Art world auctioneer and jet setting co-CEO of The Native, Alexander Gilkes is one of the founders of Paddle8, a digital marketplace offering original artworks by some of the world’s most renowned artists. Gilkes has personally held the gavel for the auctions of over $1 billion worth of art, often in support of charitable causes, hobnobbing with cultural royalty such as Madonna and Elton John…as well as actual royals.

EDITION Hotels asked him to give us some of his personal favorite cultural destinations in the world – refined, wild and always rewarding.

SHANGHAI

The city is quickly becoming a sophisticated hub for contemporary culture and art. The progressive art scene has its roots in The Bund and is best exemplified by museums such as The Rockbund.

NEW YORK

I can not ignore the cultural saturation of my home town, New York City. Whether in search of superlative modern dance or new art forms that are created free from censorship and enhanced by the seamless collision of creativity and commerce, NYC still rules the roost.

BHUTAN

Nowhere in the world offers a humbling decompression like Bhutan. The untainted and empathetic culture and people offer every visitor an example of how to live life with presence. The mecca for every visitor is Tiger’s Nest monastery, reached via a challenging and incredibly rewarding ascent.

MARRAKECH

I was recently reminded of the enchanting light, colors and culture of this Moroccan market town. On my last trip I was able to discover the majesty of the desert and the nomadic culture of this area. Marrakech continues to attract artists, collectors and aesthetes, who follow in the footsteps of the late Pied Piper and fashion icon, Yves Saint Laurent.

SEVILLE

Arguably my favorite European city, steeped in ancient Roman, Jewish and Moorish influences. I love to visit during the annual Féria or wander the narrow streets of the Jewish district and pop in an out of flamenco shows and tapas bars.