Niseko, which was originally an onsen (hot spring resort) for the locals is one of the fastest-growing ski destinations in the world. It is a great mix of everything Japanese and yet has a very international feel to it. Stunning ski in ski out resorts with views of Mt Yotai, a range of restaurants from small hole-in-the-wall izakaya (Japanese pub-style food) to Michelin-star restaurants and world-famous soba, there is something for everyone, and a range of off-mountain activities such as snowmobiling and tobogganing are available making it a perfect base for family holidays. Make your visit count by setting up base at the Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse. It’s truly special and has been a magnet for skiers and experience seekers from across the world.
Finland– Its Christmas so why not go all the way, on to the other side of the world, and visit Santa. Guess what! According to the fins, Santa lives in the remote town of Rovaniemi in the arctic circle. So much so that, they have created a fairy tale village, where you can meet the man himself, see the reindeer and ride husky-drawn sleighs. Can it get more Christmassy than this? And while you at it, there is a high chance of getting a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Oh, and did we mention you can stay in an igloo amongst this stunning snow-capped landscape? Stay at the Arctic Treehouse hotel. Sip tea in bed as you view the pine trees deep in glistening snow first thing in the morning.
– this is the stuff Scandinavian winter wonderland dreams are made of!
Maldives– Famed as an idyllic honeymoon destination, the archipelago of shimmering atolls that comprises the Maldives also makes a superb setting for a family holiday or a relaxing getaway with your friends. Stay at Soneva Fushi, a pioneer in sustainability and wellness to experience barefoot luxury and get a sense of being marooned on an island; spectacular property with a laid-back vibe. Experience world-class snorkelling in the surrounding turquoise ocean with a world-renowned marine biologist or indulge in an amazing lunch on a desert island prepared by your personal chef or spend a night camping under Maldivian skies on a private sandbank in a luxurious Bedouin-inspired tent, which comes with its own water closet. Then your way to a candlelit dinner before you turn-in for the night. The possibilities are endless!
Sri Lanka– Enjoy a holistic wilderness experience at the Wild coast tented Lodge adjacent to the Yala National Park known for its leopard population. This spectacular luxury tented camp is situated on a rugged, empty beach, overlooking the Indian Ocean. When you have checked off the exhilarating Safari experience, you can enjoy creative daily-changing menus of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in the restaurant, as well as sundowner cocktails and picnics al fresco on the sand dunes, watching dusk settle over the Indian Ocean. Surreal!
About the Author:
Taruna Seth, Founder and Navigator-in-Chief, Encompass Experiences
Her company facilitates authentic private and small group journeys for their community of independent-minded explorers #EncompassCircle
Instagram: @taruna_seth; @experience_encompass
