Interior designers are known for curating aspirational rooms that take their cues from all over the globe. So when we were looking to round up a list of super chic getaways, we knew interior designers would give us the low-down on the most stylish locales around. From old world European cities overflowing with culture to tropical, south-of-the-equator locales best enjoyed with drink in hand, these are the designer-approved getaways that deliver R & R and jet-setter style in spades.
U.S. & European Cities
“New Orleans for the colors, the soul, and the food” – Louisia Pierce of Pierce & Ward
“It is always changing, but right now I’m dying to go back to London. I went six months ago but could only stay for two days, and just that glimpse of the city was so inspiring! I can’t wait to go back and spend more time exploring.” – Barrie Benson
“Amsterdam! We spent so much time there when we first got married; the people are lovely and the canals are so charming. I love winding through all the antique shops on Spiegelgracht, and stopping for scones at de Bakkerswinkel is a must!” – Amy Berry of Amy Berry Design
African & Asian Cities
“Morocco. I’m counting the months until I return.” – Nick Olsen of Nick Olsen Inc.
“I visited Cape Town this past New Year’s and was blown away by its design and art scene. I loved the newly opened Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art, which houses provocative works by contemporary South African artists inside a revitalized grain silo, and the South African National Gallery which displays a historical collection of African art. Another inspirational detour was Cape Town’s Bo-Kaap neighborhood. It’s a primarily Muslim neighborhood that’s painted in bright colors in anticipation of the celebration of Eid.” – Krista Hoffman of Krista Hoffman Design
“I like to continue exploring new places and typically do not repeat trips, but after a recent trip to Cambodia and Vietnam, I left knowing that I would return. I cannot wait to go back!” – MA Allen of MA Allen Interiors
Beaches
“The Bahamas for a beach getaway.” – Sarah Bartholomew
“Faro, Portugal. I visited Faro last August, and fell in love with the place. It’s a beautiful beach town on the Algarve region of South of Portugal. Since it is not on many people’s radar as yet, it is still feels a bit secluded, too. While in Faro, I would highly recommend a visit to Bovino Steakhouse. The food is great and the decor breathtaking!” – Rajni Alex of Rajni Alex Design
Seaside
“Nantucket. We make an effort to spend a lot of time at our home on the island with family and friends—especially during the summer months. Spending time by the ocean is always therapeutic and inspirational to me.” – Tharon Anderson of Tharon Anderson Design
“We’ve had a house in the picturesque town of Greenport, New York for twelve years and I love the low-key vibe of the area. After boating in the morning, my family heads to Little Creek Oysters for a late lunch. My husband and I can eat local shellfish and drink local beer or wine while the kids play corn hole. We’ll grab a gelato at D’latte and then head to Beal and Bell, the most amazing antiques shop to see what’s new. Later, we’ll ride our bikes to our beach on the sound (with more local beer) and watch the sunset.” – Bella Mancini of Bella Mancini Design
Glamping
“For the ultimate cozy Southern trip, I love Blackberry Farm.” – Chad James of Chad James Group
“Deer Valley Summer Camp in Pennsylvania!” – Leanne Ford of Leanne Ford Interiors
“Every year we go hunting with friends in Northern England at an incredible house near Newcastle. I look forward to that trip all year long!” – Meg Braff of Meg Braff Designs
