Where the Cathay editors are spending Christmas this year

How are Cathay’s seasoned globetrotters spending Christmas and the New Year? From Bangkok’s enticing food streets and Penang’s gorgeous beaches to Bath’s charming boutiques and Frankfurt’s buzzing Christmas markets, our editors are here to divulge their go-to holiday destinations, along with exquisite hotel stays that make the season truly magical.  

Warm winter in Bangkok

Christmas is a highlight on our family calendar, though my husband's aversion to the cold tends to steer us towards warmer climes. While Bangkok exudes less of the usual Yuletide charm, this Thai capital's diverse culinary offerings never fail to lift our spirits, whether we’re savouring mouth-watering street food or indulging in Michelin-starred experiences.

Where to stay: InterContinental Bangkok Sukhumvit, an IHG Hotel provides both easy access to the city centre and a serene place to retreat to at the end of the day. 

Book a room by 31 March 2025 to enjoy complimentary breakfast and an early bird discount of 10 per cent when you confirm your reservation 45 days before your arrival.

Alternatively, the stunningly-designed Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok boasts a fantastic menu of rejuvenating spa treatments and wonderful dining options, as well as a vibrant kid's club for children to express their creativity. 

Confirm your booking by 31 October 2025 to enjoy a complimentary breakfast. Plus, we’ll take 15 per cent off your stay if you book 30 days before your arrival – make it 60 days, and we’ll shave off 20 per cent. 

-       Roberliza Eugenio, Content Editor, Cathay 

Bathing in Bath

It’s become a tradition for my mum and me to visit the beautiful city of Bath each Christmas. We spoil ourselves by booking a stay in a luxurious hotel and spending the day at Thermae Bath Spa – six floors of baths topped off with a rooftop pool – then shop for gifts in the city’s Christmassy boutiques and department stores. 

Where to stay: This year we have our eye on The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa. It's a heritage masterpiece that’ll have us perambulating its grounds like Regency duchesses.

-       Lauren James, Managing Editor, Cathay 

Feast in Penang

The holiday season can put a significant dent in the wallet, so when it comes to convenient and affordable getaways, Penang is the perfect destination. This coastal city boasts an array of delights: drool-worthy street food, historical architecture, artsy neighbourhoods, beautiful beaches and exciting water sports.

Where to stay: Eastern and Oriental Hotel is one of the few five-star properties along the George Town waterfront. Every winter, the hotel puts up a six-metre-tall Christmas tree and hosts a captivating lighting ceremony – it’s simply unmissable. Before the jingle bells ring, I love grabbing myself a drink at the chic vintage cocktail bar, Farquhar’s Bar .

-       Shelby Chan, Content Editor, Cathay

Yuletide spirit in Frankfurt

There’s nothing like experiencing the magic of a German Christmas in Frankfurt. I can still picture the glow of Frankfurt’s historic Christmas Market; stalls selling traditional crafts and indulgent treats practically spill out of Römerberg Square. If you eat nothing else (but you absolutely will), try the Hungarian langos, preferably smothered in Nutella. 

Where to stay: A little outside the city, Hotel Palmenhof is a beautiful property bordering leafy Grüneberg Park, where you can see red squirrels scurrying along tree branches. The pleasant walk to town takes in the Alte Oper and Goethe House, among other renowned sites. 

-       Charlotte Ames-Ettridge, Senior Sub-editor, Cathay

A literary journey in Fukuoka

This year, my family and I are spending the holidays in Fukuoka, a city I love for its mild weather. Although the temperature averages about 9˚C during winter, it seldom snows – perfect for travellers who aren’t used to the cold. The city centre is just a short 20-minute drive from the airport and is sprinkled with popular attractions along the way. 

Where to stay: Lamp Light Books Hotel Fukuoka in the Tenjin District is a literary-themed hotel, inviting guests to enjoy a curated collection of books housed in the wall of its lobby. The hotel also offers bicycles for hire – a great way to take in the city, especially when you’re conveniently located near hot spots like the Daimyo shopping district and Tenjin Underground Mall, among others.

-       Charlotte Kung, Content Editor, Cathay

Ring in the New Year in Taipei

Although Japan is one of my favourite places to visit, I’ve travelled there several times already this year. Instead, I’ll be spending the holidays visiting friends in another favourite city of mine: Taipei. I'm looking forward to soaking up the electrifying atmosphere around Taipei 101 during the New Year countdown. After that, we might escape the winter chill at some hot springs.

Where to stay: Taipei Radium Kagaya International Hotel in Beitou will be my home away from home this holiday season. The hotel features a Kagaya hot spring room where each bath is thoughtfully designed using different materials – ceramic, cypress and natural stone – allowing guests to experience total relaxation, three ways.  

-       Wylie Liu, Deputy Editor, Cathay