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The prospect of hanging out with all those weird and annoying relatives so soon after the lame office party is not always compelling. 'Hell is other people,' as the French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre puts it, and he probably penned these words during the festive season. Anyway, last year you stuck around over Christmas and regretted it, but this time round you have just enough time to plan an escape, right? Carl Sutherland suggests some terrific Christmas destinations, all only a few hours of flying time away - but every one a great distance from your extended family, irksome colleagues, thoughts of work and glittery seasonal overkill
Heavenly hilltop retreat
High in the forested hills of northern Thailand, festive season fun awaits guests at Veranda Chiang Mai - The High Resort (below ), a luxury spa retreat. The Festive Season Special, for arrivals from December 22 to 24 at the popular getaway for Bangkok's smart set, offers three nights in a valley deluxe room including a traditional Christmas party with live entertainment, priced at 32,000 baht (HK$7,170). Also included is a spa massage for two, airport transfers to and from Chiang Mai International Airport, daily breakfast for two and welcome drinks. For arrivals from December 29 to 31, the New Year's Eve High Party package also offers three nights in a valley deluxe room with a grand buffet dinner and live entertainment counting down to the New Year, and a fireworks display welcoming 2009, priced at 36,900 baht. rsvn-chiangmai@verandaresortandspa.com, +66 2 5133003 (Bangkok) or +66 53 365362 (Chiang Mai), www.verandaresortandspa.com/chiangmai/
Take to the high seas
If taking a leisurely cruise is your thing, the Royal Caribbean International, Legend of the Seas, is set to sail around the region with stop-offs at Penang, Phuket and other sunshine destinations. Apart from endless buffets and the usual games and shows to keep you entertained as you drift along, this magnificent vessel also offers such non-nautical activities as rock climbing and golfing. Your seven days of heaven on the ocean waves departs on December 22 and 31 - another great way to end the year. From HK$6,890. Swire Travel 31518855, www.swiretravel.com
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