Being cool is a lifestyle, or so they say. From the hottest eateries to bars serving up the edgiest cocktails, there are some neighbourhoods that are leading the way in 'cool'. So, if you're after the most edgy or forward-thinking neighbourhoods, Lonely Planet has come up with a list of the places you should be looking to.
Botafogo, Brazil
With a prime beachfront location in the bustling city of Rio De Janeiro, Botafogo has more to offer than just great views of the city. A lengthy promenade along the beach front attracts cyclists and joggers, while museums and theatres provide a bit of culture. There are also numerous bars and clubs, as well as a growing restaurant scene offering foodies a variety of cuisines.
Vesterbro, Denmark
Denmark is generally viewed as a 'cool' country, having introduced the world to the concept of hygge, so it may not be surprising to see a neighbourhood (located near the capital, Copenhagen) featured on the list. Vesterbro has been attracting lots of creative types, with bars, restaurants and shops popping up to cater to this new crowd. Vibrant yet relaxed, this neighbourhood has everything from organic farmer's markets to breakfast bars.
Tooting, England
Formerly known solely as an area with a large South Asian population, Tooting has become popular with the younger generation, as high rent prices drive young professionals further out of central London. Nowadays, sari shops sit alongside cool coffee shops and grocery shops are next to restaurants offering trendy brunches. Much of Tooting's appeal lies in the fact that it hasn't lost its original culture, while new businesses offer up some 'cool' places to try out.
Borgo San Frediano, Italy
A short distance away from downtown Florence is Borgo San Frediano, a hugely popular neighbourhood. And its popularity undoubtedly stems from the air of cool, with trendy bars and restaurants. Another appeal is that these new offerings are surrounded by the rich history of the country, with historic buildings and antique shops. This juxtaposition gives residents a taste of the modern 'cool' as well as the ancient.
Damansara Heights, Malaysia
​Far from being the usual suburban town, Damansara Heights (on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur) has seen an increase in 'cool' establishments of late, with new shops and trendy restaurants revitalising the neighbourhood. Real estate in the neighbourhoods is a hot commodity, thanks to the variety of amenities available in the area, and continuing infrastructure development.
The Triangle, Portugal
Not quite a neighbourhood in the same sense as some of the other places on the list, 'The Triangle' is a nickname for the historic location where three major roads meet, that has previously been viewed as one of the more run-down parts of Lisbon. However, young creatives have flocked to the area to boost its cool-cred with new cafes and bars popping up at a fast rate between existing establishments, giving it a unique vibe.
Seongsu-dong, South Korea
Though it continues to be an industrial area of Seoul, transformative projects have turned large unused warehouses and factories into a whole raft of hip venues, from exhibition spaces to restaurants. Many buildings are still used for industry, although an increasing number of vacant spaces have been transformed. With very Instagram-friendly graffiti and stark walls making the perfect backdrop to show off a new outfit, it is most definitely 'cool'.
Business Bay, UAE
Dubai may be viewed as the millionaire's playground, or a financial centre, but cool? Not so much. However, despite the misleading name of 'Business Bay', the waterfront neighbourhood has seen regeneration, and has more developments in the works. Amenities are springing up in the area, and, among them, trendy restaurants and shops that help give it its 'cool' reputation.
Sunset Park (NY), US
It's no secret that Brooklyn has come up as one of New York's coolest boroughs, drawing young professionals and creative types en masse for the past few years. Sunset Park (as its name would suggest) has, at its heart, a large park situated on a hill, providing great views of Manhattan itself. The area is a melting pot, resulting in a wide range of businesses setting up shop there. Close to Brooklyn's other trendy neighbourhoods, it is certainly the place to be.
Frelard (WA), US
Situated between two other popular neighbourhoods in Seattle, it is perhaps to be expected that Frelard has been deemed to be 'cool'. Numerous pizza joints and breweries have upped the small neighbourhoods cool-points, and more are joining the fray. This small area is the subject of much debate as to what neighbourhood it belongs to, or whether it is a neighbourhood all of its own, but what's not up for debate is just how cool it is.
