When tastemakers travel, it seems they somehow intuitively know all the best spots. They're hanging out at local dive bars, they're staying at the most gorgeous boutique hotels, and they're eating at the most charming hole-in-the-walls. When I travel, I send out a humiliating "any recs?" post on my Instagram story just to be met with an endless list of the same oversaturated spots.
But no more.
I used to scour the Instagram pages of my favorite writers, curators, influencers, and tastemakers for the best spots in each city I was visiting. I would even dedicate hours of research to finding influencers that lived in the city I was visiting and looking through their tagged photos for the hot spots that all the cool locals are actually going to.
And while this method never steered me wrong, it was so time-consuming. Then, like an answer to my prayers, I discovered AmiGo. Imagine a combination of Basic.Space's curated profiles and the organic community of Pinterest. It's like that but better. This travel app is a hub for all the people I was already following. Prolific travel writers, photographers, fashion people, and the It girls are all on AmiGo.
The premise of the app is simple. Users tag places they visited in cities they've been in. They can even add their own photos and descriptions. Then, on your own profile, you can wishlist certain places to save them for your own travel bucket list.
AmiGo also curates guides of the top recommended spots in all the coolest cities. Think of it like Infatuation Guides for more than just food.
To help inspire my 2024 travel, I'm wishlisting all the coolest places on AmiGo. Here are some of the places recommended by the coolest people on the internet:
Marrakech
This North African city is a vibrant, culturally rich city equally fit for those seeking adventure and those seeking relaxation. A tapestry of colors in Morocco, Marrakesh beckons with its ornate palaces and natural desert beauty.
Here are the highlights:
- 33 Rue Majorelle: A concept store for clothing, home decor, and souvenirs
- Grand Cafe de la Poste: A majestic, old-world French bistro
- La Pause: Even if you don't stay at this desert oasis, take a day trip less than an hour from the city to lounge by the pool, relax in bedouin tents, go on camel rides, and gaze at the stars
- Place Jemaa el-Fna: This famous main square is home to food stalls and a bustling night market.
- Majorelle Gardens: The home of Yves Saint Laurent for a while, this cerulean villa and botanical garden is a must-visit. Plus, make a stop at the gift shop and visit the YSL museum next door
St. Barth's
Everyone wants to go to St. Barth's. The epitome of Caribbean luxury, I salivate at the thought of its pristine beaches, chic boutiques, and fine dining. But how to do this destination right?
Where to visit:
- Gustavia: Take a stroll through this neighborhood for some of the best shopping and lifestyle activities. You can go on a hike, take a relaxing workout class, and even do a yoga session with the island's best yoga teachers.
- La Petite Colombe: A French territory, it's no surprise St. Barths has the best bakeries. Don't miss this cult-favorite destination for pastries and lunch bites.
- Le Ti St Barth: This nightlife spot is known for cabaret shows. Come for the show, stay for the party.
- Shellona: This chic beach club is great for a scenic lunch or an afternoon by the beach
Mexico City
A trendy destination for culture, history, and food, Mexico City blends the old and new with ancient ruins, lively markets, iconic art museums, and a tantalizing culinary scene. I'm always fiending for another trip here, and next time I'll be armed with AmiGo's best reccs.
Here's what not to miss:
- Aurelia Concept Store: This concept store houses some of the coolest fashion and accessories, all by women-led brands.
- Cafe Tormenta: There are great restaurants and great street food in CDMX, this is a mix of both. This street stand is a trendy spot for coffee and medialunas, and the vibes are immaculate with a constant stream of old-school vinyl.
- Casa Estudio Luis Barragan: Come for the photo op, stay for the inspiring design of this famed Barragan house.
- Churreria El Moro: Open 24/7, stop here for a sweet treat multiple times a day
- Lago Algo: The CDMX art scene is far from boring. But this new contemporary art museum on Chapultepec lake is not one to miss
- Masala y Maiz: This Indian and African fusion spot is a great spot to cleanse your palette before more tacos.
Copenhagen
Effortlessly cool Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for charming design, Michelin-starred cuisine, and incredible style.
Here's what not to miss:
- Atelier September: This trendy cafe is a local favorite. Go for breakfast and lunch fare of elevated Danish dishes
- Louisiana Museum of Modern Art: Despite the name, this is not in Louisiana. This museum's architecture is a feat of its own, with glass walls that offer panoramic views.
- Jerome Vintage: Of all the boutiques in Copenhagen, make sure to visit this vintage store for unique, curated vintage.
- La Banchina: This waterfront restaurant and sauna is a unique summer experience. Hang out on the dock and swim, or book a session in the sauna, after stopping by for some breakfast or lunch
Rome
I'll never say no to an Italian vacation, and while coastal towns are all the rage in the summer, Rome is never a bad idea. You can't go wrong with so much history in the streets and delicious pasta and pizza everywhere you turn, but to make the most out of your trip, here are some can't-miss spots.
Places to roam:
- Bar San Calisto: This stylish cafe and wine bar is bustling with cool locals at all times of the day — from your morning espresso to your evening cocktail.
- Chez Dede: Lovers of art and design must visit this hub of curated art and design from around the world.
- Forno Campo de' Fiori Roma: In the heart of the bustling market of Campo de' Fiori Roma, this pizza by the slice is a must-visit pit stop to get a slice while you walk around the city.
- SantoPalato: Locals love this restaurant for a real taste of modern Italian food.
