It’s official. Abel, the musician otherwise known as The Weeknd, dates the most beautiful women in the world. As if Bella Hadid wasn’t already validation, there are those rumors about Angelina Jolie (who has a lot of game on her own). And on top of that, he knows how to travel well. These are places where it’s always The Weeknd. Yes, this is where The Weeknd travels, and where you can too.
The Destination: Tokyo, Japan
When we think of the city of love, Paris comes to mind before the Shibuya shopping district. But it’s all-night karaoke that really solidifies a relationship. Back in 2018, Abel Tesfaye and then on-again-off-again girlfriend Bella Hadid were rumored to be on again when they were seen snuggling up in a corner of a karaoke bar in this Tokyo neighborhood.
But even though the couple has since broken things off for good it seems, friends say they will always have a special connection. And it is no doubt due at least in part to the incredibly romantic and somewhat unpredictable destinations they’ve been to together. When in Tokyo, you have to let loose. And they definitely did just that. They visited the famed Robot Restaurant with friends for an evening of laser light shows and costumed dancers performing cabaret. The exact kind of thing that only works in Japan, and why we love Japan so much.
They also spent a lot of time just strolling around the streets and enjoying the culture that is found in the heart of the city. They posted snaps to Instagram enjoying traditional noodles and getting dressed up for a famous Tokyo night. Of course, Tesfaye kept his hotel hush-hush, but we can bet he stayed at Aman Tokyo or the Park Hyatt. There are no hotels more suited to the elite status of such an influential star and his maybe girlfriend.
The Destination: Buenos Aires, Argentina
It seems as though when The Weeknd travels, it often involves a pretty (and talented) woman on his arm. While on a romantic grand tour (no, not a music tour), he and then bae, Selena Gomez, took time to explore the beautiful city of Buenos Aires.
Between strolling through the streets and getting some very cozy-looking pap pics, the pair visited famous jazz clubs and bars. When in Buenos Aires, you have to have an asado experience. Nowhere in the world has better beef barbecue. Not even in Texas. And if you’re looking for the best, hit Cabaña Las Lilas. The converted warehouse steak joint is pricey, but a charcuterie-esque smoked salmon and cheese platter and the empanadas are worth it.
As far as the city goes, make sure you walk around Palermo. Palermo is the Soho of Buenos Aires where you’ll find the best independent fashion and cool restaurants. And like the pair, you should check out the local clubs where late-night dancing is what it’s about. Don’t worry, though you’ll be out until sunrise, you won’t walk home with an awful hangover. Most people at the clubs are there to genuinely have a good time in lieu of over-partying.
As for the hotel, it’s gotta be Jardin Escondido. The famous former home of Francis Ford Coppola is a stunning boutique hotel in the heart of the city. It is a hop, skip and jump from fast-paced city life but still an oasis with a special outdoor kitchen, unheated pool and garden. If you’re lucky, you might run into George Clooney or Francis himself, who are both frequent visitors. Where The Weeknd travels other celebs clearly travel, too.
The Destination: Abu Dhabi, UAE
After a lengthy split, nothing says “Let’s get back together” like couples ATV rides around the desert. Thrill-seeking is one way to test the strength of a relationship. But Bella and The Weeknd also spent time riding into the sunset on camels and, of course, embracing late into the night at a club.
Though often overlooked for its neighbor Dubai, Abu Dhabi is definitely a worthy destination in its own right. Less about the wild nightlife, and more about spas, resorts, shopping and Formula One, the city holds a multitude of luxury experiences with (somewhat) quieter appeal.
After hitting up the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, there’s the Saadiyat Beach Club for unforgettable Friday brunch. The Louvre outpost is a billion-dollar establishment worth visiting, and an afternoon boating around the mangroves is a must. There are also tons of really, really great hotels to stay in, but we recommend Emirates Palace. As the official guest palace for the government, nowhere else will be as gilded or grand. That goes for morning cappuccinos, afternoon ice creams and really luxe facials.