LAST MINUTE WINTER GETAWAYS

LAST MINUTE WANDERLUST WINTER GETAWAYS

Looking for a memorable last few days of this year?
we’ve prepared a list of destinations across the Globe that would make an ideal last minute Winter getaway

Ayla Oasis // Jordan
Ayla is a brand-new development on the Red Sea in Jordan. The resort is undergoing a series of phases, the first of which has just been completed with the opening of the Hyatt Regency hotel.

It is now easier than ever for Brits to travel to Jordan with easyJet doubling its direct flights to Jordan’s coastal city of Aqaba from London Gatwick. The increase in non-stop flights will provide UK holidaymakers with even better access to Ayla Oasis, Jordan’s latest resort on the Red Sea, the perfect destination for some last minute winter sun this Christmas.

Home to stunning turquoise lagoons, white sand beaches and Jordan’s first 18-hole championship golf course, Ayla has an abundance of activities suitable for all.

Ayla’s B12 Beach Club, is the perfect place to relax; home to Jordan’s first ever cable wake park and next to seawater lagoons. Ayla ensures its beaches are immaculately clean and all water sports are non-motorised, making for a relaxing beach experience all-round.

From beaches to the golf course, Ayla has it all – why not play a full round of golf on Jordan’s first and only 18-hole course, set against Aqaba’s stunning backdrop?

For those looking for a culture fix, Ayla is five minutes from the city of Aqaba and just over an hour from the renowned Wadi Rum desert; most recently used as a filming location for Disney’s live-action remake of Aladdin and the latest Star Wars film due out in December.

The easyJet flights will start from £161.98 per person // Rooms at the Hyatt Regency start from JOD 105, £114.00
 ayla.com

Le Massif, a luxurious five-star ski hotel in the Italian ski resort of Courmayeur has unveiled a brand new spa programme for guests once its doors open for the winter 2019/20 ski season on 6th December 2019. The luxurious Le Massif Spa will offer wellness enthusiasts the ideal antidote to a day on the slopes.

This season sees the spa launch a new range of indulgent and innovative treatments, including alpine stone massages designed to soothe aching muscles, anti-stress massages, hydration treatments with wild fruits and forest bathing, which will be available to guests in the summer months. Guests can reconnect with nature ad the healing powers of the forest.  Forest bathing helps to improve mood, reduce stress levels and boost the immune system amongst other short term and long-term benefits. Centred around Italian Hospitality Collection’s signature Equilibrium philosophy the extensive treatment menu has also been expertly curated to tackle internal inflammation, the number one cause of life-limiting illnesses.

Post-pampering, guests can enjoy the surrounding slopes which provide a range of pistes to suit all abilities, while high-adrenaline activities including heli- and para-skiing are available for thrill-seekers. Year round, world-class hiking, golfing and cycling are ideal ways to switch off, get fit and enjoy the scenic landscape.

Nightly rates at Le Massif start from €350 per room, per night
lemassifcourmayeur.com

Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort // Cape Verde
This five-star beachfront resort is located in the picturesque town of Santa Maria on Sal Island. The hotel only opened in Q3 2018 and the destination is still very much under-the-radar and is a lesser-known holiday destination. With a flight time of under six hours, Cape Verde & it’s white sandy beaches are far more accessible than the Caribbean – the island is often referred to as ‘the African Caribbean’.

Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Resort //Mauritius
Located on the north-west coast of Mauritius, Trou aux Biches is widely considered one of the most romantic hotels on the island. Set on a white sandy beach with a turquoise lagoon and a tropical garden surrounding the hotel, Trou aux Biches is in an idyllic setting, plus, its location ensures one of the best climates in Mauritius. The chalet style suites are tucked among lush vegetation offering privacy and space to relax & unwind. With a wide range of complimentary land & water sports, diving centre, a luxurious and modern spa and a kids club & teens club, it’s a great option for families.

This seaside destination in Northern France is the ideal place to swap the UK cities crowded winter wonderland with an off-the-beaten-track Christmas market & festive getaway. Kicking off on 29th November, the town’s Christmas Village takes place every weekend bursting with handcrafted decorations, baked treats, chocolate shops and trinkets, along with lots more. Jazz performances run from 21st December-5th January.

Hotel Chais Monnet // Cognac France
The hotel is breathing new life into Cognac tourism and is bringing Cognac tasting back into fashion with younger travellers. A multi-million £ investment saw this trading house be lovingly restored & transformed into a majestic hideaway and there’s no hotels of a similar standard in the region – opened November 2018. The hotel is home to the city’s largest Cognac bar (stocking 400+ Cognac varieties); guest experiences include taking one of the hotel’s vintage Citroen 2CVs or Jaguars out for the day to explore the nearby countryside & vineyards; private tours and tastings at the city’s famous local Cognac Houses (e.g. Remy Martin).

Santorini //Mozambique
Santorini sits nestled above the red cliffs of Kingfisher Bay in Vilanculos with stunning views of the Bazaruto archipelago islands and curling mainland in the distance. Santorini Mozambique is like a small Greek village in the heart of a raw African landscape – a compelling and alluring combination. Here luxury goes hand in hand with stylish understatement, and a peerless setting with genuine warmth of hospitality.

Uniquely situated on the mainland, but with easy access to the archipelago, Santorini combines the best of both worlds. Endless views of the Indian ocean and the world-famous archipelago impart their serenity and beauty, whilst guests are also close to the heart-beat of a vibrant and engaging African scene if they wish to experience real Africa.

Morukuru Beach Lodge // South Africa
The Morukuru Family consists of six fabulous properties located in the most beautiful & diverse regions of South Africa. Created by a family, for families, the properties offer extraordinary and immersive travel opportunities.
Morukuru Beach Lodge is the latest boutique hotel property from Morukuru Family. Located on the glorious garden route De Hoop Nature Reserve is one of Africa’s most beautiful coastal reserves. De Hoop offers the best nature has to offer in the shape of 51km of pristine white beaches and dunes lapped by the warm Indian ocean, limestone cliffs, rock pools, wetlands and the world’s smallest and most threatened plant kingdom – the Cape Floral Kingdom, home to the beautiful coastal lowland fynbos.

The Sarojin // Khao Lak
The Sarojin is beautifully set on an 11km stretch of secluded white sand beach in Khao Lak, just a 55-minute drive north of Phuket Airport, and is surrounded by five spectacular national parks and the world-famous dive sites of the Similan and Surin Islands. Designed in a contemporary Asian style, the five-star resort’s 56 deluxe residences are nestled within ten acres of tropical grounds leading directly onto the beachfront. Each guest room features its own private garden and “sala” sundeck, couples’ baths with waterfall showers, and plunge and relaxation pools that blend into the natural habitat. Other facilities include an attentive “Imagineer” who can create tailor-made experiences for hotel guests and complimentary use of a fully equipped fitness centre, mountain bikes, sailing catamarans, sail boats, sea kayaks and windsurfing boards. Tranquility is guaranteed as no children under the age of 10 are permitted to stay at The Sarojin. Yay!

The Sarojin has been recognised for its fine dining offering by The MICHELIN Guide Bangkok, Phuket, and Phang-nga 2019. The highly-regarded restaurant guide honours those that consistently provide diners with high quality products, a ‘mastery of flavour and cooking techniques’ and value for money, as well as demonstrating the chef’s personality within the cuisine.

Nobu Hotel // Barcelona
For an unmissable New Year’s Eve, the hottest new hotel in Barcelona invites guests to celebrate the beginning of 2020 with the best celebration in town. Start the evening with a champagne in hand as you’re whisked up to the hotel’s 23rd floor sky-high dining destination; Nobu Barcelona. A place where extraordinary city views, an effortlessly sophisticated vibe and world-class dining awaits.

To kickstart the evening, tantalise the taste buds with a tasting menu consisting of signature Nobu flavours, infused with local flare, all masterfully executed by Nobu’s culinary masterminds. Feast on lobster tail dripping with a sweet black sesame sauce, tuck into scallop foie gras finessed with a truffle crust, savour on the King Crab salad dry miso or mouth-watering slow cooked Japanese Beef accompanied by kabocha and celery.

As midnight approaches and the countdown to 2020 begins, spectate a magical firework display from the floor-to-ceiling windows as the Barcelona skyline lights up and the New Year is welcomed in. And at Nobu Hotel Barcelona, the New Year celebrations do not stop. As midnight passes, guests can step down to the ground floor for an exclusive after party at the city’s coolest new hang-out; Kozara. As the champagne flows, the cocktails are served and Nobu signature Sake is poured, guests can bob the night away to the DJ’s sophisticated beats.

With a fresh New Year morning rolling in, shots are served in the form of ginger and detox, while cocktails come in the form of electrolyte-enhanced mocktails to refresh and rehydrate. Those not quite ready to leave the comfort of the Nobu king sized beds can enjoy a leisurely morning and breakfast in bed from the 24-hour in-room dining menu before stepping out into the hustle and bustle of Barcelona.

Rates for a Nobu New Year’s Eve experience start from £556 and includes a one night stay in a premium skyline room, New Year’s Eve Dinner, one bottle of champagne and a buffet breakfast.
barcelona.nobuhotels.com

The Crane // Barbados
Steeped in history and old-world charm, The Crane is the Caribbean’s first resort hotel, combining incredible natural beauty with a romantic sense of seclusion. Contrary to the multitude of hotels on the built-up west coast, the property boasts a unique clifftop setting on the island’s rugged, picturesque southeast shore – where the locals themselves go to relax!

Spacious accommodation including fully-equipped kitchens, private plunge pools, gardens and rooftop terraces are perfect for multi-generational holidays or romantic escapes. Overlooking the powder-pink sands of Crane Beach, the resort also boasts award-winning Bajan and international cuisine across five restaurants, a relaxing spa, tennis courts, regular clifftop yoga sessions, a Calypso Kids Club focused on local culture, and five outdoor pools including a cascading waterfall and whirlpool.

Guests can also venture further afield to explore the island, with the likes of catamaran cruises, snorkelling with turtles, forest bathing and rum tastings available to book via the concierge.

Vakkaru // Maldives
Vakkaru Maldives is a secluded tropical island resort located in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, in the heart of the Indian Ocean. Only 30 minutes north of Male International Airport by seaplane, Vakkaru – meaning coconut timber in Dhivehi – is an unforgettable paradise intuitively designed for travellers seeking an intimate getaway in arguably one of the most desirable island destinations on the planet.

Boasting powder soft, brilliant white sand, crystal clear turquoise water, 360-degree uninterrupted views and sprawling coral reefs with unique marine biodiversity, guests can revel in the choice of 125 beach and over water villas and suites, as well as four sensation farm-to-table restaurants, two bars, a wine cellar and an outstanding array of treatments in the over-the-water Merana Spa.

Those arriving for the festive season will be a part of a traditional Maldivian festive experience with an array of indulgent culinary experiences, lively entertainment, rejuvenating wellness activities and never seen before discounts for guests of all ages to enjoy.

Keeping the natural beauty of the island as unspoilt as possible – including retaining over 2,300 fully grown coconut trees – and drawing on the rich traditions of the locale, design elements are focused on Maldivian style fused with the finest natural recourses and local architecture, with a contemporary style to ensure a completely authentic experience.

Gran Meliá // Arusha
Leading luxury Spanish hotel brand, Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, have announced the opening of their first property in Africa, Gran Meliá Arusha. Based in the heart of Arusha within Northern Tanzania, the exclusive East African resort, which opened on the 1st September 2019, is the perfect base for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty of some of Africa’s most striking landscapes, including the Serengeti and Kilimanjaro. The luxury hotel will boast a convenient location for both international and regional travellers, located just a 45-minute drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport and 20-minute drive from Arusha Airport. Gran Meliá Arusha will also lend itself well to business travellers, offering a state-of-the-art conference centre and meeting facilities in the diplomatic hub of Tanzania. It features 171 exquisitely decorated rooms and suites designed with earthy interiors and contemporary furniture to provide a relaxing atmosphere for guests. The rooms are complete with private balconies, offering panoramic views over Mount Meru and the hotel’s luscious surrounding gardens.

Tanzania is the ideal Winter sun getaway destination, with temperatures averaging at 28°C throughout the winter months of November and December. Experience the stunning wildebeest migration, with their arrival on the plains of the Serengeti in the south, zebra feedings on the lush grass take place up until February.
Room rates start from £203 per night.

Pierre & Vacances’ Residence // Mont Blanc
Set in the heart of the Mont Blanc massif, Megève is a beautiful and traditional winter sports village that has been popular with artists and ski lovers since 1916. The traffic-free, cobbled medieval centre features an abundance of artisan shops, galleries and an impressive array of four and five-star hotels, as well as no less than five Michelin-starred restaurants. During the Christmas period the village glows each night in festive colours, with Megeve’s shops, restaurants and hotels beautifully decorated.

At the centre of the village an ice rink and large Christmas tree acts as a place for residents and holidaymakers to gather and to celebrate to the sound of carols. Megève is also becoming increasing popular with British holidaymakers seeking a quality experience on the slopes without the price tag, thanks to a growing number of chic and affordable accommodation and dining options. For example, Pierre & Vacances’ Residence Le Mont d’Arbois offers guests a comfortable and stylish stay, just outside the village centre. Boasting panoramic views, the property is located in a five hectare park, opposite the Mont d’Arbois golf course and benefits from a well-being centre, two saunas and a cardio training area. From here guests can make the most of Megève’s winter-sports offering, as well as the area’s non-ski options, such as traditional sleigh-rides through the village centre, a spectacular light aircraft flight over the Mont Blanc glacier or Great Northern dog sledding.

A seven-night self-catered stay at Pierre & Vacances’ Residence Le Mont d’Arbois in a studio apartment that sleeps up to two people, arriving 21 December 2019 is priced from £670 per apartment / £335 pp.

Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve // South Africa
South Africa makes the ideal destination for a winter break, with temperatures averaging between 22°C – 35°C from December – February. Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve (www.sabisabi.com), this year celebrating 40 years at the forefront of sustainable eco-tourism, is world renowned for its luxurious lodges, service and unique safari experience.
Sabi Sabi’s twice daily game drives provide fantastic holistic safari experience with opportunity to sight all of the big five – the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo – and beyond. Sabi Sabi also enjoys a plentiful leopard population, with the area world-famous for its leopard sightings.

On top of this, Sabi Sabi is also home to a remarkable 350 species of birds. On a single summer’s day, a visitor from the Northern Hemisphere will probably see more bird species than they are likely to see in a lifetime in their home country.
Sabi Sabi’s intimate all-suite Earth Lodge, recognised by National Geographic as a Unique Lodge of The World for its luxury accommodation, exceptional service, eco-sensitivity and unparalleled access to wildlife. With its newly refurbished suites, the lodge is designed to seamlessly blend into the surrounding environment by the use of skilfully selected materials and textures which are in total harmony with nature.

The Atlantic Hotel // Jersey
Jersey is a destination with a wealth of attractions for a winter break.  The island offers a beguiling mix of unspoilt beaches and coves, boutique shopping, and eleven Good Food Guide featured restaurants celebrating local produce. With the warmest and sunniest climate in Britain, the island makes for a wonderful out of peak season visit.

The Atlantic Hotel (www.theatlantichotel.com) is one of the finest hotels on the island, commanding breath-taking views over the St Ouen’s Bay, a conservation area of outstanding natural beauty. The hotel has five walks that all start and finish at the hotel, offering the opportunity to embrace the fresh sea air and view the island from all angles.

Executive Chef Will Holland uses the best local ingredients in the hotel’s restaurant, Ocean Restaurant. The seafood comes directly from the bay below the hotel – the amazing lobster and oysters are the freshest in Europe due to the island tides.

Puente Romano // Marbella
There’s no denying that Andalucía shines in summer, but often this southern part of Spain has a representation for being a ghost town in the winter months, when actually there’s a lot this destination has to offer in the cooler months – some winter sun anyone? Avoiding the crowds of high season, winter still offers long days of sunshine and mild temperatures, perfect for exploring all that the local region has to offer.

Puente Romano, Marbella is a chic Andalusian resort set within tranquil subtropical gardens, which offers a wealth of active experiences. This Winter active bunnies will be able to conquer La Concha mountain and see Marbella from a new height, horseback ride in the Andalusian foothills and master the art of Spanish fencing; whilst snow-loving travellers can combine a luxury beachside break in Marbella with an indulgent ski break in the Sierra Nevada with luxury resort Puente Romano and its boutique sister property El Lodge. The Sierra Nevada is the second-highest mountain range in Western Europe and offers 106km of ski area comprised of 124 pistes, catering for skiers of all levels, ages and abilities – plus a special snow park for tubing and sledging. El Lodge offers luxurious ski-in, ski-out accommodation, with direct access to the Maribel piste into the main station via the spacious sun deck – the perfect spot to relax with a hot beverage in hand after a day on the slopes.

Once guests are all snowed out, they can discover all that Andalucía has to offer over the festive period from the switching on of the Christmas lights at the Paseo de la Alamed to carol services and exploring the authentic Christmas bazaars’. Step into the new year and make memories to cherish by booking Puente Romano’s New Year’s package, which includes a two-night stay, New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner in Andalucía Ballroom followed by a delectable buffet style breakfast.

£1,228.90 for two people, based on a two-night stay between 30th December 2019 to 1st January 2020 / 31st December 2019 to 2nd January 2020.

The Hamptons // Long Island // New York
Looking to watch the famous Times Square ball drop this New Year’s Eve? Why not first head to The Hamptons to find that perfect party number in the end-of-year sales?

A quick train ride from JFK International Airport, The Hamptons is known for its chic stores and scenic coastline – made even more picturesque in the snow. For a little self-indulgence before the January abstinence, the upscale shops of East Hampton are a must-visit.  Check out the independent boutiques of quaint downtown Sag Harbour, and you may even spot a celeb or two! Just a stone’s throw away is the luxury White Fences Inn B&B, with cosy fireplaces, freestanding bathtubs and a scrumptious three-course breakfast making for a perfect winter getaway.

Take the Long Island Expressway to Manhattan and celebrate New Year’s Eve at the experiential Moxy Times Square. With the hotel’s NYE package, ring in 2020 at Bar Moxy with a champagne toast and a live screening of the iconic ball drop, before taking the lift home to a cosy bedroom. Nurse any sore heads on 1 January with free coffee and a bracing walk in Central Park.

Stay at White Fences Inn B&B from $350 per night. For more information or to book visit www.whitefenceswatermill.com.

Moxy Times Square’s New Year’s Eve package starts from just $299 per night, available from 26 December 2019 to 4 January 2020. Includes one complimentary ticket to Bar Moxy’s NYE party, with up to two additional discounted tickets for $75 per person (retail value is $90). To book, visit moxytimessquare.com.

Fly from London to JFK with Norwegian Air from £671 return.

THE DUNCOMBE ARMS // STAFFORDSHIRE
The Duncombe Arms is a rustic-chic pub with roaring fires in the heart of the Derbyshire countryside that combines the relaxed atmosphere of a loved local pub with high quality British food and delightful rooms. In 2019, The Duncombe Arms opened Walnut House; ten cosy, warm and luxurious bedrooms each with a relaxed, home-from-home atmosphere, with the added flair and contemporary design of a boutique hotel. Designed by owner Laura Greenall as an extension of her home, each room is decorated with striking Colefax & Fowler wallpapers and luxurious fabrics that create a balanced eclecticism with a chic contemporary style.
The pub recently won the Michelin Bib Gourmand Award with exciting young chef Jake Boyce.
Rooms from £140 per night
www.duncombearms.co.uk