The Lodge and Cottages at Primland. Credit: The Lodge and Cottages at Primland
When you’re up to your neck in holiday preparations, it can be hard to find time to unwind. But with this lineup of seasonal spa services, festive fetes and dashing debuts, you’ll have no trouble making room in your schedule for a winter getaway.
Southern Virginia
Toast to the season with a few celebratory tipples at Four-Star The Lodge and Cottages at Primland. The luxe mountainside refuge hosts an End of the Year Wine Tasting Extravaganza from December 27 to 29 to help you ring in 2019.
Whether you’re looking to taste rich Burgundies or sparkling sips, you’ll find a flight to suit your tastes here. And after you’ve imbibed, retreat to your rustic room and savor a cozy cup of green tea on your patio while enjoying some late-night stargazing.
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Miami. Credit: Mandarin Oriental, Miami
Mandarin Oriental Hotels
No matter where you are in the world, treat yourself to a spa service at any Mandarin Oriental property around the globe on December 12 to enjoy the brand’s annual Silent Night. Beginning at 5 p.m., all treatments will be performed in silence, allowing you to relax and take a break from the bustle of the season.
For a fully immersive experience, opt for extras such as silent yoga at Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, a meditation class at Four-Star Mandarin Oriental, Washington D.C., singing bowl therapy at Five-Star Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai or a digital detox for two at Five-Star Mandarin Oriental, Miami.
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Abu Dhabi
Debuted in late November, The Abu Dhabi Edition is the latest luxury hotel to grace the skyline of the UAE’s capital.
Situated on a prime waterfront stretch of the Al Bateen peninsula, the sumptuous new stay offers 198 sophisticated accommodations decked out in herringbone-patterned oak floors, floor-to-ceiling windows and artistic desert photography by Brett Weston.
An intimate seven-room spa, a gourmet market and two pools provide just the ambiance for leisure seekers, while the lobby gin bar, a set of restaurants and a three-story nightclub, Annex, beckon the see-and-be-seen set.
Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, London’s The Rosbery. Credit: Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, London
London
Following a fire in June, Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, London is reopening its doors just in time for the holidays. While the Four-Star hotel won’t be welcoming overnight guests until spring, the property’s two restaurants, recently refreshed Five-Star spa, event and public spaces will all be available for festive fun beginning December 4.
To savor seasonal flavors in true English style, book the family friendly afternoon tea in The Rosebery. You’ll nosh on housemade treats, such as Honey Tree Madeleines and Santa’s Lollipop, and your tiny travelers will adore their own pint-sized gift: Harrods Christmas teddy bear, Oliver.
Skating at Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore. Credit: Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore
Baltimore
The jovial season is extra merry in Charm City where Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore hosts an array of holiday activities to bring you good cheer. On December 16, stop by the Four-Star hotel with your brood to indulge in Brunch with Santa before heading up to the fifth-floor Harbor Terrace for an afternoon of ice skating on the property’s 1,560-square-foot rink.
After a few laps, warm up with hot cocoa or spiced apple cider while taking in impressive views over the waterfront. If you’re feeling peckish, the terrace also serves fire-roasted chestnuts to keep your spirits bright.
Boca Raton Resort and Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. Credit: Hilton Worldwide
Palm Beach
Longtime South Florida favorite Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Boca Raton Resort and Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort has a few new tricks up its sleeve this season.
Following a multi-million-dollar renovation, the fabled Pink Palace’s reinvigorated Yacht Club was unveiled in November, debuting a hotel-within-a-hotel experience at the storied resort, just in time for holiday merriment.
In addition to a sleek new look across its 112 suites, the club provides exclusive extras, such as a personalized check-in experience (curbside escort and champagne welcome included), customizable minibar and turn-down offerings, VIP transportation around town in a Rolls-Royce and access to the private Commodore Concierge Lounge, where gratis breakfast is served daily.
The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica. Credit: Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
Costa Rica
Escape winter’s chill with a holiday getaway to Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo, where the Five-Star retreat has recently unveiled some stylish improvements.
Dine on succulent steaks with a side of golf course views at the newly debuted Nemare Restaurant; indulge in a hammam ritual at the reimagined Four-Star spa; or wake up early to take in a tropical sunrise along with a healthy sip from the property’s new Jugos Juice Bar — the Ponche Frutero (kiwi, mango, watermelon, tangerine and grapefruit) is an especially tasty way to squeeze in some extra vitamin C.
Erna’s Elderberry House Restaurant. Credit: Château du Sureau
Yosemite
Wallow in elegant tradition surrounded by some of Northern California’s most stunning scenery during high tea at Four-Star Erna’s Elderberry House Restaurant. With seatings on December 2 and 16, this exquisite service includes classic touches, such as Royal Albert teapots and British-style bites (scones, cucumber tea sandwiches and lemon squares).
Situated within Five-Star Château du Sureau, this European-inspired eatery serves up French fare with a helping of spectacular Yosemite National Park vistas all year long, but winter’s snow-covered terrain makes this intimate hideaway extra romantic.
