Image Copyright Kzenon, 2011 Used under license from Shutterstock.com

I’ve been lucky enough to travel through work, so I was more than happy to help out when my friend Simon wanted suggestions for a great place to party. I mean, once in a while we all love to paint the town red, so I thought I’d share with him (and you) my top five favourite nightlife venues from around the globe. I mean it’s rude not to share, right?
NY at night
They call it the city that never sleeps for a reason; open 24-hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, New York’s throbbing nightlife will never stop. There is so much to see and do in this city but I would recommend learning to craft the perfect cocktail with mixing wizard Albert Trummer at Apotheke. This former opium den in Chinatown was inspired by some of Europe’s best champagne bars and absinthe houses a la Belle Epoque Paris. The enchanting, exclusive atmosphere makes this the perfect launch pad for any night. Very New York cool. For more Big Apple recommendations check out Mr D’s weekend guide.
Croatia calling
Hvar is a jewel in the Adriatic Sea, a ferry ride or short heli hop off Dubrovnik’s coast depending on your budget. This island is becoming one of Europe’s hippest coasts. Head to the edge of town to escape the ‘have-yachts’ and hang out at Sunset at the Hula-Hula bar drinking the local Karlovacko beer until the sun goes down then head straight over to the Riva Hotel’s BB Club and chill out while the DJ spins some tunes on the spacious terrace of Hvar’s hottest bar.
Disco in the ‘Dam
You wouldn’t think it to look at it but behind Amsterdam’s beautiful architecture lies a city that likes to have a good time. Whether it’s chill-out hangouts you’re looking for or four-floor superclubs pumping hardcore raves, you’re sure to find the kind of night you’re looking for. For cocktails and designer décor head to the packed-out bars around Wolvenstraat and Leidseplein but for something a little different head to Bloemendaal beach. Dubbed the Ibiza of the Netherlands and just 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam, you can feel the sand between your toes and enjoy the nightlife and upbeat beach-vibe of Republiek beach pavilion.
Gaucho chic
José Ignacio is dubbed the South American St Tropez and it’s not hard to see why. This Uruguayan beach retreat is a sleek, glamorous party hotspot for the international jet set. Each restaurant, bar and club in the area has its own unique hook, top notch chefs or mixology gurus. After a hard day on the beach, it’s time to polish up and throw on your glad rags for a night of serious indulgence. The place to be seen is Marismo – one of the trendiest eateries, which reverts back to a beach party at 1am with DJs spinning some sexy grooves into the early hours. This place is for those whom even José Ignacio is not quite exclusive enough.
From Russia with club
Moscow has become a mecca of glorious hedonism, with high-rollers from across the globe descending on spire-laden city to splash the cash on vodka. While you need to dress to the nines for a night out due to the strict face-control policy on many of its nightclub doors, once you’re past the velvet ropes it all becomes worth it. The hottest spot to head to is Fabrique, where you’ll be able to soak up the slick décor from the on-site restaurant before moving onto the dance-floor for a full-on club experience surrounded by the beautiful Russian dolls.
I’m sure in there, there will be a suggestion that tickles Simon’s fancy, I just hope he doesn’t forget to invite me along!