The Best Tropical Destinations to Book this Festive Season
Conscious Christmas Celebrations
At Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi
Those dreaming of a white Christmas this year can swap the snow and chilly temperatures with the white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Maldives. Set on the picturesque Shaviyani atoll, Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi’s festive calendar showcases the destination in all its natural beauty, celebrating the biodiversity it harbours and the rich marine life that thrives under the resort’s sustainability initiatives. Guests can embrace the Christmas spirit with an array of interactive and immersive activities including an indulgent tasting menu by Michelin Star Chef Mickael Viljanen, meditation and energy healing therapies with visiting Reiki masters, and festive themed workshops at the new Sustainability Lab where travellers can turn waste into wonder and create bespoke gifts. Celebrations will commence with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony on the 20th of December, followed by a specially curated Christmas dinner and brunch, a visit from Santa for the tiniest of travellers, a New Year’s Eve Ocean Disco complete with the ultimate tribute performances, and a decadent New Year’s Day Brunch.
For more information and to book, visit www.fairmont.com/maldives
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A Maldivian Festive Escape
At The Residence Maldives
This Christmas, leave the coats and scarves at home and head for the inviting blues of tranquil Maldivian lagoons. The Residence by Cenizaro invites couples and families alike to celebrate in paradise this festive season and mark the start of the new year in the ultimate luxury. Consisting of two separate resorts connected with the longest resort-to-resort bridge in the Maldives, The Residence Falhumaafushi, a couple’s paradise and The Residence Dhigurah, an oasis for families, offer a selection of carefully curated experiences for all ages. From diving with Santa Claus and embarking on a sunset dolphin cruise, to dancing the night away at the Christmas Eve Gala and the 2023 New Year countdown party, this year’s celebrations promise to provide an unforgettable holiday for all. After the festivities, guests are invited to soothe sore heads and feet at the resorts’ Spa by Clarins, the brand’s first and only in the Maldives.
Book 45 days in advance and receive 25% off best available rates. For more information and to book, visit www.cenizaro.com/theresidence/maldives
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Festive Soul-Searching in Bali
At COMO Shambhala Estate
Wellness-seekers should head to COMO Shambhala Estate, buried deep in Ubud’s spiritual junglescape. Bordered by verdant flora and with views over the tumbling ravine, the private villas are unsurpassed – muslin-swathed four posters, private infinity pools and teak verandas offer a completely private experience. Soak up the sun on a guided hike, passing ancient shrines and watery rice paddies, or cycle through local villages and markets, before embarking on a tailored wellbeing journey back at the estate. Wellness programmes are accompanied by a festive culinary line-up of traditional Balinese dishes, served to the backdrop of live local music and dance performances.
For further information and to book, visit: https://www.comohotels.com/en/comoshambhalaestate
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Festive Getaway Under the Sun at COMO Maldives
At COMO Cocoa Island
COMO Cocoa Island is offering an array of exciting experience-focused programmes to welcome the New Year in, in style. Dive into an underwater light show on a night-time snorkelling adventure, learn the art of massage at the island’s whitewashed COMO Shambhala Retreat or master the art of meditation for moments of complete serenity. Guests can also expect culinary events to delight every food-lover from Chef in Residence and Michelin Green Star awardee, Chef Stephane Carrade – from poolside fine dining to half-day experiences that include fishing, preparation and seafood set lunches.
For further information and to book, visit: https://www.comohotels.com/en/cocoaisland
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A Festive Wonderland at The World’s Most Secluded Private Island
At Thanda Island, Tanzania
Nestled within Tanzania’s Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve, Thanda Island , the world’s only exclusive-use private island surrounded by a protected marine reserve, is probably the most reclusive island escape out there. Offering guests utter seclusion and perfect peace, in a location off-limits to everyone but the resort staff, at Thanda guests could be forgiven for believing they’re the only people on the planet. Providing unbeatable experiences this festive season, guests can enjoy scuba diving with the East African Coast’s rich marine life, enjoy a bird’s eye view with a tour in Thanda’s own helicopter, relax in the traditional copper bath on the most a secluded part of the island, embark on a deep sea-fishing cruise or dive with whale sharks – to name a few. Epicures will savour the island’s unforgettable dining experiences, such as a Swahili feast, a decadent affair that includes curries with hand-squeezed coconut milk, fresh lobster, and oysters.
For more information and to book, visit thandaisland.com
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Christmas on The Most Luxurious Tropical Island
At Velaa Private Island
Treat yourself this Christmas to the most luxurious gift of a stay at Velaa Private Island . Nestled within the constellation of islands that form the Noonu Atoll in the Maldives, the resort takes exclusivity to the next level. Home to three exquisite restaurants for you to experience during your stay, including their signature restaurant Aragu, named one of Asia’s best restaurants, in addition to its own private beach, state-of-the-art spa, paddle court, jet ski, semi submarine, private snow room and private yacht, Velaa offers something for every taste. Specially curated for the Christmas season, guests can enjoy a variety of festivities from a Christmas Eve Sunset Cocktail Party and Gala Dinner to an opening ceremony of Velaa’s grand gingerbread house. Santa will also be making an appearance, arriving on Velaa’s shores with gifts for the younger guests and celebratory drinks for the adults.
For more information and to book, visit: www.velaaprivateisland.com