire’s second city, Rincon. If you’re there on a Sunday, head to the local’s favourite lunch spot, Cactus Fence. Order the goat stew and salted fish. You’ll be happy you did. bonaireisland.com