It’s that time of year again, when choosing a Christmas party takes over everything else. It has to be bigger and better than the year before; it has to suit everyone and it has to be a fitting end to another year of hard work.

Indeed, few events in the office calendar excite such emotive and colourful discussion. Whether it’s the exploits of certain members of staff on the dance floor or the games at the dinner table, the best parties live on in office folklore and the organisers given legendary status.

Ultimately, the best parties come down to a few fundamentals: good company, good atmosphere, good food and that good feeling knowing that getting home is not an issue. Some of the country’s best hotels, therefore, provide the answer.

Macdonald Hotels and Resorts has over 60 venues across the UK with the pick of Scottish historic castles, golf and country clubs and even spas for those looking for something different to go along with the traditional dinner dance. Macdonald Hotels is the UK’s largest privately owned hotelier and is focussed on 4 star quality and excellence.

This year, Macdonald Hotels has brought in a whole new food concept and its menus have changed. Using only the best of the freshest and finest local ingredients, the dishes on every hotel menu are constantly reviewed and always of the highest quality. With many of its restaurants accredited with AA Rosettes, it also means that alongside the traditional Christmas favourites, there is always something surprising and inventive.

As for that all important mood, Macdonald Hotels recognises that sometimes what is required is a meal in a festive atmosphere and at other times its a full-on Christmas party that starts from the moment their guests step through the door.

A look across the different hotels and there are discos with full multi-media light shows, live entertainment, a bit of theatre, festive banquets and even pantomimes to choose from. And if dancing the night away is what’s planned, the best thing about a hotel is that it’s possible to forget the taxi home and stay over.

Increasingly, the Christmas party is seen as reward and recognition for work-related achievements over the year, therefore extending the party to a couple of days of revelling and relaxation captures the festive spirit perfectly. Many of the Macdonald Hotels have extensive leisure facilities from pools and saunas through to golf and other outdoor activities. Booking at any of the Macdonald Hotels or golf and country clubs immediately opens up the opportunities to add on spa treats or even a round of golf as a way to say ‘thanks’ to the team.

Finally, choosing a venue for the Christmas party is also about choosing an organisation that understands good service and mirrors your company’s values. Macdonald Hotel’s celebrations are delivered by friendly, attentive staff who want your party to be the one everyone will be talking about in 2006.