NOTES Editions
About
NOTES.
NOTES brings together places around the world, alongside the people, culture and ideas that give them meaning.
From independent hotels and restaurants to artists, artisans, architecture and landscapes, we explore what makes each destination distinctive and worth discovering.
Our collection grows through travel, observation, photography and conversations with the people we meet along the way.
What you'll find in NOTES
NOTES brings together four complementary collections, each offering a different way to discover and understand a place.
Destinations
A growing collection of places to stay, eat, visit and experience. Each destination is carefully edited and regularly updated, with new discoveries added over time.
NOTES ON
Annual digital city guides bringing together our selection of hotels, restaurants, boutiques, cultural addresses and experiences in cities around the world.
NOTES Icons
A distinction reserved for places that have made a lasting contribution to the identity of a destination. From historic institutions to remarkable contemporary addresses, Icons represent some of the most significant places in our collection.
The Journal
Stories about the people, places, traditions and objects we encounter. Through conversations, photography and original reporting, the Journal explores the cultural life of our destinations, both past and present.
Our approach
We look for quality, originality, craftsmanship and a genuine connection to place. Some of our selections are well-known institutions; others are small, independent businesses or places that deserve greater attention.
We visit, observe, photograph and research. Our recommendations are made independently, and inclusion in NOTES cannot be purchased.
Our collection continues to evolve. We discover new places, revisit existing selections and update our guides as we learn more about each destination.
Founder & Editor
Monica D. Royce
Monica D. Royce founded NOTES out of a longstanding interest in travel, art, architecture, design and the cultural identity of places.
With a background in art and design, and having lived in several countries, she has developed a particular appreciation for craftsmanship, aesthetics and the connections between people, culture and traditions.
Her perspective shapes the direction of NOTES, from its selection of destinations to the conversations and cultural stories featured in the Journal.
Frequently asked questions
NOTES is a curated collection of places, complemented by original stories, conversations and annual city guides. It brings together recommendations and cultural discoveries from destinations around the world.
No. NOTES is an independent guide, not a booking service. Where available, we provide links to official websites so visitors can make reservations or contact places directly.
Places are considered for their quality, originality, atmosphere, craftsmanship and connection to their surroundings. Our aim is to present a thoughtful selection rather than a comprehensive directory.
We prioritise first-hand experience wherever possible. Our research also draws on conversations, local knowledge and reliable sources. We distinguish direct observations from information gathered through research and never present an unvisited place as personally reviewed.
Our destinations are living collections. New places are added, existing entries are reviewed, and selections may be removed as circumstances change. Each destination is revisited and refined over time. NOTES On city guides are updated annually.
Yes. We welcome suggestions and discoveries from our readers. You can write to us at contact@noteseditions.com. Every suggestion is considered, although inclusion in NOTES is never guaranteed.
Yes. NOTES works with selected brands, cultural institutions and other partners on projects that align with its interests. All collaborations are clearly identified and remain separate from editorial decisions. Inclusion in NOTES cannot be purchased or guaranteed.
NOTES On is a collection of annual digital city guides featuring selected hotels, restaurants, boutiques, cultural institutions and experiences. Each edition is designed as a practical companion for exploring a city and is updated annually.
NOTES Icons are places of particular significance within our destinations. They may be historic institutions, exceptional hotels, restaurants, cultural landmarks or independent businesses that have helped shape the identity of a place. Icons are selected for their lasting contribution and reviewed over time.
NOTES combines original photography with images provided by featured places and contributions from photographers. We aim for natural, authentic imagery that reflects the character of each destination. Photography is credited where appropriate.
Yes. We use AI as a tool to support research, writing, editing, translation and the organisation of information. However, the decisions behind NOTES remain human. The places we feature, the stories we pursue and the perspectives we publish are guided by our own research, experience and editorial judgment. Information is checked, and all content is reviewed and refined before publication. AI helps us work more efficiently, but it does not replace personal observation, original photography, conversations with people or the independent judgment that defines NOTES.