English Version | The Voyage Issue: What to see and where to go

Books, exhibitions, and hotels not to be missed.

Traveling in imagination

Books will always be the best way to travel. We have chosen twenty that transport us to other places, without ever having to leave the couch.

Travel in time

From the first decades of the 20th century, when a photographer revolutionized the concept of Fashion image, to the 80s when two artists got together to make art, these exhibitions are worth traveling for. 

Karl: A Line of BeautyThere are occasions when the means surpass the relevance of the end. Take, for example, the Met Gala, one of the most anticipated events in the fashion world. Yet, even with its fame, many are those who misunderstand its purpose: to raise funds and promote the exhibition that annually accompanies it. As anyone who saw the cats, camellias, and tiny ties on this year's "red" carpet can guess, this year's exhibition focuses on Karl Lagerfeld. Karl: A Line of Beauty explores the designer's contributions to the vocabulary of the modern fashion industry. From his first collection in the 1950s to his latest collection in 2019, the exhibition follows the Kaiser's entire career. Pieces from Balmain, Patou, Chloé, Fendi, Chanel, and his namesake brand are presented as part of a puzzle, the solving of which explains his unparalleled success. The visit is more than worth it if only to be able to walk down the most famous stairs in the world of Fashion.The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, through July 16.

Basquiat × Warhol. Painting Four HandsA stand-alone Andy Warhol or Jean-Michel Basquiat exhibition would be more than enough to justify a trip to Paris. However, when the two come together, the visit goes from recommended to imperative. After all, how often do we get to witness the meeting of two of the greatest artistic geniuses of the 20th century? The exhibition Basquiat × Warhol. Painting Four Hands offers us the chance to witness an exceptional collaboration. Basquiat's pure emotion is perfectly complemented by Warhol's pop art, and the result is fifteen paintings that serve as true dialogues between the two. More than a simple collaboration, the works produced by the two are reflections of their friendship, symbols of their shared intimacy. If you have never visited the Louis Vuitton Foundation, this is the perfect opportunity. In addition to a must-see exhibition, you will also have the opportunity to see one of the most exciting museums in the French capital. Louis Vuitton Foundation, Paris, through August 28. 

Banksy MuseumTraveling is not limited to the idea of crossing geographical boundaries. Sometimes the places we call home deserve our tourist energy as much or more than any major metropolis. This is the case with Lisbon. Experiences like the Banksy Museum allow us to feel like tourists in our hometown. The space is a tribute to the work of one of today's most important artists. Banksy is the pseudonym of an irreverent activist (whose identity is still unknown) who, through urban art, comments on the state of the world. It is with this quality in mind that the museum debuted its new room, dedicated to the murals the artist has produced in Ukraine in recent months. That is the appeal of the Banksy Museum. Although it opened about a year ago, since it exhibits the art of an activist who produces new works every day, the updating of the  display is constant. Besides reproducing his murals, the Banksy Museum provides the opportunity to submerge ourselves in them. Banksy Museum, Lisbon.

Gucci CosmosWhat attracts us to Fashion is not just the clothes, accessories, and shoes we adorn ourselves with. The real fascination with this art form lies in its ability to create worlds. Through this notion, one understands the Gucci Cosmos exhibition at the West Bund Art Center in Shanghai, where the Italian brand has created a veritable constellation based on its history. Throughout eight rooms, or "worlds," the different aspects of Gucci are explored. From its foundation to its (hypothetical) future, we walk through the legacy of one of the industry's most famous brands. This heavenly wonderland is much more than a normal exhibition, it is a truly immersive experience that captivates all the senses of those who visit. Gucci Cosmos in itself more than justifies the trip to China, but if you can't make it by June 23, don't worry: this show will tour several corners of the globe. Follow its journey on the Gucci website. West Bund Art Center, Shanghai, until June 23.

PureEarly vacations in the Algarve are usually marked by little more than sun, sea, and rest. But Loulé's In the Pink gallery is changing that routine. From June 24th, the space will be full of images produced by artist Rankin. The British photographer is one of today's most audacious, refusing the perfection that images on social networks have gotten us used to. Throughout the works presented, Rankin explores the notion of imperfection in a way that is as visceral as it is appealing. The photographer's idiosyncratic approach is refreshing in the Fashion landscape, where the real is often replaced by the artificial. Tracing his professional trajectory, Pure is the perfect introduction to an artist whose name is essential to today's world. In the Pink Gallery, Loulé.

Avedon 100A trip to New York is always justifiable, but anchoring the journey to a cultural experience makes it even easier. If you need a reason to justify such a decision, here you have it: the latest exhibition at the Gagosian Gallery. As a tribute to legendary photographer Richard Avedon, a must-see curated experience is concretized. Avedon 100 explores the artist's contributions not only to the fashion industry but also to the visual culture of the 20th century. The photographer's images push any boundaries that the definition of "Fashion photography" may have: Avedon created style capsules of a particular era. Until June 24, the New York gallery presents a collection of photographs selected by the world's most recognizable names. Naomi Campbell, Hillary Clinton, Spike Lee, and Kim Kardashian are just a few of the 150 celebrities who have handpicked their favorite photograph. The exhibition, which celebrates the artist's centennial, brings together photos spanning the six decades of his career.Gagosian Gallery, New York, through June 24.

Tim Walker: Wonderful ThingsFew photographers in the world of Fashion have the ability of Tim Walker. The British artist is a true storyteller. Through his sets, styling, and creative direction, Walker creates narratives that are both aesthetic and intriguing. The worlds created by the artist are fascinating, portals to a universe where Fashion is all that matters. It was because of this ability that the Victoria & Albert Museum invited the photographer to create nine editorials inspired by his magnificent collection. The success of the collaboration prompted the Getty Museum in Los Angeles to request not only that the exhibition cross the Atlantic Ocean, but also that Walker create a tenth photo shoot based on the paintings in the American museum. Walker's creations substantiate obtaining metaphorical wings to fly to the city of angels, where the exhibition will remain until the end of the summer. Getty Museum, Los Angeles, through August 20.

Space Travel

It's summer. The vacations are coming up. Where will we go this year? The world is full of dream destinations, these are some of them.

Villa Palladio, Jaipur, IndiaTo enter the doors of the Villa Palladio is to embark on a journey to a time when elegance was not only more frequent, it was constant. From the columns that command respect to the frescos that catch your eye, the Villa Palladio is an attraction. However, the hotel is not only distinguished by its beauty, but it is also famous for the quality of its accommodations. Each of its nine rooms is a jewel box, with styles that incorporate traditional Indian inspiration with the comforts of a modern hotel. Luxurious dining options, a spa known for its rejuvenating treatments, and an admirable commitment to supporting local communities make Villa Palladio one of Jaipur's best-kept secrets. The biggest difficulty you'll face when staying here will be wanting to leave this paradise to explore the city - which, not even on purpose, is equally magical. More information at www.villapalladio-jaipur.com.

Las Ventanas Al Paraiso, Los Cabos, Mexico As the name implies, these "windows to paradise" take us to the already heady Eden of the Los Cabos area of Mexico. This resort, part of the Rosewood group, is located right on the beach, and is the pinnacle of luxury, with an array of personalized services that elevate the notion of "five stars." From the sumptuous decor to the impeccable cuisine to the unforgettable pools, there is little at this hotel that is not close to perfection. With 350 days of sunshine a year, there are many activities available for those who want more than just to be "on the go," although a few (well-deserved) hours of vitamin D, or a morning at the spa, doesn't sound too bad. More information at https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/las-ventanas-los-Cabos. 

The Standard, Huravalhi, MaldivesAmong the turquoise sea of the Maldives lies an unconventional paradise. The Standard, the hotel chain known for its eccentricity, has a nook in the Indian Ocean Eden. Hammocks over the sea, yoga sessions, Turkish baths, there is no way not to relax. The very arrival at the hotel is an image of our happiest dreams, flying over the turquoise waters. Beyond its obvious opulence, The Standard in the Maldives also has an environmental depth. The hotel safeguards the coral reef of the island it occupies, allowing its guests an underwater visit through snorkeling sessions. Even if it is a luxury stay, The Standard maintains its characteristic sense of humor. More information at https://www.standardhotels.com/en-GB/maldives/properties/huruvalh. 

Porto Zante, Zakynthos, GreeceA stay at the Porto Zante makes us understand the descriptions of Homer and Ovid. The hotel, which occupies a large part of the bay of the island of Zakynthos, makes you feel as if you were sitting on top of Mount Olympus. This opulent sanctuary is complemented by a series of restaurants of the highest quality and an almost mythological spa. It is therefore not surprising that it is on the list of the most luxurious hotels in the world. Porto Zante is a chance to practice one of the idlest verbs in the Portuguese language: "polar." But if laziness is not your thing, the hotel has numerous activities, from excursions to water sports, designed for the most... percutaneous. More information at https://portozante.com

Shutters on the Beach, Santa Monica, United StatesShutters on the Beach is the ideal place to visit if your vacation goal is to adopt a lifestyle where sandals are the only shoes you'll ever need to wear. Located in California's pearl, the city of Santa Monica, the hotel strikes the perfect balance between laid-back and sophisticated. Pamper yourself with a spa treatment or an elaborate cocktail by the pool. After all, this is the focus of all the hotel's offerings: complete relaxation. The stay is immersive, inducing a state of peace that, strangely enough, affects the clock as well. The hours pass lazily, letting us enjoy every minute we are lying on a sun lounger, ready to reach the zenith of relaxation. All it takes is a few days at Shutters on the Beach to understand why the California coast is said to be the "Golden Coast." More information at https://www.shuttersonthebeach.com.

Six Senses, Sant Joan de Labritja, IbizaDisclaimer: This hotel will forever change any preconceived ideas you may still have about Ibiza, the island where many of us have spent great nights of partying and entertainment. Known for being a party destination, in recent years Ibiza has been trying to reinvent itself (much with the help of neighboring Formentera), with the opening of several spaces that appeal to wellness and relaxation. Six Senses is one such place. The bohemian character of the island is present in every nook and cranny, or this would be a hotel whose aim is to rest and disconnect - but in a good way. With unparalleled attention to detail, from the bamboo-clad roofs (which resemble traditional fishermen's huts) to the mini-bars with ashwagandha (Indian ginseng) and CBD-infused soft drinks, Six Senses is a dream come true - for some, a dream that never ends, as there are some Six Senses residences available for purchase. More information at https://www.sixsenses.com/en.

Regent Phu Quoc, Kien Giang, Vietnam The relative anonymity of Phu Quoc - the largest of the 105 islands in the UNESCO-recognized Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve - is also its greatest asset. Far from being one of the usual beach destinations for vacationers, this privileged area is an undiscovered paradise, and this is precisely where one of South Vietnam's hidden gems, the Regent Phu Quoc, is located. Much of its 126 elegantly decorated villas have private pools and feature perks such as ten-course pillow menus and 24-hour butler service. At sunset, the views from the Fu Bar, with its infinity pool, are not to be missed. After that, it will be time to try Oku, the resort's Japanese-French restaurant, led by Andy Huynh, a Nobu alumnus. More information at https://phuquoc.regenthotels.com.

Reid's Palace, Madeira, Portugal Widely recognized as one of the best hotels in the world, Reid's Palace is one of the (many) reasons to visit the island of Madeira. Situated on the rugged cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean, it's salmon pink hue has attracted travelers and onlookers from around the globe for over 125 years - names like George Bernard Shaw and Winston Churchill, who chose Reid's to write his memoirs, have passed through. In 1996 the Belmond group took over the hotel, giving it a makeover that kept the original essence and charm. The William restaurant, with a Michelin star, the wonderful Villa Cipriani, inspired by Tuscan dishes and with a breathtaking view, and the veranda for a five o'clock tea are some of the highlights of this palace. The ocean-level saltwater pool, with a ladder and diving board that go straight into the water, deserves a separate note: there is no other like it on the planet. More information at https://www.belmond.com.

Tivoli Palácio de Seteais, Sintra, Portugal The Tivoli Palácio de Seteais is located on the slopes of the Sintra Mountains, in a dreamlike setting that resembles an enchanted forest. With its impeccably preserved interiors, the hotel transports you into an experience of 18th-century royalty, complete with all the amenities of modern luxury. Between the famous Anantara Spa, the golf courses, and the renowned Seteais restaurant, it is no wonder that the hotel is ranked as one of the best in the world. Both the palace, with its romantic architecture and verdant mazes, and its surroundings, overlooking the Pena Palace, are certainly the closest you can get to living in a real fairy tale. More information at http://www.tivolihotels.com. 

Red, Melides, PortugalChristian Louboutin, one of the most famous shoe designers in the world - inventor of the famous "red soles", which gave rise to the coveted "Louboutin red" -, long ago swapped the hustle and bustle of Paris for long stays in the quiet of Melides, where he has been spending his vacations since the 1980s. What was until now a more or less well-kept secret is now an open door for everyone who visits Vermelho, the shoe designer's first hotel. Architect Madalena Caiado tried to combine the rural environment of the area with Christian Louboutin's eclectic taste, who also used antique dealer Patrícia Medina for the decoration, full of careful details and inspirations with Portuguese, Moroccan, Spanish, Egyptian, and French influences. The result is a space where you can breathe the Louboutin universe, without destroying the national heritage. More information at https://www.vermelhohotel.com/pt.

Hospedaria, Tavira, PortugalIt's not a hotel, it's a "guest house." The owners of Hospedaria, Rui Liberato de Sousa and Nuno Ramos - who run the neighboring and trendy Pensão Agrícola - took advantage of the potential of an old post office and roadside store, both left abandoned for long years, to create a "sister property" there, again with the help of Atelier RUA. These ruined buildings were the basis for a boutique hotel with whitewashed walls and natural materials. Comprising five rooms, each with a private patio, it also has a plunge pool, amidst the scent of lavender, to rest from the heat. More information at https://www.hospedaria.com.pt.

Translated from the original on our The Voyage Issue, from June 2023.Full credits and stories on the print version.