View of Pelourinho, the historic center and one of the great attractions of Salvador in the state of Bahia.
Back in 2019, The New York Times published its famous annual travel guide, “52 Places to Visit,” spotlighting destinations that promised both cultural richness and unforgettable experiences. Among the list, two vibrant cities stood out: Salvador, Bahia (Brazil) at number 14, and Santa Barbara, California (USA) at number 3. Even today, in 2025, these two destinations remain more relevant than ever for global travelers seeking history, flavor, and authenticity.
Salvador, Bahia – Afro-Brazilian Soul and Heritage
Salvador, the first capital of Brazil, has always been a hub of history, faith, and celebration. The NYT highlighted how the city had completed a five-year preservation initiative to safeguard its UNESCO World Heritage status, and today those efforts continue to shine. Walking through Pelourinho, with its pastel-colored colonial façades and cobblestone streets, feels like stepping into a living museum.
But Salvador is not only about the past—it’s about rhythm, food, and celebration. Weekly samba and drumming performances, capoeira circles, and open-air concerts bring Afro-Brazilian traditions to life. Travelers can also indulge in Bahian cuisine: acarajé, moqueca, and fresh seafood seasoned with dendê oil. In 2025, Salvador has also expanded its cultural calendar, with events such as the Salvador International Arts Biennale and an increasingly vibrant Carnival that rivals Rio in scale and authenticity.
For beach lovers, stretches like Praia do Flamengo and Itapuã remain as inviting as ever. Salvador has positioned itself as one of South America’s cultural capitals, making it a must-stop in any Brazilian itinerary.
View of charming Santa Barbara, the “California Riviera” and its famous Pier
Santa Barbara, California – The American Riviera Reinvented
Ranked number 3 in the NYT’s 2019 list, Santa Barbara has kept its allure well into the 2020s. Once a playground for Hollywood stars and millionaires, the city has embraced a more laid-back, creative identity. Known as the “American Riviera,” it combines Mediterranean-style architecture, Pacific beaches, and a dynamic food-and-wine scene.
Over the past few years, Santa Barbara has grown into a hotspot for culinary innovation, attracting Michelin-star chefs and food entrepreneurs. The city’s urban wine trail, with over 30 unique tasting rooms, continues to attract wine lovers looking for a fresh alternative to Napa or Sonoma. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking trails in the Santa Ynez Mountains or whale-watching excursions along the coast showcase its natural beauty. With its blend of sophistication and relaxed California lifestyle, Santa Barbara remains a top pick for travelers worldwide.
Salvador is also the birthplace of African culture in Brazil and where capoeira developed.
Global Context: The World’s Top Picks
The New York Times 2019 list crowned Puerto Rico as the number one destination, applauding its resilience after Hurricane Maria. Hampi, India, came second for its breathtaking ruins and cultural heritage. While travel trends have evolved since then, the spotlight on Salvador and Santa Barbara underscores how timeless these cities are.
In 2025, as international travel continues to grow and diversify, both Salvador and Santa Barbara stand out not just as destinations once recommended – but as places that continue to reinvent themselves and attract new generations of explorers.
