Here for the Holidays: Make Them More Memorable Than Ever with Four Seasons
From snowy landscapes to sunny paradise, Four Seasons offers a collection of bespoke ways to celebrate around the world, with holiday-inspired activities to share with loved ones
TORONTO /PRNewswire/ — This year, the best gift of all may be sharing special moments, memorable meals, and epic adventures with family and loved ones, and friends old and new. The picture-perfect holiday celebration differs for everyone; it can be set on a sunny oceanfront paradise with twinkling turquoise waters or among scenic snow-covered mountains while sipping on handcrafted cocktails. Whatever the backdrop, Four Seasons offers a plethora of uniquely curated experiences to match any holiday inspiration and suit everyone from culinary connoisseurs to adventure-seekers. From a traditional après-style gathering around the table to a toast to the new year in grand style or a spur-of-the-moment family retreat, these experiences are opportunities to share and enjoy lifelong memories – all blanketed by the warmth and care of Four Seasons hospitality.
A classic cheese fondue at Off Piste, Four Seasons Hotel HampshireFour Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson HoleFour Seasons Private Island Maldives at VoavahFour Seasons Resort Maui at WaileaLe Cinq at Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris
Sunny Destinations to Celebrate the Holidays
Island Getaways
Enter a five-acre (two hectare) UNESCO haven for up to 22 guests at Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll, where property event experts partner with guests to create a completely personalized experience. Whether it’s hitting the ocean to swim with sharks or lounging poolside and watching dolphins at play, Voavah invites its guests to dream with their eyes open and enjoy a truly unforgettable holiday.
Bask in the sun on the pristine blue waters of the Pacific Ocean aboard a 46-foot (14 metre) catamaran at Four Seasons Resort Hualālai. Aptly named Alaka’i Nui (great leader), the catamaran boasts an extended range, enabling guests to venture miles from the Resort to enjoy exciting new activities such as deep-sea fishing and exploration of additional snorkelling locations and beaches.
Ring in the new year at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla while enjoying the sights from the famous Sunset Lounge and sounds from New York-based DJ Mia Moretti and Violinist Margot who are headlining the resort’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration.
Escape to an island hideaway at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa where the charming village setting complete with a lagoon, flower garden, and island spa provides total serenity. For adventure seekers, diving and surfing are island specialties and for the youngest guests, there are endless fun, educational, and culturally enriching activities available, from sandcastle building to hermit crab races.
Welcome 2024 in electrifying style with a Neon Party at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, Thailand during a night filled with pulsating music and dazzling neon lights, including a fireworks display at midnight.
Holiday Fun with the Whole Family
Skate the night away on a secret terrace at Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City, where guests can enjoy music, seasonal snacks, and for adults, handcrafted cocktails from Fifty Mils, named one of the World’s 50 Best Bars.
At Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, Santa plans to make a splash as he navigates the Ayung River before offering holiday greetings and treats for children at the Pici-Pici Kids Club. Meanwhile, at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, Santa continues his annual tradition of catching a few breaks while riding the waves with guests and the TropicSurf team.
Celebrate Christmas Eve in tropical-style poolside and enjoy an open-fire barbecue and Miami-inspired cocktails with views of turquoise Biscayne Bay at Four Seasons Hotel Miami.
Enchanted Winter Escapes
Enjoy a cozy cabin dining experience in the middle of the bustling city at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis where a Nordic Village sits on the Hotel’s outdoor fourth-floor pool deck, Riva Terrace. On weekends, cabins are transformed into an open-air market featuring products from local artists, makers, and creators.
Indulge in a traditional fondue or raclette at Le Chalet des Etoiles, a Christmas Popup exuding a cozy alpine atmosphere decorated with twinkling lights and vintage skis located on the panoramic rooftop of Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva.
Indulge in an elevated après experience after a day on the slopes and head to Ascent Lounge at Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole to enjoy panoramic views of America’s most rugged peaks, all while sipping on a Backcountry Old Fashioned for a taste of Wyoming’s finest local whiskey.
Enjoy dive-inholiday movies in the new waterfall-edge pool at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago for special viewings of iconic holiday tales with popcorn and cookies for a family night to remember.
Festive Feasting and Celebratory Drinks
The magic of the season begins around the table, and Four Seasons draws its inspiration from its guests, the secret ingredient for culinary magic. This festive season, the greatest gift to share is the experience of something new with loved ones. Here are a few of Four Seasons restaurants and bars serving up unexpected indulgences and delectable surprises – each carefully curated with love by its craftspeople.
A Culinary Discovery for Global Gastronomes
Venture to Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire to experience the return of Off Piste, aSwiss-inspired pop-up winter concept restaurant. Enjoy a specially crafted menu by Executive Chef Talha Barkin featuring a delicious mix of Swiss cuisine, seasonal meats, vegetable charcuterie boards, and a classic cheese fondue complete with truffle shavings.
Savour the taste of Italy on Christmas Eve in tropical surroundings with a sumptuous five-course set menu by Chef Marco Garfagnini at Acquapazza complemented by free-flowing wines and Champagne at Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita.
Attract blessings for the new year with a bowl of piping hot toshikoshi soba on New Year’s Eve at THE LOUNGE at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi and enjoy unobstructed city views. The thin and long noodles denote long life and a happy home in Japanese culture, perfect for ushering in a new year of hope and promise.
Usher in the New Year with a selection of signature dining destinations at Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh including a celebratory Mediterranean set-menu at Bullona with live entertainment, an upscale Japanese and pan-Asian dining experience at Yatai, and a five-course menu featuring traditional Italian cuisine in an indoor-outdoor venue at Il Frantoio.
Get a unique glimpse into Budapest’s Golden Era Glam with a Champagne countdown event at MÚZSA at Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest featuring a champagne selection, craft cocktail creations, live entertainment, and Asian hors d’oeuvres.
Deck the Halls – and the Lobby, and the Pool Terrace, and More
Step into the holiday warmth at Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, where the lobby and marble courtyard are punctuated with intricate gold and silver Festive decorationby Jeff Leatham. With a month-long celebration throughout December filled with live music and artistic performances, the Hotel is the perfect setting for a holiday dinner at the three-Michelin starred restaurant Le Cinq or an elegant afternoon tea celebration at La Galerie.
Say aloha to the holiday season at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea where they are welcoming back travellers and transforming their lobby in collaboration with local artist Noah Harders. Rooted in his love for the island, the Maui artist personally forages and sources as many elements as possible from the island. This year, head-turning installations will dazzle guests as the final lobby look will celebrate the rich culture of Maui. Utilizing traditional weaving techniques and Hawaiian elements, guests will be taken on a journey to a wondrous Hawaii where woven coconut palm fronds and striking palm leaves will set the base to this larger-than-life design.
Guests at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul are treated to an elaborate Nordic display and floral arrangements created by internationally renowned floral artist Nicolai Bergmann, who draws on his Danish roots to create a cozy feel with winter greenery and glittering lights.
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts opened its first hotel in 1961, and since that time has been dedicated to perfecting the travel experience through continual innovation and the highest standards of hospitality. Currently operating 126 hotels and resorts, and 53 residential properties in major city centres and resort destinations in 47 countries, and with more than 50 projects under planning or development, Four Seasons consistently ranks among the world’s best hotels and most prestigious brands in reader polls, traveller reviews and industry awards. For more information and reservations, visit fourseasons.com.
BALI, Indonesia, April 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Celebrate Easter and the upcoming school holidays with an unforgettable beachfront getaway at Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort. With a refreshed lobby, a vibrant social lounge at &More by Sheraton, and the newly renovated “PlayHouse” kids club, the resort blends premium comfort with family-friendly fun in the heart of Kuta.
Junior Family Suite at Sheraton Bali Kuta, featuring two separate sleeping areas for comfort and privacy. Parents can unwind in their private king-bedroom, while kids enjoy their sofa bed and fold-out chair—all within a spacious 62 sqm suite.
Wake up to the gentle sound of waves and breathtaking ocean views from your private balcony, setting the perfect tone for a memorable family escape. The Suite Experience package offers spacious comfort with a sofa bed, kids’ tent amenities, a one-time minibar, VIP perks, and a special family room setup. Begin your day with a lavish buffet breakfast, fueling adventures for the little ones at PlayHouse, where 20+ activities keep them entertained, while parents unwind by the infinity pool or enjoy curated moments with the Side by Side program. Afternoons invite relaxation and indulgence with the Jewelry Box Afternoon Tea, a delightful treat for the whole family. Families can also enjoy 15% off dining, including the famous Sunday Social Brunch, where kids dine free. As the sun sets, the revitalized lobby offers a warm, inviting space for coffee, pastries, and social gatherings, while &More by Sheraton sets the scene for a perfect evening with live music, handcrafted cocktails, and stunning views of Kuta Beach. Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Bene Italian Kitchen, sip signature drinks at &More by Sheraton, or explore diverse culinary delights at Daily Social, all with panoramic ocean vistas. Just steps from Beachwalk Shopping Center, local markets, and the iconic WXYZ Bar at Aloft Bali Kuta, the resort offers the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. Whether an Easter egg hunt by the beach or a sunset cocktail, every moment is designed for lasting memories. Ashley Lai, Cluster General Manager of Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort & Aloft Bali Kuta at Beachwalk, shares “It’s more than a place to stay, it’s a destination. With refreshed spaces, family-friendly experiences, and unmatched dining, we create moments that last a lifetime.” Enjoy the Marriott Bonvoy Fast Track program, become a member and register by April 14, 2025, to earn 1,000 bonus points and 1 Elite Night Credit per night. For more information visit Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort.
SOURCE Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort
Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art.
Guests can enjoy refreshed amenities at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay; signature shipboard pool programming; and captivating historic adventures
SEATTLE /PRNewswire/ — Holland America Line, a leader in leisurely travel and personalized service, released its 2026-2027 Caribbean season — featuring more voyages nine days and longer than any other cruise line sailing in the region. Nearly every itinerary features a call at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line’s award-winning private island in the Bahamas. As part of the 2026-2027 season, guests will be able to enjoy a number of enhancements at the destination, including a new beach club featuring priority tendering, waiter service and exclusive food and beverage offerings. Beach club guests will have private beach access with upgraded beach furniture as well as indoor and outdoor seating with ship views.
Zuiderdam at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay
For all guests visiting the island, additional upgrades will provide more ways to experience the tranquility of RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay. Guests will enjoy enhanced beach facilities, upgraded cabanas, villas and canopy loungers for two. Guests can also visit new shopping venues and refreshed dining locales — including a refurbished food court and Lobster Shack, as well as new food trucks with island-only menu items. Other highlights include new pickleball courts, and refreshing beverages delivered via Aperol Spritz tricycles or Bacardi Beach Buggies.
“The Caribbean, with its crystal-clear blue waters and sandy beaches, is the perfect destination to unwind — and we’re enhancing the guest experience to ensure the most relaxing vacation possible,” said Michael Smith, senior vice president, guest experience and product development. “Whether on board or at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, guests will feel immersed in the Caribbean’s charm and the award-winning, personalized service Holland America is known for.”
Holland America Line is also debuting a new adults-only Signature Pool Experience on its Caribbean cruises for those looking for the ultimate relaxation experience at sea. Available at each ship’s Sea View Pool, guests can unwind with spa-like amenities including complimentary cold towels, cucumber water and lemonade, as well as services like sunglass cleaning. On sea days, the experience will feature live ambient music.
Guests seeking these new offerings can select from more than two dozen itineraries aboard six ships, ranging from seven to 14 days. Cruises are roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale or Miami, Florida, sailing from October 2026 to April 2027.
A Historic Adventure As part of Holland America Line’s newly announced partnership, guests can choose from five departure dates and come aboard Nieuw Amsterdam for a 9-day Southern Caribbean and ABC Islands voyage with The HISTORY Channel. The carefully curated itinerary calls at each of the three ABC Islands — Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao — as well as RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, and features a late-night call at Curaçao. While in port, guests can choose from a number of shore excursions, including Caves & City Highlights in partnership with The HISTORY Channel. The excursion will explore Curaçao’s role in Leeward Island expansion and provide the opportunity to tour Willemstad’s center — a UNESCO World Heritage site — as well as take in the stunning limestone formations of the Hato Caves. Guests aboard these cruises will be able to further immerse themselves in the complex history of the region via special onboard programming.
An Extended Holiday For those looking for longer vacations in the Caribbean, Holland America Line offers over 70 departures on cruises that are over nine days in length — more than any other line cruising in the region. Guests can choose from 11 unique itineraries, including explorations focused on the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, partial transits of the Panama Canal, Greater Antilles and beyond.
Guests looking to take one of these trips over the holidays can embark Rotterdam to celebrate both Christmas and the New Year while cruising the Caribbean. Guests can expect to celebrate Christmas Day in Philipsburg, St. Maarten, and New Year’s Day at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay. The voyage will also call at ports in St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Thomas, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda.
A Perfect Week in the Tropics Holland America Line’sseven-day Caribbean cruises will sail aboard Eurodam, Zuiderdam, Nieuw Amsterdam and Nieuw Statendam, each featuring convenient weekend departures. Late-night stays in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and evening departures from St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, allow guests to further dive into the tropical beauty, delicious cuisine and spellbinding history of each destination.
Nearly three dozen departures on four different itineraries allow guests to choose both the island experience that best matches their dream vacation and their ideal timeframe.
Highlights of the 2026-2027 Caribbean Season
Western Caribbean: Greater Antilles and Mexico aboard Eurodam, Nieuw Statendam or Zuiderdam, sails roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, with calls at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; and Cozumel, Mexico. A special holiday edition of the voyage sails roundtrip from MiamiNov. 21, 2026, and replaces RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, with Key West, Florida.
Eastern Caribbean: Amber Cove and Bahamas aboard Eurodam, Zuiderdam, Nieuw Amsterdam and Nieuw Statendam will sail roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, calling at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay; Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; and either Key West or Nassau, Bahamas.
Eastern Caribbean: San Juan and St. Thomas aboard Eurodam, Nieuw Statendam and Zuiderdam roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, calling at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, St. Thomas, a late-night visit to San Juan, and Grand Turk.
9-Day Eastern Caribbean: U.S. & British Virgin Islands sails aboard Nieuw Amsterdam, roundtrip Fort Lauderdale, calling Tortola, Antigua, San Juan, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay and features a late-night call at St. Thomas.
10-Day Western Caribbean cruises sail roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale aboard Rotterdam or from Miami aboard Zuiderdam, and explore the Greater Antilles, Mexico and, on select itineraries, Belize.
11-Day itineraries sail aboard Zuiderdam, Rotterdam and Eurodam roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale. Guests can choose between itineraries that explore the eastern or southern Caribbean.
Two 12-day itineraries are available aboard Nieuw Amsterdam, sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale. Guests can either discover the Panama Canal, Costa Rica and Greater Antilles, or cruise to the Windward and Leeward Islands.
A 14-day voyage is available on Volendam, sailing over the Christmas and New Year holidays. Guests will enjoy eight ports in the eastern Caribbean, including a late-night call in Aruba.
Have It All Early Booking Bonus Starting Have It All fares for Caribbean cruises begin at $1,299 per person, based on double occupancy. For a limited time, when guests book 2026-2027 Caribbean cruises with the Have It All premium package, the standard package amenities of shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package and Surf Wi-Fi are included — plus the added perk of free prepaid crew appreciation, along with free upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi.
Guests can also take advantage of Holland America Line’s Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus. Mariner Society loyalty members can enjoy up to $400 onboard credit per stateroom when these cruises open for sale. Guests must book these cruises by June 30, 2025, to receive the Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus.
For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hollandamerica.com.
Find Holland America Line on Facebook, Instagram and the Holland America Blog. You can also access all social media outlets via the home page at hollandamerica.com.
About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE: CCL and CUK)] Holland America Line has been exploring the world for more than 150 years with expertly crafted itineraries, extraordinary service and genuine connections to the destinations. Offering a perfectly-sized ship experience, its fleet of 11 vessels visits nearly 400 ports in 114 countries around the world and has shared the thrill of Alaska for more than 75 years — longer than any other cruise line. Savour the Journey isn’t just a tagline, it’s a reinforcement that the cruise line provides experiences too good to hurry through, connecting travelers to the world and each other. Award-winning enrichment programming, entertainment and cuisine that brings each locale on board, including a revolutionary Global Fresh Fish Program, put Holland America Line at the forefront of premium cruising.
SOURCE Holland America Line
Simply put, a 401(k) is an employer-sponsored retirement savings plan in which employees contribute a portion of their compensation on a tax-deferred basis.
The employee is eligible at any age to contribute to a 401(k) plan and has the option to pay into these plans throughout their employment. Many employers match some or all of an employee’s contributions, making the plan even more attractive.
What about withdrawals?
Under Internal Revenue Service rules, someone with a 401(k) is required to start making monetary withdrawals from their plan when they reach age 73. Some people start withdrawing at an earlier age.
Someone with a 401(k) can withdraw funds from the plan early, and at any time. But the money amounts withdrawn will typically be deemed taxable income. In addition, those age 59 and a half and under will likely face a 10% penalty on the withdrawal, unless the employer’s plan allows for hardship distributions, early withdrawals or loans from your plan account.
The IRS has specific rules for these early withdrawals; if you find yourself in this situation, you should get help from a tax professional.
All withdrawals starting at age 73, which tax professionals call “RMDs,” are then taxable in retirement – presumably at a lower tax rate than the employee was subject to while employed and working. So these withdrawals starting at age 73 can be a very tax-efficient way of financial planning, including personal income tax planning, for later in life, especially in one’s retirement years.
Again, it’s important to get help from a tax professional to make sure you meet the IRS’ RMD dollar withdrawal requirements once you start withdrawing.
In calendar-year 2025, the most that an employee can contribute to a tax-deferred 401(k) plan annually is US$23,500, including the employer’s match. “Super catch-up contributions are allowed for employees over the age of 50 to their employer’s 401(k) plan each year indexed to inflation. In 2025, super catch-up contributions allow individuals age 50 and older to contribute an additional $7,500 beyond the standard limit, bringing their total annual contribution to $31,000. For those turning age 60, 61, 62 or 63 in 2025, the SECURE Act 2.0 allows a higher catch-up contribution limit of $11,250, resulting in a total allowable contribution of $34,750 in 2025.
When and why did 401(k)s become popular?
Before 1978, retirement savings options were limited.
In 1935, Congress created the Social Security Retirement Plan. This was followed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, which created individual retirement accounts, or IRAs, as a way for employees to save tax-deferred money for their retirement.
401(k) plans became popular with the passage of the Revenue Act of 1978 by Congress.
Congress saw 401(k) plans at that time as an alternative way to supplement Social Security benefits that all eligible Americans are entitled to receive upon retirement. In 1981, the IRS issued new rules and regulations allowing employees to fund their 401(k)s through payroll deductions. This significantly increased the number of employees contributing to their employers’ 401(k) plans.
As of September 2024, Americans held $8.9 trillion in 401(k) plans, according to the Investment Company Institute. A study published by the Pension Rights Center toward the end of 2023 using data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics concluded that 56% of all workers – including private sector and state and local government workers – participate in a workplace retirement plan. That equates to 145 million full- and part-time workers.
How are 401(k) plans affected by market rises and falls?
Contributions to a 401(k) are typically invested in a variety of financial instruments, including in the stock market.
Most 401(k) plans offer investment options with varying levels of risk, allowing employees to choose based on their personal comfort levels and financial goals.
Employers typically outsource the management of these 401(k) plans to third parties. Some of the largest companies managing 401(k) funds on behalf of employers and employees include Fidelity Investments, T. Rowe Price and Charles Schwab, to name just a few.
Because many of these investments are tied to the stock market, 401(k) balances can rise or fall with market fluctuations.
401(k) plans are a financial lifeline for many American retirees.Halfpoint Images/Getty Images
Should I be worried about the stock market tanking my 401(k)?
It depends on when you started making contributions, when you plan to retire and when you expect to start making withdrawals.
Employees with 401(k) accounts should only be worried about falling stocks if they need the money right now – either for retirement living expenses or for other emergency reasons. If you don’t need to take money out soon, there’s usually no reason to panic. History has shown that markets can rebound quickly; short-term drops often don’t signal long-term trends.
Over time, the stock market has experienced many periods of falling stock prices: the bursting of the internet bubble of 2000; the period after the events of 9/11; and the U.S. and global banking crisis of 2007-2010, to name but three.
But overall, over time, stock market returns have averaged 9% from 1994 to 2024, and this includes the periods of falling stock prices mentioned above.
So even if you are a baby boomer heading for retirement and your 401(k) has taken a hit in recent weeks, don’t panic. Bear in mind the truism that stock markets can always go down as well as up.
History suggests that in the long run, depending upon your plans and timing for retirement, working together with a trusted financial adviser strategically with regard to your 401(k) retirement savings is a good approach, especially during periods like we have seen in recent weeks in the stock market.
This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute financial advice. Consult with a qualified financial adviser before making financial decisions.Dr. Ronald Premuroso, Accounting Instructor, Western Governors University School of Business
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Dr. Ronald Premuroso, Accounting Instructor, Western Governors University School of Business
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
