A quick look at some of the ‘coolest streets’ of the world as the pandemic-scarred starts getting back on its feet. An international publishing brand, Time Out, recently compiled a list of ‘The 30 Coolest Streets in the World’ based on ‘food, fun, culture and community,’ the publication said in its report.
Smith Street, Melbourne, Australia
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Located to the north of the city, it is its lively atmosphere, which earned Smith Street the number one position on the Time Out list. Noisy pubs, tony wine bars, quaint bookstores to shops selling artsy and vintage items, the street is an explorer’s delight. Grace Darling Hotel, Smith Street Alimentari, Happy Valley Shop, Vintage Garage, are some of the places you cannot miss here.
Passeig de Sant Joan, Barcelona, Spain
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Redeveloped as a green corridor, this major north-south running avenue in Barcelona, clinched the second place. Laid out like a boulevard, it includes special lanes for cyclists and pedestrians. A popular hangout for locals, you can sit in one of the many roadside benches and merrily people watch. Some of the addresses you must call upon here include Granja Petitbo for its bar and weekend brunch, the stylish restaurant Chicha Limona, Hotel Casa Bonay, Bed and Bike, which offers free bikes to explore the city, graphic novels store called Norma, etc.
South Bank, London, UK
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It is difficult to beat the upbeat vibes of this cultural and creative district on the River Thames, and home of the London Eye. Some of the other must see attractions include The National Theatre, Southbank Centre, and SEA LIFE Aquarium. Walk down for a look at its street food joints, pubs, restaurants specialising in a range of global cuisine, and shops. Or wander through the food markets, pop ups, galleries, pavement stalls, for some eclectic browsing.
San Isidro, Havana, Cuba
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As if tired of its old and decrepit look, this corner of old Havana has opened its arms to modern artists. A mix of street art and graffiti can be found across crumbling walls, house exteriors, and even abandoned yards. Usually, a walk ends at the Galeria Taller Gorria. And if all that art walk has left you tired, there are a number of bars and cafes to get your energy back. One of the best places to drop in is the rooftop bar and restaurant Yarini, named after Cuban pimp Alberto Yarini who ruled the area in the early 20th century.
Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, US
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Around 35 km (22miles) in length, this is one of the world’s most visited boulevard, stretching between bustling Downtown and glamorous Malibu. Neon to historic film studios, restaurants and bars, bookstores and beaches, there is no end to its myriad attractions. It includes the famous Sunset Strip known for its array of billboards, boutiques, restaurants, rock clubs, and nightclubs.
Witte de Withstraat, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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The most favourite haunt of any Rotterdammer, it cuts through the city centre and is abuzz with art galleries, shops, bars, cafes and restaurants. If you are lucky, you may catch a festival or two.
Rua Tres Rios, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Lying in the middle of Sao Paulo’s historic neighbourhood Bom Retiro, Rua Tres Rios is a dynamic street. One of the main reasons being the neighbourhood is home to generations of immigrants who have relocated to Brazil for centuries from countries such as Italy, Korea, Greece, etc. So restaurant hopping is a must. The zine fairs and events hosted at the Casa De Povo is one of the best places to learn more about the contemporary art scene.