Ultra luxurious getaways to celebrate Christmas and the New Year festivities

By Nivi Shrivastava
Ultra luxurious getaways to celebrate Christmas and the New Year festivities
L’Apogée Courchevel

It’s that time of the year when everyone is in the mood to splurge and relax with their family and friends. From luxury wildlife resorts, and splendid desert safaris to ski vacations and pristine beach getaways, the list of customized holiday experiences gets fancier this year as The Luxe Café brings you the best of hotels and resorts to book for a perfect year-end. Usher in the New Year with oodles of style and party at these award-winning destinations for the ultimate holiday experience across the world.

Wild glamping at Aman-i-Khas

At the exclusive Aman-i-Khas resort in Rajasthan, experience the traditional royal hospitality and generosity of spirit that warms the heart. Pair this with extraordinary Aman-curated festive programmes and you have the perfect balance of ingredients for making this festive season a memorable one. On Christmas and NY eve, enjoy an evening with a small group of musicians over a lip-smacking gourmet “Khas Khana” – a special dinner served by your personal server. Wake up to a ‘Picnic Barbecue Lunch’ to get the best of a winter afternoon, under sweet sunshine and in the company of nature.

Ski vacay at L’ Apogée Courchevel

If budget is not your worry and you want to join the crème de la crème club, think of a fabulous ski vacation in the idyllic French village Courchevel. This is where you hob knob with international celebrities and catch the best of the festive season in the luxurious winter wonderland. This winter, the festive season’s glistening magic is set to descend upon L’Apogée Courchevel as the famous Oetker Collection’s Palace in the Alps reopens its doors on 16 December 2022 for a season full of glamour and celebration. The hotel’s Christmas and New Year’s Eve programme of festivities is always eagerly awaited, and this year’s promises excitement, delight and merry-making for all.

Christmas in Residence at The Lanesborough Hotel

 Christmas in Residence at The Lanesborough, London
Christmas in Residence at The Lanesborough, London

To get the best of winter festivities, head to London to celebrate a very English Christmas at your Regency home away from home. Available as a one, two or three-night experience, your stay at the hotel includes your very own Christmas tree in your room or suite, complimentary in-room English breakfast every morning, and a sumptuous five-course Christmas Day lunch. To make it fancier, opt for chauffeur-driven car transfers to St. Paul’s Church in Knightsbridge for evening service on Christmas Eve and iconic London shopping landmarks such as Harvey Nichols and Hamleys.

Vitamin Sea at the Soneva Maldives

 Soneva Jani Maldives
Soneva Jani Maldives

If you are planning an extravagant, highly personalised and a serene getaway to kick start 2023 in an ultra-luxury island, there’s nothing better than a Maldivian vacation. At Soneva Maldives, you can book a holiday to create a lifetime of precious memories and rare experiences. Enjoy exquisite dining from Michelin-starred chefs, festive feasts, world-renowned wellness specialists, sporting legends, and an exciting holiday programme for children of all ages, as well as a special visit from Santa himself in the plush Maldivian landscape.

Arabian nights at Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah

Make the end of the year truly unforgettable for your loved ones with exceptional celebrations at the luxurious Arabian palace, offering incredible views to watch the record-breaking fireworks show. Kick off the festive season with carol singers at the hotel’s Christmas special, and party at the Lexington Grill & Bar with a special dinner and wine pairing. You can also book a private Cabana Brunch for the special holidays and relax in the lap of luxury in true Arabian style.

Wellness retreat at Chiva-Som Hua Hin, Thailand

Chiva-Som - Taste of Siam & Outdoor Pool - Sunset
Chiva-Som – Taste of Siam & Outdoor Pool – Sunset

If your New Year’s resolution includes a transformative wellness journey for your body and soul, choose a relaxing destination like Chiva-Som Hua Hin in Thailand to celebrate the festive period with inspiring and uplifting activities. From fundraising dinners to welcoming the arrival of the Year of the Rabbit with a rock n’ roll-themed New Year extravaganza, enjoy the best of Thai hospitality at this luxury property. Relish the best of gastronomy featuring premium and locally sourced ingredients, and showcasing the two master chefs’ distinct cooking techniques, while maintaining the resort’s signature of both nutritious and delicious wellness cuisine. Tourists can explore the local mangrove reserve while surrounding themselves with the healing qualities of nature. On Christmas Eve, guests are invited to join a barbecue dinner at the beachfront Taste of Siam, accompanied by carol singing by local hill-tribe children. While on the NYE, enjoy a fabulous poolside party over wellness cuisine and the groovy rock and roll theme.