Muriel Brandolini shares her go-to haunts in 3 favorite cities

Muriel Brandolini is a bona fide globetrotter. Raised in Vietnam, Venezuela, and France, the lauded interior designer is constantly on the go for both work and pleasure, and her exuberant palette is directly inspired by her extensive travels. As Brandolini notes, when traveling, "The most important thing is to keep your eyes and mind open."

So who better, we thought, than Ms. Brandolini to give us the skinny on where to eat, sleep, and shop in three of her favorite cities? Read on for insider tips from the grande dame of interior design (not to mention the subject of our feature story, Setting the Mood).

A Venetian view, photo courtesy of Muriel Brandolini

Brandolini in Venice, photo courtesy of Muriel Brandolini

VENICE

Stay at? Ca Maria Adele, a beautiful and intimate hotel close to the Salute.

Eat at? Naranzaria, on the Canal Grande. The view from the terrace is incredible.

Shop at? For table and bed linens, Chiarastella Cattana. For lovely jewelry, Antonia Miletto. And for unique silver and precious metal pieces, Missiaglia.

Ho Chi Minh City, photo courtesy of Muriel Brandolini

HO CHI MINH CITY

Stay at? Park Hyatt Saigon. It's in the middle of everything. And just a forty minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City, one can visit the serene beaches at Con Dao Six Senses [the area is protected as a national and marine park].

Eat at? Where to begin! An Vien. Incredible local cuisine in a romantic setting. [178A Hai Ba Trung, District 1]  There's also Pho 24, the Vietnamese version of fast food: steaming bowls of beef noodles. [Multiple locations] And Temple Club is a hidden gem with a lovely atmosphere.

Shop at? Song for clothing—especially the traditional Ao Dai dress. [41 Dong Khoi Street, District 1] Thanh Thuy for intricately embroidered linens. [230 Lea Thanh Ton Street, District 1] And AA Deco for design and furniture. [Nguyen Van Thu Street, District 1]

Vietnamese embroidery, photo courtesy of Muriel Brandolini

Bead work in Ho Chi Minh City, photo courtesy of Muriel Brandolini

BEIRUT

Stay at? Albergo Hotel

Eat at? Balthazar on Weygand Street, downtown

Shop at? Ceramist Nathalie Khayat (by appointment). There's also Orient 499, [a boutique featuring original handicrafts, fashions, furniture, and accessories by Middle Eastern artists and designers].

Lebanese embroidery, photo courtesy of Muriel Brandolini

Thanks so much, Muriel!