When most people picture the holidays, they imagine snow-dusted pines and crackling fireplaces. But what if your winter escape traded snowflakes for orchids, hot cocoa for mai tais, and sleigh bells for slack key guitar? At Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, the festive season gets a serious tropical upgrade—and honestly, it’s everything your Instagram feed has been missing.

A Wreath You Can Actually Walk Through

Forget the wreath on your front door. This year, Four Seasons Maui is going big—like, walk-through-it big. Starting December 2, renowned local floral artist Noah Harder is transforming the resort entrance with a show-stopping installation that’s equal parts art gallery and holiday magic. Picture this: a giant wreath draped in sumptuous velvet, dripping with orchids, and glowing from within. We’re talking clusters of velvet bows, ornaments, dried flowers, and natural elements in rich jewel tones and deep emerald greens—all woven together with tropical and seasonal greenery. It’s the kind of entrance that makes you pause, pull out your phone, and think, “Yeah, this is definitely going on the grid.” “The team has been hard at work weaving together experiences that honor the spirit of the season and the rich culture that makes this place so extraordinary,” says Konrad Gstrein, Regional Vice President and General Manager. Translation? They’re not just decorating—they’re creating moments you’ll actually remember.

Sunset, Hula, and Bubbly: The Ultimate Golden Hour

New this year is Sunset Mele on the Pā, and it’s exactly as dreamy as it sounds. Every evening from December 21 through January 3, guests gather on the traditional pā in The Queen’s Garden—a space honoring Hawaiʻi’s last reigning monarch, Queen Liliʻuokalani. As the sun dips below Maui’s pristine coastline, live hula dancers or slack key guitarists take the stage while servers pass around bubbly. It’s cultural immersion meets happy hour, and it’s completely complimentary. Pro tip: Arrive early to snag a prime spot for those golden hour photos.

Mahjong Meets Mai Tais (Yes, Really)

If you’ve been scrolling TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve probably noticed mahjong having a major moment. The centuries-old tile game is trending hard, and Four Seasons Maui is bringing it straight to paradise with their new Mahjong and Mai Tais experience. Partnering with Mahjong Country Club—founded by women who learned from their moms and grandmothers—the resort is hosting sessions that blend ancient strategy with serious tropical vibes. Whether you’re a mahjong newbie or a seasoned player, expert instructors will get you up to speed before live play begins. And yes, mai tais are absolutely included. Sessions run December 21-24, 26-30, and January 1-2 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at KOMO. It’s the perfect fusion of trending culture and island relaxation.

Honoring Traditions, Hawaiian Style

Four Seasons Maui knows the holidays mean different things to different people, and they’re celebrating it all. Nightly Hanukkah services run December 14-21, complete with a latke-making demonstration led by Executive Chef Ryan Schelling on December 21. Christmas Eve brings Santa’s dramatic arrival—not by sleigh, but by outrigger canoe at Wailea Beach. Because when you’re in Hawaii, even Santa knows how to make an entrance. Families can also join the pastry team for holiday cookie decorating, creating edible memories with an island twist. For the competitive families, the three-day Wailea Challenge tournament (December 21-23 and December 28-30) features canoe racing, spear throwing, and obstacle courses. Or keep it casual with the Tropical Pickleball Mixer round-robin tournament on December 27 and January 3.

Wellness With an Ocean View

Between the festivities, the resort offers plenty of ways to recharge. Daily beach yoga, oceanside massages in traditional Hawaiian hale (thatched structures), and vitamin IV therapy through the resort’s collaboration with Next|Health keep wellness at the forefront. But the real showstopper? Floating Sound Baths at the Adult Pool on December 22, 29, and January 5. Imagine floating under Maui’s star-studded sky while sound waves wash over you. It’s meditation meets vacation, and it’s exactly the kind of unique experience that makes Four Seasons Maui stand out.

Ring in 2026, Island Style

New Year’s Eve at Four Seasons Maui is a multi-venue celebration. Start with dinner at DUO Steak and Seafood’s buffet, Chef Russell Rummer’s holiday menu at Ferraro’s Restaurant & Bar, or Wolfgang Puck’s seven-course tasting at Spago Maui. The night culminates with the Electric Aloha New Year’s Eve Party on the Oceanfront Lawn at 10 p.m., featuring live music from the band Halfmoons and midnight fireworks over Wailea Beach. And if you’re feeling ambitious, kick off 2026 with General Manager Konrad Gstrein’s New Year’s Day morning run along the stunning Wailea coastline.

Why This Matters

In a world where holiday experiences can feel cookie-cutter, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is proving that tradition and innovation can coexist beautifully. They’re honoring Hawaiian culture while embracing trending experiences like mahjong. They’re creating Instagram-worthy moments while maintaining authentic connections to place and community. Whether you’re returning to familiar shores or discovering Maui for the first time, this festive season offers something genuinely special: a chance to celebrate the holidays in a way that feels both fresh and timeless. Ready to trade your winter coat for a lei? The complete schedule of festive programming is available at fourseasons.com/maui or by calling (808) 874-8000.

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About Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea This Forbes Five-Star oceanfront resort sits on 15 breathtaking acres along the Wailea Coast, featuring 383 rooms, world-class dining at four celebrated restaurants (Ferraro’s, Spago Maui, DUO Steak and Seafood, and KOMO), three pools overlooking the Pacific, and one of the nation’s top-rated spas. It’s luxury that lives in harmony with its environment and community—exactly what the holidays should feel like.

Dive into “The Knowledge,” where curiosity meets clarity. This playlist, in collaboration with STMDailyNews.com, is designed for viewers who value historical accuracy and insightful learning. Our short videos, ranging from 30 seconds to a minute and a half, make complex subjects easy to grasp in no time. Covering everything from historical events to contemporary processes and entertainment, “The Knowledge” bridges the past with the present. In a world where information is abundant yet often misused, our series aims to guide you through the noise, preserving vital knowledge and truths that shape our lives today. Perfect for curious minds eager to discover the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of everything around us. Subscribe and join in as we explore the facts that matter.  https://stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge/

(Family Features) A trip to visit loved ones or a holiday-themed vacation with your nearest and dearest can create magical memories, but first, you’ve got to get there. If the thought of holiday travel makes you nauseous, rest assured – a little planning and the right resources can help your festive getaway go smoother.

Overcome the hustle and bustle of the busiest travel season of the year with this expert advice.

Protect Yourself from Illnesses
The holidays intertwine with cold and flu season, meaning staying healthy on your trip is a must. Travel can be physically draining, which makes you more susceptible to common illnesses. However, some general health tips can go a long way, such as:

• Wash your hands: Between plane rides, rental cars and hotel rooms, you’re going to handle frequently touched objects in public spaces. Carry hand sanitizer and be sure to thoroughly wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water.
• Pack medications: It’s critical to pack prescribed medications, no doubt, but consider bringing along over-the-counter vitamins and cold medicine so you’re prepared for anything.
• Consult your doctor: Ask your doctor about any vaccinations you may need, especially if traveling internationally. It’s important to get all recommended shots and treatments prior to departure.

Be Prepared for Delays
Spontaneous moments are often the most memorable, but sometimes unplanned events aren’t so welcome. Because it’s nearly impossible for an entire vacation to go as scripted, consider purchasing a travel protection plan from World Nomads that includes the travel inconvenience benefit. This benefit may compensate you for unforeseen circumstances like tarmac delays or ski resort closures. Hang on to receipts that show dates and payments to make the claim process a breeze.

Overcome Jet Lag
Air travel can disrupt sleep patterns, particularly if you’re flying across multiple time zones, causing difficulty sleeping and irritability. Be mindful of caffeine and alcohol intake, which can further impact sleep patterns. Exposure to light at the appropriate times can help reset your circadian rhythm while a low-dose melatonin can produce mild sleepiness if you’re having trouble catching some Z’s.

Traveling west is easiest on your internal clock as you “gain time” heading westward; in contrast, flying east requires shifting the timing of your body clock to make up for the “lost time.” Leading up to eastward travel, try going to bed and waking up earlier.

Have a Backup Plan
You simply can’t predict everything. Standard trip cancellation coverage may only apply to specific events like unexpected illness or injury, or natural disasters. However, the optional Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) benefit from World Nomads may fill the gaps. As a U.S. resident (except if you live in New York), you can add CFAR coverage when you purchase the Explorer or Epic Plan. CFAR may be particularly useful for expensive travel with non-refundable expenses (like cruises or international trips) or trips taking place during economically or politically volatile times.

For those booking multiple trips in addition to holiday getaways, the Annual Plan from World Nomads means one purchase for an entire year’s worth of protection. Trip cancellation, emergency medical expenses, rental car damage and more are covered to ensure your plans aren’t ruined by the unexpected.

To find more information and a full list of what is and isn’t covered, visit WorldNomads.com and check plan documents for maximums, terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions that may apply.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:
World Nomads

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

Last Updated on November 1, 2025 by Daily News Staff

Las Vegas prepares for its most electrifying race week yet with fan zones, celebrity appearances, and immersive experiences across iconic MGM properties

LAS VEGAS – MGM Resorts International is pulling out all the stops for the third annual Las Vegas Grand Prix, transforming the west side of The Strip into what they’re calling the “MGM Zone” – an all-access Formula 1® playground that promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for racing fans and Vegas visitors alike from November 20-22.

Racing Teams Take Over The Strip

The MGM Zone will feature dedicated fan zones hosted by some of F1’s most iconic teams. At ARIA, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 Team fans will find their paradise starting early November, with race simulators, team merchandise, and photo ops with an actual show car. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will showcase the MoneyGram Haas F1® Team with a 24-hour activation (November 18-23) featuring an official race car, exclusive memorabilia, and meet-and-greets with drivers Esteban Ocon, Ollie Bearman, and team principal Ayao Komatsu.

Meanwhile, New York-New York’s Brooklyn Bridge transforms into the Atlassian Williams Racing Fan Zone Presented by Zoox, offering free interactive experiences including F1 cars, state-of-the-art simulators, and skill games from November 17-22.

“The Las Vegas Grand Prix captures the world’s attention, and no one brings it to life like MGM Resorts,” said Ryan Abboushi, MGM Resorts’ President of Entertainment. “With our properties only steps from the track, we’re creating an unmatched collection of food & beverage experiences, art, fashion, nightlife, and fan zones that only Las Vegas can deliver.”

Culinary Collaborations Fuel the Excitement

Race week dining reaches new heights with exclusive culinary experiences across MGM properties. The fan-favorite Shoey Bar returns to Bellagio (November 20-22) with exciting additions including two limited-edition Sparco shoe designs and “The Helmet” – a one-of-a-kind F1 helmet-turned-punchbowl cocktail with only 30 available. Celebrity bartenders, live music, and A-list appearances make this one of the week’s hottest destinations.

Cavallino, the legendary Italian restaurant born from the collaboration between Massimo Bottura and Ferrari, takes over Le Cirque at Bellagio from November 19-22. The restaurant brings authentic Motor Valley flavors to Vegas with its Icons tasting menu featuring Crème Caramel al Parmigiano Reggiano, Vitello Tonnato, and Filetto Purosangue.

Other culinary highlights include:

• Michael Mina Bellagio hosts celebrity chef Brooke Williamson on November 20 for a $195 four-course collaboration
• Quintessa Blending Class offers an exclusive wine-blending experience on November 22 ($250 per person)
• Schrader Cellars Tasting at PRIME Steakhouse features Master Sommelier Jason Smith on November 21
• Paella Party with José Andrés at Jaleo brings Spanish flavors to The Cosmopolitan on November 22
• Race to Taste at Wicked Spoon features menu items inspired by each F1 race’s home city (November 17-23)

Fashion Takes the Checkered Flag

Racing style meets high fashion with exclusive pop-ups throughout MGM properties. Ferrari’s boutique at Bellagio (October 15-December 31) offers one-of-one clothing pieces available only during race weekend. Marchesa makes its Las Vegas Grand Prix debut with an exclusive trunk show featuring couture designs and a special appearance by designer Georgina Chapman (November 17-23).

Fan-favorite Daniel Ricciardo’s Enchanté returns to The Cosmopolitan (November 14-22) with archived collections and a new line celebrating the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls Academy Programme partnership. AllSaints transforms its Cosmopolitan boutique into a high-energy pitstop on November 19, featuring a race car simulator, Batak reaction test, and the limited-edition AllSaints x Williams Racing collaboration.

Art Meets Adrenaline

The Cosmopolitan becomes an immersive art gallery during race week with multiple installations. Anonymous performance duo The Bumbys deliver their signature “Fair and Honest Appraisals of Your Appearance” on November 21-22, while internationally renowned artist Armin Flossdorf creates large-scale race-themed works live throughout the week (November 17-24).

The resort’s iconic lobby undergoes a digital transformation with F1-themed works showcasing color, light, and motion across massive digital columns and wall panels (November 18-23). A curated collection of race helmets created by Las Vegas artists will also be on display.

The Ultimate F1 Destination

With properties positioned steps from the track and an unprecedented lineup of experiences, MGM Resorts is positioning itself as the epicenter of Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend. From exclusive culinary collaborations and fashion pop-ups to immersive art installations and direct access to F1 teams and drivers, the MGM Zone promises to deliver the spectacle that only Las Vegas can create.

For the complete list of events and activations, visit MGM Resorts’ website and follow @MGMResortsIntl for the latest updates.

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The Las Vegas Grand Prix takes place November 20-22, 2025. Most experiences are open to the public, with some requiring advance reservations or ticket purchases.

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.