Quepos, Costa Rica:

• Play Espadilla – Beautiful beach, warm ocean, and a stunning sunset.  Grab a sixer of Imperial, invest in your own hammock and loop it up around the trees at the top of the beach.  Need we say more?
• El Gaia – Highly recommend spending an evening here. Get there for Happy Hour and you’ll score drink deals, a much needed breeze, and be able to watch the sunset over the costal rain forest and national park. Stay for dinner – the food is amazing and it wont break the bank.  It costs the same or less than the rest of Quepos dining options and is twice as good.  By the time you finish your third Banana Rum daiquiri drink you’ll be ready to book a room in their jungle oasis for the night.    
• Manuel Antonio National Park – About 15 minutes south of Quepos. After you settle on a suitable parking lot (ps- they’re all the same)  you’ll make your way up to the park where you’ll me met but two intimidatingly long lines in the Costa Rican heat.  The best decision you’ll make it to pony up for a guide. The guide will not only get you straight into the part but without their expert eyes you won’t see any of the 109 species of mammals or 184 of birds that the Park is home to. Finally, some of Costa Rica’s finest beaches are also located within the gates, so make sure to pack a bathing suit  and plenty of water:)
• Marisqueria Veracruz – If you’re looking for a very local and inexpensive joint for dinner head into the main town for the freshest fish and follow it up with bananas flambé. Requires a car or a cab.

Tamarindo, Costa Rica:

• El Chiringuito – Crowded at sunset and well worth it, but even at dark it’s just as amazing.  So good that we went twice.  Fair prices for beer and large cocktails.  Get a mojito or caipirinha and the fish of the day.  Then sip it while digging your toes into the sand and do absolutely nothing else
• Dragonfly – Costa Rica’s best live Flamenco music on Saturday.  You can’t go wrong on their menu either.  Get the whole fish – you will not regret it.
• Lola’s – Beachfront bar and restaurant – come for the beach, the hammocks, the poke, the blended mojitos, the pig, the sunset, and the surf – really whatever floats your boat – this place is a MUST see.  Rent a surfboard and enjoy a refreshingly cool ocean. Stay for sunset – it can’t be beat.
• Cafe Tico – Great for a quick and healthy breakfast.  Friendly staff and amazing iced coffee and fresh juices (better than the juice bar in town). Not to mention its probably the least expensive meal you’ll have in town. 
• Cafe Nordica – Craving we an Acai Bowl? We got you covered at Cafe Nordica. Also, the local coffee is finally the caliber you’d expect from the famed Costa Rican roast. 
• General tip of trade – Walk the beach at night on a weekend and you’ll find some cool beach performers, fire throwers, and dancers.  BYOB.  Shoes not required. 

La Fortuna, Costa Rica:

• Finca Luna Nueva – Eco Lodge situated in the rainforest, serving farm to table food, and a yoga pavilion that will take your breath away.
• Arenal Volcano National Park – Don’t miss the opportunity to hike the Lava Trail. Make sure to pack sunscreen, bug spray, a camera, and loads of water. Stunning views of the lake and volcano
• Tabacon Hot Springs – Treat yourself, you will not regret it. Tabacon takes R&R to the next level with 5 thermal springs sourced directly from naturally flowing mineral springs heated by the volcano and slowly mineralized, underground.

Bogotá, Colombia:

• Click Clack Hotel – Killer rooftop bar complete with a panoramic city view interrupted only by a hangman’s noose swaying in the wind outside.  W hotel inspired rooms but with a new age sexiness befitting Bogota. 
• Bruto – Pop in for dinner, grab a seat at the bar and get ready for the best cocktails and Spanish meal you’ll get in Bogota. Oh, and there’s a banging DJ set all night long.
• Bourbon Cafe – Best pour of Colombian coffee (you can specify 4 different ways you’d like your drip brewed). What’s more important than fresh coffee you ask? THE WORLDS BEST CHOCOLATE CAKE THAT’S WHAT. Melt in your mouth good. Start your day here and thank us a hundred times over, or just send us a slice of the cake. 
• Salvo Patria – Great neighborhood meal in a tiny, old colonial house. Get here early if you don’t have a reservation.  Don’t plan on trying to speak English either. 
• Stroll around La Calendaria neighborhood and its funky shops, museums, and bars.  There is a great cafe/hair salon/ vintage shop called La Peluqueria that is a must see. 
• Graffiti Walking Tour – Not only an art show but it will also bring you up to speed on Colombia’s most current modern history and politics.
• Hike up Monserrate.  Feel free to take the Gondola or Funicular down. For people all over the world this hike doubles as a religious pilgrimage.  For everyone else this in an opportunity to take in the how expansive Bogotá truly is.  Also, the church atop the hill is absolutely stunning.
• Cafe Amrita – Located in Usaquen neighborhood is a great spot for brunch or lunch if you’re craving some Italian.  Grab a bottle of wine and a pizza for a fair price. Walk off the “za” as you mosey through the town and street vendors. If your lucky there will be a box of puppies on the corner to play / fall in love with.

Cartagena, Colombia:

• Casa Palenque – B&B with the friendliest staff, coldest beers, in hands down the best location. If you’re on a budget go ahead and book it. Great value.
• Malanga Bistro Caribe – Tasty, fresh and local seafood. Located in the main square making it an easy lunch or dinner spot. If seated outside it’s great for viewing the endless street performers.
  La Passion Hotel – We may or may not have snuck in.  Just find a way in. Stay (Squat) here $$$. Eat, drink, and swim the hot afternoon away in their rooftop pool overlooking the Old City.  Do not forget to oder the shrimp. You’re Welcome.
• La Perla – Craving fresh seafood? This is a good start to a city full of it.  Insider tip: the Mojitos come in a wood bowl and might be the best we’ve ever had. 
• Palacio de la Inquisición – Tour this once palace now museum. It’s totally worth the entrance fee and allows you to escape the heat, humidity for a few hours.
• El Barón – Amazing bar situated in Plaza de San Pedro Claver. The drink menu is based on woman El Barón met during his world travels. Very interesting cocktails and small plates.
• Cafe del Mar – Walk the Wall a little before sunset and it will bring you to Cafe del Mar: wall top bar. Stunning views of the ocean, old and new city. 
• Le Cevicheria – Obviously order the ceviches.  Lobster for the win. Michelada’s only help.
• Mr. Cool – Is Cartagena a little too hot to handle? Homemade gelato mixed with liquid nitro will fix you up and cool you down.
• La Pescaderia, Ceviches y Piqueos – Two minutes walking from the airport – so, if your flight is delayed and you find yourself staving walk across the street and get some damn good grub. I don’t want to tell you what to do but….order the creamy shrimp pasta.

Medellín, Colombia:

• Hostel Ondas – Located a bit outside of the city but is an easy walk to the metro. Super chill vibes, hot water showers, cool rooftop, and an delicious cafe. Great place to return to after a day of sightseeing. Hostel Heaven. 
• OCI – Trendy lounge feel. Traditional and tasty food with even better people watching. Groups of Colombian friends typically order an entire bottle of gin and will sit and make their own G&Ts for hours on end.
• Carmen – WOAH.Menu is to die for. Best drink list in Colombia. You really can’t go wrong. Make sure to make a reservation. Little side story – We were lucky enough to sit next to Carmen herself and the head chef, who happens to be her husband – and when I say they hooked us up that’s an understatement. 
• Real City Walking Tour – Please, please, please take this tour. Make sure to register online a few days before as it fills up fast. Sneakers, sunscreen, and a tip for your tour guide are a must.

Lima, Peru:

• La Mar – Offering only the freshest of fish. Menu changes on the daily. Unreal Pisco menu – two cocktails and you’ll be feeling fiiiiiine. Extremely popular so expect there to be a line.
• Maido – One ofthe 50 Best Restaurants the world. Sushi, sushi, guinea pig dumplings, and more sushi.
• Rafael – We stumbled in here and were so far from disappointed.   Order the Carpaccio de atún “Le Bernardin”, foie gras, almendras & ciboulette. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. Obviously wash it down with a Pisco sour or another of the devilish house cocktails.  
• Astrid & Gaston – One of many in this emerging America del Sur chain.  This one can’t be missed on a trip down.  Located in a mansion in Miraflores with a beautiful ambiance and delicious traditional food. Reservations needed.
• Central – 4th Best restaurant in the world. Celebrated for its biodiverse menu. We did the juice pairing but if luckily enough to return we will treat ourselves with the wine pairing plus the juice.  Indescribable food. Must taste to understand what it’s all about.

Cusco, Peru:

• Cicciolina – Uses only the freshest ingredients from the Sacred Valley. Very enjoyable.
• Marcelo Barata –   A hearty meal; great either before or after your Machu Picchu trek. Rooftop lounge and fantastic service.
• Morena Peruvian Kitchen – A contemporary twist on Peruvian classics. Asian fusion plays a role. Opted for their fresh juice and smoothies instead of Pisco (which also looked delicious).  It was so good we forgot cocktails even needed booze.  

Aguas Calientes, Peru:

• Hatun Inti Classic – Nice, comfortable and only moderately frilled hotel located in Aguas Calientes – making your early morning wakeup call for Machu Picchu that much easier.
• Tree House – Tiny little tree house restaurant with filling food and a great boxed lunch.  However if there is a big soccer game on chances are the chefs won’t be paying much attention to your food.  This goes for just about everywhere. 
• Inkaterra – The bar at El MaPi Hotel.  Big comfy couches.  Loud classic American jams you haven’t heard in ten years, and great local brews.  

Machu Picchu, Peru

• Tickets – If possible go hike Picchu Mountain instead of Huayna Picchu. The old mountain will give you unrivaled views of the ancient grounds. Also, because HP is the popular mountain you will have the trail basically to yourself if you choose Machu Picchu Mountain. If you do plan to hike, prepare yourself for narrow, steep limestone steps climbing far above the clouds. Lastly, it’s the namesake mountain for a reason. Hike it and you’ll learn why.  Make sure to purchase tickets far in advance. 

Santiago, Chile:

• Naoki – BEST SUSHI EVER. Yes, we said it.  Make sure you make a reservation and then make sure you make another for the next night.  
• Bocanariz – Great wine bar featuring the local squeeze and unique comfort food that tickles the senses too.  
• Ladera Hotel – A Hollywood transplant hotel; moderate and cool, with a rooftop pool. With just a enough Chilean spice to make it nice.

Punta Arenas, Chile:

• La Luna – For your first taste of Patagonian Crab that you’ll come to love. Dug the handwritten notes tacked to the walls. Warning: Pisco Sours are no longer made with egg whites. 

Puerto Natales, Chile

• Santolla – THIS IS A MUST. Tiny restaurant seats about 20 people in 2 shipping containers, giving it a modern atmosphere. Do not be fooled by its appearance however – Santolla is King Crab Heaven. From the crab dip, fresh garden salads, savory soups, fresh seafood tapas, to the calafate sour everything on the menu is to die for. We went 3 times, because once or twice is just not enough. 
• Afrigonia – Delicious seafood and lamb severed by a lovely staff. 
• Cafe Artimana – Fresh and healthy local food in a teeny tiny little house. Their fresh juices are out of this world. Great, casual lunch spot.
• Aldea Restaurant – Outstanding food, fantastic wine list, and a creative, young staff. Menu is written on a big blackboard in spanish but fear not your server will walk you through each item in detail. 
• Kau Lodge Cafe – Perfect anytime of day. Free Wifi. Strong coffees. Good beer selection. Comfy couches. Beautiful place to sit back and relax. 
• Hotel Costaustralis – Beautiful property on the water. Treat yourself to a comfortable bed. You deserve it before and after trekking through Torres Del Paine. 
• Altiplanico Sur – Unique Hotel. A bit outside of town but worth it for some peace and quite.
• Chocolateria Patagonia Dulce – If you’re jonesing a sweet treat head here. Extensive hot chocolate list, and cafe/cookies as far as the eye can see.

Torres Del Paine, Chile

• Fantástico Sur – We opted to stay in refugios with full board. The alternative would be to hike your food in and camp. The W Circuit surpassed our expectations in all ways imaginable.
• Hotel Las Torres – Exceptional destination within Torres del Paine National Park. Located in the heart of the park, this hotel shows a unique character because of its past as a cattle farm, which is still possible to see through the organic garden, stables and horses, gauchos as well the layout of the hotel. Side note – they have absolutely amazing cocktails. 

Buenos Aires, Argentina 

• Floreria Atlantico – All the vibes. Great, trendy bar serving fantastic food.  Ordering a drink with Príncipe de los Apóstoles, the house gin created by one of the owner, is a must. The gin is made with yerba mate (Argentina’s national drink), eucalyptus, peppermint, and pink grapefruit peel. Try the ‘Gin with tonic and something more,’ a mixture of homemade tonic water, grapefruit, and thyme, or if you are in a larger group, get a pitcher of Clericot N°872, a refreshing summer drink similar to sangria, made with gin, Aperol, riesling from Patagonia, pink grapefruit, and mint.) ((Also, the fish for 2 is to die for.))
• Don Julio – The best cut of meat there is. Expensive and a high on the tourist meter but well worth a visit.
• La Cabrera – You will find the best Argentine beef, excellent wines and a selection of side dishes, specially prepared for each dish and served in small casseroles. This place has a whimsical energy that makes the meal.  
• Pain et Vin – Great for wine tasting and a light lunch. Located in Palermo.
• Gil Antiguedades – Filled with Vintage clothing; perhaps so filled you might mistake it for a carnival or a circus. Featuring many eclectic items from all different decades, Gil Antiguedades is the perfect place to find a hidden treasure. Be prepared to spend some time here.  
• Salon Berlin – Need a haircut? Look no further. This stop is the bees knees. Make sure you order the coffee infused Negroni 
• Siamo Nel Forno – thin Neapolitan-style pizza cooked in 60 seconds.  If you need pizza close to your heart, this is the spot.  
• Nicky NY Sushi  – If you’re anything like me you are craving to switch it up from the copious amounts of steak for some nice fresh fish. Nicky Sushi will do just that! But the real treat is the story and hidden prohibition bar behind the restaurant – The Harrison Speakeasy 
• La Carnicería – Fun twist on the traditional parrilla. Sit at the bar, sip on a gin and tonic, and enter a whole new carnivorous world of smoked chorizos, caramelized sweetbreads, and bigger-than-your-head steaks.
• Victoria Brown – If ambiance is king then VB is the palace. Outstanding drinks too… obviously.
• Rapa Nui – Family owned ice cream shop that makes over eight variations of dulce de leche will make your heart and stomach full.

Colonia, Uruguay 

• La Casa de los Limoneros – Wonderful property with cosy rooms, a pool, tons of playful dogs, lush grounds, and the most gracious staff. Lovely breakfast and if you want a night in, the dinner was excellent. We will absolutely be back!  
• El Buen Suspiro – Charming little wine bar hosting delicious cheeses and great wine flights.  Careful, their “tastings” come with a heavy pour.  
• Charco Bistro – A must try spot for lunch or dinner on the water. 
• Churana – Cute atmosphere and a fresh, light lunch. Deliciously sour lemonade.  A refreshing addition after mounds of meat in Buenos Aires.  
• **Make sure you go horseback riding in the countryside – we went with a local and had a very raw and incredibly thrilling experience!

Azores, Portugal 

• Pico Island – Pico is an Island where calm and peace can be found around every corner, yet there’s always the choice of escaping to the village and experience the traditional culture or the occasional festival.
• São Miguel – Known as “The Green Island”, is the largest and most populated island of the Azores. Its diverse landscape is best seen by renting a car and cruising along the rolling hills. Important to note that there are no automatic cars on the island, so someone in your group will need to know how to drive stick. 
• Pedras do Mar – Ocean resort and spa with friendly staff and contemporary rooms (request sea views). Great restaurant and bar on the property. Arguably the best G+Ts we’ve ever had. Outside you will find an infinity pool over looking the Atlantic and inside a large heated pool, steam and sauna rooms. There are natural pools and hiking trails all a stones throw away (and the island isn’t short of stones either). Great location and unrivaled views.
• Lagoa das Sete Cidades Park’s Shop – Here you will find cafes, water sport rentals, and visitor information on hiking trails. We rented kayaks and paddled from the blue lake under the bridge into the green lake. So much fun! 
• Hotel Monte Palace – Take the road to Vista do Rei (View of the king) and it will bring you directly to the old abandoned hotel. Climb your way to the roof for an another jaw dropping view of picturesque lake. **Important to note that while we were here we overheard a tour guide explaining that the deteriorating attraction had been purchased by Chinese investors that will begin renovations in the next year or so. 
• Ponta da Ferraria – Natural ocean spring that mixes the cool ocean currents with the warmed up water by a geo-thermal natural spring beneath. No fee to enter was a plus.
• Caldeira Velha – Hot springs set back in the jungle. We went in early June so they weren’t as hot or smelly as we were forewarned. Travelers tip – use a dark colored and old bathing suit that you don’t mind throwing out if it gets smelly or stained. Also, removed all jewelry beforehand.
• Nossa Senhora da Paz – Gorgeous Church located in Vila Franca do Campo – we parked in town and hiked our way to the top, which made for a great excursion and panoramic views from the top made it all that much more memorable. 
• Bar Caloura – Tiny little bar/restaurant on the ocean with that day’s fresh fish cooked to order. Great to sit, relax, and feast while listening the the ocean waves lap the stone cove beneath your table. Funny and engaging servers.  Afterwards go take a dive into the refreshing cove to the left of the restaurant.  
• Botequim Acoriano – Cute little restaurant with amazing, fresh seafood. Make sure to order the spicy shrimp, chicken wings, and of course your trip to the Azores would not be complete without trying lapas. 
• Saca-Rolhas Taberna – Hidden gem local food located near the airport, but with unspoiled views of the ocean in front. The ‘Steak on a Hot Rock’ was delectable and always entertaining to be able to cook your meat to your liking. 

Porto, Portugal

• Adega Sao Nicolau – Perfect for lunch, order the house wine, and sit back and relax.
• Armazem – Antiques, food, and drinks in an old warehouse.
• O Paparico – If you’re looking for a night to splurge this is it. Snag an Uber for a few mile drive out of town, make sure you have a reservation, come hungry, and its best not to look at prices until it’s all said and done.  One thing is for sure, you won’t regret the experience, or the food. 
• The Yeatman – On a sunny hot day, this is the place to be.  Find a way into their pool with a view.  We can’t recommend how if you’re not staying there, but trust us, it’s doable.  Oh, and the hotel looks pretty spectacular too. 
• Ferreira Cellars – One of the oldest Port cellars.  The tour is short and sweet, as the pour afterwards.  The perfect way to kick off your day of proving ports. 

Lisbon, Portugal

• **Stay in the old neighborhood of Alfama
• **Make sure to sign up for Sandemans Free Walking Tour on your first day.  They’re very entertaining and it’s a great way to get an orientation to the city. 
• Taberna Da Rua das Flores – They do not take reservations so make sure to get there early. If there’s a line, it’s worth the wait – this was the best meal we had in Lisboa. Small and local feel with only the freshest ingredients. Handwritten menu that will be translated for you. If that’s not a good sign, I don’t know what is. 
• Taberna Moderna – Fun twist on the local cuisine. Make sure to make a reservation.  Come early and have a drink at their bar in back. 
• Boa Boa – Popular location in the heart of it for an Asian food fix. Frothy fun drinks and vibey atmosphere.
• Mercado da Ribeira – This Time Out sponsored market is foodie wonderland for lunch.  Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed; take a lap around then try your favorites.  Tip: you can always take things you’d like to try later to go. 
• Cervejaria Ramiro – Self service beer tap makes the long wait more enjoyable; and the food tastier.  Fresh fish and fast moving staff.  Get the garlic bread to soak everything up.  Remember prices are based on grams or kilos so be careful how you order. 
• Pizzeria Romana al Taglio – As good as the pizza in Italy and they deliver.
• Palácio Chiado – Encompasses 6 restaurants in a beautiful palace. Upon arrival you’ll receive a ”credit card” to charge your food and drinks (fancy little Gin bar on the second floor) – go on a swipe that card.
• PARK – Park bar is located on the 7th floor of a parking garage (hence the name) great for sunset.
• Quinta da Regaleira – UNESCO site in Sintra (day trip)

Marrakech, Morocco

• Riad Anayela – We can’t speak highly enough about this little oasis. Traditional but approachable Moroccan fare, beautiful property, and a kind and welcoming staff. 
• Al Fassia – Make sure to make a reservation and request a table on the patio. Order the salad sampler. 
• Bo & Zin – A refreshing departure from mounds of tagine, this is the place to be on a weekend evening.  Make sure you’re seated outside. iIt has acres of real estate out there and a bangin’ DJ.  Expect to pay Michelin star prices for your back home local takeout Chinese fare, but you’re really not here for the food anyway.
• Nikki Beach – Unfortunately we didn’t make it here but come on! It’s Nikki Beach in Morocco, how could you not go?

Madrid, Spain

• **Editors note: Paella isn’t really meant to be consumed in Madrid. Please save this delicacy for the coastal towns.
• 1862 Dry Bar – As they say “Perfection Served In a Glass” – their words not mine. The tequila cocktail was to die for. I’m actually contemplating how I can get back to Madrid just for one more sip.  Check out the downstairs if its open.
• StreetXO – Punk food at a cost. Servers are dressed in straight jackets and the food is equally as mad. If you’re willing to pass the buck at this establishment let them order your cocktail and make sure you don’t miss the lasagna, dumplings, or the rabbit. Ok, you caught me, everything this is worth the price tag.
• Chuka Ramen Bar – I considered deleting all the other recommendations. Chuka is that good. Go hungry, leave happy.
• Taberna La Carmencita – Cute spot with mouth watering food. 
• Asador Donostiarra – Jonesin a steakhouse? Look no further. Unctuous cuts of meat.  Come hungry. This joint is lined with photographs of the celebrities that have (over)indulged themselves here.

Dolomites, Italy

• Collett’s Mountain Holidays – Trekking company comprised of a world class staff from the walking tour guides to the chefs.
• Chalet Haus Valentin –  The best of the best – food, staff, self serve bar, views, and location.

Roma, Italy

• Emma – Popular, for a reason, pizza spot for lunch and dinner. Service is overwhelmed and subpar but the pizzas are what you’re here for anyhow
• Roscioli – Make a reservation and make way for a nap after this meal, but whatever you do don’t miss this one.
• Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà – Tiny craft beer bar in Trastevere.  Grab a seat at the bar, chat up the bartender and hang out a while.

  Retrobottega –  Not your Grandmama’s bolognese. Innovative and modern.  The new Italian food. Go early to snag a seat at the bar to really watch the magic happen.

  Fatamorgana – Artisanal Gelato perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner – (they make it with their hands).  

  Pizzarium Bonci – Pizza on pizza on pizza. Focaccia dough so light and fluffy it defies gravity. Combinations of topping to suit every taste, even some you didn’t know you had. Just be ready at the front of the line or risk the wrath of the pizza chica.

  Capuchin Crypt – I don’t need to tell you to go to the Vatican, but if you want to do something a little different – head over to see the heads at this one of a kind Crypt.

  The Restaurant we refuse to name:  It’s everything you want in a classic homestyle Italian trattoria meal, right down the generations of owners still working the front of the house.  It’s already received too much hype since one of our last visit’s here four years ago so we’re not going to come out and name names on this one.  But, we can’t deny a friend good food either, so if you’re curious about this special place, write to us and we’ll let you in on the secret.