Alex Catarinella

Name a more dreamlike destination than Tokyo. I’ll wait. From opulent hotels tucked in cloud-brushing skyscrapers and a crazy, sexy, cool nightlife scene to tranquil temples and historic shrines, the glittering megalopolis quite literally has it all. It’s no surprise that the world’s most populous city (and the most Michelin-starred city in the world) is also a top-trending destination. Well, I don’t know about you, but I prefer to order my morning coffee without the sight of TikTok creators finger-tapping at iPhones. Below, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite underrated neighborhoods and spots frequented by locals that are slightly off the tourist trail.

Tokyo’s hotel scene can feel overwhelming. Yet tucked into some of the metropolis’s most dynamic neighborhoods are two under-the-radar properties that are stylish, design-savvy, and reasonably priced all at once. Both are part of the Agora Hotel Alliance, offering thoughtful touches and a sense of place no matter which you choose. Meet Agora Tokyo Ginza and TSUKI Tokyo: just a short walk apart, but each delivers a distinctly different Tokyo experience.

Tucked away in a serene, upscale residential enclave near Rome's historic center, art'otel Rome Piazza Sallustio offers a tranquil retreat that masterfully blends art and hospitality. Despite its peaceful setting, this hidden gem is just a short stroll from iconic attractions such as the Trevi Fountain and Villa Borghese, providing guests with both relaxation and easy access to the city's vibrant life and highly Instagrammable landmarks.

The kaleidoscopic views alone make staying at this beyond-stylish oasis in the sky worthwhile. Opened in 2016, the 250-key property, designed by architecture and design practice Rockwell Group in Madrid, is a magnet for jet-setters seeking sophisticated yet cool luxury. From the highly Instagrammable lobby that evokes a modern art gallery to the sleek and sexy guest rooms at the Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, there’s so much to swoon over at this design-forward home-away-from-home in the heart of the glittering megalopolis.

One of the most luxurious addresses in all of Hong Kong (and the winner of the #4 spot on The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2023 list), this André Fu-designed, cloud-piercing, luxury hotel will blow your mind. I'm still dreaming about my most recent stay...

The perfect hotel does exist, and it’s located at 66 Park Avenue. I’m specifically talking about The Prince Kitano New York, the first Japanese-owned hotel in New York City. Formerly known as The Kitano Hotel New York, the 150-key property has been a magnet for celebrities and dignitaries from Japan and luxury-seeking travelers since swinging open its doors in 1973. Following a years-long renovation and a redesign spearheaded by global architecture firm Modellus Novus, The Prince Kitano New York has recently been vibrantly reborn. From its understated and elegant guest rooms to its high-end kaiseki restaurant and lively lobby, The Prince Kitano New York remains one of Manhattan’s most coveted stays. Plus, the chic hideaway is just a stroll away from Grand Central Terminal, Bryant Park, museums and the hottest restaurants in town.

The Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong has been one of the vibrant city’s most luxurious home-away-from-homes for years. For proof, look at any “Best Hotels in Hong Kong” guide, and you’ll be sure to find it at the top where it belongs. This glamorous harbor-front hotel is a wellness, culinary, and highly Instagrammable destination. Featuring mesmerizing views of Kowloon and Victoria Harbour, it has superb service, a luxurious spa, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Upstairs, the recently revamped guest rooms and suites have spa-like bathrooms, heavenly beds, and wide windows with jaw-dropping vistas of the shimmering waters and skyline. Plus, the hotel’s location is supremely convenient. It’s connected to the swanky International Finance Center mall and near the MTR, the ferry piers, and all the best restaurants, bars, and shops in Central.

There’s no place like downtown New York City. I’ve lived below 14th Street since 2007 for a reason! From the ever-electric and edgy East Village to the swanky, fashionista-filled SoHo, downtown NYC has so much to offer. Here are some of my favorite spots.

Are you considering booking a trip to the best place on earth, a.k.a. Tokyo? I know I always am, because — understatement alert! — the exhilarating megalopolis has so much to offer, including incredible hotels, restaurants, museums and, well, everything. Then there's Tokyo's wildly vibrant LGBTQ scene, which is reason enough to visit. Spend a Saturday night bar hopping in Shinjuku Ni-chome, Tokyo's iconic gayborhood, and you might never want to leave. Especially after checking out some of the below spots.

Hong Kong is one of the most picturesque places on the planet. There are jaw-dropping sights and Instagrammable opportunities everywhere you turn, from colorful street art and ancient shrines to that famous, glittering skyline. Below are just a few of my recs to keep your camera happy.