December Diaries: Plan Your Luxurious Family Retreats and Wellness Getaways

Celebrate UAE Union Day at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi

Mark the UAE’s 53rd National Day with a week of celebrations at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, from November 27 to December 3. Highlights include cultural activities, an Emirati orchestra, and a spectacular fireworks display on December 2. Families can explore the Cultural Family Village, enjoy calligraphy and henna workshops, or participate in exclusive kids’ activities like stargazing and treasure hunts at the Kids Palace.

Guests can enhance their stay with the ‘Union Day Getaway’ package, featuring Emirati-inspired afternoon teas, Kids Palace access, and curated local-themed amenities. Dining options include Levant delicacies, contemporary Indian cuisine at Martabaan, and a Michelin-starred culinary artistry at Talea. 

Don’t miss the Palace come alive with a dazzling display of colours at sunset, reflecting the UAE’s vibrant heritage from 28 November to 12 December

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is the place to be for a day of celebrations and delight, this Union Day. For reservations, visit: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

www.mandarinoriental.com/en/abu-dhabi/emirates-palace
@mo_emiratespalace

Family Paradise: Discover Fun and Relaxation at LUX* Belle Mare

LUX* Belle Mare invites families to enjoy a memorable vacation tailored for all ages. The resort features PLAY, a dedicated Kids Club for children aged 3 to 11, and Studio 17, a hangout for tweens and teens. Toddlers have their own space, and babysitting services are available for parents seeking a night out. With one of the island’s largest pools and abundant family-friendly amenities, LUX* Belle Mare is perfect for creating lasting memories.

For reservations, visit: LUX* Belle Mare.

Dreamy Escapes: Adventure and Serenity at LUX* South Ari Atoll

LUX* South Ari Atoll, nestled in the Maldives, offers an ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. Guests can cycle along scenic jetties, swim with whale sharks, or unwind in stylish overwater bungalows or beach huts with private pools. The resort boasts eight restaurants, engaging activities for kids such as shell hunts and yoga, and teen-friendly classes like sushi-making and photography.

For reservations, visit: LUX* South Ari Atoll.

Rejuvenate at The Farm at San Benito

Nestled in lush greenery, The Farm at San Benito offers a holistic wellness retreat in the Philippines, blending ancient healing practices with cutting-edge medical expertise. Spanning 52 hectares, this eco-luxury sanctuary caters to families and individuals seeking rejuvenation. Programs include detoxification, mental health, sleep recovery, and holistic cancer care, guided by integrative medical professionals.

Families can enjoy kid-friendly spa treatments, digital detox programs, and wellness-focused dining, all set in a serene environment. This festive season, GCC travellers can benefit from tailored packages combining science-backed health optimization with the warmth of Filipino hospitality.

For reservations, visit: The Farm at San Benito.

Paradise Awaits: Indulge in Luxury at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

Accessible via a 45-minute yacht ride, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi boasts 11 restaurants, including a Michelin-star chef’s creations, private bamboo pod dining, and an aqua wellness centre. Families can enjoy water parks and kids’ clubs, while couples can retreat to one of 119 villas, each with a private pool. The resort’s crown jewel, Ithaafushi – The Private Island, accommodates up to 24 guests for the ultimate exclusive getaway.

For reservations, visit: Ithaafushi Private Island.

 

From idyllic beach retreats to holistic wellness escapes, these destinations offer unique experiences perfect for families and individuals seeking relaxation, adventure, and rejuvenation this festive season.