Embrace the season in these winter wonderlands
Escape to extraordinary destinations this winter for world-class service, breathtaking landscapes and exclusive experiences.
By Cassandra Brooklyn | October 31, 2024
As winter’s chill sets in, destinations around the world transform into breathtaking wonderlands, offering a perfect blend of opulence and adventure for the discerning traveler. Whether it’s skiing down powdery slopes in Park City, savoring gourmet meals by a crackling fire in Amsterdam or warming up with a serene spa soak in London, winter travel provides a unique opportunity to indulge in unique experiences amid the season’s most magical settings.
Park City, Utah
Whether you’re seeking serenity and stillness or an active adventure, Park City promises the perfect blend of world-class skiing, vibrant après-ski and exclusive wellness experiences. With its highly coveted location, Waldorf Astoria Park City is steps away from the Frostwood Gondola, providing guests with direct access to the country’s largest ski and snowboard resort, Park City Resort. The hotel’s dedicated Ski Valet team will care for, organize, store and dry your alpine equipment from the moment you arrive. Need to rent gear? The on-site Ski Butlers can also deliver quality ski and snowboard equipment directly to your room. After, or even if you don’t hit the slopes, nourish your body with Waldorf Astoria Spa’s two-hour Recovery Ritual, featuring an anti-inflammatory essential oil body wrap, a mini facial and a luxurious deep-tissue massage.
Amsterdam
The Dutch capital combines its charming blend of cultural richness and seasonal beauty with unparalleled experiences that make for a truly refined European winter getaway. Nestled along the picturesque Herengracht canal, Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam is close to the must-visit Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, as well as the cobbled streets, twinkling lights and festive holiday markets the city is known for come wintertime. Indulge in a bespoke afternoon tea experience at Peacock Alley, where gourmet teas are paired with seasonal treats such as cakes, cookies and biscuits shaped like Christmas trees and ornaments. Then, shake things up (quite literally) at the hotel’s Vault Bar, where an expert mixologist will mix, shake, stir and pour signature cocktails.
London
For a quintessential blend of elegance, culture and festive charm, London is the perfect destination for an unforgettable winter escape. Located in the heart of Westminster, Conrad London St. James serves as an excellent base that’s close to Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and traditional carol singing in Trafalgar Square. The hotel concierge can arrange private tours of iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London, all under the city’s twinkling holiday lights. Warm up by sinking into the luxurious thermal baths and invigorating plunge pools at AIRE Ancient Baths London, just a mile away from Conrad London St. James. For a cozy evening at the hotel, curl up in front of your in-suite fireplace, enjoy live music at Blue Boar Pub or savor elevated versions of traditional British fare at The Pem, both located within the hotel.
Cassandra Brooklyn
Cassandra Brooklyn is a freelance writer and guidebook author specializing in travel, accessibility, sustainability, and all things outdoors. Originally hailing from the Midwest, she now lives in New York City but escapes to adventures around the world as often as possible. As the caregiver of a disabled parent — and as a hyper involved auntie of three — Cassandra is especially passionate about accessible, inclusive and multi-gen travel. She's the author of the cycling guidebook, Cuba By Bike, has contributed to multiple guidebooks about Egypt, Portugal, and the United States, and she has bylines in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, National Geographic, Forbes, The Daily Beast and Lonely Planet, among others.
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