The perfect day: Rise and shine in the new Living by Armóniko, then grab your morning coffee from Rituales Café, which proudly serves coffee cultivated in La Sierra – a reborn Medellin neighbourhood that overcame a violent past. Enjoy a healthy lunch at Saludpan and an authentic Mexican dinner at Chilaquiles before ending your night dancing salsa in the basement of the no-frills Tíbiri Bar.

Plan your trip: Colectivo SiCLas meets at Carlos E. Restrepo Park every Wednesday for a lively nighttime bike ride that draws 400 to 500 people on average. Don’t have a bike? They’ll lend you one.

The perfect day: Wake up at The Generator before crossing the square to grab a flat white and Cardi B (a cardamom-infused brioche bun) from Proper Order. Then, walk towards Phoenix Park to spot some deer (or if you’re lucky, catch a sight of the president’s Bernese Mountain Dogs, Bród and Misneach). From there, head for Token, the retro arcade that serves excellent vegan eats. Catch an indie film at the Light House Cinema, then head to Fish Shop, the tiny seafood restaurant (with a killer wine list) where fish and chips are made with high flair. Finally, choose between grabbing a snug at Frank Ryans or making a night of it at The Complex, the live arts centre famous for warehouse raves (sober or otherwise) and art exhibitions.

Plan your trip: The Smithfield Fleadh (pronounced ‘flah,’), held on the last weekend of August, is the time to visit for two days of live Irish music, local art and hazy, summer evening pints.

The perfect day: Wake up at The Generator before crossing the square to grab a flat white and Cardi B (a cardamom-infused brioche bun) from Proper Order. Then, walk towards Phoenix Park to spot some deer (or if you’re lucky, catch a sight of the president’s Bernese Mountain Dogs, Bród and Misneach). From there, head for Token, the retro arcade that serves excellent vegan eats. Catch an indie film at the Light House Cinema, then head to Fish Shop, the tiny seafood restaurant (with a killer wine list) where fish and chips are made with high flair. Finally, choose between grabbing a snug at Frank Ryans or making a night of it at The Complex, the live arts centre famous for warehouse raves (sober or otherwise) and art exhibitions.

Plan your trip: The Smithfield Fleadh (pronounced ‘flah,’), held on the last weekend of August, is the time to visit for two days of live Irish music, local art and hazy, summer evening pints.

The perfect day: Wake up at Kaj Hotel, a floating houseboat hotel, and start your day with the excellent sourdough bread at Hart Bageri. Wander up the harbour from here to Opera Park and head to La Banchina for lunch. Take a dip in the harbour next to it and let off steam in the restaurant’s sauna. Go Boat your way around the harbour in the afternoon, then retire to Rosforth & Rosforth or Den Vandrette for drinks and dinner. 

Plan your trip: For long nights and lazy days, it’s got to be summer. But if you’re in the mood for challenging yourself with a bracing winter swim, the city opens new public saunas this winter.

The perfect day: Start your day at Tai Ping Shan Street and grab coffee and breakfast at one of the many pet-friendly cafes. Soul Fresh is a great choice for smoothies and fluffy pandan cake. Visit Pak Sing Ancestral Hall and pray to be blessed with true love, or head to Man Mo Temple to wish for success. Explore the area’s many contemporary galleries, or if you're into history, visit Liang Yi Museum, which houses a collection of Ming and Qing Dynasty furniture. Capture some Instagram-worthy shots of the area’s murals, created for the 2023 HKwalls street art festival. For dinner, do your best to bag a table at Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant The Chairman, and finish off with well-crafted cocktails at Mostly Harmless. 

Plan your trip: Experience the neighbourhood’s creative side at Art Month in March. Contemporary galleries host exhibitions while local bars and restaurants organise pop-ups to celebrate the festivities. 

The perfect day: Kick-start your day the way all good Melburnians do, with coffee and carbs from the legends at Wild Life Bakery (pro tip: arrive early to snag a sourdough loaf for later). You’ll want to allow plenty of time to hit the shops, especially Lygon Street Nursery and Northcote Pottery Supplies (don’t let the name fool you, you’re still in the correct postcode). All that retail therapy can be hungry work, so head to CDMX, home to what Time Out Melbourne’s food and drink writer has declared ‘the best tacos in the city’. Then settle in for a vinyl sesh at Waxflower – natural wine in hand, of course.

Plan your trip :There’s always something going on at CERES, a sustainable oasis located alongside Merri Creek. Equal parts community garden, environmental education centre, urban farm and social enterprise hub, you can easily while away a whole day here. Check out their website for upcoming workshops and events.

The perfect day: Stroll around City Park and wake up with a cafe au lait and beignets at Cafe du Monde, then visit the impressive New Orleans Museum of Art and its Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. Browse local art, jewellery and gifts at Home Malone before heading to Parkway Bakery & Tavern, a must for one of the best po’boys in the city. Afterwards, rent a kayak and paddle around Bayou St. John, or pick up some Italian sweets at Angelo Brocato. Grab a pre-dinner drink at Finn McCool’s or a glass of wine at Swirl, then check out Mandina’s for traditional Creole-Italian specialities and fried seafood platters. For something a more refined, try French spot Cafe Degas. Wrap up the night with some live music from the intimate stage at Chickie Wah Wah. To rest your head? The charming Canal Street Inn is a longstanding gem on the Canal Streetcar line.

Plan your trip: Along with Jazz Fest and Bayou Boogaloo – there’s always a festival happening in the ‘hood – the holiday season is particularly special with City Park’s Celebration in the Oaks and Lafitte Greenway’s Supernova.

The perfect day: Pastry shop L’Ile Douce is the best spot to start your day – order a traditional Milanese brioche with an espresso, and watch the neighbourhood slowly wake up. Keep an eye out for street art as you mosey around the streets, then stop for lunch at Deus Cafe, which is part café, part workshop, and part cycle store. The afternoon could be spent exploring artistic tombs and monuments at Cimetero Monumentale; checking out Milan’s ‘Vertical Forest’ Bosco Verticale, or vintage shopping at Room 37 or Live in Vintage. Being in Milan, you can’t skip aperitivo. Go to Bob for well-mixed cocktails or E…brezza for wine, then try snagging a seat at Ratana for contemporary takes on traditional Milanese cuisine. Jazz club Blue Note is where you want to end the evening – check their calendar to see who’s playing.  

Plan your trip: For the Salone del Mobile, aka Milan Design Week, held annually in April. The neighbourhood holds exhibitions, pop-ups and performances under the Isola Design Festival banner, all of which are open to the public.

The perfect day: Wake up in the traditional surrounds of Hotel Alp before grabbing a coffee at Back to Black. From here, stroll into Westerpark to soak up some nature. For a delicious brunch, visit Dignita and then head south to explore Bilderdijkstraat, a perfect street for snacking and shopping. When that’s done, reward yourself with some drinks at a wonderful bar like Cafe l’Affiche or Bar Mimi, before feasting on out-of-this-world pizza at nNea (book ahead!). To polish off your day, either go for a boogie at De School or, if you want something more laidback, catch a classic movie at Lab111 and then spend some time discussing it at the vibey Bar Strangelove.

Plan your trip: There’s no bad time to be in Amsterdam West, but when autumn arrives and the nights get longer, the area sparkles with lights that make it extra magical to meander around.

The perfect day: Start off at Beasty Coffee for fresh roasts and matcha terrine, or Minimal for artisanal chocolate and a whimsical plated dessert. Come lunchtime, family-run Katsudonya Zuicho makes a reliable katsudon (deep-fried pork cutlet and egg on rice) while Taberu Fukudaitoryo’s Bib Gourmand-rated spicy pork vindaloo is one of Tokyo’s best cheap eats. Start the evening with a cocktail at The Bellwood – in fact, hang around until 11pm and you’ll get to try the bar’s modern take on ramen. Rest your head at the newly-opened Trunk Hotel Yoyogi Park, which has a gorgeous rooftop infinity pool overlooking one of Tokyo’s greenest spaces.

Plan your trip: At any time of year, there’s always an event or festival happening over at Yoyogi Park. But there’s no better time than spring, when the park’s cherry blossoms burst into full bloom between late March and mid-April.

The perfect day: Wake up in one of The Baltic Hotel’s boutique bedrooms, then grab a pastry from nearby coffee shop Baltic Bakehouse. Spend the day browsing the neighbourhood’s fantastic shops, starting at independent florist Mary Mary Florals, then heading to vintage emporium Red Brick Market and finishing off with Dorothy, an eclectic studio-gift shop hybrid. For dinner, fill your boots with street food at the Baltic Market. If it’s a warm evening, head to the Botanical Gin Garden or book yourself in for a tribute night at Camp and Furnace. Still raring to go? 24 Kitchen Street is an iconic spot for late-night dance music.

Plan your trip: If you want to experience the Baltic Triangle like a local, book your trip in May to coincide with The Baltic Weekender, a dance music event spanning almost every bar and club in the area. 

The perfect day: Perk up and people-watch at Black Bird Coffee. Shop for vintage treasures along Rue Trois Mages, artisan jewelry on Rue Pastoret, and records at Cave à Vinyle. Grab a Pain Pan sandwich and watch locals play pétanque beside the majestic Palais des Arts. Sip cocktails at Verre à Cruise followed by a locavore meal on the stairs at Limmat. Finish off the night with a show at Espace Julien.  

Plan your trip: Shop alongside chefs and locals every Wednesday morning at the Cours Julien Farmers’ Market. Stock up on organic produce, cheese, bread and olive oil for beach picnics, home-cooked meals, or edible souvenirs.

The perfect day: Fuel up with a gourmet twist on street tacos at Ditroit before admiring the art inside a former flour mill at mega gallery Hauser & Wirth. Toast to happy hour at neighbourhood hangout Everson Royce Bar, get a breezy taste of Mexico City atop LA Cha Cha Chá and then go for a joyride along the instantly-iconic new Sixth Street Viaduct. If you need to crash for the night, consider Soho Warehouse or one of the enviable Aribnbs in the area.

Plan your trip: Make sure your visit falls over a Sunday when Smorgasburg sets up over 90 food and shopping vendors at ROW DTLA.

The perfect day: Kick off the day at Pearl’s Hill Terrace, starting with a brekkie of fresh shokupan (milk bread) and coffee at Japanese bakery Paaru. Then it’s time to explore Chinatown’s weird and wonderful gems – we’re talking a taxidermy studio, pottery spaces, and even a tattoo parlour that conducts tattoo art jamming sessions using faux skin. Fuel up on affordable local delicacies at one of the nearby hawker centres before visiting the iconic Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, then weave through Pagoda Street to soak in the atmosphere of Chinatown’s street stalls. End things on a high note at White Shades, a four-storey boozy wonderland with cocktails, modern fusion dishes and alcohol-infused gelato. Newly-opened hotel Mondrian Singapore Duxton is a great base to head back to after a day of adventure.

Plan your trip: Chinatown is vibrant all year round, but during the Chinese New Year you’ll experience it in its full glory. Larger-than-life lantern displays and performances take over the street, while festive bazaar stalls offer traditional snacks and paraphernalia.

The perfect day: Wake up at The Ace Hotel and pop into the Center for Fiction to peruse its bookstore and grab a coffee. Then make a beeline for the GreenMarket at Fort Greene Park and do some shopping at Green in BKLYN for eco goods and at Su'juk Fort Greene for knick-knacks and furniture. Get brunch at Café Paulette, then make your own dainty creation at Urban Glass. Cool off with a happy hour wine glass at Place des Fêtes before dinner at Miss Ada. Finish off with a boogie at Roller Wave or a show at BAM.

Plan your trip: In May every year, BAM throws Dance Africa, a full week of live performances, film screenings, festivals, dance parties, markets and bazaars that you can take full advantage of while in Fort Greene. It's the nation’s largest festival dedicated to African diasporic dance and music – don't miss it!

The perfect day: Start with a pastry at Twelve Triangles, one of the area’s many independent bakeries. Take a lazy morning stroll along Leith Walk before exploring Leith Farmers Market (Saturdays 10am to 4pm). Head to the newly Michelin-starred Heron for a late lunch, then wind down your day at one of Leith’s many small-batch breweries (Moonwake’s tropical pale ale will not disappoint). If you want to dance, Leith Arches throws a variety of DJ events, including the ever-popular La Beat Northern Soul Club. 

Plan your trip: Obviously, August in Edinburgh is pretty special thanks to the annual Fringe Festival  – and Leith is actually far enough away from the madness of the festival that you can still enjoy it without being trampled on by crowds. Just remember to pack an umbrella.

The perfect day: Sleep in and start the day late. Our dinner picks: Colombo Social for Sri Lankan, Osteria di Russo & Russo for Italian, or Queen Chow for Cantonese. Grab a gelato at Cow and the Moon before a show at the Enmore Theatre, where you’ll catch local and international music and comedy acts. Finish with several nightcaps at any of the ace small bars (Enmore Country Club, Bar Louise, Fortunate Son, Jacoby’s). For kick ons, pick between pub royalty: the Queens or the Duke. Soon you’ll be able to hit up new live music venue, the Trocadero Room. If you need a late-night snack, hit up Faheem’s.

Plan your trip: Head to Enmore during April and May every year for the Sydney Comedy Festival, and schedule your eating and drinking around stand-up shows at the Enmore Theatre.

The perfect day No day in Caparica is complete without a dip in the sea. Settle in comfortably on the Praia do Castelo, where you can while the hours away at multipurpose beach club Irmão. Before leaving, stop at Pussy Galore, a small counter at the entrance of artist Ben Rix’s shop The Wet Patch. This innovative hole-in-the-wall serves an unusual but irresistible combination: banana ice cream and natural wines.

Plan your trip Never before has this area been so lively all year round, but it's still in the summer that Caparica shines, with its beaches and lively terraces. 

The perfect day: Start your morning with breakfast at Valois, a cafeteria-style restaurant that’s been around since 1921, before heading to Jackson Park. Highlights of the 551-acre green space include the stunning Garden of the Phoenix and Yoko Ono’s ‘Sky Landing’ installation. Follow that up with a tour of the historic Frederick C. Robie House and dinner at chef Erick Williams’ award-winning Southern restaurant, Virtue. If you need a place to crash, boutique hotel SOPHY is just a stone’s throw away.

Plan your trip: Late March to early May is typically cherry blossom season in Chicago and Jackson Park, which boasts nearly 200 pink and white trees, is the best place to see the gorgeous blooms.

The perfect day: Start your day at Starry Starry Night for a bit of vintage shopping, before heading to Kelvingrove Art Gallery for paintings by Rembrandt, Dali and more. Grab a churro from Loop & Scoop and eat it in the exotic surroundings of the Botanic Gardens. Dine at the iconic Ubiquitous Chip, and then finish off your night with a drink in Brel’s outdoor fairylit beer garden. Retreat back to a suite in the luxurious Alamo Guest House, with a view of the park to boot. 

Plan your trip: GlasGlow is an annual event that runs for a fortnight from the end of October into November. The Botanic Gardens are lit up, creating a colourful wonderland for you to explore while you indulge in great local street food and hot chocolate.

The perfect day: Start with coffee at Paris Cape Town for the best croissants in town, then head to the promenade for a wander through the urban park. Pack your cozzie for a dip at the Sea Point Pavilion pool. For lunch, try the global food truck flavours at the Mojo Market, before a slow window-shop along Main Road. Grab coffee and macarons at Coco Safar to fuel up for an afternoon’s kayak adventure from Three Anchor Bay. Have sundowners on the terrace of The Winchester Hotel before dinner at Three Wise Monkeys, one of the best ramen and noodle bars in the city.

Plan your trip: Autumn (March-May) is the ‘secret season’ in Cape Town with mild temperatures, little wind, fewer crowds and lower prices.

The perfect day: A Middle Eastern brunch spread from Azzam is hard to beat. Once you’re done, walk up Flughafenstraße with a pit stop in Slina and Ironic Gallery for some top-tier shopping before taking in Tempelhofer Feld from the the Herrfurthstraße entrance. Once you’re done, drop by Barra to dig into a farm-to-table meal to die for, before bar-hopping up Weserstraße until the early hours of the morning.

Plan your trip: To get an insider’s glimpse into the neighbourhood’s culture scene, don't miss the annual 48 Hours Neukölln festival in late June, where hundreds of arts organisations open their doors for visitors.

The perfect day: Wake up in a hotel dedicated to French literary royalty Maison Proust, then grab breakfast with a Taiwanese twist at Petite Île bakery. Swing by Broken Arm to pick up some snazzy threads, then have lunch at Les Enfants du Marché. Digest while flicking through the art books at Ofr. When cocktail hour arrives, take a tour (responsibly, mind) of some of the city's top bars: Little Red Door, Cambridge Public House, Candelaria, and the already-legendary Bar Nouveau, led by cocktail wizard Remy Savage. If you're up for it, end your night at the iconic club Les Bains.

Plan your trip: Around a dinner reservation at Datil on Rue des Gravilliers. This newly-opened restaurant is run by local chef Manon Fleury, who teamed up with chef Laurène Barjhoux to create a predominantly plant-based menu.

The perfect day: You’d start with a bit of brunch at the mega-sized Caravan in Granary Square, before going for a wander around the shops of Coal Drops Yard (not overlooking the brilliant Honest Jon’s kiosk). After that you’d pay a visit to the British Library, and then maybe see what’s on at King’s Place. Along the way you’d pop into some of the area’s genuinely great old-school pubs, including the Queen’s Head on Acton Street and The King Charles I at the foot of Cally Rd. Dinner at Dishoom, then later, depending on the weather, you’d either wander down to the Standard hotel to grab a few stiff drinks on their spacious and increasingly buzzy rooftop bar or get to Spiritland, the audiophile venue, for a bit of (very high-fidelity) music. And finally, if you rave, there’s Scala and Egg. Heavyweight nightclubs and no mistake. 

Plan your trip: Christmases at King’s Cross are becoming increasingly vibey. Coal Drop’s Yard might also be the most convenient place in the city to buy non-bait gifts. There’s always, also, a ton of festive events going on, including (that old favourite) curling. You’ll also get to walk the canal path in winter, something that’s an oft-overlooked, magical experience.

The perfect day: Start your day with coffee and cakes at Avek Cheri, then swing by nearby Nonfiction to pick up new scents for yourself or your home. Explore the neighbourhood's fashion stores, including Depound, Beaker Shop, and Elborn. Afterwards, get a dose of culture at Leeum Museum of Art, and finish the day with a three-Michelin-starred meal at nearby Mosu for a contemporary Korean fine-dining experience you won't forget.

Plan your trip: Art enthusiasts, take note: International auction house Sotheby's has recently opened a new space in Hannam-dong, which will host various exhibitions, talks, and workshops.

The perfect day: Check in at the THesis Hotel, a modern spot where you’ll find two farm-to-table concepts helmed by acclaimed Miami chef Niven Patel. Grab a cosy, casual Cuban breakfast at Tinta y Café before perusing the well-stocked shelves at longtime purveyor Books & Books. For an action-packed happy hour, hit up the Rathskeller, UMiami’s energetic on-campus bar, before exploring the glistening grounds on foot. End your day with dinner at contemporary American restaurant Beauty & The Butcher, followed by a rooftop nightcap back at THesis’ Mamey on 3rd.

Plan your trip: The Gables’ unofficial season kicks off with the iconic Biltmore Hotel’s annual New Year’s Eve ball and fireworks show. The cooler months of January through March are a great time to visit – on Saturdays, make yourself a picnic at the Coral Gables Farmers’ Market at Merrick Park.

The perfect day: Join the line of customers waiting to devour flaky croissants at Arsicault Bakery, or head to James Beard Award-nominated Breadbelly for its bright green kaya toast and creative Asian coffee drinks. Afterward, stroll along Clement Street, stopping into local favorite shops like Green Apple Books. Dim sum calls for lunch – the top spot is Dragon Beaux. Walk off the calories in Golden Gate Park before dinner at the newly opened neighbourhood hotspot Pearl 6101. End the night with a movie at the historic Balboa Theatre before crashing at your Airbnb steps from Ocean Beach.

Plan your trip: Time a visit with one of the annual music festivals in next-door Golden Gate Park: Outside Lands takes place in August and Hardly Strictly Bluegrass arrives in September. 

The perfect day: Get coffee and brunch at Cafefin as you people-watch in Jiřího z Poděbrad Square. Check out what’s happening at the popular square of Náměstí Míru before settling down for a local Czech lunch – we recommend Lokál Korunní or Vinohradský Parlament. Take a peaceful walk around Riegrovy Sady, where you can catch the sunset the city. For dinner, book a table at Vinohradský Pivovar and accompany your meal with a local brew.

Plan your trip: Four days a week, from Wednesdays to Saturday, Jiřího z Poděbrad Square hosts one of Prague’s most famous farmers markets.

The perfect day: Begin at Gran Clariana, a green space that was created by burying the traffic junction at Glòries. Resist the temptation to lounge in one of the inviting hammocks and make your way to La Farinera del Clot: a former flour factory transformed into a cultural centre. In the afternoon, venture across Gran Vía to explore the nearby Museu del Disseny. Sink a vermouth at the traditional Bodega Sopena, but be mindful not to overindulge, as you'll be continuing with a reasonably priced tasting menu at Lanto. 

Plan your trip: During the first three weekends of November, El Clot will be in the midst of a lively celebration. Over 40 local associations come together to put on a grand festival, complete with traditional activities like 'castells' (human towers) and 'gegants' (giants).

The perfect day: Start your day with a breakfast full of local flavours at Café Papagayo. Check out the Museo Casa de la Bola and La Casa Estudio Barragán before heading over to Mercado El Chorrito for some traditional grub at lunchtime. Take a stroll through the sprawling Bosque de Chapultepec for a chill afternoon. Wrap up the day with a light dinner at Deli Lou and soak up the nightlife at Bar El Mickey. 

Plan your trip: Hit up San Miguel Chapultepec in October to experience the annual music and art festival in Bosque de Chapultepec.

The perfect day: Grab breakfast at Raraou Cantina, followed by coffee in Selas, then take a stroll through the neighbourhood. You’ll spot buildings with their windows cemented shut – these are former squats. For a dose of culture, mooch around the Archaeological Museum or one of the many record stores such as Le Dsk Noir, Art Rat Records or Dirty Noise. For recreation and some fresh air, you can either go to the city’s main park Pedion Tou Areos or the famous Strefi Hill. For dinner you have plenty of options: go Greek at Atitamos, Rozalia or Avli. Bars are uncountable in Exarcheia, but our tip would be I Skala, a small bar on the second floor of an apartment building.

Plan your trip: For those who would like to witness the revolutionary spirit of the neighbourhood, visit on November 17, the anniversary of the 1973 student uprising against the Greek junta.

The perfect day: Start your day at Mangerie, which offers a killer Bosphorus view and a breakfast menu loaded with goodies like grilled sausage and menemen. After that, breathe in some fresh sea air with a stroll along the shore, then pop into Evin Art Gallery, which has been linking artists and collectors since ’96. For an early evening cocktail and dinner, head to Lucca. If you manage to nab a table outside, people-watching along Bebek Caddesi is an absolute treat. Staying the night? Bebek Hotel by the Stay is a solid choice.

Plan your trip: Bebek's lively all year, but spring is the perfect time to enjoy the coast and the area’s alfresco culture. 

The perfect day: For breakfast head to Orphan’s Kitchen to devour a homemade crumpet drenched in honey from the cafe’s rooftop. Spend the day browsing New Zealand made wares at the Poi Room, and local labels like Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester, and Juliette Hogan. For high end fashion without the high prices, shop for second hand designer threads at Tatty’s or Encore Designer Recycle, then rummage through antique homewares in Flotsam and Jetsam. In the evening, go for a glass of New Zealand wine at Beau’s Wine Bar, followed by dinner at one of the eateries in the warren-like Ponsonby Central. To experience one of the neighbourhood’s historic 1920s villas firsthand, check into Hotel Fitzroy for the night. 

Plan your trip: Visit Ponsonby in December to see Christmas lights sparkle up and down leafy Franklin Road, in a locally famous display of festive community spirit. 

The perfect day: Begin with breakfast of egg cakes and soybean milk at Wuming Breakfast, then stroll around the Lin An Tai Historical House and Museum. Visit the eco-friendly Hsing Tian Kong Temple and treat yourself to fried shredded pancakes at Shanxi Noodles for lunch. Spend your afternoon exploring the Miniatures Museum of Taiwan or MoCA Taipei – and if you’re still hungry, try the waffles at Melange Cafe. As night falls, unwind with some natty wine at RVLT Taipei or have a laugh at Two Three Comedy. Don't miss Datong District's Ningxia Night Market and the vibrant cargo marketplace at Dadaocheng Wharf for the perfect Taipei experience.

Plan your trip: Behold an out-of-this-world fireworks display at the Taipei Summer Festival, held from July to August.

The perfect day: Start your day with breakfast at Bonifacio High Street or Burgos Circle, then escape the heat at one of BGC's many malls – we recommend SM Aura or Uptown Mall. End the day with an exquisite omakase dining experience at Mecha Uma before going big at Revel At The Palace, where you'll likely see celebrities and influencers dancing the night away, or at LGBTQ+ hotspot Nectar Nightclub. 

Plan your trip: Visit Manila in the final quarter of the year to revel in Filipino Christmas spirit – it’s the longest Christmas celebration in the world, starting from September through to early January. Come mid-November and witness BGC come to life with its annual tree-lighting ceremony and festive displays.

The perfect day: Wake up at the Great Gatsby-inspired Honeyrose and start the day with an authentic Italian coffee from Café Olimpico. Do a little shopping at the new Nike flagship store and stop for lunch at Chef Antonio Park’s much-anticipated restaurant Yama. Pop across the street for a session in downtown’s hidden spa at Four Seasons—or take in a cutting edge art exhibition at the Musée d’art contemporain. Cap it all off with dinner and unbeatable views at Hiatus, the city’s highest rooftop restaurant.

Plan your trip: Contrary to popular belief, winter is one of the best times to experience downtown Montreal thanks to events like Montréal en Lumière, which turns the core into an open-air play zone with light installations, street food and music.

The perfect day: Wake up at chic art hotel MOXY Osaka Honmachi then pop over to the retro cafe Arabiya for a pastry and coffee. Shop ‘till you drop at the sprawling Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade, before treating yourself to some takoyaki (grilled octopus balls) for a light lunch at Acchichi Hompo Dotonbori. Ease into the afternoon with a ride on the Dotonbori canal cruise before exploring the neon paradise of Dotonbori by night. Dine at Chibo for a world-class serving of okonomiyaki, a type of savoury pancake and an Osakan speciality. Finish up with a drink at Sake Bar M300.

Plan your trip: Taking place three times each year, the Dotonbori Cosplay Festival is a whimsical event that takes over the busy streets. And for further future planning, make sure to visit Time Out Market Osaka, the first Asia-based market opening in 2025. 

The perfect day: Start out at what might be the tiniest coffee shop in Toronto, Coffee Pocket, and then meander along Bloor Street West, popping into eclectic gift shops selling incense, homewares and books. Catch a film at Hot Docs Cinema, then stop for a drink at one of the many local watering holes like The Lab pub or the Writer’s Room for a skyline sunset. Hungry? Nab a sexy red banquette at Michelin-starred Mimi Chinese and finish the night with a tableful of traditional Chinese dishes with a spicy twist.

Plan your trip: For the return of the Hot Docs festival in 2024. Spring is also when the new developments in the area are slated to be completed, so the Annex will be buzzing with new activities and events. 

The perfect day: Get up early and grab buns from a street food stall to break your fast like a local, before moving on to Song Wat Coffee Roaster for an artisanal caffeine kick. Slurp aromatic beef noodles at the popular Rong Klan Nuea then check out art shows by local talent at Play Art House. Wrap up your day with a preprandial cocktail at Opium, the rooftop bar at one-Michelin-starred Potong, before tucking into the restaurant’s Thai-Chinese cuisine.

Plan your trip: Come in October-November for your chance to explore the neighbourhood at its liveliest during Song Wat Week, a ten-day event when shops host special events and activities such as walking tours and drink deals.

The perfect day: Breakfast doesn't have to break the bank in Accra. Start your day at a local food vendor and treat yourself to Ghana's favorite breakfast, waakye (cooked rice and beans), at Auntie Munie Waakye. Then, it's time for some culture: nearby galleries and museums include the WEB Dubois Memorial Centre, Goethe-Institut and Berj Gallery. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Bistro 22, known for its fusion cuisine, and end your day with a top-tier dinner at The Honeysuckle or Vine. Popular nightclub Twist is your go-to if you want to carry the night on.

Plan your trip: December is a busy month in Ghana as the diaspora returns for Christmas season. Flights might be pricier, but the festivities and parties that take over town at this time of year are more than worth it.