From the plazas of Madrid to the paddy fields of Bali, The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts is inviting travelers to celebrate the festive season with its new ‘December Discovery’ packages. The array of luxurious experiences ranges from a Balinese culinary feast to classic Christmas breaks in the heart of some of Europe’s chicest capital cities.
The Pavilions Amsterdam, The Toren
A short stroll away from The Pavilions Amsterdam, The Toren, the legendary Amsterdam Christmas Market in Museumplein is a winter wonderland where visitors can admire the Christmas decorations, browse for stocking stuffers, and tuck into poffertjes (Dutch pancakes) and warming bisschopswijn (mulled wine). The Kerstmis spirit lights up the dark December nights as one of the city’s biggest events, the Amsterdam Light Festival, sees illuminated Dutch and international artworks displayed across the city. Inspired by the theme ‘LOADING… Revealing Art, AI, and Tech’, this year’s installations will add a contemporary lustre to the historic canals of the city. Set within two 17th-century former merchant houses on the Keizersgracht canal, around the corner from the ‘Negen Straatjes’ shopping district, The Pavilions Amsterdam, The Toren is the perfect base from which to experience a Dutch Christmas.
The Pavilions Madrid
Within walking distance of the city’s main square, The Pavilions Madrid is ideally located for soaking up the vibrant energy and dazzling decorations of the Spanish capital’s Christmas fiestas. While Plaza Mayor transforms into a sprawling century-old market filled with Nativity scenes, decorations and antiques, guests of the serene art-hotel can also find one of Madrid’s most eclectic Christmas markets less than 10 minutes’ walk away on Paseo de Recoletos, featuring arts and crafts, artisan workshops and a host of unique products from all over Spain. For the full Christmas in Madrid experience, guests can head to the famous Retiro Park to glide through the seasonal ice rinks before warming up with fortifying cups of caldo gallego, a traditional Spanish winter soup, and churros dipped in piping hot chocolate.
The Pavilions Rome
A festive Roman Holiday awaits at The Pavilions Rome, a trio of boutique hotels in the Eternal City famed for its spectacular Christmas celebrations. Nativity scenes abound across the nearby Spanish Steps, Vatican Square, and Piazza Venezia, while lavish Christmas markets fill the city’s piazzas, from the iconic Piazza Navona to the Campo de’Fiori – all within walking distance of The Pavilions Rome’s three locations in the heart of the historic city.
With 200 artworks adorning the walls of its 29 suites and rooms, The Pavilions Rome, The First Arte is an extraordinary opportunity to slumber in an art gallery and surround oneself with beauty. Meanwhile, la dolce vita awaits at The Pavilions Rome, The First Dolce which serves an array of exquisite sweets and confectioneries throughout the stay. Recently completing the triumvirate is The Pavilions Rome, The First Musica, overlooking the Tiber River in the elegant Prati neighborhood.
As part of the ‘December Discovery’ package, guests at any of the hotels will enjoy a festive dinner at The First Musica’s ALTO restaurant, helmed by Matteo Cavoli and Daniele Lippi, executive chef of two Michelin star sister restaurant, Acquolina. Paired with a panorama of Rome’s spectacular skyline, the three-course dinner can be selected from ALTO’s exquisite à la carte menu featuring the freshest seafood, Italian cold cuts, and hearty pasta dishes.
The Pavilions Phuket
For travellers craving warmer climes but reluctant to forgo the trappings of a traditional Christmas, The Pavilions Phuket will host a Thai take on the classic European Christmas market on 10 December – complete with vendors selling German glühwein and bratwurst, DIY gingerbread house workshops and artisans showcasing handmade products and unique gifts – with a share of the proceeds going to local charity The Good Shepherd.
Clifftop signature ALTO Italian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar will also be serving three-course Italian festive feasts atop one of Phuket’s highest peaks. The exquisite menu by executive chef Pietro Mangani includes a starter of sourdough topped with poached egg and truffle; squid ink spaghetti served with Mazara del Vallo red prawns; black Vietnamese pork belly with wild honey and mushroom sauce; and cream-filled choux cloaked in white chocolate.
The Pavilions Bali
Located in the charming seaside town of Sanur, The Pavilions Bali’s ‘December Discovery’ package invites guests to immerse themselves in the rich culture and cuisine of the island with a Balinese Holiday Feast for two. Starting with vegan satay and savoury pandan crepes, the celebratory menu includes udang bumbu rujak, large tiger prawns in a sweet and spicy dressing; ungkep ayam kampung Bali, free range chicken slow cooked in aromatics; and iga sapi bakar rempah, smoky grilled beef ribs marinated in fresh herbs.
