Rising Demand for Private Air Charter
By Hiranmayii Mohanan
As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic which has routed and ripped apart the best business models of the last few decades, companies are gradually reinventing and adapting to the new realities. This is quite evident with many employees working from home.
Travellers world over are altering their perception of commercial travel especially at the thought of crowded airport terminals and cramped aircraft cabins. This works in favour of private aviation providers, which have reported an unprecedented interest among new customers. The silver lining of the coronavirus is that it has taken a page from E F Schumacher ‘Small is Beautiful’s’ economic model and has shaped private aviation around the needs of the community — creating a safety bubble to travel.
The growing demand for private air charters come from health and safety concerns, driven by the pandemic and the incentives that it comes with — personalised service, social distancing from crowds and lines, onboard social distancing and hassle-free security checks and dedicated cabin hostess to minimise interactions and possible exposure. If flying commercial exposes travellers to over 700 touchpoints, private jets can reduce them to 20, lowering chances of infection by 97%. In that regard, we have listed some of the famed private air charters across the globe, post lockdown.
NetJets is probably a name that’s synonymous to private air chartering, being the oldest and largest private jet operator in the world. Founded back in 1964, it boasts a fleet of over 700 airplanes, offering fractional ownership, jet card and lease programs. NetJets quickly became a firm favourite among fliers for its guarantee of the same personalised level of service no matter which program you choose. The beauty of having a large fleet at their disposal is the ability to cater to various requirements, from the likes of Embraer Phenom 300 in the light jet category, to the Bombardier Global 6000 which can seat up to 14 passengers. Armed with 55 years of unrivalled experience, NetJets is unwavering in the face of the pandemic, offering hundreds of flights operating daily.
With a slogan, “Flying Private Made Simple”, you know you’re placing your trust in the right private aviation company. VistaJet is one of the leading private aviation companies in the world, offering exclusive membership. The VistaJet Program membership essentially allows you to individually tailor your flight to your preference, guaranteeing access to a business jet anytime, anywhere. Offering over 70 aircrafts, VistaJet gives its members access to the largest privately owned Bombardier fleet in the world, all of which feature the brand’s signature exterior and interior detailing for you to feel like a prince or princess.
Guests can rest assured knowing that the company has strengthened and secured procedures, including the number of people interacting with the aircraft, every effort is taken to assign a single set of crew to a single aircraft over their full 17-day rotation. All crew are checked for signs of the virus twice a day and if there is any doubt as to their health, VistaJet will take them out of service until cleared by a certified professional. VistaJet also offers bespoke, once in a lifetime itineraries in far-flung locations across the world, positioning the company as more than just a jet operator. Besides offering bespoke services, its pledge to comprehensive sustainability and reducing carbon footprint is meaningful and commendable.
Travelling safely for business or to your loved ones in this unprecedented time is the main reason why many turn to private air charters. Enter Magellan Jets — a premium network of the highest-quality aircraft and flight crews. The Magellan Jet Card, the only Build-a-Card tool in the industry is fully customisable, allowing owners to enjoy flexibility besides tailoring how you want to fly, how often you want to fly and creating an experience that comes as close to jet ownership as possible. Take the experience further with the membership — an option that invites requires travellers to pay a sign-on fee which will then lock in their hourly price and from there, members can make use of the pay as you go function and opt-in to Magellan’s carbon offset program. Magellan Jets ensures a premium experience, including personalised service where aviation consultants would be assisted every step of the way, helping you find the most suitable and cost-effective travel solutions.
GlobeAir is another leading and award-winning European based company in the private jet charter arena that has been filling in the gap for other commercial airlines. Founded in 2007, they have set a benchmark in private jet charter services across Europe, flying to over 948 airports across the continent. Cabin crew who are tending to you use face masks and maintain safe distances. Continuous air cabin circulation within the plane ensures 100% fresh air on board at any point in time and most importantly, your private jet is deep-cleaned. A complimentary disinfectant kit is complementary, to keep you at ease and hygienic. Board your private jet from private dedicated terminals and skip unnecessary touch points.
Staying In A Winter Wonderland
By Hiranmayii Mohanen
Winter is the most magical season of the year — the glistening snow, a white quilt of snowflakes kissing the trees, snow capped mountains, hot cocoa, sitting snugly in front of a fireplace and the cold climate. We urge you to virtually experience your very own winter wonderland at these postcard-perfect luxurious hotels, scattered across the globe. When the world opens up again, who knows you might be on your way there.
Arctic Snow Hotel & Glass Igloos
Rovaniemi, Finland
Make like modern-day Eskimos in this frosty destination in the city of Rovaniemi, Finland, where white winters are guaranteed. Inside, temperatures are set to a chilly -3ºC to retain the original forms of decorative sculptures and furniture in the rooms. If that sends chills down your spine, their heated glass igloos will make a warmer option. When you lie down at night, starry skies – or if you’re lucky, the Northern Lights – become your roof. When the Northern Lights do illuminate the skies of Rovaniemi, you will be woken up by an optional aurora alarm, so you will not miss a thing.
Gstaad Palace, Switzerland
“Gstaad is the last paradise in a crazy world,” Julie Andrews once exclaimed. And towering over this paradise is the luxurious Gstaad Palace, which has long been a winter playground for glamorous jetsetters. One of the last family-operated hotels in Switzerland and managed by the third generation of the Scherz family, it has withstood a history of over a hundred years, offering old-world elegance to its well-to-do guests. If circumstances allow, opt for the suites, where you will have a magical view of the Swiss mountains from inside the rooms outfitted with alpine elegance.
Le Lodge Park
Megève, France
Tucked in the region of vinous valleys and mighty peaks of the Rhône-Alpes, Le Lodge Park blends into its arresting surroundings. For those seeking for a perfect winter wonderland, this is it. Nestle comfortably in the chairs facing the fireplace or on the heated terrace, looking back and reminiscing the highlights of the day. After a day of thrilling descent down the slopes, bask in Megève's legendary après-ski atmosphere at the hotel's bar, outfitted in the rustic, lodge look. Now ready for your evening, whether you are in a festive mood or simply want to relish in good times, head over to the Beef Lodge for the finest cuts of meat or a stylish truffle-themed evening meal at the Fermes de Marie for a gastronomic adventure to be remembered. After a long and fulfilling day, retire to the distinct and rustic rooms in Lodge Park, where the walls are dressed in authentic Scottish fittings and playful touches of exotic textures — leather headboard in hues of Bordeaux and gold, crisp-white bed linens with the warming touch of a woven fur throw, nestled just close enough to the room's fireplace.
Hotel La Perla
Dolomites, Italy
Nestled in a quiet, cozy corner of Corvara village’s stunning landscape, is Hotel La Perla, a family-run property renowned worldwide for its distinctive approach to hospitality and to creating joyful and lasting guest relationships. Offering sheets of ice and alpine atmosphere, Hotel La Perla allures skiers and dreamers to bask in its very own winter wonderland. Here, bounteous and dreamy rooms exude style and sophistication with warmth, respect, and etiquette at the fore. Après-ski, indulge their one Michelin star gourmet restaurant where traditions and modernity are married, serving dishes prepared with quality ingredients and the emotions of chef Nicola Laera for an amazing culinary experience. Mahatma is the celebrated wine cellar here — a must-visit, along with the indoor pool and Spa where one can release the knots that bind the body with natural holistic treatments. Winter season here is naturally as magnificent as one can imagine – the climate, snow-capped mountains and sheets of snow.
Higashiyama Niseko Village — A Ritz Carlton Reserve
Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve set in Japan’s winter wonderland is a stunning ski-in/ski-out resort that interweaves great personalised service with the Japanese charm, culture and cuisine. Embodying the philosophy of discovering oneself through nature (Kachou Fuugetsu), one can discover the power of solitude while on a mountain trek or realise the healing elements of Japan’s hot springs. Rooms and Suites at Higashiyama Niseko Village are designed around the alpine and mountain experience, inviting the beauty of nature to flourish within. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out over mount Yotei or Niseko Annupuri, and the interior décor is a juxtaposition of classic and contemporary aesthetics that hint elegantly to the surroundings.
Opus VXI
Bergen, Norway
Once the stomping ground of Vikings, this is a land rumbling with legends and rich with culture. The postcard-worthy town of Bergen is home to a Small Luxury Hotels of the World recipient — Opus XVI. Named after the famed piano concerto, this hotel is immersed in Bergen’s rich musical heritage and is helmed by descendants of Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg. In a renowned, historic building that was originally built as a bank, Opus XVI offers 65 unique and luxurious rooms located in the very heart of Bergen and each designed with classic yet modern design and interiors. Choose for a view of Mount Fløyen or the quiet plaza of Vågsallmenningen.
Christmas Markets Around The World
By Agnes Aui
The merriest month of December is upon us, which means the countdown to Christmas has already begun! It’s the season to set up your Christmas tree, deck the halls with shimmering decorations and of course, find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. If you’re looking for a spot to get in the festive spirit of joy and love then take a trip to your nearest Christmas market!
What’s a Christmas market, you ask? Well, Christmas markets are street markets associated with the celebration of Christmas held during the four weeks of the festive season. These markets originated from Germany, but are now held in many other countries including Asia, the United States and even in the Middle East. This month, we’re listing down Christmas markets you can find all around the world.
Europe
Dresden Striezelmarkt in Germany We’ll have to start off our list with the OG, also known as the oldest Christmas market in Germany. Not only did the market showcase the world’s tallest Christmas pyramid in 1999 with a height of 14.62 metres, but is also the place to find traditional handcrafted nutcrackers that are a definite must-have for the festive season. Dresden Striezelmarkt is where visitors can indulge in the country’s iconic stollen fruit loaf while feasting their eyes on the bright and colourful decorations throughout the market.
Viennese Dream Christmas Market in Austria In the Austrian capital, there are about 20 Christmas markets that people can visit. Nevertheless, the Viennese Dream Christmas Market (or Wiener Christkindlmarkt) is known as one of the oldest and most traditional events in the country, which is why many still look forward to patroning this particular market. It is held in front of City Hall and features reindeer rides, a ferris wheel and over 150 stalls offering delicious delights like Austrian sausages and gingerbread cookies.
Basel Christmas Market in Switzerland Switzerland is known for its festive markets and many can be found throughout the country. However, it’s no surprise that the biggest (and best) market in town is the Basel Christmas Market. The market features two sections located at Barfusserplatz and Munsterplatz, with 200 fabulous stalls selling the merriest of spices, decorations and warm scented candles that are sure to add a touch of Noel in your home.
Fira de Santa Llúcia in Barcelona Held outside the Barcelona Cathedral, Fira de Santa Llucia has grown from a one-day event to a three-week fair. The market features four different sections including nativity and figurines (decorations), greenery and plants (natural and artificial trees), crafts (handmade jewellery) and simbombes (musical instruments). Activities like storytelling and a Christmas parade also happen at the market throughout the season.
Skansen's Christmas Market in Stockholm When it comes to Christmas markets, one can find many in Stockholm. However, there is one in particular that’s more traditional than the rest, and that’s Skansen’s Christmas Market. Held in the world’s oldest open-air museum in Djurgarden, this Christmas market is filled with Swedish culture along with the essence of yuletide. Workshops are held for visitors to make their own decorations while dancing games are also available around the Christmas tree.
United States
Christkindlmarkt in Leavenworth, Washington Despite it being a one-day event, Christkindlmarkt in Leavenworth, Washington is the closest market you’ll get to the classic one in Germany. This Bavarian-styled village lights up during the holidays with booths selling sweet treats while live music is played. Bavarian food and beer can also be found alongside candies, cakes and pastries.
Christkindlmarket Chicago in Chicago, Illinois Since 1996, this traditional German-styled Christkindlmarket has been a city favourite. Visitors can relish in international cuisines as well as local bites, while enjoying a cold mug of German beer or a warm glass of mulled wine. What makes the Chicago Christkindlmarket unique is its Stammtisch - a sacred table that can be booked for your family and friends to gather and enjoy German dishes and beverages.
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park in New York Dubbed as one of the prettiest Christmas Markets in New York, this particular Christmas market features more than 150 glass kiosks that line the park during this festive season. From local and international goodies to those selling artworks, home accessories, beauty products and toys, you’ll never run out of gift ideas here. Visitors can also ice-skate at the rink in the middle of the park.
Asia
Landmark Christmas Market in Hong Kong Be transported to European towns when you visit the Landmark Christmas Market in Hong Kong. This pop-up market features colourful installations and various booths selling homeware, accessories, fine spirits and even gift hampers. You can also satisfy your sweet tooth cravings with freshly baked pastries and canales with rum filling.
Crane Festive Weekend in Singapore
This two-day festive pop-up market is a weekend you won’t forget. Indulge in festive goodies while exploring meaningful gifts like handmade ceramics and artisanal soaps from small local businesses. Visitors can rest assured that items sold are of high-quality as the market focuses on artisanal, handmade and sustainable products.
Roppongi Hills Christmas Market in Tokyo If hot chocolate, warm pretzels, chill beer and a whole lot of photo opportunities is something that piques your interest, then the Roppongi Hills Christmas Market in Tokyo is the place to be. It’s the ideal place to have dinner with family or friends before experiencing the European Christmas tradition. Aside from delightful bites, you can also find unique gifts for your loved ones.
Christmasland in Taipei Every Christmas, Taipei’s Xinban Special District holds an event known as Christmasland that attracts both locals and tourists alike. This enormous yet intricate event features illuminating installations, activities, concerts and amazing food options as well. Christmasland is also where you’ll find the country’s tallest Christmas tree that’s decorated with bright lights and a dazzling gold star on top.
Middle East
Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market in Dubai The Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market is a 16-day gleeful occasion filled with activities for the young and for those who are
Malaysian Paradise
By : Hiranmayii Mohanan
By Malaysian for Malaysians or Residents of Malaysia.
An international getaway to luxurious resorts like Soneva Jani in the Maldives or Amanyara in Turks and Caicos may seem impossible for the foreseeable future but a similar experience, if not better, is attainable within the beautiful Malaysia.
As we continue to grapple with the pandemic and remain indoors from the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO), a touch if indulgence is much-deserved and with that in mind, we have curated a list of luxurious resorts in Malaysia for you to get some TLC post-CMCO.
Pangkor Laut Resort
Perak
When hailed as paradise by the late Pavarotti and previously voted as ‘Number One in the World' by Condé Nast Traveller, Pangkor Laut is a postcard-perfect resort nestled amid two million-year-old rainforest and framed by emerald waters and white sandy beach. Resting beneath the shade of forest giants as old as the land, this island is not only home to one of the world’s premier resorts but also to a variety of wildlife. Long-tailed macaques and oriental pied hornbills perch in the branches above while white-bellied sea eagles soar overhead and large monitor lizards sunbathe on the island’s rocky outcrops. No matter which villa you choose — be it ones resting in the middle of lush gardens or sitting above the sea, comfort, warmth and elegance is the recurrent theme.
The Ritz Carlton Langkawi
Kedah
Here’s another resort that is enveloped by a 10-million-year-old rainforest on the edge of the Andaman Sea, The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi offers the matrimony of luxury and nature. Be one with mother nature through guided hikes, or kayak through mangroves, or simply gaze over the ocean during dinner. Whatever siren song calls to you in Malaysia, you will find its reply at this five-star resort. Private outdoor spaces, glass walls and a palette of natural materials make the guest rooms and villas at this resort, inviting the great outdoors in. Private sundecks are great for lazy days of basking in the surrounding, while the private pools at the beachfront villas are great for evening or morning dips. ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/malaysia/langkawi
Mangala Resort and Spa
Pahang
Affiliated with the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the Mangala Resort and Spa is a beautiful, sprawled resort in Kuantan, Pahang. Here, the villas are nature-inspired and designed in small-scale pavilions for you to appreciate the green surroundings. Get a bike in the evenings and explore the property or if you’re in need for some well-deserved relaxation, the Mangala Spa is the place to be. It features a host of holistic therapies—including manicures, pedicures, scrubs and facials. You can also opt for archery, cycling, kayaking, birdwatching, and more while you're here — never a dull moment. mangalaresortandspa.
The Datai Langkawi
Kedah
Reconnect with nature at The Datai Langkawi, located along the crisp sea. Nestled in the heart of a 10-million-year-old rainforest, this captivating destination is a stunning resort that blends into its natural surroundings. Housing 121 rooms, suites and villas, the resort features canopy deluxe rooms, canopy premium rooms, canopy suites, the datai suite, rainforest villa, rainforest pool villa, the Datai estate villa, the one-bedroom beach villa and the two-bedroom beach villa. The luxury rooms are perfect for solo travellers, couples, families and even large groups of friends. Dining at The Datai is easy, with delicious delights of various cuisines to choose from. Adjourn to The Gulai House for some authentic Malaysian cuisine, The Pavilion for some scrumptious Thai food or The Beach Club and Beach Bar for drinks and hand-tossed pizza. thedatai.com
One & Only Desaru Coast
Johor
Along the Desaru Coast comes the newly-opened One & Only Desaru Coast — a magical hideaway caressed by nature, strategically offering a blissful seclusion. In this resort, one is transported to a realm where private suites and signature exclusive villas meet glimmering private pools, exotic flavours and warm hospitality. Designed with personalisation in mind, the suites and villas offer either a rainforest or ocean views which calls for idle afternoons of basking in the ambience. In the mornings or evening, pick your choice of bicycles at the One & Only Desaru Coast’s Cycle Hub and explore the surrounding rainforests and the coastline. The resort’s dining options are plentiful, each offering refined yet varied cuisines and experiences altogether.
Gaya Island Resort
Sabah
Gaya Island Resort’s allure lies in protected mangroves, sheltered coral reefs and the pristine coast of Malohom Bay. Resting on an island within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, this hillside resort is a paradise that promotes the natural beauty of Sabah, including ancient rainforests and the majestic Mount Kinabalu at the horizon. Distinctively Bornean, Gaya Island Resort is where couples and families can catch the waves, bask at the sun-dappled beach and at the end of the day, retreat to a contemporary and eco-luxurious villa boasting the Sabahan identity. What’s impressive about this vacation spot is its commitment to ecologically-sustainable practices to minimise its carbon footprint within the environment. This is evident in its minimal usage of motorised vehicles for operational purposes. gayaislandresort.com
Cove 55
Sarawak
Resting under the foothill of Mount Santubong in Sarawak, Cove 55 — a luxurious boutique resort that weaves tribal elements with contemporary sensibilities. What was initially built for an Iban family’s holiday home was soon converted into a sprawled estate of 13 rooms, two suites and a villa. Explore the wilderness with a hike up Mount Santubong or search for crocodiles on a boat tour. Alternatively, venture out on your own on a bicycle to witness the Sarawakian offerings first-hand. Avid golfers can tee off at an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course and when hunger befalls, leave your palate to the chefs at Kechala to excite you with modern Sarawakian cuisine crafted ethically-sourced ingredients from the surrounding jungle and the chef’s garden. For digestif, head to the Cove Bar relish in their scrumptious tipple. cove55.com
Winter dressing doesn't have to be draby and boring
Winter is one of my favourite seasons for dressing-up but looks like I won’t be reveling in winter wear this year, given fact that I am confined in Malaysia for the next couple of months, at least until the covid situation dies down - which doesn’t seem to be anytime soon.
For those who are in wintery places - witnessing beautiful white snow falling from the skies, manouevering ice while walking, building that snowman – this one is for you.
Let me tell you first, winter dressing truly does not have to be drabby and boring. Having lived in a couple of wintery places, boring is the last thing I think about when dressing up for the season. Women or men, we have smorgasbord of choices when winter-proofing ourselves.
First and foremost, learn the art of layering. With this, you will achieve two things. One, of course, the main objective of feeling toasty and cosy under all those layers. With that taken care of, you will feel like you can take on the world even in the coldest of lands. Secondly, layering is stylish; done correctly, you will look pretty much like you have just walked out from magazine shoot. An example of layering will be; a turtleneck as a base, under a sweater and topped up with a jacket. Or try this, a current favourite – white tee topped up with black colour, one sized-up blazer and pile on a camel jacket. Finish off the look with a pair of black jeans; classy and toasty wrapped-up into one!
Use colors as part of your winter ensemble; do not shy away from them. My few favourite combinations – purple and grey, blue and emerald, blue and red, red and beige Play around, experiment with colours, you will be surprised how much you will stand out amongst the dark-colored combination you see on the streets during cold months.
If there is one thing I totally look forward to in winter, is the many hats I get to wear, no pun intended. Hats immediately pull together an outfit besides of course, not to mention the main aim of keeping your head and ears warm. Look for a couple in complementary colours that can accompany your winter wardrobe.
This is for the ladies especially; there is somehow a misconception that winter wear needs to be bulky. There need to be room for layering, yes; the thermal wear, sweater, parker – however there is no need for bulkiness, which create an illusion of a bigger silhouette. My favourite accessory for this is most definitely the belt. Belt-up your coats and sweaters; this immediately gives it a new lease of life. A cinched waist makes your ensemble more subtle and feminine.
We know that shoes can singlehandedly change the vibe of your whole outfit; so do winter boots. No one boot fits all occasions, so invest in a couple. My collection of boots consist of these - ankle boots for days I know I will be mostly indoors, knee-high ones for walk around town, wellies for wet, slushy winter days and snow boots for walks in woods.
Scarves - oversized ones perks-up a winter look almost immediately. Throw it on your shoulders, wrap it around your neck - nonchalantly and stylishly messy, adds an edge to the whole look
Oh and winter look is not complete without fur – however, make that faux fur, please. Fur coat, fur mittens, fur vest, fur collars, fur hats – just have fun with them, however, not all at one time. If you choose to wear a fur coat, opt for leather gloves. If you choose to wear a fur vest, opt for a suede coat – balance out fur and non-fur; done properly, fur elevates your outfit. Try it and feel a million dollars almost immediately.
Who says you can't?
There is some kind of defensive air when you mention looking good when travelling. While I am one who is an advocate for being comfortable when travelling, there is also a part of me who truly believes one should never discount good things that can happen while running through terminals.
Firstly, let me reiterate this - being comfortable is a whole lot different from not-being-bothered about how you look.
Presentation and the first impression is everything; even when you are dashing for that Dreamliner. Always remember that it takes only 7 seconds for someone to size-you-up on the first meeting and you want to make sure, that sizing-up is a good one
A first good impression might open doors, for something good that is to come. Intelligence, wit, EQ and all those things that set you apart intellectually are important; so is the first impression. It is not too much for me to say one is dependant on the other.
Human beings are visual creatures; some may say fortunately and others might disagree but one thing is for sure, it does not take much to make that first impression work for you.
Let’s talk about how to make yourself in tip-top presentation mode even when you are on the way to be at 35,000 feet up in the sky.
I love wrinkle-free fabric. Choose a loose, breathable one to stay comfortable all day. My travelling favourites are wools and knits.
Have you ever had this cold spells in aircraft; they tend to be “fridgy". For this very reason, I would usually turn to layering. First, decide on basic outfit then layer. Layering helps with cold and most definitely a great fashion statement. Stretchy jeans or tights, t-shirts & long cardigans are my favourites. Depending on destination; if it is a colder place, bring along a jacket in your hand-carry to wear at arrival.
The good old scarf – what not to love? It is indeed a versatile piece. Wrap yourself, put them around your neck, use as a blanket. It even folds-up as a pillow – one item, few uses.
A fan of heels, the only time you will not see me in one is when I travel – a pair of sneakers scream chic and transit perfect!
For the ladies, our struggle for a good airport or travelling handbag is real. We need our lappy, book, energy bar, wallet, passport, mints and make-up purse to be part of our travelling-handbag ensemble, right? But do remember, you need one that is big enough to carry your essentials but small enough to be tucked under the seat.
The quintessential travelling item award goes to the sunglasses. It turns you up few notches - you will look put together; and those eye bags from lack of sleep, camouflaged. It also acts as a hair accessory after that thirteen hours flight!
Flying, especially long haul, takes a toll on he body and definitely not too much to say on one's wellbeing as well. With that in mind, it always help to make the appearance look somewhat presentable. Remember the adage, ' when you look good, you feel good'? That one is gold!
Christmas Tables From Around The World
Food and drinks make-up huge part of Christmas celebration anywhere. Family and friends sitting around the dining table, all decked-up in shine and sparkles while the fireplace crackles in the distance.
With that in mind, Fab! Luxe travelled across the globe, albeit virtually this year, to venture into the eclectic spread of Christmas dinners around the world. We picked-up ten dishes – some, mouthwatering, while others might be a little jaw-dropping.
Italy,
Feast Of The Seven Fishes
The meal's components include some combination of anchovies, whiting, lobster, sardines, dried salt cod or bacala, smelts, eels, squid, octopus, shrimp, mussels and clams. The menu may also include pasta, vegetables, baked goods and wine. With all these on the menu, you better be hungry!
Vanezuela
Hallaca
A staple of any Vanezuelan Christmas, Hallaca is a dish made out of cornmeal and stuffed with beef, pork, chicken, raisins, capers and olives. All these are then wrapped in a banana leaf and traditionally served on Christmas and New Year's Eve.
Greenland
Kiviak
This delicacy consists of up to 500 small seagulls fermented whole, within a suture-closed freshly disemboweled seal. Oils are applied to the skin to prevent infestation by maggots. This is then buried underneath a large, flat stone, seam-side up to prevent rupturing by the gases that evolve and contamination. The pelt is dug up about a half year later when fermentation is complete. The sutures are then cut to reveal the fermented seagull. The fermented intestinal fluids are sucked out from the whole birds and used as sauce for other foods. It is said to taste similar to natto paste or very mature cheeses. Definitely not for the faintest of hearts!
Montenegro
Kutia
This is sweet grain pudding that is traditionally served as part of a twelve-meal Christmas Eve supper. This festive treat is believed to have existed long before Christianity. It is made with wheat, berries, honey or sugar, nuts, raisins, and poppy seeds. On Christmas Eve, before consuming the dish, a small bowl of Kutia is traditionally placed outdoors as a bribe to Father Frost, then some of the Kutia is tossed to the ceiling, and the number of grains that stick to the ceiling are used to predict next year's agricultural prosperity.
Ethiopia
Rooster Doro Wat
A hearty chicken stew called Doro Wot is the traditional Christmas feast. It is created from a mound of diced onions, clarified butter and a heap of berbere spice, which simmers together on the stove for hours with a carefully carved chicken to symbolize the 12 apostles. The stew is accompanied by 12 hard-boiled eggs, which represents eternity.
Japan
Kentucky Fried Chicken
It is not as simple as walking in and ordering. December is a busy month for KFC in Japan. It is said that daily sales at some restaurants during the Christmas period can be 10 times their usual take. Getting the KFC special Christmas dinner often requires ordering it weeks in advance, and those who didn’t will wait in line, sometimes for hours – all thanks to Takeshi Okawara, the Manager of the first KFC in the country. In 1970, Okawara woke up at midnight and jotted down an idea that came to him in a dream: a Party Barrel to be sold on Christmas. Okawara dreamed up the idea after overhearing a couple of foreigners in his store talk about how they missed having turkey for Christmas. Okawara hoped a Christmas dinner of fried chicken could be a fine substitute, and so he began marketing his Party Barrel as a way to celebrate the holiday.
Philippines
Puto Bumbong
Puto bumbong is a Filipino delicacy traditionally served during Christmas season in the Philippines. It literally translates to steamed glutinous rice (puto) cooked in bamboo (bumbong). The rice is usually wrapped in banana leaves and then served with warm butter or margarine, coconut flakes and brown sugar.
Norway
Lutefisk
Lutefisk starts off as cod, traditionally caught in the cold waters off Norway. It’s then dried to the point that it attains the feel of leather and the firmness of corrugated cardboard. Water alone can’t reconstitute the fish, so it’s soaked in lye. The fish is then repeatedly rinsed before being shipped off for cooking and eating. In Norway, Lutefisk is traditionally served during Christmas alongside boiled potatoes, mashed green peas, melted butter and small pieces of fried bacon.
Peru
Chocolatadas
This mouth-watering concoction is made with water and infused with spices like cinnamon and clove. This can be on the stove for hours, resulting in an absolutely overwhelming aroma that envelops every street. Drinking chocolate has been part of Peruvian culture for centuries although the consumption has usually been reserved for the middle and upper classes of society. This is especially true of the classic hot chocolate served at Christmas, as tradition calls for it to be made with shavings of high-quality chocolate, something most Peruvians (especially in the countryside) simply can’t afford to purchase. True to the meaning of Christmas, season of sharing and giving, Chocolatadas are offered to the poorest families in the region, most likely than not, these are the only treats they get over Christmas, which makes the tradition all the more special.
Poland
Polish Carp
The tradition of eating carp for Christmas is particularly alive and well in Poland. Fish became popular for Christmas Eve dinner during the 13th century, because Polish are predominantly Catholics and Catholics considered fish as a fasting food. The history of eating fish on Christmas Eve is entirely due to the fact that Catholics couldn’t eat meat during the f