Conquered by Portuguese merchants in the 16th century, Goa’s cultural heritage is evident in the crumbling old European-style villas and churches that dot the state. The modern face of Goa, however, is equally well represented—in the beach side shacks serving cold beer and the fresh catch of the day, globally-inspired restaurants, unique concept stores and boutique hotels. SHOP Paper Boat Collective: Housed in a charming bungalow, this concept store stocks...
Read MoreThere’s really no better place to escape the stress of your 21st century life than Tulum. From the pristine beaches to the ancient Mayan ruins to the eco-friendly resorts, the focus is on unwinding, relaxing, and resetting. When you’re not spending your days lazing on the beach, doing yoga or taking long walks, pop into one of Tulum’s many boutique shops, each full of character, personality and unique finds; have...
Read MoreThink Saint-Tropez and images of pristine sands, glamorous women and jet-setting billionaires come to mind. And this little town on the French Riviera more than lives it up to its reputation. If your idea of an idyllic summer getaway involves siestas by the sea, long, leisurely walks and impossibly chic French boutiques and cafes, then Saint-Tropez is the place to be. (image courtesy of Design Hotels) SHOP Atelier Rondini The...
Read MoreJacqueline Lopez’s breezy beachwear label Jaline is everything you want for a fuss-free vacation—relaxed silhouettes, playful details like fringe and tassels, and lightweight fabrics. No wonder her label is a favorite with A-listers like Priyanka Chopra. Her tunics, caftans and separates range from solid neutrals to bright prints, and the best part is they’re all handcrafted by women artisans in Oaxaca, Mexico. Shop Latitude chats with the founder about the line,...
Read MoreLife in Bali is a lesson in mindful living—from the eco-friendly resorts to the organic restaurants to the yoga retreats and wellness centers. Even the fashion is mindful, using natural dyes, handwoven fabrics and artisanal techniques. And what could be a better setting for this sustainable lifestyle than a tropical paradise with active volcanoes, miles of lush rice fields, and clear blue skies? They don’t call it the Island of...
Read MoreThe beaches of Koh Samui, Ibiza and Cancun may be legendary, with their buzzing nightlife and unrelenting energy, but there are times when you want nothing more out of a beach vacation than some solitude. If you’re looking for a secluded spot far from tourist swarms and pulsing music for your next laidback getaway, check out our favorite under-the-radar beaches. You won't need more than sunscreen and a book for company. ...
Read MoreThe Eco Gypsy is a label that spans genres—fashion, travel and living. What started out as a magazine dedicated to eco-travel has expanded into a sustainable fashion label specializing in handmade dresses, beachwear, jewelry and handbags, and its latest adventure involves eco-friendly rental properties. The mastermind behind the Bali-based company, Electra Gillies, describes her aesthetic as “barefoot, but not basic” and the brand reflects her personal taste for luxury and...
Read MoreNestled in Puerto Escondido, a charming surf town in Oaxaca, Mexico, this luxury design hotel more than lives up to its name (escondido translates to ‘hidden’ in English). Whether you're a hardcore surfer or just looking for a quiet getaway, Hotel Escondido, located on an isolated beach, should serve as the perfect vacation spot. The remote property houses sixteen cabanas, called palapas, each with a private terrace and pool. There’s also a...
Read MoreNever again reach for an oversized boyfriend shirt as a beach cover-up when you’ve got a Denizina piece in your wardrobe. These handmade and hand-embroidered kimonos feature vibrant batik prints in colors ranging from pastel blue to ruby red. Made in Thailand, the boho-chic label’s designs work just as well over a bikini on the beach as with ripped jeans in the city. Shop Latitude speaks with Deniz Alkan, founder...
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