Unfinished Oktoberfest Beer Tent in Munich, Germany

Oktoberfest – from the humble beginnings of a Bavarian royal wedding has become the world’s largest fair. For 16-18 days each Fall, Munich, Germany is transformed into a boisterous city of beer “tents” (think temporary structures) big and small. Each tent serves only certified Oktoberfest Beers, which must be brewed within the city limits of Munich, and delicious Bavarian food. For the beer connoisseur in you this place is heaven, even the tents names are beautifully Bavarian!

The Café Kaiserschmarrn is the Oktoberfest-paradise for pastry-lovers, while the Münchner Knödelei serves an icon of Bavarian cuisine: the dumpling.

Another traditional meal you’ll find a lot of while strolling from tent to tent is roasted duck and chicken, Heimer’s is popular with the locals and we strongly suggest trying it.

Be sure to stay informed by stopping by the Schottenhamel tent, as all official Oktoberfest events are kicked off here.

From the midnight tapping of the first keg by the mayor of Munich until the traditional closing ceremonies Oktoberfest is a world-class party, so it naturally attracts some of the worlds most recognizable people. Everyone who is anyone is likely to be there, from sports stars to actors and actresses,

producers, models, and you can even expect to see a few modern members of Europe’s royalty.

Munich mayor taps the first keg of Oktoberfest

Long before the American release of Beerfest in 2006 Oktoberfest tents have been popping up across the United States. Many of the nations best festivals form in cities big and small.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Columbus, Ohio
Dever, Colorado
And several in California – San Fransisco, Bear Lake, Los Angeles

Whichever Oktoberfest you decide to attend you are sure you have a wonderful time. The atmosphere is welcoming and electric with everyone having a good time, but of course when large crowds and approximately 7,100,000 liters of beer are served there is bound to be a few dust-ups. We would like to remind you that these disagreements can often be defused before they get rowdy with a little bit of common courtesy (you’ll be amazed how fair saying, “I’m sorry, can I buy you a new stein?” will go). Besides, everyone is there for one reason – to have the time of their lives!

Ever feel like dancing for hours on end while pressing up against thousands of fellow sweaty, smiling revelers?  Perhaps you picture flashing green and purple lasers overhead, or fog machines blotting out the stars above?  Is the music playing a combination of sidechains and 808s, evolving pads and LFO wobbles?  If your ears just perked up, then look into Electric Daisy Carnival, an electronic music festival series with dates across America.

What?:

Electric Daisy Carnival is a family of annual electronic music festivals that take place in multiple locations across the United States and Puerto Rico.  The most prominent of the 2011 fests takes place in Las Vegas, Nevada at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, a venue with a capacity over 140,000.  Since 1997, Insomniac Events, a Los Angeles based promoter, has held an EDC at a variety of southern California venues, including the Shrine Auditorium and the Los Angeles Coliseum, and 2011 is the first year that Vegas will play host.  The festival features DJs and live bands playing cutting edge electronic music of all genres, and always attracts the top international talent.

Who?

Past headliners include trance luminaries Above & Beyond, Ferry Corsten and Armin van Buuren and prominent acts from other genres, such as Pendulum (Drum and Bass), Benny Benassi (House), David Guetta (House) and Infected Mushroom (Psytrance).  This year, the festival will be headlined by the king of trance, DJ Tiesto, along with Euro-house super group Swedish House Mafia, minimal mastermind Plastikman, dance-hall party boys Major Lazer and electro-indie rockers Empire of the Sun.  They are joined by a host of additional acts performing on six stages over three days.  For those not well versed in the whose-who of electronic music, I must remark that this list is truly impressive.  Van Buuren and Tiesto have held the title of #1 DJ in the world (bestowed by DJ Magazine, the accepted authority on the matter) a combined eight times and are major draws individually.  Plastikman is an alter-ego of famed minimal pioneer Ritchie Hawtin, and all of his rare performances include a cutting edge visual display.  I could go into detail about all of the groups and individuals performing this year, but instead I suggest heading to your favorite music source to check them out for yourself.  My fav? Pendulum, who combine heavy D&B beats with soaring vocals and metal guitar riffs.

Why?:

Electric Daisy Carnival began as a fairly niche event, catering to a small selection of American electronic music fans.  However, as electronic music’s popularity has exploded in the US, EDC and other large-scale rave events have become major destinations for enthusiasts the world over.  Fans pack shoulder to shoulder (and often closer) to dance the night away and take in fantastic light and laser shows accompanying the throbbing basses and ripping snares.  Contrary to popular media images, ravers come from all backgrounds and are a very diverse group, sharing love of music and the principle of PLUR (Peace, Love, Unity, Respect).  While it is true that many attendees use illegal substances to augment their experiences, the vast majority come to enjoy the show safely and responsibly.

How?:

The 2011 festival takes place from June 24^th-26^th at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, with music running from 8pm to 6am.  Tickets for all three days can be purchased here and hotel reservations can be booked here.  The event is expected to sell out, so it is advisable to purchase tickets ASAP!

1. 1. Sydney, Australia

Kim Kardashian at Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach in Sydney is one of the most popular if not the most popular topless beach in the world.  The beach stretches for over a mile adjacent to hotels, bars, cafes and restaurants.  On the south end of the beach known as “Glamorama” there is an outdoor gym and a popular spot among people familiar with the beach.  A good place to stay near the beach is the Observatory Hotel in Sydney, get your rates now.

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1. 2. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Mariah Carey in Bora Bora

The French Polynesian islands are located in the south pacific and are still French territories.  Tahiti and Moorea are the more common islands traveled by many, but if you want a good private beach go to Bora Bora, where you can see the reef water meet the deep see.  There is an amazing hotel called Le Meridien Bora Bora.  The bungalows are hung over water enabling guests to view the sea life from their quarters.  There is also a front deck for each room letting you dive into the water anytime you choose.

1. 3. Cannes, France

Zhang Ziyi in Cannes

The French Rivera is considered by many to be the birthplace of topless tanning.  The beaches are not as sandy and white as most exotic islands, but the culture and rich history makes up for it.  Although it’s far, away tickets aren’t cheap, so plan a trip to Cannes now for the May 14^th film festival.  This is the most prestigious film festival in the world where you will find celebrities and fellow movie goers laying topless next o you.  For a good star gazing hotel, the Carlton Inter Continental is cheap and popular.  Book early and you can stay next to your favorite movie stars for less than you think.

1. 4. Cape Town, South Africa

Paris Hilton Hits Cape Town

The beaches of Cape Town are studded with diamonds, literally.  There are riflemen who stand posted, ready for anyone trying to snag the natural growing Zales on the beach.  Don’t worry though, because the topless beach you’ll be searching for is safe, beautiful and fun.  Clifton beach runs along Victoria Road which harbors stylish neighborhoods, shops, bars and fine dining.  The scenery behind this beach is the most impressive; rolling hills and the warm sun hitting you from the other side of the world can’t be beat.

1. 5. Capri, Italy

Eva Mendes in Capri Italy

Capri is a popular getaway island in the Adriatic Sea.  Like most islands in the area it holds more rocky beaches and cliffs than white sandy beaches.  But the towns are so charismatic that walking on hot cobblestones in the summer isn’t all that bad.  Find a big boulder on the beach and lay out on it.  The local crowd is always partying and the food is to die for.  If you want to stay where Jackie Kennedy stayed try out the Grand Hotel Quisisana; built in 1845 as a sanatorium, it will be a memorable vacation.

1. 6. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Victoria Secret's Alessandra Ambrosio in Rio De Janeiro

In Brazil, the smaller the bikini, the more acceptable it is.  Ipanema is the most famous of the Brazilian beaches, but go to Copacabana instead.  You get complimentary cabana service on the beach and if you stay at the Copacabana Palace Hotel you can practically roll out of bed onto the beach.

1. 7. Estepona, Spain

Leo DiCaprios Girlfriend Model Bar Rafaeli in Costa Del Sol

The Sun Coast or Costa del Sol is the most popular beaches in Spain.  Because they are swarmed with English tourists and all the new money in Europe, we’ve bumped it down on the list.  But this doesn’t change the fact that Estepona beach is beautiful and a serene sight away from the main strip.  For true naturists, two miles up the coast is Costa Natura, the only official nudist colony along this part of the Mediterranean.

Jessica Alba in South Beach

1. 8. South Beach, Miami, Florida

Known for having the hottest nightlife in the United States, Miami is home to the best topless beaches in America.  South beach has white sand, clear water, celebrities, models and perfectly tanned bodies.  Go clubbing, eat good food, and embrace the cabana culture.  Don’t spend too much but look into the new Shore Club Hotel.  Here it is totally acceptable to wear heels in your bikini while you stroll through the lobby.

1. 9. Santorini, Greece

As we’ve gone down the list, the sites have taken on a little more of a part atmosphere.  Some like to just lie on the beach all day but if you want the nightlife and club vibes of the Mediterranean, go to Greece.  The free spirit of the people and towns will rub off on you.  Most clubs stay open all night until sunrise.  From there many of the people tend to go strait to the beach to sleep off the previous nights excess.

1. 10. St. Martin/St.Maarten, West Indies

Kristin Cavallari in St. Maarten

Since these were once French and Dutch colonies, the nudity factor is very liberal.  Most beaches are topless except for the few tourist oriented beaches.  Be careful the sun will burn you here, but if you don’t like the crowds, don’t hesitate, this is the hidden gem of all the beaches.

When arriving in Los Angeles be sure to pick up an L.A. Weekly.  This newspaper highlights many L.A. events: music venues, art expos, movies, photo galleries, you name it.  To find events closest to you, search the “West L.A.” section of the paper.  L.A. is a great place to visit, not so much to live, which makes it the perfect staycation.

Once you’ve found a place to stay, ask around or get a map and you’ll be able to find the Santa Monica Airport.  There are some traveling tips that I brush over because you’ve got the benefit of the doubt, I mean, you ARE a travel guru if you are reading this.  There are plenty of places to eat around the area, but go to The Hump on the top floor of the main airport building.  It is an amazing sushi joint and you’ll most likely see a celebrity while you dine there.  After your meal, head across the street (Airport Avenue) and look for some hangers.  These hangers will look small and old, because they have been turned into art galleries.  On every night of the week there is usually an exhibition or opening, and they are usually free.  Star Gazing, art gallery, and good sushi, do I ever let you down?

This may become repetitive after a night or two, so here are some more local favorites in West L.A. that my tickle your fancy.  Venice beach is a local attraction with great street food, street performers and lots of African culture.  There are over 50 market stands spanning from jewelry, art and all sorts of apparel.  The drum circle is on Sunday nights, so if you like ethnic music and empanadas be sure not to miss it.  If you are looking for some higher end shopping with the Venice vibe head over to The 3^rd street promenade in Santa Monica.  Located three blocks from the beach, the outdoor mall is filled with street performers; I especially encourage you to check out the flamenco guitarists that performs nightly.  Around the corner on 2^nd street are many of the hottest clubs in Santa Monica, and one block further is a beautiful cliff park overlooking the sunset.  Anyone who says you can’t stay on the beach during your entire visit in L.A. is wrong.  Hope it goes well. Safe travels until next week’s celebrity rundown. Ciao’

Barbados

Sandy Lane Resort

If you’re looking to soak up some rays and indulge in the good life then look no further than the celebrity enriched Caribbean Island of Barbados.  With glistening turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, Barbados is a blend of sophistication and beauty.  Celebrity regulars include the Beckhams, Sting, Mick Jagger; even Tiger woods and long-time girlfriend Elin Nordegren eloped at the world famous Sandy Lane Resort.

Check out Hotels in Barbados

Dubai

Joshua Jackson in Dubai

Dubai is known for it’s class, high rollers and hotels that boast unrivaled architectural prowess in resort development.  Not to mention the massive amount of retail and designer shopping at such mall monoliths as the ‘Wafi City Mall’ and the ‘Mall of the Emirates’; known as the first shopping resort.  From Mischa Barton cuddling a dolphin to Joshua Jackson and Girlfriend ‘Troys’ Diane Kruger hitting the 264 ft. indoor slopes a the ‘Mall of the Emirates’, Dubai is a surefire spot to nail celebs in action.

Check out Hotels in Dubai

The French Riviera

The Majestic Barriere in Cannes

Ah the French Riviera.  Extending from Menton near the Italian border the French Riviera is the Mediterranean coastline of the southeastern corner of France and is known as one of the worlds first resort destinations.  If you are looking to spot a few A-Listers, then clear your schedule and head to the Cannes Film festival where every year celebrities amass in a frenzy in hopes of earning the prestige of a Cannes Award.  There’s no shortage of upscale nightclubs either.  Dress to impress and head to either St Tropez or Les Caves du Roi.  You may have to buy your way in but once you cross those velvet ropes you can be sure to share space with some of the entertainment elite.

Check out Hotels in the French Riviera

Miami

The Royal Palm in South Beach

When you talk about celebrity party destinations you have to mention Miami.  Classy and sophisticated with a Caribbean vibe; a multitude of celebrities call Miami their second home.  Try to catch events like the Winter Musice Conference and hit Nikki Beach where the party barons are sure to be held up at any number of the upscale clubs or mansion parties.  It certainly isn’t rare to see a couple stars like Shaq, Jessica Simpson, Colin Farrel, Lindsay Lohan or Beyonce gallivanting around South Beach at a cool restaraunt or any of the hip hotels located on Collins Ave.  These chic South Beach Hotels on the water are among the celeb favs.

Check out Hotels in Miami