HOLIDAY 2017A person who devotes themselves to a sociable and luxurious lifestyle

/bɒ̃ viːˈvɒ̃, French bɔ̃ vivɑ̃/ {n}:

Dear Friends,

I’m delighted to bring you our second edition of BON VIVANT Holiday.

Though you may still be reminiscing about summers spent in sunnier

climes, now is the time to start thinking ahead to the festive season!

Because the holiday season is something many folks don’t think about until

too late, we thought we’d give Platinum a leg up with a special Holiday guide

providing top picks for the festive season – from Christmas shows to Diwali

celebrations, from Chanukah concerts to New Year’s Eve itineraries.

These book up fast, so take advantage of the advanced notice and book now.

We hope that this edition will help you plan

one of your most exciting festive seasons to date!

Yours sincerely,Rafael MasonVice PresidentHead of Product, Marketing & BrandAmerican Express, UK

HOLIDAY 2017

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London—

Christmas with the London Symphony OrchestraSIMON HALSEY / LONDON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRABarbican, 3 December 2017

When it comes to evoking that ‘festive feeling’, there’s nothing quite like singing along to a concert of Christmas carols. Now in its fourth year, the London Symphony Orchestra invites an audience of all ages to take part in a choral celebration, accompanied by the London Symphony Orchestra Brass Ensemble. This one’s a real seasonal treat – complete with mince pies, Santa hats and glad tidings aplenty – so make sure you don’t miss out.IMAGE © LONDON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA London

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Christmas with Russell WatsonRUSSELL WATSON / LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRABarbican, 23 December 2017

Though Russell Watson did not train as a classical artist, his illustrious career has earned him the title of ‘The People’s Tenor’. As part of this year’s Raymond Gubbay Christmas Festival, the acclaimed vocalist will take to the stage for a fantastic recital of festive favourites, accompanied by the London Concert Orchestra. If you didn’t get to catch Russell in his UK tour this autumn, this is the perfect chance to see what he does best.

Christmas & More

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CHRISTMASUK

London / Scotland—

The Nutcracker THE ROYAL BALLETRoyal Opera House 5 December 2017 – 10 January 2018

ENGLISH NATIONAL BALLETLondon Coliseum 13 December 2017 – 6 January 2018

SCOTTISH BALLETVarious Locations across Scotland 9 December 2017 – 27 January 2018

The Nutcracker is a timeless spectacle that is also an institution, but every production still manages to offer something different. Purists will love Peter Wright’s version; performed by The Royal Ballet, it stays true to tradition by incorporating original material from Lev Ivanov’s 1892 ballet. Meanwhile, Wayne Eagling’s adaptation of the classic fairy tale, staged by the English National Ballet at the London Coliseum, tweaks traditional tropes. Beyond London, the Scottish Ballet offers audiences a sumptuous, snow-flecked performance that demonstrates some of choreographer Peter Darrell’s finest work. IMAGE © THE ROYAL BALLET

London—

Christmas Jazz at Ronnie Scott’s Ronnie Scott’s, 1 – 23 December 2017

Come December, Ronnie Scott’s transforms into a magical, even more spirited version of itself with a programme of Christmas Cabaret Lunches. Much loved by jazz aficionados and merrymakers alike, each lunch instalment promises a line-up of cherry-picked festive jazz renditions, coupled with delicious food and champagne. The audience even has the chance to ‘challenge the band’ in a musical improv that is sure to have everyone singing and swinging to fast-paced festive tunes.IMAGE © GREGORY HARRIS

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London—

A Christmas Carol at The Old VicThe Old Vic, 18 November 2017 – 20 January 2018

Nothing quite says Christmas like Charles Dickens’ timeless tale A Christmas Carol. The family favourite, set on a cold, bitter Christmas Eve, tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserable old man with no desire to celebrate. But after being visited by ghosts of Christmas past, present and future, Scrooge is forced to see the life he has built for himself with fresh eyes. You’re sure to find this tale staged all over the country come Christmas, but The Old Vic’s production, starring Harry Potter’s Rhys Ifans as Scrooge, sprinkles the classic with a bit of thespian stardust.

CHRISTMAS & MORELONDON

London—

Diwali at Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square, 15 October 2017

Translated as ‘a row of lights’, Diwali represents a new beginning and a victory of good over evil. It is typically marked with the adornment of earthen lamps or ‘diyas’ in homes and public spaces. Where better to soak up the warmth of such a festival than amongst fellow revellers at London’s Diwali celebration in Trafalgar Square, which is hosted by London’s ‘culture maven’ mayor Sadiq Khan?

London—

Sadler’s Wells does The SnowmanPeacock Theatre 23 November – 31 December 2017

Raymond Briggs’ much-loved tale of a boy and his magical encounter with a snowman is charming enough to warm even the frostiest of hearts. Back for its 20th year at the Peacock Theatre, the action of the original picture-book story comes to life in true Sadler’s Wells style. It offers audiences of all ages just the right dose of festive cheer (and with the fantastical action of dancing snowmen, skipping reindeer and even a lesser-spotted shimmying pineapple, no less!). This one’s a classic that is sure to have you spellbound.IMAGE © RAYMOND BRIGGS

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Oxfordshire / Derbyshire—

A Country Christmas: Blenheim & ChatsworthBLENHEIM PALACE, OXFORDSHIRE24 November 2017 – 1 January 2018

CHATSWORTH HOUSE, DERBYSHIRE 17 November 2017 – 5 December 2017

There’s something especially nostalgic and romantic about Christmas in the countryside. If you’re going rural, the standard is set by Christmas at Blenheim Palace (where the grounds take on an even more dazzling guise than usual). Discover the artfully landscaped parkland, with its festive trail of lights, singing Christmas trees and scented Fire Garden. Or venture further north to the heart of the Peak District and discover another noble residence – Chatsworth House – whose annual Christmas market offers the absolute perfect place to pick up local and handmade Christmas gifts.IMAGE © BLENHEIM PALACE

CHRISTMASUK

Scotland—

Scottish Christmas CelebrationPerth Concert Hall, Perth, 20 December 2017Caird Hall, Dundee, 21 December 2017Usher Hall, Edinburgh, 22 December 2017Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow, 23 December 2017

Nothing beats Christmas in Scotland, and there is no such thing as a Scottish Christmas without carols. Christmas carol programmes don’t get any better than the Royal Scottish National Orchestra’s live performance, conducted by the award-winning maestro Christopher Bell. This festive concert will be performed in various locations across Scotland, so book now and have your Christmas jumper at the ready.IMAGE © RSNO

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CHRISTMAS UK

Birmingham—

Christmas with the City of Birmingham Symphony OrchestraCHRISTMAS CRACKERSCBSO Centre, 8 – 9 December 2017

A CHORAL CHRISTMASSymphony Hall, 19 – 21 December 2017

No matter your singing ability, loud and proud is the only way to go when it comes to Christmas carols. Two concerts in Birmingham offer the perfect opportunity for festive belting: the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra’s ‘Christmas Crackers’ (a toddler-friendly singalong that’s sure to get the whole family up on their feet), and ‘A Choral Christmas’ (a performance hosted by celebrated chorus director Simon Halsey).

Manchester—

A Swingin’ Christmas in Manchester The Bridgewater Hall, 21 December 2017

Nobody can say Manchester doesn’t know how to put on a Christmas bash. Featuring big hitters like White Christmas, Let It Snow and Jingle Bells, this holiday programme will feature Gary Williams on vocals. He will lead the blast of the big band for a swingin’ evening of festive singing in the stalls. A refreshing break from dusty organ playing, the concert puts ‘old-school cool’ back into Christmas – Manchester style.

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Edinburgh—

Edinburgh’s Christmas, 2017Various locations across the city18 November 2017 – 7 January 2018

O come all ye faithful up to Edinburgh for the city-wide celebration of Yuletide, complete with genre-bending performances, a Christmas market in Princes Street Gardens and a neck-craning firework display. The six-week event will welcome visitors from far and wide for the fifth instalment of this festival of dazzling proportions. Wrap up in something woolly, warm up with a whisky-spiked tipple and enjoy all the fun of ‘Auld Reekie’. This is what Christmas is like in the movies.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTSUK

UK—

Lights & Markets across the UK TUNNEL OF LIGHTThe Forum, Norwich 16 November 2017 – 5 January 2018

ENCHANTED CHRISTMASWestonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire 1 – 3, 7 – 10, 14 – 18 December 2017

CHRISTMAS GLOWRoyal Horticultural Society Garden, Wisley, Surrey 30 November 2017 – 3 January 2018

Whether elegant, mesmerising or downright kitsch, it’s not Christmas until you have beheld the finest of the UK’s festive lights. Topping the list must be Norwich’s dramatic Tunnel of Light, a 45-metre-long passage lined with 50,000 tiny pulsating bulbs. For a display of nature at its most vibrant, go deep into Gloucestershire’s woods and follow the Enchanted Christmas trail, which guides you through the National Arboretum’s illuminated tree collection. Or try Wisley’s Christmas Glow installation for a more floral affair with bright, festive blooms.

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CHRISTMAS LIGHTS UK

UK—

Magical Lantern FestivalRoundhay Park, LeedsBotanical Gardens, Birmingham Chiswick House Gardens, LondonPhilips Park, ManchesterGlasgow Botanic Gardens, Glasgow 24 November 2017 – 1 January 2018

Is there a more dazzling sight than thousands of glowing orbs, speckling the night’s sky? The Magical Lantern Festival provides an affirmative answer, offering visitors a glittering spectacle of luminous art forms. This show augments the ancient Chinese ‘lantern tradition’ with festive hallmarks such as an ice rink, Santa’s Grotto and, of course, plenty of delicious food to tuck into. You can catch this one in several spots around the UK, so there’s no reason to miss out.

London—

London Lights & MarketsRegent Street, Bond Street & Sloane SquareBelgravia MarketsChristmas at Kew Late November & December 2017

Charismatic London turns up the charm come Christmas time, with streams of twinkling lights bejewelling the city. Regent Street is the most iconic star-lined strip and, on neighbouring Bond Street, the watts give the carats a run for their money. But visit the traditional Christmas markets at Belgravia’s Elizabeth Street, Motcomb Street and Pimlico Road for a more understated annual celebration of all things festive, complete with carolers and roasted chestnuts. Next, head to Sloane Square and Duke of York Square where the trees burst with light. And, of course, the jewel of seasonal suburbia is surely Christmas at Kew, where visitors can get lost beneath a mile-long trail of lights.

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Amsterdam—

Christmas at the ConcertgebouwPHILIPPE HERREWEGHE / ROYAL CONCERTGEBOUW ORCHESTRA BACH MASS IN B MINORConcertgebouw, 25 December 2017

Bach’s Mass in B minor is nothing short of a sacred Christian masterpiece. The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra will perform the choral wonder for the first time in 45 years to mark this year’s Christmas matinée concert. What better way to begin Christmas day than with quiet and contemplation as opposed to the usual cacophony of a more commercial take on noël? IMAGE © CONCERTGEBOUW

CHRISTMASBEYOND THE UK

Paris—

La bohème in ParisOPÉRA DE PARISOpéra Bastille, 28 November – 31 December 2017

It only seems fitting that La bohème returns to Paris with an original setting as depicted in Henri Murger’s novel (on which Giacomo Puccini based his operatic masterpiece). La bohème’s scene of Christmas in the Quartier Latin of 19th-century Paris – with the toy seller Parpignol’s fantastical parade of Christmas wares – is one of the most magical festive visions ever created. So if the incredible music isn’t enough to draw you in, perhaps the spectacular vision of Left Bank Parisian festive merriment is instead.IMAGE © BILL COOPER

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Los Angeles—

Dianne Reeves – Christmas Time is HereLOS ANGELES PHILHARMONICWalt Disney Hall, 20 December 2017

Combining her signature charisma with a generous dose of festive cheer, Dianne Reeves will breathe life into her collection of classic Christmas carols. For one night only, the multiple Grammy award-winning songstress takes to the stage to mark the culmination of an epic year of worldwide touring – a reminder to audiences that she is, and continues to be, a timeless icon. If you’re in LA this Christmas, this is not a performance to be missed.IMAGE © JERRIS MADISON

CHRISTMASBEYOND THE UK

New York—

NY: Big Band HolidaysWYNTON MARSALISJazz at Lincoln Center, 13 – 17 December 2017

Like arriving home to a house full of relatives (beaming with Christmas cheer!), Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Big Band Holidays concerts will wrap you in a warm embrace. This annual tradition – running for more than a decade – welcomes jazz aficionados and partygoers alike for a programme of holiday-infused performances led by the legendary Wynton Marsalis. There is, hands down, no better way to bring in the festive season.IMAGE © ROB WAYMAN

New York—

David Broza’s ‘Not Exactly Christmas Eve’ ConcertKaufmann Concert Hall at 92Y, 24 December 2017

Often called “Israel’s Bruce Springsteen,” charismatic singer-songwriter David Broza returns for his annual folk/rock/pop/flamenco-inflected holiday(ish) concert. The all-embracing troubadour (who has shared stages with Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, Van Morrison and others) is also a tireless advocate for peace and the ‘joy to the world’ spirit. Broza is sure to demonstrate how Christmas Eve ‘alternatives’ can be just as much fun as eggnog and carols.IMAGE © ILAN BESOR

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CHANUKAHBEYOND THE UK

Paris—

Sacha Finkelsztajn’s La Boutique Jaune27 Rue Rosiers, 75004Metro: Saint-Paul

One of things that makes Chanukah so much fun is the abundance of delicious treats. Leave it to Paris, which boasts Europe’s largest Jewish community, to pay tribute to the gastronomy of Chanukah like no other city could. If you’re looking for the best of the best, head to Sacha Finkelsztajn’s La Boutique Jaune, nestled in Paris’ fashionable Marais district (still considered the true heart of Jewish Paris). Referred to as a “Yiddish gastronomic wonder”, with past and present patrons including Woody Allen, Sigmund Freud and Marc Chagall, this is the spot if you’re after yummy ruggelach, the crunchiest of latkes, or the best traditional Gefilte fish in all of Europe.

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London: NYE FeastsSushisamba, Moorgate EC2N 4AYPark Chinois, Mayfair W1J 8EA Aquavit, St James’s Market SW1Y 4QQ31 December 2017

The search for NYE celebrations in London poses an infinite stream of possibilities. If Sushisamba’s soirée is anything like last year’s ‘All White’ affair – complete with carnival-inspired dancers – then you’re in for a real treat. Or, if you’re in it for the long haul, try Park Chinois, where the new year’s festivities will carry on into the small hours. For something more low-key, but no less glamorous, Aquavit in St James’s Square puts on a beautifully lit and beautifully presented NYE supper for the ‘grown-ups’ at heart. Last year’s live jazz band added a lower octane celebratory spirit for those who wince at the thought of NYE ‘forced festive’. These soirées book up fast, so act now if you want to ring in the new year in this kind of style!

Paris:Church Bells at Notre DameL’Atelier Maître AlbertBell show, Notre Dame31 December 2017

Paris at this time of year is a sumptuous spectacle of silver sparkles. While the tourists head to the Champs-Élysées, if you want to experience New Year’s Eve ‘à la française’ – like the locals do – use the river Seine as your beacon to guide you through the heart of the city. Dinnerat the always convivial rotisserie L’Atelier Maître Albert is a guaranteed hit with locals. And to ring in the new year, do as many Parisians do: grab a bottle of champagne and head to Notre Dame where the stroke of midnight is announced with a magical cacophony of bells.

New Year’s Eve

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Washington, D.C.: Dee Dee Bridgewater’s ‘A Jazz New Year’s Eve’The Kennedy Center31 December 2017 Culminating a very successful year, marked most notably by her new title as National Endowment for the Arts ‘Jazz Master’, Dee Dee Bridgewater will take to the stage this New Year’s Eve to showcase works from her latest album, Memphis. Dee Dee will also be joined by other celebrated live performers and big bands, and the whole splendid affair will of course end with a jazz-fuelled countdown to bring in the new year.IMAGE © COURTESY OF THE ARTIST

NEW YEAR’S EVEBEYOND THE UK

New York: Alvin Ailey Dance Spectacular (or Tosca at the Met)New York City Center31 December 2017

Today, choreographer Alvin Ailey’s revolutionary vision lives on, best caught at this special season finale which includes the legendary and classic tale of redemption and rebirth, Revelations. It’s a perfect piece for the new year – so count yourself lucky if you can experience the final hours of 2017 like this. If dance isn’t your thing, there’s always the New Year’s Eve performance of Tosca at the Met (which will feature the always extraordinary Bryn Terfel). You can’t go wrong either way, and you’ll be happy you avoided the crowds in Times Square. IMAGE © ANDREW ECCLES

Toyko: ‘Yuku-toshi, Kuru-toshi’: A Japanese NYEShrines across Tokyo Tokyo Park Hyatt31 December 2017

The Japanese tradition of ‘Omisoka’ marks a time for completing important tasks on the last day and night of the year to ensure a fresh start for the year ahead. Practices include ‘hatsumode’, when revellers visit a shrine, pray together for a prosperous new year, and offer food and drinks like ‘amazake’. Or, for those seeking something more indulgent – there’s nothing better than the Tokyo Park Hyatt, which offers stunning views and a cracking party. Our suggestion is to go for both: the ‘mindful’ approach of the locals with a shrine visit during the day, followed by (many glasses of) champagne at the Park Hyatt’s New York Bar to ring in the new year.

Copenhagen: Party like GatsbyThe Mad Mansion, Copenhagen31 December 2017

With the mandatory glitz, glamour, cocktails and unadulterated frivolity of New Year’s Eve, it seems perfectly fitting to go all out and celebrate like it’s 1925. Party Like Gatsby’s ‘The Mad Mansion’ – in the irresistible Danish capital – offers full immersion into Jay Gatsby’s world of excess (with circus acts, dancers and musicians in tow). Just don’t forget your feather boa.

NEW YEAR’S EVEBEYOND THE UK

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HOLIDAY GUIDE SPOTIFY PLAYLIST

1 Louis Armstrong

“Cool Yule” The Decca Singles 1949-1958

2 Tchaikovsky

“Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy” The Nutcracker Suite Mstislav Rostropovich, Berlin Philharmonic

3 Betty Carter

“My Favourite Things” Inside Betty Carter

4 John Lennon

“Happy Xmas (War is Over)” Gimme Some Truth

5 George Frideric Handel

“Joy to the World!” Wynton Marsalis, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, A Carnegie Hall Christmas — Catch: Wynton Marsalis in performance. Jazz at Lincoln Center, 13 – 17 December 2017

6 Stevie Wonder

“Someday at Christmas” Someday at Christmas

7 Mozart, Exsultate,

jubilate, K. 158a: “Alleluja” Kathleen Battle, The Philharmonia Orchestra

8 Paul McCartney

“Wonderful Christmastime” McCartney II

9 Ella Fitzgerald

“Sleigh Ride” A Swinging Christmas

10 Sam Smith

“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”

11 Vince Guaraldi Trio

“Christmas Time is Here (Instrumental)” A Charlie Brown Christmas

At American Express®, we feel strongly that Platinum isn’t merely a Card or membership – it’s a way of life! This holiday season, we’ve prepared a curated playlist to celebrate the festive period… Platinum style.

19 Elvis Presley

“Here Comes Santa Claus” Elvis’ Christmas Album

20 Prince

“Another Lonely Christmas” I Would Die 4 U

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HOLIDAY GUIDE SPOTIFY PLAYLIST

Listen to this playlistTo listen, simply click on the camera icon located to the right of the Search bar in the Spotify app, and scan the code above. Or search for ‘Rafael Mason Festive Season 2017’.

12 Vince Guaraldi Trio

“Christmas Time is Here (Vocal)” A Charlie Brown Christmas

13 Destiny’s Child

“8 Days of Christmas”

14 Humperdinck,

Hänsel und Gretel “Abendsegen (Evening Prayer)” Kathleen Battle, Frederica von Stade, The Complete Columbia Recital Albums

15 Dexter Gordon

“The Christmas Song” The Panther!

16 J.S. Bach

“Magnificat (Chorus)” Academy of St Martin-in-the-Fields Sir Neville Marriner

17 Wynton Marsalis

“Winter Wonderland” A Jazzy Wonderland — Catch: Wynton Marsalis in performance. Jazz at Lincoln Center, 13 – 17 December 2017

18 Otis Redding

“Merry Christmas Baby” Soul Christmas

HOLIDAY 2017