Holiday season getaways for you

Bask in tropical bliss and see two very different – but equally enticing – sides of Thailand this holiday season. With glitz, glamour and its own vibrant energy, Bangkok is a great place to start your adventure and soak up the holiday vibes. Explore local flavours on a street food tour, or treat yourself to a Christmas feast in a swanky riverside hotel. And for those who want to keep the party going, the city’s many rooftop bars are perfect for late-night and New Year celebrations.

Next stop is Koh Samui with its laidback island vibes. Experience ultimate chill on a palm-fringed beach or by your private pool. Head out to explore the island or on thrilling diving and seafaring adventures. After dark, the festive celebrations continue long into the night.

Where to stay: In Bangkok, Avani offers three centrally located options: Avani Riverside Bangkok Hotel, Avani Sukhumvit Bangkok Hotel and Avani Ratchada Bangkok Hotel. On Koh Samui, Avani Chaweng Samui Hotel & Beach Club and Avani+ Samui Resort offer stylish beachside stays brimming with festive cheer.

Wild adventure by day. Cosy festive feasts after dark. Namibia gets the balance just right if you’re looking for a holiday season escape with a difference. Begin in Windhoek, where holiday markets feature hand-crafted gifts, local delicacies and carol performances. Then it’s time to head out and explore Namibia’s incredible natural beauty. Witness the towering dunes of Sossusvlei or take a safari tour through Etosha National Park to spot lions, elephants and rhinos in their natural habitat. And when the sun sets, celebrate the season with delicious dining and fun-filled festive celebrations.

Where to stay: After a fun-filled day out, there’s nowhere better to return to base camp than Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino. Stay in style and celebrate the season with a choice of Christmas and New Year events.

For a festive getaway to rival the rest, beat the winter blues in iconic Dubai style. Despite the blue skies and sunshine, you can still dream of a white Christmas. Of white sandy beaches that is! After a day on the beach, flow through this metropolitan landscape on a stream of activity that will lead you from thrilling experience to thrilling experience. Cool down with a visit to Ski Dubai. Fuel your festive fire along the Dubai Marina where high-class restaurants rub shoulders with authentic street food stalls. And stay a little longer for the New Year with its spectacular fireworks displays.

Where to stay: Comfort, convenience and festive feasts await at our three Dubai hotels – Avani Deira Dubai Hotel, Avani Ibn Battuta Dubai Hotel and Avani+ Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites. 

For a barefoot and blissed out Christmas and New Year, the Maldives has everything you need. Think sun-kissed days lazing by the beach or on the deck of your overwater pool villa. Embark on seafaring adventures across the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve – home to stunning marine life and some of the best diving spots in the world. Or a sunset cruise on a local dhoni boat as the water turns brilliant shades of orange. And when the stars come out it’s time to dine or party on the water's edge as your castaway atoll comes alive with the spirit of the holiday season.

Where to stay: Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort is where festive season dreams come to life. Enjoy family beach games, fun runs, Christmas tree lighting and family-friendly festive activities. Bliss out in the spa with bespoke treatments crafted specially for the holiday season. And choose from an array of Christmas and New Year celebrations, both on and off the island.

Europe’s cities are a wonderful place to spend Christmas and the New Year, and the Spanish capital shines brighter than most during the holiday season. Watch the streets come to life with dazzling Christmas lighting displays – spots like Gran Via and Plaza Mayor should definitely be on your list. Take some time to explore the many Christmas markets around the city and pick up gifts for loved ones. Sample seasonal local treats such as turron and churros con chocolate. Or for a unique Madrid Christmas experience, ice skate under the twinkling lights at Matadero Madrid or Retiro Park.

Where to stay: Located in the charming Chamberi neighbourhood, Avani Alonso Martinez Madrid Hotel puts you close to all the festive action. Simply hop on the metro to visit all the city’s best sights. After dark, the neighborhood's restaurants come alive with festive cheer and celebration.