The Great Escape

December has hit (along with the snow), and suddenly everyone is in a planning panic for Christmas vacation. We know, we warn you to come to us far in advance for the good stuff. But in the eleventh hour, we can still toss a few truffles in your stocking.

Huvafen Fushi, Maldives
Huvafen Fushi is a gift in itself; you won’t need to wrap anything else. This incredible Maldivian resort offers spacious private villas and an underwater spa, to ensure you won’t be missing your Christmas tree. Ocean and Lagoon Bungalows (with plunge pools) are still available from December 19 – 27, and if you stay seven nights you get two free, as well as free transfers and an upgrade to half board.

Riad Farnatchi, Morocco
With just nine sublime suites, this wonderfully restored collection of traditional riads in the heart of Marrakech’s old city is the ultimate place to stay for anyone looking to engage in the culture (but still have a blissfully quiet night’s sleep). There is still availability for the Christmas season if you plan with us now.

Aman-i-Khás, India
With almost a billion Hindu souls, India doesn’t celebrate Christmas or Chanukah per se. But every day is a celebration of some sort in this land of extreme character and colour, so it’s a fittingly special place for the holidays. Spend some quality time with the family under luxurious tented roofs in Rajasthan. Don’t worry, the reindeer have been trained to land on the solid ground alongside you.

SwisSKISafari, Switzerland
If you’re looking a bit further into the new year, SwisSKISafari still has late availability for individual travellers on a January 9 – 14 departure. For $6200 or $5530 (depending on room choice) you get all your ski passes, 2 days of heli-skiing, a bunch of new ski buddies, and an incredible laundry list of other inclusions in this whirlwind ski tour of Switzerland, Italy and France.

Amankora, Bhutan
Bhutan may not be the first place people think of for a winter getaway, but if you’re after a deep dose of untouched culture, absolute serenity, and spectacular scenery, then it should be top of your list. Amankora (Aman’s collection of five lodges across Bhutan) is, quite uncharacteristically, still available for last minute holiday bookings.

Tupaiu Cruise Boat, Brazil
One man’s cancellation is another man’s treasure. Space has just opened up on a private charter boat in Manaus between December 29 and January 5. Nobody does New Year’s like the Brazilians, and you’ll be cruising in style through the Amazon rainforest, with pristine beaches and naturalist guides waiting for your family alone.