What better way to spend the December holidays than having a holiday somewhere fabulous? If you’re looking to head away for this year’s festivities, we’ve rounded up some great Christmas getaway destinations for the whole family. Read on!
InterContinental Koh Samui Resort
Keen for a tropical treat this Christmas? A stay at the stunning InterContinental Koh Samui Resort might do the trick. From dolphin watching, watersports and excursions to Thai boxing, cooking classes and yoga, the five-star property has a host of fun activities for the family. Drop the kids off at Planet Trekkers (ages four to 12) where they’ll be entertained with activities and games while you head off for some adult-only time at the Baan Thai Spa. Once you’re together again (and have heard all the exciting stories about what went on at the kids’ club!), witness the traditional lighting of the Christmas tree, snap a photo with Santa on Christmas Day and dig into festive menus.
The resort’s Christmas Eve dinner is worth a special mention. It includes cocktail reception, followed by traditional roast carvings, live stations and a yummy dessert spread at Amber Restaurant. There’s entertainment from a live band and carolers too. Or, you can opt for an exclusive five-course dinner under the stars (limited to just four tables) where you’ll be serenaded by a guitarist along the beach. Find out more about the hotel’s festive line-up now.
Telunas Resorts
For an easy getaway that will have you in a state of complete contentment, escape to Telunas Resorts in Indonesia’s Riau archipelago this festive season. You can choose to stay at either Telunas Beach Resort or Telunas Private Island. The Beach Resort has just added three-bedroom villas to its selection of overwater bungalows, which are perfect for larger groups. Everyone is kept entertained with activities such as kayaking, beach volleyball, badminton, pottery – even a low ropes course. Enjoy meals at the resort’s overwater dining room, which also has vegetarian options and a menu especially for young ones.
Over at Telunas Private Island, meanwhile, spend the night in one of the overwater villas, which come with a spacious master bedroom, balcony, living room and a cool kids’ loft with two twin beds. Food-wise, you’ll find yourself digging into delicious Western, Asian and Indonesian cuisine whipped up by the resort’s executive chef at the Grand Lodge. After enjoying some of the complimentary activities such as paddle boarding and waterfall hikes, indulge in a massage at the special overwater pavilion, or in your villa. The environmentally-friendly property has also recently introduced a solar power system.
Aman Tokyo
Heading to Japan? Don’t miss a stay at Aman Tokyo. Located on the top six floors of the Otemachi Tower, the hotel is decked out in typically chic Aman style while incorporating Japanese design elements. Each room comes with a large traditional Japanese soaking tub, which is perfect for a relaxing dip after a long day out. The property also houses a spa, swimming pool, fitness centre, cigar lounge, library and four eateries, including Musashi by Aman where you can enjoy sushi by Master Chef Musashi.
This December, the hotel’s restaurants will be serving seasonal menus, and on 31 December, Italian eatery Arva will be transformed to a party place, with samurai performances, casino games, DJs and dancing all the way until midnight.
The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives
If you’ve never been to the Maldives, there’s never been a better time! Newly opened The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives has stunning private pool villas that come with lounge decks and plunge pools. The resort looks beyond catering to honeymooners, offering a vibrant stay and loads of fun for groups of friends too. Guests can try out six different F&B options and take part in a variety of fun activities each day. These include indigenous basket-weaving, deep-sea fishing and movies at the floating outdoor cinema. There are also opportunities to go on guided diving and snorkeling at the protected house reef, and enjoy sunset boat excursions, island hopping, night fishing and private destination dining. And don’t forget the spa, which has a communal hammam and aroma cypress steam room!
standardhotels.com/maldives/huruvalhi
Baba Beach Club Phuket
Spend your year-end break at Baba Beach Club Phuket. Just 20 minutes from the airport, the beachfront property has a selection of suites and villas. These include two- and five-bedroom pool villas that work ideally for large parties. Enjoy the resort’s lineup of activities, from private speed-boating and snorkelling, to bartending workshops and even pizza-making classes for young ones. As night falls, party to the latest beats performed by local and international DJs.
From 20 December 2019 to 10 January 2020, take advantage of the hotel’s Extraordinary New Year package. It includes a four-night stay in a suite and villa with daily breakfast, a Thai oil massage and a six-hour tour of the island.
Capella Shanghai
For something different this holiday season, how about a visit to the bustling Chinese city of Shanghai? While you’re there, treat yourself to a luxurious stay at Capella Shanghai in Xuhui District. Take your pick of the hotel’s one-, two- and three-bedroom Shikumen Villas, which are decorated in a mix of French and Chinese elements. The property is home to Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire, which will be offering a five-course Christmas Eve dinner and free-flow champagne brunch on Christmas Day by three-Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire. While you’re there, help to make the Christmas wishes of local children come true by making donations in response to their wish lists. These will be hung on the hotel’s Christmas tree. It’s all part of the hotel’s collaboration with World of Art Brut Culture, a local education programme.
capellahotels.com/capella-shanghai
Looking for more travel inspiration?
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Lindsay Yap
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