In this part of the world of tropical Southeast Asia, Christmas is missing the white snow and frosts. However, if you want to experience a cold tropical Christmas, it is still possible in the highlands in the region.
One such place to experience a cold tropical Christmas is at the Cameron Highlands Resort in Malaysia, within traveling distance for an overnight trip or to stay for a night or two as a short getaway.
Cameron Highlands Resort’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting weekend is back this year with an inaugural Christmas pop-up market to offer guests a spot of shopping in addition to its line-up of much-anticipated Yuletide festivities. Held from 11 to 13 November, guests can also look forward to a luxurious spa experience, a revitalising mystery trail and
delectable culinary adventures.
Staying true to the resort’s tagline of ‘Trails, Tales & Traditions’, the weekend will celebrate the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony with splendour, exuding the old English charm of the luxurious resort.
Guests can revel in a magical experience, witnessing spectacular scenes of Christmas as towering Norwegian Pine Trees adorned in glittering lights and ornaments illuminate the resort, transforming it into a whimsical Christmas wonderland, with a sprinkling of carolling to spruce up the festive atmosphere. Coupled with the cool climate, the Christmas Tree Lighting will truly get you into the spirit of the season.
Following this, guests can soak up the sights, smells and sounds as they wander around the Christmas pop-up market that presents a vast array of festive treats such as mulled wine, pudding and ice-cream along with homemade jams and fresh strawberries.
Nature-lovers and bird-watching enthusiasts can look forward to the Jim Thompson Mystery Trail, named after an American businessman famed for his revival of the Thai silk industry, and one who had a love for nature and the country.
In 1967, he set out for a mid-afternoon stroll in the jungle and was never seen again – hence the signature trail combines his passion for the surrounding hills with the mysterious circumstances of his disappearance. The resort’s resident naturalist will take guests on a step-by-step journey that will reveal the many species of flora and fauna, and historical sites where Jim Thompson was last seen.
To create a memorable stay for guests, there will also be delectable culinary selections that will whet the appetite of even the most discerning, from savouring a cascade-style breakfast overlooking the lush mountaintops and the golf course at the Dining Room, to indulging in the time-honoured tradition of English Afternoon Tea with oven-fresh pastries, delicate sandwiches, homemade scones, clotted cream, strawberry jam and plump strawberries, complemented by a selection of specialty teas from Cameron Highlands, at the Jim Thompson Tea Room.
The evening will begin at the Highlands Bar with a selection of festive cocktails, specially crafted by YTL Hotels’ personable “Johnnie the Barman”, head bartender from Smoke House at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur before leading into a formal Christmas dinner with a special menu featuring Yuletide favourites.
Thereafter, guests can choose to enjoy a luxurious spa experience at the award-winning Spa Village Cameron Highlands, or explore one of the many other activities and trails offered at the resort. A unique haven for relaxation and rejuvenation where tea is the foundation for the experience, Spa Village Cameron Highlands includes healing therapies based on produce surrounding the jungles and ancient tea rituals.
To celebrate the festive season, there will be a special promotion for the Christmas Tree Lighting weekend. Starting from RM772++ (approx. SGD 258++) per room per night, guests will get to stay in the Deluxe Room and receive complimentary daily breakfast and lunch (for two adults).
The promotion also includes a heart-warming steamboat dinner on 11 November, English Afternoon Tea, pre-dinner cocktails and a Christmas dinner on 12 November, as well as the Jim Thompson Mystery Trail experience, subject to availability and weather conditions.
Booking is subject to availability. Hence book early to avoid disappointment. For more details, visit the official website.
5