From festive tree lightings to a culinary masterpiece, join us on a magical Yuletide weekend retreat
To experience a Christmas weekend in a luxurious hotel is like unwrapping a gift of self-love for a fabulous start to the holiday season. All you need is a night of celebration with your loved ones in a tranquil resort, and a well-planned evening of delicious meals and drinks to kick in the spirit of Yuletide. Luckily, this year the cheer started way before the actual holiday, and for the long festive weekend, we packed our warm Christmas sweaters and warmers to spend a hearty staycation at the Courtyard by Marriott Aravali Resort.
Just an hour away from Delhi, the gorgeous resort in Faridabad’s peaceful countryside was decked up into a winter wonderland to welcome the little guests and their parents, who were excited to be a part of holiday celebrations on the property. As we entered the reception covered by frosty gingerbread walls, a warm aroma of holiday spices and sweet treats welcomed us into the retreat adorned with glittering decorations. After a smooth check-in, we moved towards the poolside for fresh masala tea and to be a part of the daily ‘Chaupal’ pop-up where in-house guests get a chance to experience the rustic village life with street snacks like bhelpuri, papri, chaat, and golgappas.
By the evening, all eyes were set on witnessing the magical lighting of the enormous Christmas tree in the hotel lobby decorated with colourful ornaments beside the glittering Santa and his reindeer on the sleigh. The GM of the hotel, Rajneesh Kumar, announced a special treasure hunt game for children to find out the switch for Christmas tree lighting, and soon after Santa’s arrival the tree was illuminated and the carols poured in. The spectacular twinkling lights brought joy not only to the kids but to every guest present; and, soon the warmth of the holiday spirit enveloped the entire resort, creating an ambiance that was nothing short of magical. Stepping into the hotel lobby felt like entering a scene from a winter fairy tale, where the enchantment of the season was brought to life. It was a fun-filled start to the holidays, and the hotel lobby became a hub of merriment and celebration, setting the perfect tone for the festive season ahead.
After the merriment of the kids, adults waited for their favourite part of the stay – a special sit-down Italian dinner prepared by the talented in-house chef Dinesh Rana. The culinary experience was a symphony of flavors, showcasing the chef's expertise and dedication to delivering an exceptional dining experience. Each dish was a masterpiece, and the attention to detail was evident in every bite, making it a memorable feast for the senses with exquisite flavors and delightful textures. The table was adorned with an array of dishes that showcased the richness and diversity of the cuisine and presented with an artistic flair. From the velvety texture of handmade pasta to the robust flavors of perfectly seasoned sauces in gnocchi and the fresh Caprese salad and lamb chops, every bite was a revelation.
The air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of herbs and spices, creating an immersive experience that showcased the essence of Italy's gastronomic heritage and the chef’s conviviality. As we tucked in our comfy beds after a hearty Italian dinner, the idea of taking time out to celebrate Christmas in a resort that’s just a stone's throw away from Delhi seemed like the best decision for Yule indulgence.
