Lastarria is the first modern boutique hotel to open in the heart of historic Barrio Lastarria in Santiago.
The latest openings and events from around the world.
Santiago – Lastarria is the first modern boutique hotel to open in the heart of historic Barrio Lastarria. The refurbished 1927-built residence has 14 rooms and is located near the impressive Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a small gym, free Wi-Fi and a wine bar lounge that serves complimentary breakfast. Skiers can store their gear and after ticking off the city sights, shuttle off to the Portillo ski valley (only two hours away by car) for a day on the slopes. With a mix of saucy sex shops, Belle Époque cafés and bustling restaurants, this neighbourhood can get rowdy at night, so consider splurging on one of the soundproof suites. lastarriahotel.com
VIP FOR A FEE
Munich – The VIP Wing at Munich airport is a spacious and swank holding area in Terminal 1 that's intended to ease the pain of air travel. From the work alcoves to the smoking lounge and light-filled bar, minimalist modular furniture and materials such as felt, leather and oak put a high-design spin on typical airport lounge decor. Guests can zip through security via designated screening lines and hop in a limo to shuttle directly to and from the airplane. There's even a Bavarian beer garden and private suites on site. Anyone can gain access to the VIP Wing, but reservations (at least 72 hours in advance) are essential. Entry fees start from about $400 a person. munich-airport.de
VINTAGEMOBILE
Los Angeles – On the heels of the now ubiquitous food-truck craze, Tin Box of Curious Artifacts is paving the way for mobile retail therapy. Owners Daniel Robles and Chris Register have converted a cargo truck into a travelling vintage boutique. Moving through the city's eastside (you have to follow them on Twitter and Facebook to find out the where and when), they offer an eclectic inventory of old-fashioned suitcases, porcelain knick-knacks, kitschy aprons and graphic tees. Collectors of antique jewellery will appreciate the treasure trove of mid-century brooches, cufflinks and earrings. tinboxboutique.com
A NEW GRENOUILLÈRE
La Madelaine-sous-Montreuil, France – Michelin-starred chef Alexandre Gauthier has given the family business a modern-day makeover. La Grenouillère, a famous French tavern that he took over from his father, has shed its centuries-old farmhouse ambience. In its place is a sleek kitchen and contemporary dining room dressed in earthy colours and floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the expansive garden. The restaurant is found in a tiny village about two hours' drive from Paris. If you want to properly indulge in Gauthier's multicourse tasting menu, stay the night in one of the recently opened guest huts. lagrenouillere.fr
Special to The Globe and Mail