The holiday season is fast approaching, and cities here in Europe are beginning to dress at their finest to celebrate. Shop windows compete for the most eye-catching displays, astonishing light installations hang above all the main streets, and the scent of mulled wine and roast chestnuts fills the air with the nostalgic aura of Christmas past.
But which capital embodies the season’s atmosphere best? We compare the yuletide attractions of London and Paris to inspire a last-minute immersion into the magic of the festive season.
LONDON
At Christmas, London explodes in a kaleidoscopic collection of activities. Festivities start at the beginning of November when the main streets are ceremoniously lit up with stunning displays of lights and decorations. Soon after, the West End theatres assume a Christmassy tinge with the performance of pantomimes, themed markets pop up at almost every corner, and carolers entertain busy shoppers with the cheerful melodies of a time gone by. Restaurants and clubs are heaving with party-goers, and the season ends with the biggest party of all, the New Year’s firework extravaganza.Its traditional Georgian style makes Henry’s Townhouse the ideal place to enjoy the London Christmas atmosphere. This cosy six-bedroom townhouse is filled with details that recall the Regency era, from the canopied beds to the soft colours of the velvet drapes. Located in the upscale neighbourhood of Marylebone – close to Bond Street and Hyde Park – Henry’s Townhouse is the perfect base for a Christmas shopping trip or a longer stay soaking up the holiday spirit.
PARIS
Paris does Christmas how it does everything: with style. The Ville Lumière turns its moniker up a few notches over the holidays, and with lights threaded along the majestic thoroughfare of the Champs Élysées and the cobbled street of Bercy Village, Paris shines more than usual during the Christmas season. The pâtisseries compete to showcase the richest Bûche de Noël and the city’s ancient churches are filled with the music of classical concerts and the serene depiction of nativity scenes.With a spectacular location a few minutes away from the Trocadero, Maison Montespan is an uber-luxurious five-bedroom house that encompasses the best that Paris has to offer. Its exquisite furnishings and state-of-the-art decor are matched by stunning features like a heated indoor pool and a large outdoor terrace. The plethora of inclusions – from butler service to daily afternoon tea – will ensure the smoothest of stays for a well-deserved holiday break.
