Hot in the city

There's no need to deliberate between beach and metropolis, Just do both.

- By ALICE WASLEY

THOSE DAYS WHEN YOU CAN'T GET A SEAT ON THE TRAIN and you're facing eight hours of back-to-back meetings, the fantasy of being shipwrecked on a tropical island, Robinson Crusoe-style, is quite appealing. But, in reality, after a few days wouldn't you be ready to swap the isolation and coconut juice for a decent coffee and some good conversation? That's where beach cities come into their own. They have the escapist spirit of a coastal adventure, with all the best things that civilisation offers; rich culture, vibrant nightlife, delicious food and impressive architecture. Here, we round up our favourites.

BARCELONA, SPAIN

Pack your zinc cream and floppy hat for Barcelona's five kilometres of golden coastline, but don't forget there's a lot more to do than just lie on the beach. Start the day chatting to stallholders at 800-year-old food market, La Boqueria. Like much of the city, it can be crowded, so visit early. Then wander around the Gothic Quarter's historic shops, where you can pick up artisan fans, handcrafted espadrilles, check out the Herboristeria del Rei, where Salvador Dalí went for herbs, spices and essential oils, stop by Xarcuteria La Pineda for olives and charcuterie. Later on, drop into the Picasso Museum, admire Antoni Gaudí's almost finished Sagrada Familia. Finish the day with some tapas-bar hopping, to sample Catalan-style snacks and fuel up for dancing by the beach at one of the lively bars and clubs near Somorrostro.

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL