ADVERTORIAL • October 2018

Five enchanting hotels for Christmas shopping

Snow-blanketed squares, fairy-lit stalls, the aroma of gingerbread and Glühwein hanging in the air... no-one does Christmas markets like the Europeans. For an extra dose of yuletide bonhomie, book into one of these festively fabulous hotels

Viennese whirl
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Viennese whirl

From mid-November, Vienna's cobbled squares become magical Christmas wonderlands (the Wiener Christkindlmärkt at the Rathausplatz is a must). Enter into the festive swing of things at the elegant Ritz-Carlton, Vienna, located on the Ringstrasse across from Stadtpark. Ensconce yourself in the Melounge Lobby Lounge and order the legendary feuerzangenbowle (a heady combination of rum and mulled wine). As darkness falls whizz up to the Atmosphere Rooftop Bar, transformed for the season into an enchanting market, and marvel as the cityscape below becomes a sea of twinkling lights.

Fairytale Prague
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Fairytale Prague

Wooden chalets selling pretty handcrafted gifts, giant sparkling trees, carol singers and trumpeters – Prague does Advent with aplomb. It is, after all, the birthplace of Good King Wenceslas. How better to get into the romantic spirit of Christmas than a stay at The Augustine, nestled between Prague Castle and Charles Bridge. Dating back to 1284, this is a hotel steeped in its monastic past; the Refectory Bar is where monks once dined and their cells have been converted into luxury bedrooms. After checking in, wrap up warm to take the ten-minute train ride to the Old Town Square, home to one of the prettiest yuletide markets on the map.

Beauty in Berlin
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Beauty in Berlin

Berlin is vibrant all year round but, come noël, the streets are alive with gemütlichkeit (aka ‘winter cheer’). Make a beeline for Potsdamer Platz (the public square), which transforms into a shimmering wonderland complete with an ice-skating rink. Once you’ve stocked up on handmade ornaments, rest weary shopping feet at nearby The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin. This luxury bolthole may be in the centre of town, but you’ll feel world’s away from the hustle and bustle outside. Unwind in the La Prairie Spa or simply sink into a leather armchair in the cosy environs of The Curtain Club and reward yourself with a cocktail.

Scenic Salzburg
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Scenic Salzburg

The Austrian city of Salzburg not only offers picture-perfect views of the snow-capped Alps, but the fairytale Old Town is the setting for one of the world’s best-loved Advent markets – the Salzburg Christkindlmärkt. Stave off the cold with a hot chocolate, while the brass band plays yuletide classics. For a serious dose of Alpine luxe, stay at former 15th-century hunting lodge Schloss Fuschl, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, which sits on a wooded peninsula overlooking Lake Fuschl. With its cosy decor, traditional Salzburg cuisine and top-notch wellness centre, you’ll feel as if all your Christmases have come at once.

Feeling Hungary
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Feeling Hungary

Whether you’re in the mood for catching The Nutcracker at the Opera House or wallowing in the city’s thermal baths, a Budapest Christmas is both traditional and fun. Place yourself in the heart of the action at centrally-located The Ritz-Carlton, Budapest. Housed in an eye-catching 20th-century building, the hotel combines its traditional heritage with a contemporary, plush feel. All the rooms offer views onto the city’s iconic landmarks (St Stephen’s Basilica features a laser show on its facade at this time of year). Though it’s the Kupola Lounge which is the show-stopper here; situated beneath a magnificent stained glass cupola, it’s the perfect spot for a Champagne tea. It is Christmas, after all…

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