A season enveloped in magic, the holidays are the perfect time to travel and see the world. These Christmassy hotels are the perfect antidote to the year’s hustle and bustle—peaceful, enchanting and fabulous.
The Plaza New York
An iconic holiday destination, The Plaza New York has an impressive resumé of parties and cameos through the years. Once host to the likes of Truman Capote, F. Scott Fitzgerald and wife Zelda, Marlene Dietrich, and a certain Kevin McCallister, The Plaza certainly knows how to throw a shindig and make guests feel right at home. For the holidays, it’s a-glow with a million twinkling lights as dazzling as the city itself.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Snow-blanketed Whistler in British Columbia is a top ski destination and home to Fairmont Chateau. Resting on the foot of Blackcomb Mountain, the resort is an idyllic retreat all year round, especially during the holidays. It comes alive with twinkling lights and frosted window panes—a literal winter wonderland. Bask in the warmth of roaring fireplaces and marvel at rustic Canadian antiques, Christmas wreaths, and a life-size gingerbread house. The best part? You can order a Christmas tree for your room, complete with décor.
The Ritz London
London has mastered the art of transforming winter into a festive, glitzy, and wondrous affair. Right in the heart of vibrant Piccadilly is legendary The Ritz London, a picture of old-world glamour and charm. On the outside, it beams with understated elegance amid flashing neon lights. Inside its walls, on the other hand, is a world lit with chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling windows. Try Christmas Afternoon Tea for a quintessentially London experience.
Raffles Hotel Singapore
Who says Christmas has to be white? The holidays are just as festive under the Singapore sun. Raffles Hotel perfectly melds the two worlds with its colonial-style architecture, ultra-luxurious interiors, and elegantly decorated facade. Explore the city, shop till you drop along world-famous Orchard Road, and come home to a romantic room with garden views, pampering amenities and 5-star service. Complete your Raffles experience with a Sunrise Spa and Swim, which comes with a 60-minute massage and pool access to start your day.
Habtoor Palace Dubai
Elegance and decadence reside in Habtoor Palace Dubai. Located in the landmark lifestyle development on the banks of Dubai Water Canal, it’s a Beaux Arts-inspired palace that offers 182 rooms and 52 suites. Each stay comes complete with butler service, fine dining, and access to sprawling gardens and three sparkling pools. Experience how the holidays are celebrated in the UAE at the palace’s famed Winter Garden, with entertainment and fun attractions. Enjoy afternoon tea or a French lunch to cap the festivities.
Marina Bay Sands
Singapore’s iconic Marina Bay goes all the way during the holidays. Spectacular Marina Bay Sands is always in on the festivities. Right next to it is Gardens By the Bay which hosts Christmas Wonderland, a holiday village with activities, games, shopping, and dining. Stick around till 7:45 for Garden Rhapsody, a lights show featuring the majestic Supertree structures. If the holiday rush is getting to you, enjoy a relaxing day at Marina Bay Sands with Sling & Swim, which includes room and pool access.
Hotel Plaza Athénée Paris
The splendour of Paris is perfectly captured in Hotel Plaza Athénée, located along tree-lined, fashion central Montaigne Avenue. It’s extra magical during Christmas time when its charming hotel courtyard is transformed into a skating rink for children. Lined with fairy lights and pine trees, the picturesque rink alone is a sight to behold.
Read also: A Pocket Guide to Singapore