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Tourism

Destinations for the Affluent

Trancoso – the new bohemian mecca in Brazil

Trancoso, Brazil

All well-to-do Brazilians vacation in the former fishing village, now a bohemian mecca, Trancoso. The local beaches (the most beautiful in the country) were taken over by hippies in the 1970s, but now you can easily encounter, for example, Gisele Bündchen lounging in a deck chair.

What to do: drink caipirinhas one after another, marvel at the unusual cuisine of Bahia state (bean fritters, anyone?), play soccer with the locals, or simply hang out on the terrace of your boutique hotel.

Milan, Italy

This summer in Milan, everyone interested in good food and big events will be there, because until the end of October, the World Expo 2015 is taking place. The grand event has already attracted many guests from different countries. They came to see the beautiful pavilions, learn more about the exhibition's theme (food security), and see inventions that will later quietly but firmly enter everyone's life. This is not only a public but also a social event, which automatically makes Milan one of the most fashionable destinations of summer 2015.

What to do: Milan, the most stylish city in Italy, doesn't live by Expo alone. You can stroll along Corso Como with its endless shops, wander through Sforza Castle, or go to try unusual variations of local cuisine at world-famous restaurants (Tokuyoshi fits the bill). Tired of the city, it's easy to escape to nature, to the water – sit and sip your Aperol Spritz through a straw on the shores of Lake Como.

Baha Mar, Bahamas

Developers from around the world latched onto the village of Baha Mar with a death grip and didn't let go until it turned into a luxury resort with boutiques, a casino, and a lively nightlife. They say it took three and a half billion dollars for the place to gain the status of "Bahamian Riviera." But now, those who used to go to Las Vegas and St. Barts are flocking here instead.

What to do: despite all the changes, Baha Mar has preserved authentic Caribbean cuisine. And the beaches with white sand might just kill any desire to look for other entertainment.

Tulum, Mexico

For those seeking chic, the direct route is not to Cancun but to Tulum. It's actually a former Mayan city from the pre-Columbian era. But it's also a very trendy place, and it's perfect for summer: the climate allows it, and there are fewer people. The crowd in Tulum is pleasant, mostly representatives of creative professions.

What to do: a tour of the Indian civilization ruins is a must, but you need to set aside time (roughly an eternity) to simply relax at Tulum's best hotel, Coqui Coqui, and grab a bite at the stylish and very popular Hartwood.

Chicago, USA

More and more truly stylish hotels are opening in Chicago, and the local attractions have never disappointed tourists.

What to do: a cruise on the river of the same name. Alternatively, a walk through the famous and spacious Millennium Park. And don't forget that Chicago has a beach! The shoreline of Lake Michigan stretches 40 kilometers, and along it are hotels of a resort type.

Fez, Morocco

Fez is jealous of Marrakech's fame. They really want to host high-profile travelers and are making corresponding efforts. Almost every day, new beautiful, cozy riads open. Fez wants to prove that the Maghreb fairy tale is about it too.

What to do: walk through the souk – the eastern bazaar, because it's fascinating whether it's your first time or your 31st. Dine at something typically local yet luxurious (Les Trois Saveurs is just right).

Shelter Island, USA

The new summer passion of New York's elite is Shelter Island. In the summer, the Chequit hotel opens here, so residents of the Upper East Side and similar social strata from other countries will have a place to stay.

What to do: Shelter is not yet for parties; it's a young resort, and it will suit those who want to get away from it all and finally finish the book they started in January. There's not much to do on the island, and that's the whole point. The beaches are deserted, the service at the best establishment, Vine Street Café, is attentive.

Bali, Indonesia

When it's summer in the northern hemisphere, the beaches of elite Jimbaran and bohemian Seminyak also have very comfortable weather: not too hot, and the rains haven't started yet.

What to do: it's easier to say what you can't do in Bali in summer. People usually learn surfing at Echo Beach, cleanse their dharma at one of the Hindu temples, or let loose at Potato Head Beach Club.

Los Angeles, USA

LA is experiencing a renaissance unlike any since the film crowd settled here and those letters appeared on the side of that famous mountain. Magnificent old theaters are being restored, and simultaneously new museums, restaurants, and clubs are opening.

What to do: stay in downtown – the area is compact enough to get around on foot. Gawk at the sunbathing beauties gathered around the rooftop pool at Ace Hotel Los Angeles. Visit the Disney Concert Hall and Grand Park.

Vieques, Puerto Rico

In recent years, Puerto Rico has become famous as a luxurious Caribbean hub with expensive hotels and excellent shops. You can stay in the capital, San Juan, or head to the island of Vieques. Since the W Hotel & Spa opened there, the island's status in the eyes of tourists has changed for the better.

What to do: on the "mainland," you absolutely must go hiking in the El Yunque rainforest. On Vieques, Puerto Mosquito is interesting – an amazing beach with bioluminescent water that naturally glows in the dark.

Yulia VERBI.
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