Destinations of the World News - December 2024

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The soft crunch of freshly fallen snow beneath your boots; an exhilarating coldness that brings a purity of fresh air that can only be achieved when the temperatures drop below zero; there’s something so enchanting about the winter season that sees nature covered with an all-encompassing white quilt.
Growing up in Ireland, the winter period was dominated by the quest for presents and the eternal dreams of a white Christmas, with my favourite memory of a blizzard descending on December 24 and the following day spent outside with my sister, trying to emulate my Dad’s snowman equivalent of Michelangelo’s David – we miserably failed! And even though I am currently soaking up the idyllic, tropical island vibes of the Lhaviyani Atoll in the Maldives and call the heart of the desert home, I remain forever hopeful of a white one this festive season.
Keeping with the winter theme, we offer up some inspiration to get you in the mood for all the cool festivities. In Italy’s Alta Badia region, Graeme Green hits new heights in The Dolomites while Matthew McQueen heeds London’s calling and explores spacious suites, park views and some exquisite Italian dining. As for me, I am taking to the slopes of the Pyrenees of Catalonia, before I thaw out in Dubai with a 17-course dining experience at Jason Atherton’s two Michelin-starred restaurant, Row on 45.
With 2024 coming to a close, we look back on our adventures, the places we have been and the people we have met and look forward to an even more exciting 2025. On behalf of the DOTW News team, I wish all of you a happy festive season, a prosperous New Year and hopefully, a white Christmas.