Perhaps as a child you dreamed of spending the holidays in a marvelous setting with a cozy fireplace, lots of presents and festive decorations. Or maybe you wished for a warm-weather holiday near the beach. Either way, it’s time to start planning for the holidays because these hotels across Asia and the Pacific live up to those dreams — and more.
From traditional roast turkey dinners to Christmas in the tropics, here are five hotels that go all out for the holiday season. As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
Enjoy a Snow Globe–Like Scene in Seoul
Checking into The Westin Josun Seoul is like stepping into a snow globe — indoor trees with twinkling lights frame the entrance and a Christmas tree with a different theme each year anchors the lobby.
The hotel also serves a traditional Christmas dinner with dishes like roast turkey, mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts in a cozy setting.
Just outside is Deoksugung Palace, and the snowcapped mountains that surround Seoul form the perfect wintry backdrop.
Enjoy Easy Access to an Amusement Park in Hong Kong
It’s always a happy time at Ocean Park, an amusement park on a mountain overlooking the South China Sea. And it doesn’t get more festive than Christmas at the Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel.
The hotel lobby is transformed into an ocean-themed wonderland, and guests are given Santa hats upon check-in. The Grand Ballroom transforms into a magical space for children, complete with a Christmas tree and presents, a fireplace and stockings. For adults, there’s prime rib, roast turkey and Champagne for dinner.
Next door, Ocean Park is magic itself, especially with decked-out stalls at the Christmas Market selling candy canes and mulled wine.
Bask in the Warm Weather of Singapore
It might be warm year-round in equatorial Singapore, but W Singapore – Sentosa Cove goes all out for the holidays. Glittering lights abound at the lush, sprawling seaside resort where guests will also find delightful decorations such as giant gold candies during the holiday season.
Foodies don’t have to go far for exquisite meals on-site. For Christmas, indulge in a festive buffet at The Kitchen Table, which may include dishes such as roast turkey, honey-glazed ham and an assortment of seafood, or a Christmas feast at SKIRT, which boasts a signature beefing experience.
Another huge holiday highlight is WOOBAR’s New Year’s Eve countdown party on December 31, when you can enjoy a fantastic lineup of fun drinks and danceworthy music. The best part? Recuperating by the 15,000-square-foot pool the next day and listening to the lapping waves of the Singapore Strait.
Enjoy a Grand Holiday in Kuala Lumpur
Perched on a hill in central Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection was the center of high society parties when it opened in 1932 — and it throws a festive Christmas party today.
A grand Christmas tree stretching several floors high and decked with sparkling gold and red bulbs greets guests upon arrival. The hotel’s Christmas-themed afternoon tea is a must — red and green scones are on the menu, after all.
Plus, the hotel’s restaurant, Contango, serves a traditional Christmas feast with dishes like roast turkey and minced pie. For a truly lavish night, book a private dinner in the Orchid Conservatory, a glass house filled with colorful orchids.
Plan a Summery Christmas in Sydney
It may be summer Down Under, but Christmas in sunny Sydney, Australia, is sure to be a fun affair.
After a morning of beach and surf, the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park’s a Christmas-themed high tea overlooking Hyde Park is the way to go. Or perhaps the New Year’s Day bottomless brunch is more your speed — it includes a wide range of brunch dishes and an impressive dessert station.