The last few months have run away from me, I honestly do not know where the time has gone. With just a few weeks to go until Christmas, that familiar panic of leaving everything until the last minute is beginning to set in. If you’re in the same boat as me and have absolutely no idea what to get your loved ones, a great alternative is gifting them an experience. The best thing about this is being able to join them and create more memories, think about it as a Christmas present to you.
A different kind of food experience
Why not do something different and go on a cookery course together? HH & Co Backstage offers a unique, fun and informal way of learning how to cook delicious food. The course is led by Gordon Ramsay’s protégée: Angela Hartnett, Luke Holder and Ian Longhorn. The brand new, purpose-built cookery school is featured in Lime Wood Hotel, a luxurious country house set in the midst of the beautiful New Forest National Park.
An enchanting kind of experience
For an evening of pure extravagance and the best way to get into the spirit of Christmas, treat your loved one to an unforgettable performance of The Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House and a night at the luxurious ME London hotel.
Start the evening off with a glass of champagne and a pre-theatre dinner at ME London’s rustic Italian restaurant, Cucina Asellina. Afterwards, enjoy a post-theatre cocktail at the iconic Radio Rooftop Bar and take in the breath-taking panoramic views of London, at the ME hotel. The best part is being able to fall asleep in one of their cosy feather beds.
Call +44 (0) 20 7395 3430 and quote ‘The Essence of Christmas’ or ‘Enchanting Christmas’
A makeover kind of experience
What do you get the man who has everything but time? The ‘Complete Man’ package at COMO will be sure to leave him completely revitalised and contented. The package includes a styling session with Daniel Johnson, a men’s style consultancy whose clients include celebrities and royalty, a spa package, a cocktail at the met bar, as well as the choice between a view of Hyde Park or London’s iconic landmarks.
A relaxing kind of experience
The list would be incomplete without mentioning a real country getaway. The Wild Rabbit is a re-invention of the traditional English inn and is located in the idyllic Cotswold countryside. The menu focuses around local organic produce and was named ‘Michelin Pub of the Year 2015’. If that’s not enough, the Bamford Haybarn Spa is just up the road.
We are also posting a Christmas Arcadia Gift Guide each day on our Instagram page throughout December. Have a look for more inspiration.