Travel Like a Showgirl ✨💃
Taylor's not the only one channeling main character glamour.
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With Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl dropping October 3, we can’t decide what’s more exciting: the frenzy over Portofino Orange Glitter or the fact that feathers and rhinestones are officially part of the fall fashion lexicon.
From the snakes of Reputation to the moss of Folklore, Swifties know every Taylor Swift era comes with a signature aesthetic. This time around, it seems like orange is the color and burlesque-worthy costumes are the name of the game.
Pair that with Pamela Anderson’s Golden Globe–nominated turn in The Last Showgirl and Palm Royale’s campy cabaret nods in the upcoming season, and it’s clear: the showgirl is having a moment.
But Showgirls have always been bigger than sequins. From Josephine Baker’s breakthrough status to Marilyn Monroe’s on-screen sparkle, they embody glamour, reinvention and cultural power. And while the Vegas revue may be fading, the aesthetic is the moment: on runways, on screen and now, in your travel plans.
Here’s where to channel five iconic showgirls through five unforgettable hotels:
Every hotel on Late Checkout is independently selected by us. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Carmen Miranda, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Maria do Carmo Miranda da Cunha, known professionally as Carmen Miranda, was a Portuguese-born Brazilian singer, dancer, and actress. Nicknamed "the Brazilian Bombshell," Miranda’s 1930 recording of "Taí (Pra Você Gostar de Mim)", written by Joubert de Carvalho, catapulted her to stardom in Brazil as the foremost interpreter of samba.
For the life of a showgirl in Brazil, is there anywhere else to stay besides Belmond’s Copacabana Palace in Rio? A luxe hideaway in the heart of the city, "The Copa," has been a Brazilian beachfront icon for over a century. With cinematic views and the sense of historical glamour with every step, sip poolside Caipirinhas with sunset views and be sunkissed on golden sands at Copacabana Beach.
Book here. Rates from $800.
Josephine Baker, Paris, France
The ultimate 1920s showgirl, Baker shocked and dazzled with boundary-pushing performances at Folies Bergère. Her artistry made her an international icon, and Beyoncé herself paid tribute to her infamous banana dance.
Baker made a significant cultural impact in Europe, particularly in Paris. She was a frequent guest at Hotel Lutetia on the Left Bank, as well as Hotel Napoleon, both of which now offer a Josephine Baker-inspired Suite in recognition of their association with her. There’s even a hotel named after her, the Hotel Joséphine, in Montmartre, Paris. But our choice goes to Le Bristol Paris, where Baker celebrated her 50-year career retrospective. The hotel's tribute to the legendary entertainer is Suite 1925 that features striking portraits of Baker, elegant Art Deco design, panoramic views of Paris, and a curated selection of books.
Book here, rates from $2,400.
Marilyn Monroe, Los Angeles, CA
Hollywood’s eternal showgirl, Monroe blurred the line between actress and archetype. From Gentlemen Prefer Blondes to The Prince and the Showgirl, she made feathers, diamonds and charisma her signature.
Monroe's favorite Los Angeles hotels included the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, where she lived in the cabanas for two years at the start of her career and the Avalon Hotel (then the Beverly Carlton), where she lived for three years in the early 1950s. But our pick to live like Monroe is Beverly Hills Hotel, where she spent a significant amount of time in Bungalow 1, a personal favorite.
Book here, rates from $900
Lola Falana, Las Vegas, NV
“Her name was Lola, she was a showgirl,” the Queen of Las Vegas in the 1970s, inspired Barry Manilow’s immortal lyric. Falana headlined sold-out shows that defined the Strip.
Falana performed throughout Sin City during her time as the "Queen of Las Vegas," making appearances at prominent hotels at the time including The Sands, The Riviera, The MGM Grand, and The Aladdin. Our choice for channeling 70s glam might surprise you. Perhaps more known for its legit Vegas-based clientele, El Cortez’s Jackie Gaughan Suite is where we’re going for old-school glam. Unlike anything else in Las Vegas, the retro penthouse suite is the crown jewel of the El Cortez and was the setting of Ellie Goulding’s hit music video “On My Mind,” Sum 41’s No.1 Alternative Radio music video “Dopamine,” and Imagine Dragons’ third single music video “Wake Up.”
Book here, rates from $1,000.
Marlene Dietrich, Berlin, Germany
Dietrich toyed with gender and glamour, pairing tuxedos with feathered gowns to create her own brand of showgirl chic. She wasn’t merely a star; she was the image-maker behind her own myth.
Stay at InterContinental Berlin. Fresh off a $71M renovation, this high-rise hotel is once again a showstopper. Guests rave about the Michelin-starred Hugo, luxe suites and the revamped Marlene Bar, named for the starlet herself. A fitting stage for your Berlin debut.
Book here, rates from $105.