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Paris-based jeweler designer Lorenz Bäumer has been awarded the Chevalier des Arts et Lettres by the French Government for his creative jewelry design and has just been appointed the creative director behind Louis Vuitton’s first fine jewelry collection. He travels the world for fun and work. In fact, his Vuitton collection is called L’Ame du Voyage, or Soul of the Trip. Here are some of his treasured spots around the globe.

Great surfing secret: As a passionate surfer, Bäumer has caught waves on coasts all over the world. One of his all-time favorite getaways is a special eco-lodge on Sumba island in Indonesia. Nihiwatu, has only nine bungalows, which have been recognized as some of the most elegant eco-friendly suites in the world. Pro surfers—and Bäumer—come for the waves, but others come for the fishing, snorkeling or just to relax in an unspoiled place of beauty. www.nihiwatu.com

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: Bäumer, who has explored many places in Brazil in search of special gems raves about the old-world wonder and charm of the 17th century colonial city of Ouru Preto. The name means, Black Gold, and it was during the region’s gold rush that elaborate churches and buildings were constructed. Now, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city transports Bäumer back in time “by centuries.”

Indian Address: For the best cashmere scarves, Bäumer suggests David Shawl in Delhi. By appointment only (41) 79-653-4676.

Swiss Standby: When Bäumer heads to Geneva, he stops in to see Philippe Cramer’s limited edition furniture and decorative home objects, which include elegant porcelain and silverware. 8 Rue de la Muse, Geneva. (41) 22-321-4812.

Most Memorable Meal: Reservations at El Bulli may be almost impossible to secure—and just got harder as it was announced that the restaurant will close for a full year in 2012—but Adrian Ferria’s cooking does not disappoint. Cala Montjoi Ap, 30, Roses Girona, Spain. (34) 972-150-457.

Country Retreat: Not far from Biarritz on the road to St.-Jacques de Compostella is a country inn with an incredible restaurant called La Ferme Ostalapia. 2621 Chemin d’Ostalapia. France. (33) 5-59-54-73-79.

Garden Paradise: The Majorelle gardens designed by Jacques Majorelle were privately owned by Yves Saint Laurent but are now open to the public and now count as one of the must vists in Marrakech.

Shopping Weapon: The ultimate resource in South America for stylish shoppers is the exquisite boutique that began as a trunk show and has expanded to become the world’s chicest department store, Daslu. Villa Daslu, Avenida Chedid Jafet, 131, Sao Paulo. (55) 11-3841-4000.

New York Undercover: Bäumer has an only-in-New-York fondness for Freemans, which he calls “a rugged, colonial American tavern.” In the tiny restaurant tucked away at the end of an alley off the Bowery, the chef focuses on New York State farm produce, wild game and sustainable seafood. Think of hearty fare like baked mussels in white wine sauce, oven roasted chicken with creamed spinach and pork shoulder steak with baked beans. End of Freeman Alley off Rivington, New York. 212-420-0012.

L.A. Modern: Blum & Poe is where Bäumer goes to get his gallery fix of modern art when he is in the City of Angels. The enormous warehouse space on La Cienaga Boulevard showcases a stable of cutting-edge artists. 2727 South La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles. (310) 836-2062

Taste of Tokyo: Bäumer’s preferred spot for sushi in Tokyo is the serene contemporary restaurant Aronia de Takazawa. The Sanyo Akasaka Building 2F, 3-5-2 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo. (81) 3-3505-5052

Lorenz Bäumer, 4 Place Vendome, Paris. By appointment only. (33) 1- 2 86 99 33