Must-visit places

Nestled between the warm Maritime Alps and French Riviera, Monte Carlo has long been a haunt of celebrities and the affluent visiting Monaco. Harbours docked with million-dollar yachts and cobbled lanes flanked by expensive boutiques are common for the host destination of the F1 Monaco Grand Prix – the playground of the rich and famous. During winter, it’s perfect for families, with the added advantage of a pleasant Mediterranean climate.

Hôtel Hermitage’s Family Christmas is a great way to discover Monte Carlo with the family while enjoying a Christmas abroad that’s equal parts luxurious and traditional. Feel right at home in connecting rooms for parents and kids, and a Christmas tree in the children’s room complete with gifts under it, courtesy of the hotel. Also enjoy creative workshops and an afternoon tea and snack on Christmas Eve followed by dinner in the evening. Do take time out for a trip to the neo-baroque Opéra Monte Carlo and Exotic Garden of Monaco perched on a rock face with spectacular sea views.

☞ Package starts from Dh2,850, including room rates, dinners and activities. Call +377 98 064151 or email resort@sbm.mc.

Celebrate the Union at Fairmont with its National Day offer. Stay two nights between November 29 and December 5 for a 30 per cent discount on rooms, complimentary breakfast for two per room, hour-long paddle-boarding sessions, access to Fairmont Falcon Kids Club and two-for-one spa treatments at Willow Stream Spa. From Dh1,260 per night. Call 04 311 5566 or email ThePalm.Reservations@fairmont.com.

Book a picnic in Singapore during the National Day weekend with Mandarin Oriental’s Picnic in the Gardens for two. Honouring the 156-year old Botanic Garden’s status as a Unesco World Heritage Site, the package includes Ocean Grand rooms, limousine transfers to the gardens for open-air t’ai chi classes, a gourmet picnic, plus watercolours and canvases for some artistry. From Dh3,352. Call +65 885 3030 or email mosin-reservations@mohg.com.

UAE Off-Road Book

Thinking of off-road getaways for National Day weekend? This is your ultimate guide to the Emirates’ great outdoors- wadis, oases, salt flats, mountains - they’re all there in the 33 updated routes, categorised for novice and experienced driver, including safety and environment tips. Dh185 at www.askexplorer.com/shop

Sock it to us

Leave laundry-on-the-go woes behind with women’s socks by Under Armour. The low ankle lines will keep the tootsies warm. A set of six means fresh socks for nearly every day of the week! Dh150 at Sivvi.com

Pack a pouch

We love how these quirky pouches by YouTuber Zoella save us the trouble of rummaging in suitcases for beauty essentials. Compact and cute, they’re just the right size to store toiletries, make-up and jewellery, all at once. Dh69 at Virgin Megastores

Take a walkman

Play your music all day long on the Bluetooth-enabled Sony NWA25 Walkman with 50 hours’ battery life. Light as a feather, this sleek wonder comes in neon colours, fits into your pocket, and packs a full digital amplifier and advanced audio tech for crystal-clear sound. Dh699 at Sony stores