5 Mind-Blowing Bars Around the World: A Preview from '50 Bars to Blow Your Mind'
Whether you're toasting in a vibrant new city, a far-flung country, or an exotic continent, nothing beats raising a glass. From casual beachside drinks to sophisticated cocktails in elegant settings, discover your perfect spot in our new book, 50 Bars to Blow Your Mind. Here's an exclusive preview—we'll see you at the bar.
Northern Lights – Reykjavik, Iceland
A Christmas-themed bar?
Far from it. This Nordic boutique bar delivers ultra-cool vibes, just 45 minutes' drive from Reykjavik.
Will I see the aurora borealis?
October to April offers the best chance for stunning aurora displays. Double-height windows frame ice-sculpted rocks, barren landscapes, and a vast sky—views that stretch endlessly.
That sounds pretty special.
Absolutely. Location is everything here at the ION Adventure Hotel. Enjoy premium drinks in this minimalist haven (service may be on-call).
So I’ve seen the lights. Now what?
Adventure awaits: hike volcanoes, ride horses on black-sand beaches, super-jeep to glaciers and waterfalls, raft, fissure dive, or ice climb. Prepare to be dazzled.
Do I have to do all that?
Yes, you do.
Baba Nest – Phuket, Thailand
This sounds very cosy.
It is—cosy, luxurious, and part of the Sri Panwa resort on Phuket's southern coast.
Of all the Thai beach resorts, why am I here?
For the legendary sunsets. Sip a cocktail from giant cushions on a rooftop platform suspended like a wooden jetty over the beach, with near-360° views and an encircling infinity pool.
Sounds like it may be packed with people pointing their phones towards the sun?
Limited to 40 reservations, it stays intimate despite the photographers—perfect for capturing memories.
What happens when the photo opportunities are exhausted?
Guests relax, chat languidly with legs outstretched, basking in sun-kissed bliss.
Gordon’s Wine Bar – London, United Kingdom
Are you sure this is a bar?
The modest entrance belies a cavernous, candlelit basement with wooden tables under a curved stone ceiling, reached via rickety stairs.
It must be quiet as a morgue.
Quite the opposite—a lively buzz fills the atmospheric space. Claustrophobes can opt for outdoor seating on Watergate Walk.
So Gordon’s prides itself on wine?
London's oldest wine bar (est. 1890) boasts an impressive international list, plus limited-edition wines from private domains.
What can I eat?
Pair wine with over 20 cheeses (global and local), expertly matched. Also enjoy pub lunches, Sunday roasts, and evening tapas.
Ice Bar – Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
This sounds familiar.
It's the original—while copies exist worldwide, this Jukkasjärvi pioneer remains unmatched.
What can I expect?
A chilly -5°C to preserve annual sculptures by international artists. Glasses, stools, tables, and more are pure ice; the dancefloor gets a snowy touch. Artists also design Icehotel suites.
I’d like a hot toddy.
Would you like ice with that?
Is everything made of ice?
Yes—stools, tables, chairs, lamps, glasses. Romantic souls can wed in the attached ice chapel.
Blue Frog Lounge – Mumbai, India
So why am I going there?
Step into an otherworldly spaceship or beehive nightclub—smooth, fluid surfaces pulse with psychedelic lights amid floating metal discs and honeycomb booths.
How so?
It's a premier music venue with rotating local and international acts (often electronic), plus an on-site recording studio.
Can I go for a drink and a bite to eat?
Yes—extensive drinks including potent signature cocktails like the 'Blue Frog'. Pair with fried bar snacks.
