What better way to spend the December holidays than to have a getaway somewhere fabulous? If you’re looking to head away for this year’s festivities, we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite Christmas getaways for the family. Read on!
InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort
Who doesn’t love a tropical Thai escape? The InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort on Koh Samui’s southwest coast is a fab option for the whole family if you are looking at Christmas getaways, with a line-up of festive activities and dining experiences available over the holiday season. These include a Christmas Eve Buffet Feast (THB4,900 per adult, or around S$200, including a cocktail reception in the resort lobby; THB2,950 for children six to 12 years), which will see Amber restaurant all decked out for an indulgent spread of traditional roast carvings, fresh seafood and yummy desserts. You’ll be entertained by a live musical trio throughout the night and little diners will have plenty of fun activities to keep them busy while the adults eat. The feasting resumes the next day at Flames restaurant – again, drop by the lobby for a cocktail, and then adjourn to the sand for a lovely sit-down dinner at THB5,900 per person (including cocktail reception and a bottle of white or red wine per couple) and THB3,450 per child (six to 12 years).
Email icsamui.rsvn@ihg.com for bookings.
Telunas Private Island
Located just 50km from Singapore, Telunas Private Island is the perfect example of how you don’t have to travel far for a fantastic family holiday. There are several one-of-a-kind getaways accessible by water from here, but few are as easy as Telunas. This tiny speck in Indonesia’s sleepy Riau Island archipelago is reached via an easy four-hour journey – with no need to set foot in Changi Airport. Each of the 15 over-water villas has five distinct spaces: living room, king bedroom, bathroom, balcony and a loft sleeping area accessible by a ladder. The villas sleep up to five people and are furnished in an understated beach vibe that doesn’t compete for attention with the beautiful views; colourful cushions, local handicrafts and furniture made from upcycled boats create an instant “at home” feeling. Definitely one for the Christmas getaways list.
Email stay@telunasresorts.com or call +62 811 7710951.
telunasresorts.com/private-island
The Sanchaya
A mere hour away from Singapore, The Sanchaya at Bintan is an exclusive beachfront estate with 29 villas and suites, as well as a stunning private residence offering unparalleled views of the ocean. Christmas Eve begins with champagne cocktails and yummy bites at The Bar, with its décor evoking a 19th-century explorer’s club. Guests will then move to The Dining Room for a classic Christmas dinner, including the likes of roast pigeon breast risotto, and pan-fried lamb rack with Italian sausage and black truffle stuffing. Christmas Day is a relaxed affair, with sweet and savoury treats on the verandah overlooking the sea as part of a Classic Afternoon Tea. The Sanchaya’s New Year’s Eve “walk-about” dinner begins with champagne and a tasting of chef Giacomo Turzo’s specialities in the bar and library area. From there, guests will move to The Dining Room, for dishes such as black grouper quenelles with lobster sauce, and Wagyu tenderloin. Desserts galore follow at the Tasanee Beach Terrace, an open bar by the beach, with a live band and fireworks to usher in 2018.
Email reservations@thesanchaya.com or call 3156 3661 for bookings.
Banyan Tree Ungasan Bali
Many of our readers consider Bali their perfect spot for rest and relaxation, and with its rich culture, natural beauty and countless family-friendly activities, it’s also ideal for keeping little ones entertained. This is definitely one for your Christmas getaways list as you can celebrate the festive season in style with Banyan Tree Ungasan Bali’s Sense of Celebrations package, available from 23 December to 1 January 2018. Book a minimum of two nights in one of the fab pool villas and enjoy a complimentary festive dinner, airport transfer, scheduled festive season programs and more. There’s also a special gastronomic five-course Christmas meal available (IDR 1,700,000 per person, or around S$170) while taking in the breathtaking ocean views at Ju-Ma-Na restaurant on 24 and 25 December. For New Year’s Eve, celebrate with an exciting four-course meal (IDR 1,350,000) at Bambu restaurant, while enjoying a performance by fire dancers.
Email reservations-ungasan@banyantree.com for bookings.
banyantree.com
Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido
Hokkaido might take a little more travelling to get to, but it’s definitely worth it if you’re keen for Christmas getaways in stunning surrounds, and if a White Christmas sounds like your thing. In particular, check out the newly opened Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido, located just 90 minutes by express coach from New Chitose Airport; the resort features exclusive ski slopes for beginner and intermediate levels across all ages. In addition to skiing opportunities galore, guests will be treated to a line of exciting winter activities like snow trekking, snow sledging and ice skating at a nearby ice village.
Looking for an alternative? Check out this laid-back beach club in Phuket!
