Vietnamese Resort in 12 must-visit hotels for Christmas

Lonely Planet's travel guide suggests 12 ideal hotels for enjoying Christmas, including one in Vietnam.

Often referred to as the "Bible of the travel world," Lonely Planet, the world's largest independent travel guide publisher with over 600 publications, has suggested 12 of the best hotels on the planet for Christmas 2024.

Alma Resort, located in Cam Ranh City, Khanh Hoa Province, is the Vietnamese representative featured on the list.

"Do you think Vietnam isn't an ideal Christmas destination? Think again. The festive atmosphere is everywhere!" Alma Resort, a 30-hectare beachfront resort located on the central coast, offers guests daily surprises, according to the travel guide. From a gingerbread house made from 230 kg of flour (pictured) to a large-scale Advent calendar, the resort provides a unique experience. Room rates start from 4.4 million VND.

In addition, the resort will host a Christmas market selling handicrafts and local produce. The Kids Club will also sell handmade Christmas cards made by the children at the local orphanage. The proceeds will be used to support the children. (Photo) Cabinet

The Plaza, located in New York City, USA, is the first name mentioned by Lonely Planet on its list.

According to experts, Christmas at The Plaza is as magical and captivating as the films that made the place famous: Home Alone 2 (1992) and Eloise at Christmastime (2003). The hotel lobby sparkles with wreaths, twinkling lights, and a large Christmas tree. Room rates start from 24 million VND.

The selection criteria were based on easily accessible location, value for money, luxurious hotels, beautiful Christmas decorations, and various related activities for guests during the holiday season. (Photo:) The Plaza

Located in Perthshire, Scotland, Gleneagles Hotel is a highly-rated Christmas destination. It's filled with festive atmosphere, Scottish folklore, crackling bonfires, and a special visit from Santa Claus and his nine reindeer.

Guests staying at the hotel can participate in holiday activities such as ice skating, craft classes, Christmas parties, and fine cheese and wine tastings, as well as mime and comedy performances. Room rates start from 14 million VND. Photo: Cabinet

For the most magical Christmas getaway possible, closest to the Arctic Circle, Lonely Planet suggests Paws Up Montana, USA, a ranch spanning nearly 150 square kilometers. During the holiday season, it transforms into a Santa Claus Village.

Visitors can enjoy dog sledding to admire the snow-covered landscape, cross-country skiing to Canada, gingerbread baking, or watch impressive gingerbread creations made by experts. A 5-night package, including a luxurious family-run lodge, meals, and drinks for one person, starts at $500 USD. (Photo:) The Resort at Paws Up

The Four Seasons Resort on Landaa Giraavaru Baa Atoll, Maldives, is a great option for travelers looking to escape the cold. Christmas on this island is always sunny, with beachside festivities. Guests can participate in the Christmas tree lighting ceremony and visit the Christmas market. Children can immerse themselves in the "Wonderful Wonderland" event with Santa Claus.

On Christmas Eve, guests can enjoy a delicious seafood feast. Room rates start from 50 million VND. Photo: Cabinet

What would a holiday in a palace be like? The answer can be found at La Mamounia, the iconic hotel in Marrakesh, Morocco.

From December 14th to 24th, the hotel's garden hosts a Christmas market where guests can shop for everything from Christmas tree decorations to exclusive perfumes. The market is the perfect place to find unique gifts and take a touch of La Mamounia's luxury home with you. Room rates start from 14 million VND. Photo: Atlantica Varies

The five-star Villa d'Este hotel, located on Lake Como in Italy, is considered an "enchanting place" during the holiday season. The entire hotel grounds sparkle with festive lights and fluttering red ribbons, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere.

In classic Italian style, a grand feast is the centerpiece of Christmas Eve, followed by a lavish lunch featuring traditional dishes. The hotel's ballroom is a haven for travelers who love chocolate, Yule log cake, and pannettone (sweet fruit-filled bread). Room rates start from 23 million VND. Photo: Villa d'Este

Located in a Norwegian fjord, Union Øye offers guests a peaceful Christmas atmosphere, free from noise and hustle. The hotel sits at the foot of a snow-capped mountain and is surrounded by a snow-covered forest, creating a magical setting.

Guests can spend the day sipping mulled wine by the fire, sampling Christmas cookies, and ice skating on the lake. During the holiday season, the hotel offers no activities to ensure complete relaxation, except for a traditional Christmas Eve dinner by the Christmas tree. Room rates start from 7 million VND. Photo: Union Øye

Staying at the Taschenbergpalais Kempinski Dresdens hotel in Germany, guests can experience the Striezelmarkt – the world's oldest Christmas market – right outside their room.

Stroll around the market's 240 stalls or explore dozens of other market areas.
Christmas in Dresden is a favorite experience for many visitors staying here. Events and festivals also take place continuously throughout the year. Cheese fondue and mulled wine are dishes visitors should try during their stay. Room rates start from 7 million VND.

Image: Taschenbergpalais Kempinski Dresdens

Located high in the Carpa Mountains of Saas Fee, the Swiss village where the band Wham filmed their hit song "Last Christmas," this hotel is the ideal destination for travelers wanting to experience their own "Last Christmas." Guests can enjoy breathtaking snow-capped mountain scenery, sip mulled wine, and savor classic 1980s cuisine during their stay.

Outside the hotel is a Christmas market where guests can buy pretty little souvenirs as gifts. Room rates start from 12 million VND. Photo: Cabinet

In London, Christmas is synonymous with Claridge's Hotel. The annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony is a long-awaited event, and this year is no exception. Even non-guests are drawn to the beautifully decorated lobby.

The Christmas menu included Wellington, a famous and delicious English pudding. "The hotel is the most magical place in London at Christmas," according to the hotel. Lonely Planet. Room rates start from 30 million VND. Photo: Cabinet

The Beaches Turks & Caicos resort in the Turks & Caicos Islands will offer guests a sunny Christmas experience, instead of being surrounded by snow.

Inspired by mischievous elves, the resort offers guests a variety of experiences during the year-end holidays, such as treasure hunts, dinner parties, nighttime movie screenings, and an adventure to the "Arctic" on the island. The continuous activities promise a busy and memorable holiday. Room rates start from 40 million VND.

Room rates for resorts and hotels are based on booking apps like Agoda, Booking, or the hotel's website, for weekdays in December and January, excluding holidays. (Image) Cabinet

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