Everyone loves a good party on New Year's Eve. If you are looking to celebrate the New Year in a new location, here are some ideas for you. Some of these places are obvious choices, but some are more unconventional
Kiribati
What better way to ring in the New Year than on this Pacific Island that is officially the first place in the world to see the New Year. It’s like going into the future! The locals have tried to capitalize on this claim to fame, but the island remains mostly an untouched getaway. There’s not much to do here and accommodation isn’t by any means luxurious but what better way to spend the new year than on an island in the South Pacific? Be sure to plan this well in advance as few flights go here and limited accommodation makes it difficult to find spots.
Sydney, Australia
If you want to find somewhere more accessible to greet the New Year early, then Sydney is a great choice. The city holds one of the longest fireworks displays in the world and the parties and festivities last until dawn. It is the middle of summer so the weather is warm. You can't beat starting the new year on a beach.
London, UK
London rings in the new year with an astonishing fireworks display that’s launched from the London Eye. The fireworks can be seen from rooftops and balconies all across London, so you don’t need to leave your hotel to get a good view. If you want to get out there and really experience the display, the best views are from Westminster Bridge and the north embankment of the River Thames (opposite the London Eye).
New York
Of course, no list would be complete with New York City. Nothing is more iconic than being present with the throngs of people in Times Square watching the ball drop. Hotels and restaurants offer viewing packages that allow you to go indoors and avoid the cold.
Ko Phangan, Thailand
Over 20,000 people cram on Haat Rin beach in Thailand to celebrate the New Year. While the event mostly attracts the young, backpacker crowd, people of all ages flock to the beach to dance, paint themselves up, and drink buckets of alcohol from dusk until the first dawn of the new year. If you are looking for a wild party this is the place to be.
Tokyo
One night is not enough for the Japanese to celebrate the New Year. Festivities usually start on December 29th and don't stop until January 4th. While most of the major tourist sites in the city are closed, the streets of Tokyo (as well as all restaurants and clubs) are packed with locals and visitors alike. The city has numerous fireworks displays, dancing, and plenty of karaoke!
Edinburgh, Scotland
The Scots pay homage to their Viking roots with the celebration of Hogmanay. Each year, over 100,000 people take part in the two-day celebration that involves a Viking procession, fireworks over the castle, bonfires, concerts, and a carnival. You need to book in advance, but if you want to bring out your inner Viking, this is the celebration for you.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is particularly exciting on New Year's Eve when the Strip is closed to traffic and given over entirely to the people determined to party. Shows and parties can be found in all the city's casinos, bars, and showrooms, but even the streets are filled with people decked out in party hats and their finest clothes. The midnight fireworks show is choreographed by the city's casinos and is big enough to rival the show put on in Times Square.
Wherever you choose to celebrate the New Year, you need to start making your plans as soon as possible. Contact me so we can begin planning.