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It may be hidden up the far end of Cuba Street but don't let that put you off. Walk that little bit further because this place has some fantastic coffee and food especially their iced chocolates and savoury muffins. It has a cool kitsch interior as well as outdoor seating so is a great place to hang out and relax. Check out the great local clothing stores on the way down Cuba Street too, especially Frutti and Carly Harris.
The epitome of kitsch, this great little bar has glittery red walls, an array of vintage hairdressing tools and salon furniture, with cute locals and a DJ every now and then with alternative and indie rock. The best part is the manicure and a cocktail offer (was $10). Getting a manicure in Beauty Bar is not a novelty feature - it really lasted!
Nearest subway is Union Square, 14th street between 3rd ave and ave A.
Kitsch … you either love it or hate it. But in New Zealand, where so many bars are basic at best, the sensual overload that is the Wunderbar (in Lyttelton, of all places) is very welcome. It is also very, very kitsch. The funky front lounge is swathed in purple velvet, the pool table with red velvet, the bar is lined with bamboo and the “elusive” toilets – if you can find them – papered with 1950’s adverts. Wunderbar’s location – behind a supermarket – says it all: a corner of weird surrounded by banal.
Address: 19 London Street, Lyttelton.
Telephone: (64-3) 3288818
Website: www.wunderbar.co.nz
It's a sexy town, Buenos Aires. And here's a tip to help you prove it. The city's many love motels, or 'telos' offer rooms by the hour, catering to all those in need of a hassle-free and quick place to get busy. Whether it's for an affair or just overly-affectionate couples hitting the nightlife.
Try the überkitsch Jardines de Babilonia's theme rooms (The Emperor's Enclave or the Temple of Ishtar, among others). Generally, just look for the red lights and the phrase 'albergue transitorio'.
This hotel is perfect for a rock 'n' roll weekend of debauched behaviour. A boutique hotel with themed rooms, I had the Betty Page room (old-school glamour complete with king-sized bed and double spa bath). It was pricey, but well worth the money.
The rooms have a playstation and internet access. It is the only hotel, I think you'll find, where you can listen to Johnny Cash while you eat your breakfast. The breakfast menu is huge, and check-out time is a nicely late noon.
www.hotelpelirocco.co.uk/
10 regency square, Brighton
01273 327055
It is a fun, affordable boutique hotel which is guaranteed to spice up a short break by the sea. I stayed in the Dali room, which was smaller than I expected, but the decoration was delicious and chocolate mints on the satin bed covers was definitely a bonus!
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