Discover 5 ways hotels create a festive guest experience during the holiday season, from stunning decorations to exclusive events.
During the holiday season, hotels are known for creating special, festive experiences that leave a lasting impression on their guests. From cozy decorations to exciting events, hotels pull out all the stops to make sure visitors enjoy a magical holiday. Here are five ways hotels bring the holiday spirit to life:
1. Holiday Decorations and Ambience
The first thing guests notice is the festive décor. Hotels love to decorate their lobbies with grand Christmas trees, sparkling lights, and seasonal flowers. For example, The Plaza Hotel in New York creates an elegant winter wonderland in its lobby every year, complete with a giant tree and twinkling lights. In addition to decorations, hotels use scents, like pine or cinnamon, and holiday music to make the atmosphere even more festive.
2. Festive Dining Experiences
Food plays a big role in holiday celebrations, and many hotels create special holiday menus. For example, The Ritz-Carlton in London offers a luxurious Christmas afternoon tea with seasonal treats like mince pies and gingerbread cookies. Four Seasons Resort in Maui holds a traditional holiday dinner, with local dishes and classic holiday meals.
3. Exclusive Holiday Packages and Events
Many hotels offer exclusive holiday packages that include special events or activities. For example, The Fairmont in Banff, Canada, offers a festive package that includes a sleigh ride, a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, and an elegant holiday dinner. The Dorchester in London often hosts glamorous New Year’s Eve parties, complete with live music and fireworks.
4. Personalized Touches for Guests
Hotels go the extra mile by offering personalized touches to make guests feel at home. For instance, The Mandarin Oriental in New York may surprise guests with custom holiday gifts, such as festive chocolate boxes or personalized ornaments. These small but thoughtful touches make the holidays even more memorable and show guests that the hotel cares about their experience.
5. Family-Friendly Activities
Many families travel during the holidays, so hotels create fun and festive activities for children. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort in Florida invites families to enjoy a holiday gingerbread house display and watch holiday movies in the hotel’s cozy lobby. The Ritz-Carlton in Amelia Island, Florida, offers special kids' clubs with holiday crafts, cookies, and visits from Santa Claus.
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