“What unites our projects isn’t a visual style, but rather an open and speculative design process,” says Krištof Hanzlík, one of the founders of Coll Coll (short for “collaborative collective”), based in Prague. Known for embracing technological innovation (the firm built one of the city’s first keyless, light-switch-free smart homes in 2020), Coll Coll recently renovated Planetárium Praha, which boasts the world’s biggest LED astronomical dome display.
Hanzlík, one of the founders of the Prague-based firm Coll Coll. Photograph by Kristina Hrabetova.
Here, Hanzlík shares his beloved spots in Prague, a city he cherishes because “it still has this raw, unpolished edge—a vibe that encourages you to experiment and create.”
Eat
Black cod at MIRU
MIRU: “At Four Seasons Hotel Prague, it’s definitely MIRU, the Japanese summer pop-up restaurant on the roof. Events like this add so much colour to life [here].”
Zdenek’s Oyster Bar: “They serve five kinds of fresh oysters, which is pretty remarkable for a landlocked country.”
Malostranská Beseda: “A traditional place with great beer. We designed it, so it feels like our second kitchen; it’s a lifesaver when we don’t have time to cook.”
Food is served with a view at Kuchyň
Kuchyň: “Located right in front of the main gate of Prague Castle, it serves Czech food with a contemporary twist and has the second-best view of Prague. Of course, the best [view] is from my own garden.”
Tåst: “A hidden fine-dining gem in Malá Strana [neighbourhood]. It’s not a show-off place, but pure pleasure.”
Kro: “This bistro offers a global take on local cuisine. Imagine pork knee with hoisin sauce and coleslaw.”
The industrial-chic interior of Eska. Photograph by Archive of Ambiente.
Bakeries:“Bread—oh, we love bread! Over the past few years, so many incredible bakeries have popped up, [including] Icelandic baker Artic Bakehouse; Eska, especially their [rye, wheat, and potato] Bread 33; and Chleba & Máslo—in my opinion, the best rohlík [bread roll] in town.”
Štvanice Island: “Take a stroll over the HolKa Bridge, a brand-new pedestrian bridge connecting Holešovice and Karlín. Make a digression to Štvanice Island, where you’ll find tennis courts, a skateboarding center, and Baden-Baden Štvanice—a fantastic outdoor spot for summer chilling.”
Browse
Bookstores: “Since my wife is a publisher, we hoard books! Our go-to spots are Kavka, ArtMap, and Meander for unique children’s books.”
See
Planetárium Praha’s LED dome, designed by Coll Coll. Photograph by Boys Play Nice.
Planetárium Praha: “Our newest project features a first-of-its-kind, 40-million LED dome and is part of a growing network of cutting-edge cultural spaces in Prague. Alongside newly opened venues like [digital art gallery] Signal Space, as well as the recently renovated Nová Spirála theatre, these spaces form a fabric of top-tier digital and visual infrastructure. This brings all sorts of magic to town.”
Villa Bílek: “The studio-home of sculptor František Bílek from the early 20th century. It’s one of the most extraordinary houses I’ve ever seen.”
The New Stage of the National Theatre
New Stage of the National Theatre: “Famous for its striking Cuban [serpentinite] interiors and the monumental glass façade designed by Brychtová and Libenský.”
Strahov Library: “It’s less pompous and crowded than the Klementinum library but equally breathtaking.”
Usually things go awry when the wheels come off—but on the water, that’s a good thing. Whether it’s an old-school wooden boat for two or a state-of-the-art yacht with plush accommodations, Four Seasons offers on-the-water experiences that you won’t soon forget. Here’s a small sampling.
A Floating Resort
Four Seasons Explorer, Palau: There is simply no better way to experience the Micronesian island nation of Palau: Explore UNESCO World Heritage islands and stunning lagoons while spending nights aboard this intimate ship, home to 10 elegant staterooms and the luxurious Explorer Suite.
Ideal for: Those who love the outdoors and water sports as much as they love AC and high thread count.
Romance on the River
Four Seasons Hotel Prague: The Vltava River flows through the heart of the Czech Republic’s capital, making a private boat ride—especially on a charming wooden vessel captained by a guide carrying Prosseco or mulled wine and hot chocolate, depending on the weather—an ideal way to experience the city’s most romantic landmarks in unforgettable style.
Ideal for: Couples looking for a guided experience without the tour group.
From Air to Water
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora: All arriving guests are escorted from the local airport directly to an awaiting 1920s-inspired Andreyale for a breathtaking 15-minute transfer to the resort. The 39-foot yacht can also be booked for sunset cruises.
Ideal for: Guests who are eager to be up close with Tahiti’s legendary turquoise waters after a long day of travel.
Multigenerational Adventures
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai: Guests visiting the Big Island and seeking fun for the whole family will want to consider chartering Alaka’i Nui, the resort’s 46-foot luxury catamaran. Customizable experiences include beach-hopping voyages and whale-watching tours.
Ideal for: Groups with a range of interests and abilities. Guests can participate in water activities, like snorkeling or deep-sea fishing, or simply relax on the boat.
A Retro Rental
Four Seasons Hotel Austin: A trip to Texas Hill Country wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of the many lakes in the region. In Austin, guests can rent a vintage-style electric boat, in retro colours like mint green and bubblegum pink, to cruise Lady Bird Lake. Cooler and Bluetooth speaker included.
Ideal for: Fun seekers and vibe chasers. (To captain, guests must be at least 21 years old.)
Catch of the Day
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Los Cabos at Costa Palmas: Top skiers know to head to Whistler for epic slopes; deep-sea fishing enthusiasts know to make a pilgrimage to Los Cabos for some of the world’s best salt-water angling. Hop onboard a 17-metre yacht for an unforgettable guided day of fishing; all equipment is included.
Ideal for: Anglers who love the adrenaline rush of big-game fishing.
Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa—some of the calendar’s biggest holidays anchor the tail end of the year, but it’s never too early to start planning for them. Whether you’re hoping to gather the entire extended family for a festive reunion or celebrate with just your nearest and dearest, Four Seasons will help you craft a holiday experience for the books. From seasonal events to special menus, these four properties go above and beyond to spread joy and mirth.
Festive at Four Seasons Hotel Prague
The Christmas tree at the Old Town Square’s Christmas Market.
If a classic old-world holiday experience is what you’re after, Prague should be high on your list of destinations to consider for your end-of-year vacation. The Czech Republic’s capital city has charmed many a travel writer with its cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture; now imagine the city all decked out for the holidays. It’s a veritable winter wonderland straight out of a fairy tale.
Bonus: No need to pack presents. Just a seven-minute walk from Four Seasons Hotel Prague is the Old Town Square, site of the city’s largest Christmas Market (and tallest Christmas tree). Sip on mulled wine, treat the kids to gingerbread, and shop for handmade souvenirs to bring home. This year, the market starts November 26 and ends January 6.
After a day of exploring, retire to the hotel, itself decorated to the nines, and indulge in the Dior Afternoon Tea at the Gallery lounge (preferably by the fireplace), where you can warm up with a spot of tea and a selection of canapés, scones, and desserts.
When you book a stay at Four Seasons Hotel Prague, you also have at your disposal its incredible curated experiences—including a private tour through the Old Town Square Christmas Market, an evening ride in an antique car to take in the city’s holiday lights and decorations, and cultural happenings like Advent concerts at the National Library of the Czech Republic in the Klementinum.
Festive at Four Seasons Hotel Nashville
Lower Broadway in Nashville. Photograph by mana5280 on Unsplash.
Nashville’s nickname is Music City—for good reason. It’s a mecca for country music buffs and live music aficionados. And come winter, the city adds carols and jingles to its musical repertoire.
This season, holiday-themed shows happening in Tennessee’s capital city will include Opry Country Christmasat the Grand Ole Opry House; screenings of Elf and Home Alone accompanied by live music at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center; A Drag Queen Christmas at Ryman Auditorium; and Nashville Ballet’s Nashville’s Nutcracker at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Andrew Jackson Hall.
At Four Seasons Hotel Nashville, the holidays are all about delighting guests with special treats and events. At the Festive Carolers Dinner, carolers spread cheer from table to table, singing Christmas classics. At the Christmas Day Brunch, Santa Claus drops in for a thrilling visit, and guests get to try their hand at gingerbread house decorating. And on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Mimo, the hotel’s Tuscan-inspired restaurant, hosts a special prix fixe, four-course dinner. At evening’s end, every guest receives a holiday gift to take home.
Love Actually. A Christmas Carol. Bridget Jones’s Diary. The Holiday.Some of our favourite Christmas movies (and likely yours, too) take place in London, the city that popularized beloved Victorian-era traditions—decorated trees and storefronts, Christmas crackers, holiday cards—that continue to this day.
In addition to Christmas markets, ample shopping, and holiday lights viewing, London also offers plenty of places to ice skate. These outdoor venues, often surrounded by historical beauty, include Somerset House, where in late November the imposing and vast neoclassical site’s outdoor courtyard is transformed into an ice rink. Another magical spot for skating: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, the biggest outdoor rink in the United Kingdom. Here, you can glide beneath 100,000 twinkling lights to a Christmas soundtrack.
Hyde Park is, conveniently, just a one-minute walk from Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane. Located on a quiet corner in the heart of Mayfair, the hotel goes all out for the holidays with elegant decorations and special menus at the French-inspired, Michelin-starred Pavyllon London, helmed by chef Yannick Alléno. And should you need help arranging exclusive, unique experiences across the city, the hotel’s concierge team—the largest in London—is ready to assist.
Festive at Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre
Travel to Dubai during the holidays, and you’ll encounter lit trees, holiday markets, even Santa and his elves—but you’ll experience these traditions in warm, parka-free weather. That said, should you want a taste of wintry weather, simply head over to Ski Dubai, a gargantuan indoor ski resort where you can ski, snowboard, sled, and even meet some penguins. It’s housed in the Mall of the Emirates, one of the largest malls in the world.
Speaking of malls, luxury shopping is practically a sport in Dubai, and with the winter months comes the annual Dubai Shopping Festival, five weeks in December and January when stores offer irresistible discounts. And because Christmas isn’t a national holiday there, stores stay open, and you won’t have to wait for Boxing Day to shop.
Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre, Mina, Festive
Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre
Outdoor excursions also abound in Dubai: desert safaris, yacht adventures, hot-air balloon rides, and cultural sightseeing can all be arranged when you stay at Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre. The boutique hotel is a quiet oasis in the middle of the financial district, close to downtown and just minutes from the beach. Though small, with just 106 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, the hotel offers a range of dining options, from afternoon tea at Penrose Lounge and French Mediterranean dishes at Michelin-recommended Mina Brasserie, to small bites at Luna Dubai and Middle Eastern meze poolside, both on the roof with skyline views.
How do you envision your holiday season unfolding? Are you browsing through bustling markets along cobblestone streets in Europe? Are you gazing upon towering trees that twinkle in elegant hotel lobbies or in Gothic town squares? Or sipping gourmet hot cocoa on a balcony overlooking the Teton Range or at a private cabin in the middle of a city? Wherever you choose to spend the holidays, Four Seasons offers luxurious accommodations, incomparable service and unforgettable experiences. Here are six of our favourite destinations for luxury Christmas getaways that are sure to deliver your best holiday memories yet.
The Ice Rodeo at Four Seasons Hotel Austin features an outdoor ice rink, outdoor dining cabins, pop-up lounges, art installations and immersive holiday décor.
Start festive evenings off with a walk through a tunnel of stars.
The Hotel’s gingerbread display will delight guests of all ages.
Grab a seat at The Deck Pop-Up Lounge for fantastic views of Lady Bird Lake as well as all the holiday happenings.
Big holiday magic in Austin
It’s not just a cliché: Everything is bigger in Texas – especially over the holidays. At Four Seasons Hotel Austin, marvel at the 30-foot (9-metre) Christmas tree on the back lawn and the 120-foot (36.5-metre) tunnel of stars. The Hotel also embraces Texas cowboy culture with an outdoor Ice Rodeo, open from November 22 through January 5. Live out your own holiday movie fantasy with starlit turns around the ice, arm in arm with your soulmate. Upgrade your experience with a private rink-side cabin that’s close enough to be convenient but still feels tucked away. Each cabin accommodates up to six people and offers luxe amenities, a dedicated server, and a selection of food and beverage add-ons to enhance your outing.
If you’d rather be an observer, The Deck Pop-Up Lounge gives you an aerial view of the festivities from the balcony of the Hotel’s Live Oak bar. Enjoy a specialty menu of martinis, oysters and more in a chic and cosy space with enchanting views of Austin’s wintry landscape.
There’s more holiday magic indoors with a larger-than-life gingerbread display. An annual tradition, the display features a different theme each year. This year, the team has curated a taste of the world, paying homage to Four Seasons properties around the world with numerous edible replicas of iconic hotels and resorts. Take the opportunity to add your name to the display by sponsoring a replica, with proceeds benefiting Dell Children’s Medical Center.
Enjoy the holiday season with a dose of rugged Western charm in Jackson Hole.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole offers slope-side access to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
For New Year’s Eve, gather at the Resort’s Ascent Lounge to sip craft cocktails and enjoy light bites with family and friends.
The Handle Bar provides a cosy place to gather year round.
Rugged winter charm in Jackson Hole
The dramatic snow-covered peaks of the Teton Range create a breathtaking holiday backdrop for guests at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole. Experience a unique blend of luxury and rugged Western charm, with an array of festive activities for the entire family. Grab your skis and enjoy on-property slope-side access to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The newly opened First Chair Grab & Go mountainside market makes refueling effortlessly convenient so you can maximize your time on the slopes. Warm up after your day out with complimentary s’mores poolside or at the gourmet hot chocolate cart in the lobby.
You’ll also find plenty of complimentary fun for the whole family throughout the Resort, including cookie decorating, gingerbread house construction, yoga and fitness classes, whiskey tastings, and mocktail and cocktail classes.
In Jackson Hole, Santa arrives on Christmas Eve by tram, not sleigh. You can also skate with him around the rink at Teton Village, which is aglow with twinkling lights and festive décor, just steps from Four Seasons. At Jackson Town Square, enjoy performances from dance and choral groups, visits from Santa, and cookies and hot chocolate. While you’re there, be sure to snap a photo under the famous antler arches. The Concierge can help you put together an itinerary of festive local traditions to make your own.
As 2024 comes to a close, ring in the new year in the way that suits you best. Sip craft cocktails and nibble light bites in Ascent Lounge, or gather the family and head to the mountain for the Torchlight Parade, followed by fireworks. And if the dance floor beckons, groove the night away back at the Resort to the sounds of a live DJ at The Handle Bar.
Reserve a cabin at the Nordic Village at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis for a taste of alpine chic in the heart of the city.
The cabin interiors were designed by MartinPatrick3 and feature cosy furnishings, skylights and TVs.
Ready for dessert? Minnesota-shaped s’mores are on the menu.
Nordic cabins in downtown Minneapolis
Step into the holiday spirit inside a private Nordic cabin in the middle of Minneapolis. For the third year, Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis will kick off its winter season with the opening of its Nordic Village, which includes even more private dining cabins for an extended five-month season.
“Our team at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis believes in winter, and we believe in our community. Inviting guests to participate in these seasonal events and outdoor adventures is another way we can bring people together and shine a light on our beautiful home state and all it has to offer,” says General Manager Florian Riedel. “When you stay with us, you’ll get the best of both worlds: adventure by day and city by night.”
Cabin options can seat up to four or eight guests and are part of the Nordic Village, which spans Riva Terrace and Riva Plaza. Step inside the insulated and heated cabins, inhale the aroma of pine cones and cedar, and prepare for a warm and cosy escape from the winter chill. Cabin interiors, designed by MartinPatrick3, an internationally recognized boutique dedicated to one-of-a-kind experiences, feature skylights, personalized Spotify accounts, and TVs for your favourite sporting events or holiday classics. The four-course menu includes onion soup, cheese fondue and Minnesota-shaped s’mores. Caviar and truffles are also available à la carte to allow for even more elevated dishes. Pair your meal with craft cocktails or mocktails, or choose from a selection of wines and local beers.
Need to get some holiday shopping done? The Nordic Village weekend market provides seasonal shopping experiences from November through January (with the exception of Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve). The market features local artists, makers and creators offering a rotating selection of toys, clothing, home décor, spices, pet food and more.
The Dior-designed lobby of Four Seasons Hotel Prague sets an elegant festive mood.
Explore the Christmas market in Old Town Square and its stalls filled with delicious food and artisan goods, all just a quick stroll away from the Hotel.
Indulge in a Dior-themed afternoon tea at Four Seasons.
Located right next to the Vltava River near Charles Bridge, Four Seasons offers the perfect home base for exploring the city.
Haute-inspired holidays in Prague
Celebrate the holidays in Europe, where multiple Christmas markets are open daily throughout the season – even on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Prague’s Old Town Square bustles with holiday cheer as locals and tourists browse for gifts and sample delectable treats along cobblestone streets.
Once you’ve had your fill of mulled wine and holiday shopping, unwind in style in the elegant Dior-designed lobby of Four Seasons Hotel Prague, located just a quick stroll from Old Town Square and steps from Charles Bridge. As the only Forbes Five-Star Hotel in Prague and the Czech Republic, Four Seasons is an idyllic Christmas hotel offering stunning views of the Vltava River and the tallest spires of Prague Castle. Sophisticated decorations from the legendary fashion house lend the perfect backdrop to a Dior-themed afternoon tea. Here on the banks of the Vltava, luxury and fine taste merge, providing a stately respite from the buzz of the season.
Learn about the indigenous ingredients of the area at Rancho Lola, a sustainable farm located near Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México.
Let the Concierge arrange for your own paratrike adventure – just like Santa.
From sport fishing to whale watching scuba diving, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the ocean.
The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo features eight treatment cabins surrounded by a lush jungle landscape.
Seaside Santa and natural wonders in Tamarindo
Santa is giving his reindeer a break when he lands in Mexico this year. Word has it that he plans to arrive at Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México via paratrike, making an unforgettable landing on the beach.
Those inspired by his statement-making arrival can book their own paratrike adventure. The 15-minute flight includes breathtaking aerial views, with the opportunity to spot wildlife in the distance. Tamarindo’s expansive nature reserve spans 3,000 acres (1,214 hectares) and features 6 miles (10 kilometres) of coastline. Just 2% of the reserve is developed, leaving a vast natural sanctuary sure to inspire anyone who appreciates plants, animals and ecosystems.
Within this ecological oasis, lies Rancho Lola, a low-impact sustainable farm just a short golf cart ride from the Resort. This holiday season, you’re invited to reconnect with the origins of ingredients native to the region while developing an understanding of and appreciation for the distinct flavours of Mexico. In this unique setting, you can experience and savour the finest regional and locally grown produce.
If the ocean is calling your name, charter a boat and observe sea life in the serene, tucked-away bays of Tamarindo. Or join a whale-watching tour to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat during the peak of whale season in Mexico.
End the day with an evening under the stars via exclusive access to a private section of the Resort’s Spa. Enjoy a 90-minute full body couple’s massage followed by champagne, light snacks and two hours of private spa access, including the steam rooms, the outdoor showers and the relaxation pools.
From elevated private dining options to weekly posadas and open-air movie nights next to the beach, it’s easy to see why Four Seasons is one of the best resorts for a Christmas vacation.
The annual holiday beach party at Playa Blanca at Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica, is a can’t-miss event.
Check all your holiday shopping off your list with a visit to the Papagayo Street Fair.
Welcome 2025 with a New Year’s Eve bash on Virador Beach.
Beach parties and cultural adventures in Costa Rica
If you’re looking for a family-friendly tropical resort for the holidays, discover an unspoiled world of eco-luxury at Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica. Gather the family for a party on the beach with Santa along Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. The annual holiday bash offers vibrant tunes and performances, face painting, cookie decorating and lots of photo ops with Santa.
Before the main event, you can get some holiday shopping done at the Papagayo Street Fair, where you can peruse handmade crafts and sample cuisine from local vendors. Live music, entertainment and games make it a lively affair for the entire family.
On the night before Christmas, embark upon a festive journey through Latin America during Noche Buena at Bahia. Discover new dishes and traditions accompanied by live music and performances throughout the evening.
And to finish off the festivities, the New Year’s Eve bash at Virador Beach is non-stop beachfront fun. You can dance the night away barefoot in the sand or ride out the evening on a lounge chair beneath the palm trees. Then ease into the new year the next morning with a tropical brunch at Bahia featuring Bloody Mary and mimosa stations. We can’t think of a better way to say hello to 2025.
When French philosopher Albert Camus wrote that autumn “is a second spring where every leaf is a flower,” he was onto something.
With the change from summer to fall, this beautiful time of year is perfect for weekend getaways and enjoying the outdoors in its full autumn glory. There’s something uniquely magical about the crisp, cool air, and the experts at Four Seasons know exactly how to help you savour it. Here are seven of our favourite places to visit in the fall to take full advantage of this special time.
Scorching summer days in the Texas capital give way to perfect weather come autumn, a time of year for getting outdoors. You can easily stroll from Four Seasons Hotel Austin to Zilker Metropolitan Park, a sprawling 358-acre (145-hectare) space along the shores of Lady Bird Lake, and cool off in Barton Springs Pool, which maintains an average temperature of 68°F to 70°F (20°C to 21°C) year round.
At night, join filmgoers in the heart of downtown Austin at Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In, whose two screens showcase a variety of classics and newer releases. You can even go beyond popcorn, soda and candy and order from restaurants that deliver right to your car window.
Since this is the Live Music Capital of the World, you can catch some of Austin’s top musicians playing at the Hotel’s Live Oak lounge. Sip inventive cocktails while listening to live music and taking in some of the best views in the city. On the Hotel’s back lawn, you can also join friends for games including Jenga, ping-pong and cornhole, or simply find a patch of shade in one of the many Adirondack chairs or hammocks to sit back and relax.
Alternatively, you can also play your own music – the Hotel’s Guitar Concierge can arrange for you to borrow a premium guitar to use throughout your visit. Strum away in the comfort of your guest room or on the back lawn, or take it with you to other scenic locales around the city.
Prepare your palate for an autumn stay at Four Seasons Hotel Prague. Sip a glass of Prosecco aboard the Hotel’s charming wooden boat on the Vltava River. Surrounded by fairy-tale scenery, you’ll see Prague from a different angle as you indulge in your choice of breakfast, lunch or a light snack. Come November, you can also opt for a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate to keep you warm when the temperature begins to dip.
For an authentic Czech experience, discover a local craft rooted in hundreds of years of tradition: glassblowing. The Hotel’s private car service can whisk you to the world-famous Rückl glass factory in Nizbor, a picturesque village in central Bohemia, only a 45-minute drive from Prague. There, you’ll meet craftsmen and witness the magic of glass engraving. You can even choose to cut or blow glass yourself.
Back at the Hotel, pamper yourself with a personalized treatment at the Spa or enjoy some quality time with your loved one in the private couple’s treatment room, complete with your own private steam room.
Autumn is the best time to explore Beijing, with comfortably cool weather for climbing suburban mountains or people-watching in an outdoor café. The city’s countless attractions include Ditan Park, the Confucian Temple, the Guozijian Museum and, of course, the Great Wall.
From late September to early November is an especially good time to visit, when you can see the iconic landmark framed by rich autumn hues. Four Seasons Hotel Beijing offers an exceptional way to see the well-preserved Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Let the Hotel arrange for a private car to take you to Mutianyu and embark on a private guided tour of the incredibly well-preserved section that was originally built in the Northern Qi Dynasty (AD 550–557) but then rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty (AD 1368–1644) to strengthen its defensive potential. During the fall, the surrounding forest-covered mountains turn shades of red and gold. The Hotel also offers access to all the main historical sites in the city, including a day-long private tour of Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven.
Kyoto is known for the vibrant colours of its leaves (koyo in Japanese) – especially impressive during the last two weeks of November – making it one of the best fall destinations. Like hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in spring, the Japanese also have a custom called momijigari (red leaf hunting) that was a popular fall activity among the 8th-century aristocracy and continues to this day. While the word specifically references the red leaves of the maple tree that make their appearance each fall, in practice, it means gathering together to see all of the season’s best foliage.
For this special season, the team at Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto has created a map highlighting the best places around the city to witness this beautiful sight. The Concierge recommends visiting Kyoto’s temples at night for a different kind of leaf-peeping experience. A few favourites are Kodai-ji Temple, Entoku-in Temple and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, all in the Higashiyama area and only 20 to 25 minutes by foot from the Hotel.
And last but not least, if you want to take in the rich autumn colours in a quiet and exclusive setting without any crowds, pay a visit to the Hotel’s own Shakusui-en pond garden.
Year-round good weather means there’s never really a bad time to visit Colombia’s capital city, but autumn is the perfect time for unexpected journeys. The best way to discover the magic of Bogotá is to live the experience like a local.
A must-visit while you’re in town? The bustling Paloquemao Market, a giant indoor hall filled with stall after stall selling fresh fruit, local foods, and gorgeous flowers. Sign up for the Hotel’s private guided tour, and be prepared for the explosion of new flavors that awaits.
Then treat your palate to an unforgettable coffee experience. The Hotel can arrange for an exclusive coffee-tasting session led by local farmers at Cafetal de la Trinidad, a historic Colombian coffee farm located on a scenic hacienda just a couple hours outside the city. Here you’ll learn about the entire coffee-making process, from harvesting to preparation and even how to decipher the different flavours and aromas.
With its cool, crisp days; pops of colourful foliage; and seasonal fruits such as apples, pears and persimmon on menus around the city, there’s plenty of reasons why fall is a favourite time of year for locals. Located right in the heart of Seoul, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is the ideal jumping-off point to explore the seasonal splendour.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just enjoy taking leisurely strolls, the Concierge team can help point you in the right directions to explore Seoul’s abundance of hiking trails. One can’t-miss route for couples is the walk up to N Seoul Tower, also known as Namsan Tower. At the top, you’ll take in some of the best panoramic views in the city – and don’t forget to add your own “love lock” to the thousands of padlocks lovingly placed on the tower’s famous Love Lock Bridge.
As big a city as Seoul is, there are also plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. The most famous place to see the gold-hued magic of gingko trees in fall is Asan Gingko Tree Road, but for a closer option, the Concierge team recommends a visit to Seoul Forest Park. Be sure to also spend some time at Hill of Wind – the park’s highest point – to gaze at the mesmerizing fields of silver grass dancing in the autumn wind. For something further afield, the Hotel can arrange for an unforgettable day trip to the fairy-tale wonderland of Nami Island, a UNESCO treasure made famous in the Korean drama Winter Sonata.
Back at the Hotel, you’ll have your pick of dining options, from creative Japanese-Korean fusion at Akira Back to regional Cantonese specialties at Yu Yuan. For a nightcap, make a reservation at Charles H., a moody, glamorous speakeasy tucked away in the lower level.
We can’t think of a better time to visit Beantown, home to Harvard, MIT, and 42 other institutions of higher education, than fall, when students return to their various campuses and the city (and foliage) hits its stride. Make Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston your home base for an autumn visit as you explore all the history that the city, known as the “Cradle of Liberty,” has to offer.
Sign up for the Half-Day Freedom Trail Walking Tour with a knowledgeable guide, who will direct you to such iconic Boston landmarks as Paul Revere’s House and Old North Church. And in the evening, consider a private walking tour through gas lamp-lined Beacon Hill, the oldest neighborhood in the city.
Got a high schooler in your family? Inspire them to reach their potential with a private college tour of the campus they’re interested in, all arranged by the Hotel. Or maybe your kid is already enrolled in a nearby university? Make sure to ask for the concierge’s curated guide to their school (and get insidery tidbits like the best place to grab a slice near Boston University).
