“The last time I went to Brussels was during Christmas; it was very cold but there was bright sunshine. We walked around the Grand Place, where I admired the beautiful houses and the town hall – there was even a horse and carriage! As soon as we got back to Hotel Amigo, we enjoyed a delicious hot chocolate and lots of heavenly cakes. My favourite festive cookie is definitely Speculoos, because they are full of cinnamon and Christmassy spices.
Hotel Amigo is my favourite place to be at Christmas because it has the most beautiful Christmas decorations, lovely flowers and gifts for children. This year, I was given a stuffed owl that I named Snowy.
I particularly enjoy the breakfast at Amigo; it feels like a royal palace with so many delicious foods to choose from and there is even a special children’s table where you can discover the adventures of Tintin. When I’m older, I would like to work in a hotel just like Hotel Amigo because I always have so much fun when I stay there. I love playing with everything in my room and all the special activities for children. Hotel Amigo is a magical place, and everyone there is so nice and friendly – I always feel like a princess!”
Step into a winter wonderland at Hotel Amigo by booking your Christmas family escape now.
The sound comes first - the soft thud of a well-struck ball, rising into a clear blue Sicilian sky. Ahead, fairways unfold in undulating greens towards the blue calm of the Mediterranean. The air is warm, perfumed with orange blossom and sea salt. There’s no rush, only a meditative rhythm: swing, step, breathe and repeat, interrupted only by the sound of waves.
The festive season brings its own kind of sparkle - a flurry of celebrations, feasts, and time with those who matter most. To make gifting simple, we’ve curated a selection of bespoke experiences to delight everyone on your list. From candlelit dinners and Italian wine tastings to tranquil spa escapes and moments devoted to yourself, each experience thoughtfully crafted to offer moments of joy.
Preparations were in full swing at the North Pole - ribbons tied, sleigh bells polished, and lists checked twice - yet Father Christmas kindly agreed to pause his busy schedule for an interview. We met him at SCOTCH at The Balmoral, just as the famous clocktower struck 12:03 - it stands watch over Waverley Station, running three minutes fast, so no one ever misses a train. Settled into a deep armchair with a favourite dram in hand, he shared his most treasured places to pause, indulge and unwind across Europe every festive season.
