Black Tomato Blog

top 10 shopping cities

Some people travel to see famous buildings, eat in new restaurants and discover new pockets of beauty in the world. Other people like to globe trot in order to shop. Part of the thrill is the hunt and the chase, such as sifting through the ancient bazaars of Istanbul or Marrakech, or the chaos of the Shanghai fabric market to see what treasures can be unearthed. Some travellers just want a seamless shopping experience and prefer to stick with the best-known boutiques in a town, such as Charvet in Paris or Barneys in New York. Whether you’re looking for bargains or want to break the bank with a custom made Savile Row suit, here’s a list of our favourite shopping cities in the world.

Miami

Although it’s hard to tear yourself away from the beaches, restaurants and nightclubs of Miami, take a break to shop. Stroll along the pedestrian-only Lincoln Road, which is seven blocks long crammed with American high street favourites like Anthropologie and Victoria’s Secret, as well as the beauty mecca that is Browne’s Apothecary. Flex your credit card at Barneys and Scoop too.

Want to check out the shops of South Beach for yourself? With our four night journey, you’ll stay in the stylish Setai hotel and our concierge will advise on all the latest and greatest shops in town.

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New York

The Big Apple always makes an appearance on a list of the world’s best shopping cities and it’s easy to see why. Think of anything you want- French antiques, Danish furniture, obscure Japanese designers or the latest techno gadgets- and there will be a store somewhere selling it. Best of all, with the dollar hovering at a near all-time low, there’s never been a better time to go and shop in New York.

Chiang Mai

Although most people tend to think of Bangkok as the best city for shopping in Thailand, we prefer Chiang Mai. The scale of the city makes it easier- and more pleasant- to navigate and Chiang Mai is famous for its silver, textiles and ceramics. For products designed with a modern twist, visit Wit’s Collection on Nimmanhaemin Road for quirky ceramics, and stock up on silk accessories at Vila Cini and Living Space for contemporary housewares.

For a non-shopping induced adrenaline buzz in Cape Town try a dive with a great white shark, for a truly unforgettable experience.

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Tokyo

In Tokyo shopping isn’t just a sport or past-time- it’s a full blown experience. The Harajuku district is worth a stop (and not just for the Harajuku girls) but for its eclectic shops dotted among the maze-like streets. What also makes shopping in Tokyo unique is that several global labels have lower-priced spin-off lines available only in Japan such as Baby Jane by Cacharel and Blue by Burberry

Hong Kong

Visitors used to come to Hong Kong in search of a cut-rate custom made suits (if that’s what you’re looking for, head to China. We love Hong Kong for its sleek boutiques and cutting edge design. Check out Kou, a lifestyle boutique housed in townhouse, where everything is for sale. We also like Ascot Chang and D-Mop for sportswear.

For a different type of experience in Hong Kong, plan a visit there to experience the Hong Kong 7’s, and cap off your trip with a sunset trip on a junk.

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Paris

For fashion aficionados, Paris is a true mecca. You could spend all your days browsing the biggest of the big name designers, like Chanel, Yves St Laurent, and Christian Dior, or browse for outstanding vintage at Didier Ludot at the Palais Royal. Men need to make a stop at the Charvet store at least once in their lives, for a bespoke shirt (where else can you find a store selling hundreds of shades of white?) For trendier picks, head to Zadig & Voltaire or Vanessa Bruno.

Mumbai

Chaotic Mumbai is one of the best cities for shopping in India as long as you know where to look. Ignore the advice of taxi drivers offering to take you to their favourite stores (they’re all on commission) and check out Bungalow 8 in the trendy Bandra neighbourhood, which sells contemporary housewares. If you’re looking for hand-blocked textiles, head to Anokhi or Soma.

Mumbai is the epitome of cool, glitz and glamour. With our bespoke itinerary to Mumbai, you can experience the best of the city’s shops, restaurants and nightclubs in style.

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Shanghai

If you plan to go shopping in Shanghai make sure to bring an extra suitcase- or two- because you’ll probably go nuts. Visit the Dong Jia Du fabric market where you can have custom made coats, shirts and suits whipped up for next to nothing. Bring a favourite suit or shirt and have it copied expertly. If you’re looking for silk accessories, try Annabel Lee or Shanghai Trio.

Once you’ve shopped til you dropped in Shanghai, spend a few days at Commune on the Great Wall, which has been designed by some of the world’s leading architects.

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London

Although shoppers could buy anything on the planet in London, what we especially love about the city is its tradition of handmade and bespoke products, from the shirt makers of Jermyn Street to the tailors of Savile Row. Head to Anderson & Sheppard, where everyone from Prince Charles to Bryan Ferry has had suits made, or for a funkier option, try Ozwald Boateng.

Cape Town

Cape Town one of the most beautiful cities on the planet and one of best places to shop as well. The best buys are silver, diamonds and carved wood products. Wine is also a good buy, as the quality is superb and prices are more than reasonable. In town, check out Africa Nova or Monkeybiz galleries for contemporary ceramics.

top 10 sexiest beaches

As the weather turns colder, our thoughts have turned to where we’d rather be right now- mainly, relaxing on a warm tropical beach with a cocktail in hand. Beaches are inherently sexy places, as everyone is running around in minimal clothing and drinking all day long is perfectly acceptable, as well as checking out the people laying on the towel near you. That said, some beaches are sexier than others. So what makes a beach sexy? It’s that intangible combination of the vibe, the people and the surroundings- which makes Miami sexy, but not say, Martha’s Vineyard. Here’s our selection of the world’s sexiest beaches.

Hua Hin, Thailand
Hua Hin, just three hours from Bangkok, boasts a 5-mile long stretch of beach and is favourite beach destination of the Thai royal family. It’s also where celebrities and in-the-know jet setters like the Beckhams, Kate Moss, and Naomi Campbell have vacationed. While most celebs tend to hole up in Chiva-Som, the Sofitel is another excellent choice, with its Edwardian colonial décor and afternoon tea which is served in a former railway lounge.

Apart from being one sexy beach, Hua Hin hosts the annual Kings Cup Elephant Polo tournament. The event is pure tropical glamour and plenty of parties run alongside the event.

Playa Mitjorn, Ibiza

Celebrities like Jade Jagger and Elle Macpherson like to spend part of their summer holidaying on Ibiza; Jagger even owns a home on the island. But savvy visitors know where real action happens- the island of Formentera, 11 miles off the southeastern coast of Ibiza. The island has just one paved road, and doesn’t have the hordes of tourists that the mainland does. Playa Mitjorn is one of the best beaches on the island, and the vibe is boho chic.

South Beach, Miami

South Beach is one of the best beaches in America, thanks to its carefree attitude and hedonistic mix of nightclubs, bars and world-class restaurants. The water is just as warm as the Caribbean, and you can literally walk the beach for miles. Spending a lazy afternoon lounging at the chic Nikki Beach Club is a must, as is a stroll down Collins Avenue for shopping.

Want to experience all the exciting, hedonistic and happening events that make Miami the jet-set party capital of the world? Book our Miami package, and you’ll stay at the swank Setai Hotel, and our local concierge service will provide recommendations and make reservations at the best of the restaurants, bars and clubs.

Bondi Beach, Sydney

Although Australia has no shortage of gorgeous beaches, Bondi Beach is the place to

“sea-and-be-scene." Located just 15 minutes from downtown Sydney, its essential you arrive at Bondi early to stake out a spot on the stand. The actual beach is a mile- long stretch of protected beach cove, with powdery sand and dark blue water. One word of warning: don’t even think about grabbing a surfboard unless can hold your own in the water. Thirsty? There are plenty of options for lunch and beers across the street from the beach.

Boracay Island, Philippines

The Philippines is fast becoming the place to visit in Southeast Asia. Its still relatively unexplored so a visit there delivers plenty of bragging rights, as well as the chance to experience one of the best beaches in the world, on Boracay Island. Its main beach, White Beach, is four-kilometres long which is ideal for long strolls and people-watching. The diving is superb or you can explore the beaches on horseback.

With our Magic Motorbike Safari package, you will experience the thrill of motor-biking through the rainforest and jungles of the Philippino Islands in the South China Sea, followed by a relaxing stay at Boracay Island.

St Barts, French West Indies

This French-owned Caribbean island is one of the most sophisticated in the Caribbean, and is the kind of place where you need to swap the flip flops for the stilettos. The nightlife and gourmet restaurants can just about rival those in Miami and Saint Tropez. Although there are more than 20 beaches to choose from, some of the best are the secluded Anse du Gouverneur and Anse de Lorient for surfing.

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Mexico’s Isla Mujeres is just 7km long and barely 1 km wide, and is famous for its beautiful tropical beaches and calm, clear blue waters. This former fishing village has a laid back vibe, but there’s still plenty to do, such as hiring kayaks to head up the coast to explore the coral reefs of the island, or visiting a Mayan temple.

Spend a week exploring Isla Mujeres and stay at the fabulous boutique hotel Casa de los Seunos, which has just eight ocean-view rooms as well as a spa.

Red Beach, Santorini

The Cycladic Island of Santorini is one of the sexiest islands in the Mediterranean, with its perfect white washed buildings and dramatic scenery. With several beaches dotted around the island, its hard to choose which one to park your towel on. If you’re looking for a mellow spot, head south to Perissa Beach. If you’d rather be in the midst of all the action, then go to Red Beach, which is set against a backdrop of red lava cliffs. The beach is best reached by boat, or a short walk.

Benguerra Island, Mozambique

If you’re looking for a secluded beach, consider the Bazaruto Archipelago, a group of five islands off Mozambique’s southern coast. These islands are preserved as a National Park, and feature world-class snorkelling, deep sea fishing and unspoiled white beaches. One of the best places to stay there is on Benguerra Island, the second largest island in the group.

With our seven-night tour, you’ll visit the Bazaruto Archipelago, and stay at the exclusive Marlin Lodge which has just 21 sea-facing chalets.

Saint Tropez, France

The little fishing village of Saint Tropez was made famous by Bridget Bardot, and after her initial visit the island seems to have permanently picked up her sexy vibe. In the summer, celebrities like Pamela Anderson, P. Diddy, Bono and Joan Collins make Saint Tropez their home-away-from-home. Staying on a yacht, preferably an enormous one with plenty of Cristal flowing, is the proper way to experience it.

top 10 spas

The ideal spa means different things to different people. Some people want a punishing, boot camp mentality experience where they are whipped into shape and forced to endure a low calorie diet. Others prefer a mellower time, which involves languorous spa treatments and dinner topped off with red wine. And if you'd rather not spend your week cooped up in a treatment room, there are also outdoor adventure spas, where the focus is on challenging yourself in a beautiful setting. Here's a look at some of our favourite spas around the world.

Terme di Saturnia Spa Resort, Tuscany

Legend has it the Terme di Saturnia was created by a bolt of lightening thrown to earth by the god Saturn in a fit of rage. We’re not sure about that, but what we do know is that the resort sits in the middle of land with therapeutic hot springs, where for over a 1,000 years more than 200 gallons per second of 98.6 degrees sulphuric water have been erupting from the earth. Spa treatments include Aquarelaxation, where you float in a private thermal pool while being massaged by a therapist, and thermal plankton massage, an best of all, meals include wine.

If you’d rather relax in a high octane way, consider the Grand Prix at Monza, just outside Milan. This is one of the most glamorous and fun car racing events in the world.

 L'Agapa, Brittany

This 1950s-style beach resort sits above the rocks of the Granite Rose Coast of Brittany. While the building design is contemporary, the property also boasts a Zen garden and an herb garden.  L'Agapa guests can stay in three different areas: try to book a room with a sea view. But guests come here mainly for the spa, not the rooms, and they won’t be disappointed. The spa offers views of the Seven Islands Archipelago, and treatments include a scrub massage with pink relaxing salts and hot algae; and a purifying skin treatment with sea mud and herbs.

 The Ananda, India

The Ananda is arguably the most luxurious spa in India. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, the spa is housed in a refurbished palace, which was once the residence of a Maharajah. Over 79 treatments are offered, ranging from Swedish massage to yoga and facials. The Ananda is also home to the only Ayurveda Beauty Institute in India, and if you get tired of practicing your downward dog, there’s also a squash court; 6 hole golf course, rafting, trekking, and wildlife safaris.

To really appreciate the calming properties of the Ananda, spend a few days in Mumbai first, where India’s big money and beautiful people hang out. Check out the Bollywood sets, as well as the hedonistic nightclubs and designer boutiques.

Banyan Tree Spa, Banyan Tree, Seychelles

The Banyan Tree Seychelles sits on land once owned by Peter Sellers and George Harrison, but its celeb past isn’t what it makes it a standout. A highlight of any stay there is the spa. The treatment rooms are crafted from individual, pale marble villas tucked high up in the hills, with gorgeous ocean views. The glass walls are only at half-height, allowing the ocean breeze to come in – and blow the sheer white curtains. Everything from facials to basic massages is offered but for a real treat book a two or three hour treatment.

Amansala, Mexico

Although the accommodations at the Amansala cannot be compared to say, a Four Seasons hotel, what makes it luxurious is its beach-front setting. The hotel is home to Bikini Boot Camp, a fun way to whip yourself into bathing suit ready shape (its open to men and women). Days start with a beach or jungle walk followed by some toning classes or pilates, and days end with yoga and meditation. In between the power squats, there are swimming and snorkelling trips, as well as visits to Mayan ruins. Food is tasty and healthy, such as grilled fresh fish, mangos, and jicama salads.

If you’re looking for a Mexican beach getaway without the boot camp, consider Isla Mujeres, one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets. This tiny island boasts beaches, turquoise waters, and lazy days spent exploring an incredibly beautiful and undeveloped tropical island.

The Beau-Rivage Palace

Located in Lausanne, the elegant Beau-Rivage Palace, where Coco Chanel and Noel Coward once stayed, is all about old-world décor, but the new spa is thoroughly modern.  The Cinque-Mondes Spa incorporates design elements and treatments from all over the world, including China, Japan, Africa and Bali. Some of the treatments are spread over two to five days, including the Ritual from Siam Sojourn, which includes a Balinese massage, a Thai massage and a scalp and facial massage. The spa also has traditional Japanese baths.

Pura Vida Spa, Costa Rica

If you’re a fan of yoga, or want to learn how to do it, why not try it out in a beautiful setting? The Pura Vida Spa in Costa Rica is set in a 12-acre private retreat. In between working on yoga poses, guests can also sign up for eco-adventure tours and whitewater rafting. Pura Vida also offers meditation classes, hikes through coffee fields and weekly salsa dancing classes.

Want to see more of Costa Rica? Start in the capital, San José, and then spend a few days white-water rafting and mountain biking, before heading to the Pacific beaches of the incredible Nicoya Peninsula.

Cowley Manor, Gloucestershire

From the outside, Cowley Manor looks like a traditional Italianate home. As soon as you cross the threshold, that’s where the traditionalism ends. Window-seats are covered in pony-skin and instead of antiques and taxidermy, you’ll find red lacquered tables and papier-mâché ‘hunting trophies.’ The in-house spa, C-side, has a modern look, complete with glass walls and dark green slate. Everything from hot stone treatments to Swedish massage is available at the spa.

One & Only Ocean Club, Bahamas

The One & Only Ocean Club is one of the most luxurious places to stay in the Caribbean- where else can you get staff spritzing you with Evian face misters on the beach, and serving up fresh sorbet? The same high standards apply to the spa, where all massages are performed in a private villa. Try the Elemis ocean wrap, the Royal Thai massage or the sunburnt treatment if you overdid it in the sun.

If you’re looking for a different type of Bahamian retreat, consider the Abaco Club on Winding Bay, the golf course of choice for Ernie Els and Greg Norman. The club sits on a private 550- acre peninsula and has a world-class Scottish Style ‘tropical links’ championship golf course, bone and deep-sea fishing, and scuba diving.

Red Mountain Spa, Utah

If you’d rather relax and get into shape by heading to the great outdoors instead of the inside of the gym, try the Red Mountain Spa. Located in St. George, near Bryce Canyon, The Grand Canyon and Zion National Park, the spa is best billed as an adventure resort, where guests can get fit by hiking and biking. Classes are also offered by geologists and archaeologists, and there’s also a spa for easing those sore muscles.

introducing: the BT top 10

Lists. Love ‘em or hate them. You hate them when they have to do with work tasks, groceries and or that never-ending list of to-do’s around the house. But sometimes they can be incredibly useful, to the point and yes, even fun. Today Black Tomato launches its Top 10 series, a bi-weekly list spotlighting some of our favourite places in the world, whether that’s the coolest hotel bathrooms, the best places to get drunk, or the best spas in the world. We hope you find the lists insightful and inspiring- and yes, even fun.

shhh…

The thing with secrets is that they should stay that way. Secret.

But every now and then its good to let a few others in on it, or maybe a million others as the Sunday Times did last weekend when it revealed its top ten secret beaches in the world. Amongst the ‘in the know’ places was our trip to Mal Pais, Costa Rica. Jeremy Lazell gave it a crusoe rating of 7, rough around the edges but with some decent creature comforts.
Sums it up very well in my opinion. Having spent last New Year there, I did delight in the feeling that I was in on a big secret that few others back home knew about. However, as travel is all about sharing experiences, I felt it only my duty to report back to friends and customers on this beautiful place of huge, deserted beaches, rolling surface and lush rainforest packed full of wonderful wildlife. My morning wake up calls from howler monkeys beat my standard alarm and snooze setting. Just a shame they aren’t indigenous to London.

So yes, the secret is out, but what a good one to share. Thankfully, I feel it’s the kind of place that will still retain its ‘strictly between me and you’ vibe as its not right on the end of a direct flight and the country offers alternatives for those after a developed resort type break in the north of the country. However, if you can manage the connections and a short transfer, this is one secret that you really want to get in on.

TM