Find Out Why Montreux's Christmas Market Is the Talk of the Season!

Find Out Why Montreux's Christmas Market Is the Talk of the Season!

By Author

Published on December 4, 2023

Wondering if the Montreux Christmas Market in Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) region of Switzerland is worth adding to your holiday itinerary? Absolutely, and here’s why:

A Postcard-Perfect Lakeside Setting

Picture this: a festive market sprawled along the glistening shores of Lake Geneva, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and crystal blue waters. Montreux's Christmas market isn't just a place; it's a picturesque winter scene that comes to life.

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Santa's Spectacular Aerial Show

Imagine Santa Claus gliding magically over the lakeside promenade in his sleigh, not once but three times daily. This unique spectacle of "Santa & His Flying Sleigh" at Montreux adds a dash of wonder to the festive experience.

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The Enchanting Santa Train Journey

An adventure awaits as you board a special cogwheel train to Rochers-de-Naye, home to Santa's Grotto. This journey, a blend of tradition and magic, is a cherished experience for children and those young at heart. Meeting Santa in this captivating setting is a highlight of the Montreux Noël season, making it a standout festive attraction.

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Craftsmanship and Culinary Delights

Immerse yourself in the charm of over 150 skilled craftsmen and traders in Montreux. The market is adorned with lovingly decorated chalets and ephemeral restaurants, each offering their specialities. And the cherry on top? The flying Santa Claus, a true marvel of the Montreux Christmas Market.

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Family-Friendly Fun and Mediaeval Festivities

Children and families can delve into various stalls and play areas, colouring candles or baking cookies. The big wheel near the market offers stunning bird-eye views of Montreux, Lake Geneva, and the Alps, with a glimpse of Chateau de Chillon at its peak.

At Chateau de Chillon Castle, a special mediaeval market and festival ignite the spirit of yore with mediaeval food, music, arts, and technology. Held most Advent weekends, this mediaeval extravaganza at the castle is a journey back in time.

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A Trip to Santa's Workshop

For a magical escapade, visit the Christmas village at Caux and Santa’s Workshop atop Rochers-de-Naye. The village, set in Chateau de Caux's gardens, is accessible by the MOB Golden Pass train, offering a Christmas experience in a magical forest setting.

Easy Access and Joyful Revelry

Reaching the Montreux Christmas Market is a breeze with public transportation. Trains connect Montreux to major Lake Geneva towns, making the journey as pleasant as the destination. The market's hours vary, offering ample time to explore and indulge: Mon-Thu 11 am-8 pm, Fri 11 am-10 pm, Sat 10 am-10 pm, and Sun 10 am-8 pm, with catering available an hour longer.

So, is the Montreux Christmas Market worth a visit? It’s more than just a market; it’s a festive wonderland, a blend of tradition, magic, and culinary delight, all set in one of Europe’s most breathtaking locations.


InterGlobe Expands European Presence with Miiro Spittelberg Opening in Vienna

InterGlobe Expands European Presence with Miiro Spittelberg Opening in Vienna

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 8, 2025

InterGlobe Enterprises has announced the grand opening of Miiro Spittelberg in Vienna, the latest addition to its expanding European hospitality portfolio under the lifestyle brand Miiro. Bookings are now open for stays beginning April 1, 2026, marking the brand’s second hotel in Vienna and sixth launch in less than eighteen months.

Located in the charming Spittelberg district, known for its cobblestoned lanes, artisan boutiques, and vibrant cafés, Miiro Spittelberg offers guests a playful yet refined retreat just steps away from the Museum Quartier and other cultural landmarks. The hotel features 132 elegantly designed rooms and suites, adorned with warm neutrals, bold colour accents, and soft lighting. Each room embodies Miiro’s signature “Brilliantly Considered” design philosophy, offering plush beds, rainfall showers, reading nooks, and Le Labo toiletries.

The hotel’s dining and bar experience reflects a seamless transition from day to night, rooted in European café culture and infused with an Italian spirit that encourages both quiet indulgence and lively gatherings. Guests can also enjoy additional spaces including a library, a 24-hour gym, and Miiro’s signature Refresh Room.

Speaking on the occasion, Neena Gupta, CEO of Miiro and Executive Director of Group Strategy and International Hospitality at InterGlobe Enterprises, said,

“With the opening of Miiro Spittelberg, we continue to strengthen our presence in Europe’s most culturally rich cities. The hotel reflects our commitment to creating immersive, design-led experiences that truly resonate with the spirit of each neighbourhood. Following successful openings in Paris, Barcelona, Gstaad, and London, we are excited to bring Miiro’s brand promise of ‘Brilliantly Considered Stays’ to Vienna and continue our expansion.”

To celebrate the opening, Miiro Spittelberg is offering an exclusive launch offer, 20% off the best available rate along with a €30 on-site credit. Bookings can be made at www.miirohotels.com/spittelberg.

Launched in 2024, Miiro has quickly emerged as a collection of design-led hotels that embody the local charm, culture, and character of Europe’s most sought-after neighbourhoods. With properties already open in Paris, Barcelona, London, Gstaad, and Vienna, and several new launches in the pipeline, Miiro continues to redefine contemporary hospitality through immersive and experiential stays. InterGlobe’s wider international portfolio also includes hotels in Amsterdam, Munich, Prague, Budapest, Hamburg, and Melbourne, further cementing its global presence in hospitality.


Royal Caribbean Unveils Exciting Caribbean Voyages for 2027–28

Royal Caribbean Unveils Exciting Caribbean Voyages for 2027–28

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 6, 2025

Royal Caribbean has announced its next-level lineup of Caribbean adventures for 2027–28, offering travelers year-round opportunities to explore the tropics from Florida. Starting April 2027, the cruise line will feature an array of 2- to 8-night Caribbean vacations, including 7-night voyages on the spectacular Star of the Seas and the newly amplified Harmony of the Seas from Port Canaveral (Orlando). Guests can also enjoy Oasis Class short getaways aboard Utopia of the Seas from Port Canaveral and Wonder of the Seas from Miami.

Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas, its newest icon of vacations, will sail 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean adventures from Port Canaveral with stops at the cruise line’s top-rated private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. The upcoming itineraries also mark Royal Caribbean’s grand return to Samaná in the Dominican Republic, where guests can enjoy scenic hikes, whale watching, and relaxing on pristine beaches.

The 2027–28 lineup extends to three Florida homeports, Port Canaveral, Miami, and Tampa, making island-hopping across the Caribbean and The Bahamas easier than ever. Travelers can look forward to visiting exciting destinations such as Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau and Royal Beach Club Cozumel in Mexico. In addition, Royal Caribbean’s much-anticipated Perfect Day Mexico will debut in late 2027, expanding its collection of ultimate beach destinations.

From Port Canaveral, Star of the Seas will continue to deliver world-class family vacations with more than 40 dining and entertainment experiences, including “Back to the Future: The Musical” and the largest waterpark at sea. Utopia of the Seas will cater to travelers seeking weekend escapes with 3- and 4-night voyages featuring stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay and the new Royal Beach Club Paradise Island.

The refreshed Harmony of the Seas, post its 2026 amplification, will sail 7-night adventures to St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and Jamaica, along with visits to Royal Caribbean’s beach clubs. Guests can unwind on the new Caribbean-themed pool deck or enjoy tropical drinks at The Lime & Coconut.

From Miami, Wonder of the Seas will operate short 3- and 4-night getaways to The Bahamas, featuring Perfect Day at CocoCay and access to Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. Meanwhile, Radiance of the Seas from Tampa will offer a mix of 4- to 8-night Western Caribbean itineraries, including visits to Royal Beach Club Cozumel.

With its combination of new destinations, upgraded ships, and beach club experiences, Royal Caribbean continues to redefine the Caribbean cruise experience for travelers seeking unforgettable vacations.


China Extends Visa-Free Policy to End-2026, Adds Sweden to the List

China Extends Visa-Free Policy to End-2026, Adds Sweden to the List

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 5, 2025

China has announced an extension of its visa-free entry policy for 45 countries until December 31, 2026, while adding Sweden to the list starting November 10, 2025. The initiative aims to attract more international visitors, revive tourism, and enhance foreign engagement in the post-pandemic era.

The extension applies to 32 European countries, along with Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and several South American and Gulf nations, according to a statement released by the Foreign Ministry’s Consular Affairs Department. Under this policy, visitors from eligible countries can enter China for business, tourism, family visits, or transit for up to 30 days without a visa.

Originally set to expire at the end of 2025 for many countries, the programme’s renewal and expansion underscore China’s ongoing efforts to revive its tourism sector, which was severely affected by years of COVID-19 restrictions. The visa-free entry scheme has been a key part of Beijing’s broader strategy to strengthen international ties and encourage people-to-people exchanges.

The United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom remain excluded from the policy.

China is also taking steps to ease tensions and improve cooperation with the European Union (EU), one of its most significant trading partners. Following a meeting between President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump in South Korea last week, Beijing confirmed a one-year suspension of expanded rare earth export controls, which will also extend to the EU.

In a joint statement after discussions in Brussels, both sides agreed to maintain communication and promote the stability of industrial and supply chains, signalling a shared intent to foster smoother economic relations despite ongoing trade challenges.

This renewed visa-free policy, coupled with China’s diplomatic outreach, represents a strategic push to enhance cross-border mobility, economic collaboration, and tourism, further positioning the country as a welcoming destination for global travellers.

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