Keep it local at Christmas...

THE Christmas party is often an event where people who don’t normally socialise will make an extra effort and get into the swing of things. The only problem with a Christmas party is deciding on the best plan of action and venue, as there is some much to choose from.

While the scale and opulence of Christmas parties has evolved over the years, the process has remained pretty much the same in that parties are usually divided between those who prefer a meal, and those who simply prefer to have a drink (or both!). But whatever the final decision is, there is no reason for you to look beyond the local setting.

So much energy, expertise and money has been invested in the hospitality sector over the past decade that it has produced a plethora of top choice hotels, restaurants and bars. There is simply no better time to avail of these services than at Christmas. This is a great time to sample the best that restaurant menus have to offer and enjoy the best atmospheres in bars and clubs. All of which are on your own door step.

This is far from just another clichéd pitch at ‘supporting local’. Christmas is a special time when people who are living and working away from home get to enjoy a visit in comfort. This is why enjoying local establishments is not only important at this time of year, but it’s also more personal and friendly. Local businesses are a staple of community life and arranging your Christmas party is as good a time as any to consider this.