CHRISTMAS is definitely in the air at the Terra Nova All-Suite hotel. The made-for-luxe-living Christmas trees are up, as are the decorations. The lights are certainly twinkling and the Christmas menus are ready.

There’s more on the festive smorgasbord this year, however, as we discovered Thursday last, in between sips of refreshing sorrel champagne and mouthfuls of what guest Ian Levy described as the most delicious hors d’oeuvres in Jamaica. It was no idle boast!

It was futile feigning indifference to the silver platters of turkey rillettes with sorrel gelee; cheese gougère, or the chicken breast filled with liver pâté and wrapped in bacon, and let’s not forget the chilled pumpkin cups filled with spoonfuls of thyme and lemon risotto risotto and lobster mousse cups — all beyond decadent and worth every calorie.

Our theory that it was a deliberate strategy to position the boutique property as the ultimate destination for the season was soon validated, “We want to create a home away from home this year with all the trimmings,” revealed the property’s managing director Michelle Hussey.”

That she’s done, but that would be expected. The unexpected this year is the Fortnum & Mason twist: beautifully customised gifts for the gastronome.

And so in the cosy drawing room-cum-lobby with the tinkling ivories of Gregory Palmer ahead of the melodious sounds of the University Choir, the mood was set for the unveiling of what will undoubtedly be a glorious festive season at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel.

Little wonder, really, that discreet enquiries about checking in for the entire holidays were made — I mean, Michelle Hussey did say ‘holiday destination’. Perfect timing, too, for more silver platters — this time of desserts: chocolate-dipped rum-soaked cherries, Christmas cake petit fours and nougat, and yes, insists Ardelle Dalla Costa, there’s room for another ponche crema.