Clubhouse Buenos Aires

What’s a private members’ club? Allow me to elaborate. Once a gentleman’s club back in the day, these establishments have blossomed into men-and-women friendly environments, typically housed behind unassuming doors that open into an impeccably designed club room with plush armchairs and a full calendar of social events such as dinners with international chefs, film screenings, art exhibitions and pool parties. Need advice about the area? The staff can make reservations, book drivers, or score tickets to a soccer match.

Clubhouse Rio

If you aren’t staying with Clubhouse Rio in Rio de Janeiro, you’re doing it wrong. Same goes with Clubhouse BA in Buenos Aires, Argentina. If you have a strong liking towards tasteful art, local delicacies, inventive cocktails, oversized suites and creative spaces (uhh, who wouldn’t?) – then this is your spot. I worked as the Marketing Manager for their affiliate short-term rental company, Oasis Collections, when I first moved to Argentina a few years ago. Seeing as how I was back in the country on a 7 week trip with TAM & LAN Airlines after many months of traveling, I thought I’d check in on how everyone was holding up in my absence.

Turns out they were doing just fine without me. Even getting write-ups in CNN, Travel & Leisure and Elle Decor (shout out to Catherine Giudici and myself). I knew all about Oasis Collections’ luxury rentals, but the Master Suite inside Clubhouse Rio and Clubhouse Buenos Aires have always been on my wishlist. During my trip to the South American cities this month, my wish was granted.

Clubhouse Buenos Aires

Clubhouse Rio

Calling all visitors of the 2016 Olympic Games!

Set in the Ipanema Hills of Rio de Janeiro, Clubhouse Rio exudes style and class with a 3-tiered front deck, indoor lounge, bar, library, back garden with pool, outdoor bar with favela ocean views and five guest rooms. The space is beyond impressive, and the cuisine is something to write home about. Executive Chef Yann Kamps comes from fine dining in France, so it’s a pre-requisite that his desserts are orgasmic. But then again, his fish tacos are the best tacos I’ve ever eaten. So there’s that. He’s good at everything. I can’t even make cake out of a box.

When Alessandra Ambrosio is partying here, you know it’s quality. See for yourself. If you didn’t Instagram it, it didn’t happen.

Oh, and the beach is only a ten minute walk downhill. But you know what the means. To return is an uphill battle. Look at the positives: you’ll walk off the caipirinhas and acai you inhaled on the beach. Score.

How to get in: Book a room, inquire about non-resident membership, make a reservation at the restaurant or become friends with Alessandra Ambrosio.

Membership fee: R$ 4500/yr with access to other members’ clubs around the world.

Clubhouse Buenos Aires

I’m this private members’ club biggest fan. Who doesn’t covet a lush garden, infinity pool, outdoor bar and lounge? I spent two years frequenting its Sunday pool parties, drinking its famous Basil Baby cocktails and attending its uber chic events. If you want to see and be seen by expats and Argies alike, go here. Set in the most prized real-estate in the city of Palermo Soho, it’s the perfect space for events, meetings, sun worshipping, and for now for me – sleeping.

The Master Suite was everything I dreamed it would be and more. Complete with sunny private terrace, oversized closet and stunning bathroom with clawfoot tub and double rainfall shower, I could see myself sipping Malbec up here forever. Perhaps I’ll even inquire about residence pricing… who am I kidding? I live out of a suitcase. To waste a closet this big would be a sin.

How to get in: Book a room, buy a day pass or make friends with an existing member to get your name on the list.

Membership fee: AR$ 10,000/yr with access to other members’ clubs around the world.