Thinking of heading abroad this festive season? These luxury hotels are offering a range of immersive experiences for singles, couples and families that are bound to make Christmas 2023 the most memorable Christmas yet
As the festive season unfolds, some of the world’s most luxurious hotel brands are offering a range of memorable festive experiences that will take any Christmas holiday to an indulgent new level. With destinations ranging from private island paradises to iconic city escapes, each experience on offer seamlessly blends cultural richness with limitless luxury to ensure your most memorable Christmas yet. Celebrate in style with our curated guide to the world’s most opulent festive celebrations.
ÀNI Private Resorts
Indulge in a personalised festive celebration at one of ÀNI Private Resorts’ stunning properties. ÀNI Thailand invites guests to immerse themselves in Thai culture, partake in thrilling adventures and enjoy ‘Movies by Moonlight’, with Christmas and New Year celebrations featuring sunset cocktails, Santa Claus visits and vibrant gala dinners with fireworks. At ÀNI Sri Lanka, festive decor and special dinners adorn Christmas, while New Year’s Eve sparkles with cocktails, live music and fireworks. ÀNI Anguilla invites relaxation with infinity pools, seaside seafood barbecues and captivating sunset cruises; while New Year’s Eve unfolds with live music, a personalised dinner and fireworks followed by a stylish New Year’s Day brunch or a serene boat trip.
The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali
At The Mulia Bali, a thoughtfully curated program seamlessly combines culinary excellence and captivating entertainment. Guests can savour a variety of dining experiences, ranging from the indulgent “Mulia Christmas Feast to Go” to the distinctive offerings at The Cafe, Soleil, Edogin, and Table8. Mulia Deli adds a sweet touch with exclusive Christmas Hampers. The festive atmosphere is enriched by a Christmas choir on Christmas Eve, a kid’s program with Santa on Christmas Day, and an engaging show featuring synchronised swimmers and a festive photo corner.
The Grand Ballroom hosts the “Enchanted Euphoria” New Year’s Eve program, an indulgent countdown with feasts and entertainment, including live music by the internationally acclaimed Australian band, Gemini, and a performance by AYDAN, a finalist of The Voice Australia 2018. Exclusive festive room packages enhance the experience, offering accommodations with beach and pool parties featuring entertaining activities.
Soneva
Immerse yourself in the enchantment of the holiday season with Soneva’s 2023 Winter Collection. This special offering is available at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in the Maldives, as well as Soneva Kiri in Thailand. Features include carefully crafted meals by chefs, wellness treatments by specialists, and a children’s program with sessions led by football legend Fernando Torres. Training workshops and treatments are available with osteopath Hortensia Corredoira, and sailing enthusiasts can join British sailor, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, for lessons aboard the Soneva in Aqua. Fine festive dining includes culinary journeys by chefs such as Tim Raue, Ricky Saward, Timothy Bilton, and Maria José San Román.
The Winter Collection also provides activities for Young Sonevians, including explorations with scientists, water sports, swim sessions with Olympic swimmer Therese Alshammar, and educational programs with Oppidan Education.
Song Saa Private Island
From December 24th to 26th 2023, Song Saa Private Island will offer a curated blend of activities, from invigorating sunrise yoga sessions to delectable breakfasts, captivating snorkelling safaris, and the serenity of a monk blessing. As the sun sets on Christmas Eve, savour the magic with cocktails and a beach barbecue. On Christmas Day, indulge in delightful festivities, including Santa’s arrival and a heart-warming family dinner at Vista Overwater Restaurant. The celebration extends into December 26th, featuring a Christmas Chef’s Menu at Driftwood Restaurant and a captivating bioluminescence experience.
Aman Resorts
As the year draws to a close, Aman resorts around the globe will come alive with seasonal celebrations, offering a culmination of historic rituals, local traditions, and culinary delights. From the vibrant festive energy of Manhattan at Aman New York to curated activities and exclusive dining experiences at Aman Tokyo, each resort assembles a calendar of exclusive events, fostering moments of reflection.
Amandari Ubud in Bali invites guests to indulge in a Christmas day Manggang dinner, featuring a Balinese epicurean BBQ, and a New Year’s Eve celebration with live music and fire dancers. Aman New York sets the stage for excitement with a flavour-focused Christmas Eve dinner and Grammy Nominee Brian Newman hosting a New Year’s Eve extravaganza at The Jazz Club. Meanwhile, Aman Tokyo provides a serene retreat in the Otemachi Tower, offering bespoke activities and exclusive dining experiences inspired by its unique destination. Chef Hiraki at Aman Tokyo will present a signature multi-course menu on Christmas Day, and the New Year’s Eve gala dinner at Arva’s Italian restaurant will fuse the culinary heritages of Italy and Japan.
The Residence Bintan
Embark on a distinctive holiday journey with The Residence Bintan in Indonesia from December 21st, 2023, to January 7th, 2024. Breaking away from traditional festivities, The Residence Bintan invites guests to discover a unique celebration marked by eco-friendly transformations, traditional ceremonies and cultural nights. The highlight is the Christmas Eve Gala Dinner, featuring regional delicacies and captivating performances. Christmas Day brings Santa Claus, carols and a “Bubbly Christmas” poolside dining experience, complemented by themed nights showcasing global cuisines and festive cocktails. New Year’s Eve boasts a cocktail reception, sumptuous dinner, fireworks and a beach party. Families can create lasting memories with heart-warming meals, animal encounters, sports, and environmental activities.
Rosewood
From Hôtel de Crillon in Paris to Rosewood Baha Mar in the Bahamas, each Rosewood Hotels & Resorts property promises a distinctive and immersive retreat this Christmas. Highlights include the magical Christmas Market at Hôtel de Crillon, iconic lū’aus at Kona Village in Hawaii, and community engagement opportunities at Rosewood Baha Mar. Rosewood Hong Kong‘s “A Rosewood Christmas” combines opulent dining with charitable donations. Guests can enjoy a luxury fine jewellery masterclass at Rosewood London with Garrard or celebrate the festival of lights at Rosewood Mayakoba. Ring in the new year at Rosewood Miramar Beach, savour rustic culinary delights at Rosewood Phuket, or master festive martinis at The Carlyle in New York.
Bawah Reserve
Escape to the enchanting Bawah Reserve this holiday season for ’12 Days of Bawah’. Offering a range of experiences from festive retreats and secluded hideaways to unwrapping natural luxury and discovering Indonesian authenticity. Nestled amidst white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and tropical rainforests, Bawah Reserve invites guests to celebrate Christmas in secluded splendour. From carol singing to beach bonfires under the stars, guests can engage in Christmas-themed events and activities designed to bring out the holiday spirit in the heart of paradise. Treat yourself to a delectable Christmas feasts prepared by talented chefs, using the freshest local ingredients, during your stay. Bawah Reserve offers a memorable Christmas experience for those seeking an escape to elegance and natural beauty.
Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay
Adorned with Christmas decorations, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay sets the mood for the festive season. Guests are welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine upon arrival, kicking off their Christmas celebrations with a traditional Christmas Feast at Goji Kitchen & Bar. On Christmas Day, indulge in a four-course degustation menu at Fish Bar, followed by a Christmas lunch at Lagoon Lounge with a special visit from Santa Claus. Boxing Day will be filled with family activities such as cricket and sports games, followed by a Tropical Carnival on New Year’s Eve. As the year comes to a close, guests are invited to ring in the New Year by counting down amidst spectacular fireworks. After the excitement, unwind at the sand beach bar with some refreshing cocktails, offering a laid-back yet memorable way to welcome the coming year.