The United States, Britain and Switzerland go head-to-head in the most extravagant holiday hotel battle you’ll ever see

Published October 31, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

The United States, Britain and Switzerland go head-to-head in the most extravagant holiday hotel battle you’ll ever see, dazzling the world with lights, luxury and festive glamour. From the United States to Britain and Switzerland, hotels are doing their best to turn Christmas into an unforgettable global spectacle. Every destination vie for the crown in this luxury holiday hotel showdown, where creativity meets opulence.

America offers a rooftop winter wonderland, Britain glows with royal charm, and Switzerland sparkles beneath the snow-covered charm. This global competition is redefining festive travel and hospitality like never before. With the start of the holiday season, the United States, Britain and Switzerland are proving that Christmas is not just a celebration – it is an art form. Travel And Tour World urges readers to read the whole story and find out which country shines in the battle of the world’s most extravagant holiday hotels of all.

International hotels are igniting the festive magic with stunning holiday transformations from Houston to Switzerland this Christmas. From the twinkling lights of Texas to the snow-covered vistas of the Swiss Alps, every destination is transformed into a winter wonderland full of creativity and delight. Hotels around the world are redefining holiday travel with immersive festive experiences that blend luxury, culture and celebration. Guests can now experience everything from Texas Winter Lights to the glamor of London’s West End. Travel And Tour World reports that these dazzling hotels are setting new global standards in hospitality, providing travelers with unforgettable festive moments this Christmas season.

Marriott Marquis Houston: Texas winter lights take over the sky

In Houston, Texas, the Marriott Marquis Houston transformed its Altitude rooftop pool into a glowing Christmas spectacle during the Texas winter lights. The world’s only Texas-shaped lazy river becomes the centerpiece, illuminated by more than 100,000 twinkling lights and glowing arches that reflect across the Lone Star State. This year’s Western theme takes the celebration up a notch, complete with dueling pianos, line dancing, and visits from Santa. Guests enjoy nighttime snowfall, virtual reality sleigh rides, and 360-degree photo shoots in the heart of Texas. For an immersive stay, limited-edition vacation rooms offer desserts, Western meals, and panoramic views of Houston’s sparkling skyline.

Caribe Royal Orlando: Chocolate dreams and Disney magic

The Caribe Royale Orlando in Florida invites families to a vacation wonderland just moments from the gates of Disney. The resort decorates its halls with exquisite chocolate sculptures, including Santa’s Magical Ride and North Pole Express, all handcrafted by expert pastry chefs. Along with the large Christmas tree and nightly menorah lighting, kids can write letters to Santa or sip cocoa while checking in. Older guests can join Studio du Chocolat’s workshop and create their own edible Santa. With spacious villas, pools and endless activities, Caribe Royale offers the festive magic and sunshine of Orlando – the perfect combination of Christmas wonderland and family adventure.

Viata Austin: Christmas in the Texas Hill Country

Located on a hillside in Austin, Hotel Viata becomes a holiday masterpiece every year with twinkling lights, garlands and a large Christmas tree in its Italianate courtyard. The holiday season begins on November 23 with a magical tree lighting and guaranteed snowfall. Visitors can tour the Christmas Market, featuring handcrafted gifts from local artisans, photos with Santa, and live carols. Weekly tree lightings and family-friendly events like Breakfast with Santa and the Enchanted Princess Tea Party keep the spirit alive throughout the month of December. The Viata Hotel transforms the rural hills of Austin into a sparkling vacation retreat filled with warmth and joy.

The Langley, Buckinghamshire: sparkling nights of British elegance

In the English countryside, The Langley in Buckinghamshire offers the quintessential British Christmas atmosphere with its Twinkling Nights experience. Set in 150 acres of tranquil gardens, the luxury hotel glows with festive lights, elegant décor and roaring fires. Guests enjoy a festive afternoon tea before visiting Windsor Great Park Illuminated – a stunning light trail that transforms the royal grounds into a kaleidoscope of colour. The Langley, part of The Luxury Collection, offers 41 rooms, fine dining at Cedar Restaurant and a spa retreat. Every corner of the hotel embodies classic British charm, making it the perfect winter retreat for holiday travellers.

The Chedi Andermatt: a Swiss winter village dream

In the heart of the Swiss Alps, the Chedi Andermatt transforms into a fairytale winter village surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Guests stroll through a glowing alpine village filled with wooden chalets, gourmet food stalls and warm fires. Traditional Swiss desserts such as fondue and handmade hot chocolate complete the scene. When snowflakes fall over the courtyard, the atmosphere is pure magic. Blending Swiss hospitality with Asian-inspired design, the five-star resort offers Michelin-starred dining, a world-class spa and stunning mountain views. The Chedi Winter Village has become one of the most sought-after festive spots in Europe for luxury travelers and winter lovers.

London West End: The Pulse of Christmas in the UK

London’s West End remains the beating heart of Christmas in the UK. This year, the lights of Bond Street dim on 12 November, illuminating the city with magic, while the launch of Oxford Street in early November supports Great Ormond Street Hospital. As shoppers stroll through the glittering storefronts of brands such as Louis Vuitton and Selfridges, the West End becomes a festival of lights and opulence. Famous theaters host Nutcracker performances and festive musicals, adding cultural charm to the capital. London proves once again that it sets the global standard for holiday celebrations, combining shopping, entertainment and charity in a dazzling display.

Beverly Hills: Hollywood winter glow

Beverly Hills offers Hollywood glamor wrapped in Christmas sparkle. From Beverly Gardens to palm-tree-lined Rodeo Drive, the city’s walkable streets sparkle with festive décor. The annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony on November 13 marks the official start of the season, featuring live performances, fireworks and community celebrations. Luxury hotels like The Peninsula, The Beverly Hills Hotel and Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills feature lavish décor and themed experiences. Visitors enjoy star-studded shopping, fine dining, and a touch of Hollywood glamor. Beverly Hills transforms into a golden paradise that attracts the world’s attention every holiday season.

Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya: A tropical Christmas retreat

The Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya turns the Mexican coast into a tropical vacation wonderland. The celebration begins with a tree lighting ceremony on December 12, followed by two weeks of festivities. Guests can enjoy beachfront dining, chocolate sculptures, cooking classes and holiday camps for children. The event includes Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve festivities with live music, fireworks and an exclusive after-party. With 173 ocean-view rooms, two infinity pools, and a Michelin-awarded spa, the resort offers the perfect blend of luxury and tradition. The Riviera Maya redefines Christmas with its blend of tropical beauty, culture and warmth.

Amway Grand Plaza: Michigan’s gingerbread marvel

In Grand Rapids, Michigan, the Amway Grand Plaza becomes a festive marvel with two massive Charlie Brown-themed gingerbread houses. The hotel’s historic Pantlind lobby shines with twinkling trees and dessert delights. Guests can stay in the Santa Pavilion, enjoy cocoa bombs and sip holiday tea while enjoying gingerbread towers made from hundreds of pounds of dough, snow and sweets. Overlooking the snowy downtown, Amway Grand Plaza combines timeless luxury with nostalgic wonders. It brings the warmth and elegance of the Midwest, making it one of the most charming American destinations for vacation travelers looking for traditional festive experiences.

Pasia Hotel & Spa: Life-sized gingerbread hotel

In Huntington Beach, California, Paséa Hotel & Spa is transforming its lobby into a stunning life-size Gingerbread Hotel. Made from over 170 pounds of dough and 100 pounds of flour, this edible wonder is 80% real gingerbread. Guests enjoy themed cocktails at Oak & Ember, fireside drinks in poolside igloos, and ocean views that dazzle under the stars. Blending festive art with coastal tranquility, Paséa offers Balinese-inspired spa treatments and world-class dining at Lōrea. With 250 ocean-view rooms, this luxurious retreat brings California sunshine into the holiday season — proof that even winter can feel warm and deliciously sweet.

The Davenport Hotel: A Timeless Christmas in Spokane

The historic Davenport Hotel in Spokane, Washington is transforming its grand lobby into a cinematic Christmas wonderland. Under the 1914 stained glass ceiling is a two-story tree decorated with 10,000 ornaments. The season begins on November 28 with a large tree lighting ceremony and performances by the children’s choir. Guests can also attend the annual Christmas Tree Elegance event, featuring themed trees collected to benefit the local symphony. A festive tea party at the Palm Court Grill completes the elegant celebration. The Davenport Hotel embodies old-world charm and festive luxury, making it a cherished vacation landmark in America’s Pacific Northwest.

A world connected by festive light

From the glowing rooftops of Houston to the snow-covered squares of Andermatt, these destinations prove that Christmas cheer goes beyond borders. Each hotel blends tradition, innovation and hospitality into unforgettable travel experiences. Whether in the tropical Riviera Maya, urban London or the Swiss Alps, travelers can find a celebration that reflects the spirit of the season. With their creative offerings and festive flair, these hotels are transforming global tourism into a celebration of light, warmth and wonder. This year, holiday travel isn’t just about the destinations, it’s about experiencing the magic wherever the trip leads.