Sharing seasonal goodwill

The Ritz-Carlton in Shenzhen is ablaze with Christmas cheer, from the gigantic Christmas tree in the lobby to the enticing aroma that wafts from the gingerbread houses throughout the hotel. But in the midst of all the nativity music and feasting options, the hotel is also providing a "Take Away" with a difference.

Ritz-Carlton continues their five-year partnership with the Shenzhen Min Ai Disabled Children's Welfare Center in a charity program that will make a child's wish come true.

Guests can buy a Christmas ornament for 128 yuan ($21) on the two-story tree and put their names on cards which the hotel staff will hang on the tree.

Inside the ornament is the name of a child from Min Ai School and a cookie specially prepared by the hotel chef. Guests can take the ornament home and hang it on their own tree as a special souvenir. Proceeds from the sale go toward the children's needs.

To allow guests to better enjoy a "Take Away Christmas", reservations made two days in advance will allow them to celebrate Christmas at home, in style. A gourmet roast turkey at Fix, the hotel delicatessen, can be ordered through Dec 26, and it will come with turkey gravy, cranberry sauce, and apple or pumpkin pie.

Christmas hampers with Christmas cookies, gingerbread, a chocolate Santa Claus and red wine will be ideal presents for a new home in the festive season.

The Ritz-Carlton's famous Teddy Bear Afternoon Tea will also be available throughout December at Onyx, the lobby lounge.

If eating out is your preference, book a table for the Christmas Eve Gala Buffet Dinner and Christmas Buffet Dinner on Dec 24 and 25 in Flavorz, the all-day dining restaurant where guests will enjoy seafood and a vast array of desserts. Otherwise, you may opt for the elegant five-course prix fixe dinner on Christmas Eve at Paletto, the Italian restaurant.

The Ritz-Carlton, Shenzhen is located in the Futian business district and will usher in its fifth birthday soon.