Suite Talk

The world's best art hotels aren't just a place to sleep, they're destinations in themselves that double as a cultural experience.

Silo Hotel, Capetown, Africa 

Residing above the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, with views at every turn. A hotel that has much more to offer the eye than ocean views.  The owner Liz Biden thoughtfully collects and curates both up-and-coming talent and well-established names.  If you can't get enough of the hotel's art work you're in luck because the hotel is seated right above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art in Africa - the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world.

The Dolder Grand, Zürich, Switzerland

The sublime Dolder Grand tucked away next to a forest is a hotel known as the best private museum in a city. Offering an unparalleled collection of more than 120 works by 90+ artists. Warhol's “Big Retrospective Painting" greets guests at check in, and dinner is with a view of Salvador Dalí's "Femmes Metamorphoses". Haring, Hirst, and Hadid are just a few of the others making the guests feel welcome! 

Fun fact:  Guests can now pay their bill with Bitcoin as of May 2019, the first Swiss luxury hotel to accept the cryptocurrency as payment. 

Villa La Coste, Provence, France

A place of unimaginable beauty created by architect Jean Nouvel. Set amidst the hills is a provincial paradise whose myriad of art work would make the most seasoned collectors green with envy. Welcomed at the entrance by Louise Bourgeois’ spider,  the lobby and rooms nonchalantly assemble JR’s installations, Calder’s drawings, and Damien Hirst’s sculptures, freshly procured from the Biennale.  

Joali, Maldives

Touting the title of "first immersive art hotel" in the Maldives.  Scattered across the island you’ll find several pieces from artists all around the world.  Standout pieces include Misha Kahn’s underwater sculpture, which raises awareness about issues surrounding coral bleaching, and three pieces by Porky Hefer: one of which acts as an experiential dining concept. 

The Colombe D'Or, Provence, France

A 25-room auberge off the Côte d'Azur, the Colombe D'Or has a long history with modern masters like Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Marc Chagall—all of whom were friends with the original owner.  There's an Alexander Calder mobile dangling above the cypress tree-lined swimming pool, and paintings by Matisse, Picasso, Braques, and Miro in the dining room. 

Want to travel like an art connoisseur?

Travels latest fashion trend!

The remote outdoors have never been more in style, Gore Tex is hip, and Arc'teryx is becoming a sold-out item on the shelves.

We’re sharing our favorite layers below to pack - think pretty, and practical for the unpredictable weather in Patagonia!

17 acres of rare treasures, Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen is the largest antique and second-hand marketplace in the world. There are 15 markets within Puces brimming with vintage and antique treasures. Just for the meandering alone it's worth it.

We’re sharing all our tips on one of Paris's most beloved flea markets below -

Paul Bert Serpette - 110 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen

The swankiest of them all, stocked with items of all sizes with all the charming ambiance - you must make a stop here. I'd refer to it as the grand poobah of all markets. Serpette is the indoor market in conjunction with Paul Bert, known for large, high-end pieces of furniture.

Think Paulin, Cardin, Royère, and Olivier Mourgue.

Le Monde Du Voyage - Louis Vuitton trunks stacked sky high, hermes scarfs, and out of this world Chanel.

Lila K Antiques - expect tons of ohhing and ahhing.

Clara Lardé - Haute Couture jewels, furs, lighting.

Les merveilles de Babellou - 12th to 20th century couture dresses, antique jewelry, hand bags, leather belt, designers shoes as Yves Saint Laurent, Lacroix, Chanel, Mugler, Hermès, Vuitton (allée 1 stand 12-13 and allée 6 stand 77)

Patricia Attwood - vintage called "Haute Couture" (Allée 2 Stand 7)

Marché Vernaison - 99 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen

Perhaps the most authentic market at Les Puces is Marché Vernaison. A wave of nostalgia will come waving through as you shop the 150 plus stalls carrying anything from fine linens, to textiles, perfumes. Make a trip to Hélène Sofer, who specializes in textiles, it’s where all the Paris designers go for inspiration - across from her stall is Giovanni who carries out of the world table linens. Giovannoni, allée 7, stand 14.

Marché Dauphine - 132-140 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen

A covered shopping area with objets d’arts, light fixtures, and ornate accessories. Make a stop to Daniel et Lili, for fun costume jewelry. Daniel et Lili stand 128.

Marché Biron - 85 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen

Marché Biron isn't quite as indulgent as Paul Bert; still filled with beautiful and inspiring antiques and vintage decor. More expensive and chic than Biron, Dauphine, and Vernaison. No bargains to be had here unfortunately.

Chez Louisette, 136 Avenue Michelet, Saint-Ouen

For fuel - hasn't changed since the 1950’s. It's an institution within the largest flea market - not to be missed! Hidden bistrot in Vernaison.

Some of our favorite stalls:

Mandana clothes and vintage luxury accessories (ground floor Stand 71)

This shop full of luxury clothes, handbags, travel bags, accessories and scarves is profusely vintage.

Martine Vintage located at 139 rue des Rosiers for incredible handbag selection.

Falbala - Dauphine Market - 1st floor

Superb collection of clothes from the 18th century to the seventies for men and women (dresses, costumes, laces, lingerie, corsets, shoes, hats and many more accessories). It is amazing, charming and financially accessible.

Final tips:

Happy shopping!

It’s no coincidence that safari derives from the Swahili word for “journey.” This isn’t a long weekend in the Caribbean where you can pack a bikini and call it a day—to execute a safari demands significant planning. 

Safari-ing  can present challenges and Upon Arrival is giving you all the inspiration and information you need. 

Light Layers 

Early morning rides can be a little chilly, with temperatures rising as the sun comes up.  Opt for pure cotton and linen fabrication in soft shades (think cream, beige, khaki)

Pack: Safari Jacket, Lightweight button down, or fleece 

Create Pairings

Pre-selected outfits are a lifesaver, and versatility is the way to go.  For 3 nights on safari you will want to pack two of these layerable uniforms as they will be washed daily. 

Pack: A combo of long sleeve tops, short sleeve, light loose jogger pants or leggings. 

Smart Accessories

• Hat 
• Scarf
• Sunglasses
• Binoculars
• Bathsuit
• Sandals with good grip 

Pack: A baseball cap or bucket hat is way more packable and generally a more practical alternative.

Après safari AKA Lodge Loungewear 

Your nights can be filled with outdoor dining and bonfire nights 

Pack: Fluid lightweight cotton dresses, easy breezy kaftans, linen jumpsuits

Tips to prepare like a pro

Don't fret, we don't want you looking like a rookie.

Forgetting to Bring Cash Tipping is the rule, not the exception in Africa, so it’s best to factor this into the cost of your trip. ATMs are few and far between, so make sure to carry cash before leaving home.

Forgetting Your Hat A good topper is going to do more than quench your thirst for Out of Africa vibes—it’s going to keep the sun out your face and dust out of your hair, especially in desert climates.

If you’re anything like us, antiquing in the South of France tops your list.  

Here’s our advice on brocanting your way through the Provincial markets. Rummage through Rustic pottery, household linens, art, curiosities, unique finds, and lavender. 

L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, a short drive from Avignon, houses the best antique town. Known as the “Venice of France” The Sunday market in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is the largest outdoor market in the South of France, encompassing around 300 stalls where you can discover everything from fine antiques to local sunflowers. The roads are shaded by plane trees, lined by  the river, with a handful of cafés and restaurants making perfect spots for al fresco dining.

Villeneuve Les Avignon. Every Saturday morning in this old medieval village,  discover all kinds of French antiques, from pottery, glasswares, furniture,  linens etc!

The Wednesday Market, Saint Rémy de Provence. Every Wednesday morning, Saint-Remy transforms into a bustling market. Go early to beat the crowds; this is one of the most popular markets in the region, and you will be jostling alongside locals for beautiful tablecloths, exquisite ceramics, market dresses, and more. The displays of food, meanwhile, are as photogenic as they are tempting!

Aix is known for its  larger outdoor market, Le Grand Marché, which essentially takes over nearly the entirety of the town, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. You’ll find everything at this one, including affordable linen dresses, leather bags, espadrilles shoes, ceramics, baskets, in addition to all the local foods. 

A few other favorite places to make plenty of time for: 

Jeanne Bayol, Saint Rémy de Provence - In a warehouse space on the outskirts of Saint Rémy de Provence, a trove of fashion and homewares. 

La Boutique de Francine on the edge of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue has the best textiles in the world.  Extraordinary monogrammed sheets, pillow cases, napkins, nightgowns, tea towels.

Pay a visit to Moustique, one of my favorite stores in Arles.

Pro Tips: 

• Go early for best picks, like very early. Once you arrive, B - line it to the stalls that appeal to you most. If anything catches your eye in these exhilarating minutes, always buy it! It won't be there later!
• Negotiation is part of the game
• Learn a little French, a few basics. Even if pronounced with an American accent, it will be most appreciated.