Girls Guide To The World

Girls Guide To The World

Where to go? What to do? When we sat down to choose a place to feature, we weren't surprised that we are all quite enthusiastic about travel destination options. We were, however, surprised to learn that we do have very different priorities when we travel. From architecture and cuisine to local design, activities, and total relaxation, our priorities are quite varied. So, instead of choosing just one, we deliberated and picked our number one most worthy destinations focused on the foodie, the architecture buff, the adventure seeker, the shopaholic, and the pampered princess. www.girlsguidetotheworld.com knows you'll enjoy.



THE ARCHITECTURE BUFF
Architecture buffs must know this decision was no easy feat. Barcelona, Buenos Aires, Beijing and Rome were serious contenders. But, stepping outside the box, we think Istanbul is where it's at. Of course, put the others on your list if you haven't been, but from its sixth-century Hagia Sophia to the head of the Ottoman empire's Topkapi Palace, we just couldn't resist recommending this enchanting city. Istanbul's Christian and Islamic influences come to life in the city's fascinating labyrinth of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architectural styles. Stay at one of the city's finest boutique hotels A'Jia. A traditional Ottoman mansion that gloriously merges contemporary interior design with centuries old architecture.

THE FOODIE
For all the foodies out there, say bonjour to Paris. This no-brainer culinary city offers up the perfect mix of restaurants - some with international reputations that are true classics and others that are hidden gems off the beaten path. You can eat on the cheap and still experience true taste bud euphoria, while you can also take in 5-star dining like no where else in the world. Dare we even mention the pastries? Start the day off with a pain au cholocat and café au lait. For lunch, indulge in a fresh baguette with creamy cheese and a smooth French vino. When dinner rolls around, head to L'Astrance. This Michelin star donning gastrotemple is elegant, romantic, and mouthwateringly tasty. BTW, L'Astrance only seats 26. Book ahead. Thank us later.

THE SHOPAHOLIC
We refer to it as "Do-Buy" for a reason. Serving up over 40 themed malls and thousands of ridiculously amazing boutiques, Dubai is for the serious shopaholic. The finest fashion labels, jewelry designs, marvelous cosmetics lines, home accessories, furniture, and hip electronics are easily accessible and laid out for efficient and enjoyable purchasing. The biggest draw card is that Dubai is tax-free, so you can buy more. Becky Bloomwood would be proud.

THE ADVENTURE SEEKER
This one was easy. Off to New Zealand you go. Queenstown is where the bungee jump was born, enough said. Go for the "3Thrillogy" if you so dare (that's three bungee jumps that include the oldest, the tallest, and one that overlooks the city). Jump out of a plane, brace yourself in a jet boat, go white water rafting, try hand gliding, definitely go paragliding, and in the midst of your adrenaline rushes, be sure to pause and check out the scenery. There is nothing quite like attempting to defy nature in one of the world's most beautiful landscapes.

THE PAMPERED PRINCESS
We have the perfect two words to satisfy the pampered princess - Bulgari and Bali. Pretty good, eh? We thought so. Bulgari's new Balinese cliff hugging resort overlooking the Indian Ocean beckons rest and relaxation. From the plunge pool and yoga pavilion to the luxe spa and butler service, this righteous palace hums "ohm." If you make the splurge, take it a step further and indulge in the Double Bulgari Royal Lulur. It's a "top-to-toe" treatment for two people that requires four therapists...if you can only imagine. Ahhhhhh-maz-ing.

www.girlsguidetotheworld.com