In the New Year we focus on healthiness becoming incorporated into our lifestyles. But why not take some of this away into a respite? Conscious of leaving behind the indulgent behaviours of the festive season, we look to form a new essence of fitness. Travellers make the new demand for restoration with a plan that will become the highlight of this year. Wellness travel will be redefined in 2026.

Lifespan V Healthspan: The Beginning

Quick fixes of hardcore exercise are less relevant to those seeking to reward themselves proactively with a gentler form of fitness. In Croatia, Villa Dubrovnik’s Serenity Walk offers a mindful journey at Lokrum Island, combining breathwork, private yoga, sea swimming and time spent beneath ancient olive trees – a reminder that longevity often begins with simplicity.

Recovery Programmes: The Growth

The starting point of the recovery programme can be simplified in a resort that offers rejuvenating stays in this new year. No longer just led by wellness circles, this is a movement in the mainstream path for travellers. At COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali, Wellness Paths are built around targeted recalibration, pairing therapeutic treatments with lifestyle guidance to support sustained wellbeing. In California, Pendry Newport Beach offers a signature Wellness Journey that blends cryotherapy with CBD-infused scrubs, wraps and massage for full-body restoration. Hotels are also investing in purpose-built recovery environments.

Wellness: The Social Experiment

The strength of connection with other human beings can be found in various travel plans of 2026. Community is paramount this season and the richness of sharing social spaces can be found in a selection of resorts. At Ibiza Gran Hotel, a resident run club offers guests a social, endorphin-led way to explore the island together. ZEL Hotels place community-based wellness at the heart of their offering, with inclusive programming ranging from run clubs and tennis sessions to relaxed, sociable movement that feels accessible rather than prescriptive.

Aesthetic Wellness: Glow-cations

A mix of beautiful vacation backdrops with the prospect of a tailored science led treatment makes a stay a pleasurable experience.  At Shangri-La Paris, organic facials by Alaena are complemented by a dedicated Skin Studio in partnership with Innerskin, offering advanced treatments including HydraFacials with PRX-T33, radiofrequency and LED light therapy. In Greece, Conrad Athens, The Ilisian delivers highly personalised aesthetic treatments overseen by Dr Costas Papageorgiou, also known for his work at Harrods, seamlessly blending medical-grade expertise with luxury hospitality.

The Resident Herbalist: The Appointment

The popularity for trained herbalists prescribing authentic blended treatments in spas has become the new flavour of 2026. At Magma Resort Santorini, Lava Spa treatments incorporate indigenous ingredients such as olive oil, red grapes and volcanic minerals, inspired by ancient Greek practices. Zelia Halkidiki champions olive-based rituals sourced from surrounding groves, while Albaro Wellness & Spa at Grand Park Hotel Rovinj draws on Istria’s herbal traditions, using wormwood-based botanicals, wild herbs and locally produced olive oil in restorative scrubs and massage treatments.

There are so many avenues to explore in this new movement of the new year. The new travel care programme has begun with many travellers thinking outside the box and going to stay in one of these specialists’ resorts. The offering of a better, fulfilled start to 2026 is consumed by a healthy mantra of a healthier enlightenment.

Coming to the most sought-after area of the Bellecote Piste, Maisons Pariente is to open a second address in the region, creating an opulent backdrop for skiing seasons.

Just a few moments away from Yves Saint Laurent’s famous Datcha, this exclusive hotel has been designed with flawless detail by sisters Leslie Kouhana and Kimberley Cohen.

Showcasing true craftmanship, the Friedmann and Versace design studio is a triumph for the most idyllic setting in this spot.

With 37 rooms and suites there is an assortment of luxury amenities inside the hotel. From the Tata Harper Spa to a fitness room, a kids’ club, a restaurant and a ski shop: this is a paradise that incorporates all of the details needed to become an exquisite escape time and time again.

As snowflakes fall on the exterior, the interior leaves an imprint of excellence and is a short walk away from the centre of Courchevel 1850.

“At Maisons Pariente, we see travel as a different way of inhabiting the world. This fifth address reflects the growth of our collection, with each hotel deeply rooted in its own landscape”, says Leslie Kouhana, co-founder and President of Maisons Pariente. “Hôtel Saint Roch is a true Courchevel institution, and we’re committed to keeping its spirit alive and sharing it with our guests”, adds Kimberley Cohen, co-founder and Artistic Director of Maisons Pariente.

The fifth address will open in December 2026 for the Groupe and other locations include: Le Grand Mazarin in Paris, Crillon le Brave in Provence, Lou Pinet in Saint-Tropez and Le Coucou in Méribel.

For further information visit: Pariente Houses | The Official Site | 5* Hotels

With up to 50% savings on accommodation and a $150 spa credit this offer makes an attractive experience that looks like the perfect way to escape from the Christmas blues.

With a limited-edition booking from now until 2^nd February 2026, one can escape to the Windjammer Landing Resort in Saint Lucia. The attractive discounts are valid for travel until December 2026.

There is a further ‘Warm up for Winter’ proposal for those seeking to travel in January or February 2026 with bookings for post-Christmas blues or a recharge experience. Up to $500 may be applied in resort credit. Restoration in a sun-soaked vacation is on the table.

Set in 65 acres of the rich hillside in the northwestern side of Saint Lucia, the resort is on a stretch of coast with a large luxurious beach.

Six swimming pools, and seven signature styled restaurants and bars are accompanied by a medley of fitness and wellbeing highlights including:  the Serene Spa, a fitness centre, water sports and a kids club.

The hotel is a unique Mediterranean style resort which has 220 rooms and villas under its roof. There is a combination of hillside rooms, beachfront suites and waterfront villas to choose from with this escape. This comes with the promise of views across the Labrelotte Bay and the Caribbean Sea.

Since 2025 Windjammer Landing Resort and Residences has become the only hotel on the island to be part of the Leading Hotels of the Worlds.

Windjammer Landing Resort and Residences (www.windjammer-landing.com) offers offers Hilltop 1 Bedroom villas rates starting from $972/night USD on a B&B basis or starting at $1321/night USD – for a premium all-inclusive (kids 11 and under eat for free). 

Upon entering the venue, guests will be handed a finely crafted mask for this special Victorian Masquerade Ball.

The evening begins with a welcoming glass of Moët & Chandon champagne before the resident DJ plays a set to take you into 2026.

The finest black tie dress code will be adopted by those visiting the venue on this celebration of the year ahead.

Continuing until the early hours of the morning, the partygoers will enjoy a warm welcoming from staff in this glamorous setting that promises a choice in tickets:

£60pp access to the NYE Masquerade Ball, standing tickets

• Welcome glass of Moët & Chandon Champagne
• Full drinks menu and light bites available (additional to ticket price)
• Cloakroom available
• Last entry 11.01pm. Re-entry not permitted!

£100pp minimum spend – seated tickets

• Guaranteed seating with table service all evening
• Welcome glass of Moët & Chandon Champagne
• Full drinks menu and light bites available (additional to ticket price)
• Cloakroom available
• Please note that service charge will be added to your total bill for table bookings.
• Last entry 11.01pm. Re-entry not permitted!

https://www.designmynight.com/london/whats-on/new-years-eve-party/new-years-eve-at-the-residence?t=tickets

Join the pharmacist at Mr Fogg’s Apothecary

The New Year’s Eve party dwellers are welcomed by the unique Victorian Pharmacists who will deliver a glass of Moët & Chandon bubbly.

The magical world of Eighteenth-Century charm is felt along the Victorian Apothecary cocktail bar.

Embark on the taste of a sublime cocktail stirred from the discovery of ancient mixtures.

Explore the mystical inspiration of the evening with confetti cannons to celebrate the countdown to 2026:

Standing Tickets £35pp

• A complimentary glass of Moët & Chandon champagne

• Full cocktail, champagne and light bites menu available to order (not included in ticket price)
• Last entry 11.01pm. Re-entry not permitted!

Table Tickets £60pp minimum spend

• Guaranteed seating & table service all evening
• A complimentary glass of Moët & Chandon champagne
• Full cocktail, champagne and light bites menu available to order (not included in ticket price)
• Please note that service charge will be added to your total bill for table bookings
• Last entry 11:01pm. Re-entry not permitted!

https://www.mr-foggs.com/event/nye-at-the-victorian-apothecary/#region-booking

This December marks 20 years of an Island tradition as Santa rides the waves to meet guests on a Hawaiian beach.

His first appearance was 6^th December, but folks have not missed out on this holiday extravaganza as he will grace the shores of this unique beach again on Friday 19^th December.

The festive tradition began with a hula performance by the keiki from Hālau Pukaikapuaokalani, photos with Santa and a community beach cleanup that reflects the spirit of aloha and care for the islands.

Steve Miller, general manager of OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beach Resort said: “Santa’s arrival by canoe captures the true spirit of aloha – joy, community and connection to the ocean. We’re honoured to celebrate 20 years of this special event with our guests and neighbours, sharing the same excitement and magic that has made this a beloved island tradition.”

This year the celebrations are extended when Santa will appear at OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort on 19^th December. Guests are invited to partake in the joyful experience with Santa arriving by canoe. Visitors can enjoy live music (mele) and dance (hula) before having their picture taken on the hotel’s Naupaka Lawn. The festivities will continue into the evening on Aloha Friday.  Holiday Celebrations will include Hawaiian carols, dance and island-inspired treats.

As more travellers choose experiences over material gifts, OUTRIGGER’s holiday celebrations invite guests to slow down and connect with loved ones across the Hawaiian Islands. From Waikīkī to Maui, Kona to Kaua‘i, each event reflects the spirit of aloha and a shared appreciation for community and place.

To make the season even brighter, the 2025 Cyber Sale offers up to 45 percent off stays across OUTRIGGER’s global collection – an invitation to give the gift of experience and celebrate the holidays with aloha. For details, visit www.outrigger.com.

It is the time to celebrate the Christmas season with the must have stocked cellar. British wines have taken this country into a spin of choice, taste and guaranteed excellence.

Since the 1950s vineyards have flourished in the UK and have become the preferred go to choice for those with a connoisseur’s pallet.

Britain’s sparkling wines have succeeded champagnes from our neighbouring France and they have bought delight to expert sommeliers’ tastebuds.

Gusbourne is one of the UK’s most accoladed wine producers and is known for its world class sparkling wines grown in the Kent countryside.

Their expertise has made them one of the globe’s top fifty Best Vineyards and has the most successful awards from Decanter, IWSC, IWC and WineGB.

Crafted with one hundred percent home grown fruits there is character in every sip that its followers divulge.

This festive season brings offerings to its clients and is available now for ordering:

Gusbourne Festive Estate Tour and Lunch

This December, celebrate the season at one of the World’s 50 Best Vineyards with the Gusbourne Festive Estate Tour and Lunch. Begin with a glass of award-winning sparkling wine, followed by a guided tour and tutored tasting in our Kent vineyard. Then enjoy a festive three-course lunch by Head Chef Anthony Coppard, with dishes crafted from seasonal, local ingredients and expertly paired with our wines. The experience ends with a home-baked mince pie and a glass of something special to toast the season. £120 per person (£100 member price)

CHRISTMAS GIFT SETS 2025

Gusbourne Christmas Pair – £100

Two of our most awarded wines – perfect for festive toasting. Includes:

• Gusbourne Brut Reserve 2022
• Gusbourne Rosé 2019
• Personalised
• Presentation box

Gusbourne Classic Gift Set – £65

An elegant thank-you or host gift, complete with glasses. Includes:

• Gusbourne Brut Reserve 2022
• Two Gusbourne tulip glasses
• Presentation box

Gusbourne Signature Gift Set – £85

Our signature sparkling – citrus-led, refined and age-worthy. Includes:

• Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs 2019
• Two Gusbourne tulip glasses
• Presentation box

Gusbourne Estate Tour and Lunch Gift – £285

A luxurious day out at one of the World’s 50 Best Vineyards. Includes:

• Gusbourne Brut Reserve 2022
• Voucher for an Estate Tour and Lunch for two
• Presentation box

Gusbourne Complete Christmas – £255

One bottle for every course – from brunch to dessert. Gusbourne Complete Christmas Includes:

• Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs 2019
• Gusbourne Chardonnay Guinevere 2023
• Gusbourne Pinot Noir Boot Hill 2022
• Gusbourne RS180 (375ml)
• Gusbourne Rosé 2019
• Gusbourne Brut Reserve 2022 (complimentary)

All gift sets include free UK delivery, complimentary presentation boxes and are available while stocks last. For orders visit: www.gusbourne.com or phone: +44 (0)1233 758666.

On 25^th November 2025 the legendary Mayfair hotel unveiled its annual tree which was designed by the Chief Creative Officer of Burberry.

The tree is made with countless Burberry fabric bows decorated down the 16-foot tree. The classic Burberry fabric ties represent the Victorian sign of unity. They are joined by wild foliage, thistle and Scotland’s national flower: a nod to the Highlands where Burberry’s cashmere scarves are made. All the rich landscapes of the UK are drawn together with pallets of deep symbolic colours.

Handmade glass baubles blown by an authentic British glassblower are featured on the tree which is topped with a golden crown. Giant chess pieces are placed by this creation on the classic chess type flooring in the lobby where the tree stands.

Remarking on the tree, Daniel Lee said, “Claridge’s has always felt like home from the moment you walk through its doors, a true symbol of elegance and British heritage where I’ve enjoyed many special moments over the years. Being invited to design the hotel’s annual Christmas tree is a huge honour. I saw it as an opportunity to celebrate tradition and togetherness – expressing the season through vibrant colours and rich textures. Christmas is my favourite time of the year”.

The Burberry theme does not stop there. Guests will be welcomed by doormen adorned with the traditional Burberry check scarf and room keyholders are made with the classic pattern. Even the lift will be themed.

In the bar you can purchase ‘Winter Knight’ cocktails, an iconic Burberry drink. Then in the shop there are limited edition Claridge’s baubles with the famous Bell Boy Teddy Bear wearing the renowned Burberry trench and scarf.

Claridge’s have pushed the boat out on another annual Christmas tree, made exclusively by one of Britain’s most cherished designers. For more information please visit: An Unforgettable Christmas in London at Claridge’s

These smart silk designs can help you capture a well deserved and restful night snuggled between the sheets.

A silk ultimate sleep set in champagne colours is just a sample of the different Christmas presents set to unveil an appreciation of snooze. The soothing eye mask, silk pillowcase and a couple of scrunchies contribute to a guarantee of sweet dreams.

The silk protects hair from breakage, and the protein ingredient in the silk also helps to maintain moisture in the skin. The hypoallergenic and antimicrobial qualities are good for sensitive skin or eczema.

Deborah Fiddy, CEO and Founder of Gingerlily says: “These thoughtful gifts offer more than just comfort, they invite loved ones to unwind, relax, and embrace the joy of self care. Perfect for creating moments of calm and rejuvenation, our silk gifts are a timeless way to show you truly care.”

Comfort is oozed with soft luxurious silk fabric that captures the mood of a sumptuous sleep. For over two decades Gingerlily has been creating collections of bed linen, silk filled bedding, nightwear and accessories. Crafting pure long strand mulberry silk in its work, this luxury can be bought at a selection of high-end retailers such as Bloomingdale’s, Harrods, Saks, Printemps and El Corte Ingles.

For further information on the ultimate Christmas gift from Gingerlily visit: Gingerlily | Luxury Silk Bedding and Silk Nightwear

The Introvert Chair by Robbie Williams has been created in partnership with design masters Moooi.

If only just for a moment, sitting in the chair makes a safe space which has been designed as an antidote against over-stimulation.

Its bold silhouette makes an impact without demanding attention – just like the introverts it celebrates.

Williams says: “The Introvert Chair is more than just a place to lounge, it’s a whole mood. In a world that rarely slows down, we often crave a place of respite, and this chair is just that. Its soft fabric and gentle curves create a sanctuary that offers complete comfort and calm, reminding me of the power that art and design have… not only in shaping our spaces, but in transforming how we feel within them”

With 3D quilting, a padded and soft woolly texture, the chair is comfort wrapped in a theme of an emotional support system. Fabrics are made of virgin wool, alpaca, and cotton, with a hand stitched finish. The option of matching pillows and a security blanket are just teasers which this splendid creation has to offer with its extras. Relaxation is guaranteed with its vibe.

“Robbie’s creativity transcends mediums. With the Introvert Chair, he channels that vision into a design of remarkable clarity —sculptural, daring, and deeply personal” – says Marcel Wanders, Moooi’s Founder and Artistic Director. “We are thrilled to partner with Robbie for his first design collaboration with a piece that fits seamlessly into Moooi’s world of whimsical ingenuity and innovation.”

Moooi has been alive for over twenty years brining forth a world of design wonder and beauty. Moooi is named after the Dutch word for beautiful: Mooi. The third ‘O’ in the brand name stands for an extra value in terms of beauty and uniqueness.

This is not the first time that Williams has turned his hand with his creativity: He has recently debuted his artwork in three Moco Museum exhibitions in London, Amsterdam and Barcelona.

This design collaboration of the Introvert Chair is available in Moooi stores and online at moooi.com for $4,395 USD, £3,463 UK, ¥29,000 CNY, and €3,895 EUR. Introvert pillows are sold separately.

On 18^th April 2026 the Victoria and Albert Museum open its doors at a brand-new location as one of the biggest gallery projects of the decade.

V&A East Museum is the sister site to V&A Storehouse, both sites have been part of the Mayor of London’s London 2012 Olympic legacy.

Entrance is free to all and seven days a week, from 10:00 to 18:00, with late night opening until 22:00 every Thursday and Saturday.

The first paid for exhibition will be one of the highlight exhibitions upon opening is The Music is Black: A British Story. There will be a sound experience by Sennheiser and Joan Armatrading’s childhood guitar will be one of many artifacts on display. The Museum guarantees a story of Black excellence, struggle and resilience that has shaped British culture.

There will be a partnership with BBC Music for a new annual festival exploring creativity, collaboration and community. The first of this will be The Music is Black Festival at East Bank on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. This launches in Spring 2026.

Tickets for the exhibition Music is Black: A British Story will be made available in early 2026 from the Museum’s website – vam.ac.uk/exhibitions/the-music-is-black-a-british-story

For those wanting to spend some quality time abroad but are restricted by work: this splendid location takes into consideration the prospect of a workation.

Equipped with office space in specially set out centres, there is a convenience to this Austrian Resort set in the Großarltal Valley.

The backdrop of the Salzburg Mountains is just a taste of what this extraordinary place has to offer.

Taking the family to relax and unwind is just part of what can be experienced in this place.

The simple blend of work and vacation creates a new way of working remotely with soundproof Talky by VITRA workspaces complete with lots of natural daylight, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a serene atmosphere ideal for focus and creativity.

The rest of the family are then left to explore the hidden treasures of this picturesque area.

Gastronomy is at its highest level in the five-star restaurant and there is time to take a class or two including Reformer Pilates. There is the Nature Spa for those intending on thorough relaxation.

The Moar Gut Nature Resort is a place for the whole family, and it is ready for those guests wanting to work in a serene setting.

Rates start from €600 for a double room and up to €1,450 for a luxury suite, including gourmet full board and professional childcare.

For more information visit: Welcome to your hotel in Großarl Austria | moar gut

The luxurious, renowned resort is taking a different approach to festive activities this season: They have partnered with astronomer Aleks, for guided stories and telescope sessions for December and early January.

Positioned in a prime spot in this Maldivian hotel guests will discover constellations and distant galaxies from the unobstructed island shores.

Happening from 19^th December 2025 until 3^rd January 2026, there will be group, private and family sessions occurring for all ages.

To celebrate this romantic offering there will be champagne and caviar under the stars and dinners under the same theme.

Aleks comments: “InterContinental Maldives is the perfect place for stargazing, on a private island at the southern tip of the Raa Atoll with minimal light pollution and 360° ocean horizons. Due to the near-equatorial latitude we can see both northern and southern sky highlights in one night which is rare. December is a particularly good month as it is a monsoon transition time, so skies are often clearer and we are likely to see Orion, Canis Major, and Canopus, as well as zodiac constellations and even meteor showers!”

The resort also offers spectacular events such as gastronomic cooking by the world’s notable Michelin Star Chef, Tom Aikens, who will be focusing on a series of culinary experiences. This runs alongside art from Florence Super, physiotherapy from Emma Diani and Sharky & George for the children.

For further information visit: https://maldives.intercontinental.com/festive-season-2025-26/