New Year’s Eve…the night of anticipation and hope that the next year will be even better than the last. It’s not surprising that most of us like to find somewhere extravagant to bring in the New Year. However, more people are opting to head abroad to some of the most famous parties in the world. Holiday Numbers has compiled a list of our favourite destinations for New Year’s Eve, with a few hidden surprises.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is home of all things glitzy and glamorous, so it’s no surprise that the New Year’s Eve celebrations follow suit. There is a wide range of events to choose from. If you’re in the downtown Dubai area, you can go to a water/fire/light show with dance and musical performances. Alternatively, the celebrities will flock to Meydan racecourse, where DJ Martin Garrix will headline. You could also attend the Nasimi beach party, which is the oldest celebration in Dubai, or the ballroom party at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers. If sophistication is more your thing, head out on a dinner cruise.
Getting there: Fly to Dubai in style with Emirates.
Local’s tip: Book your restaurant in September/October to avoid disappointment.
Cartagena, Colombia
If you’re looking for street parties that go on until the morning, Cartagena is your destination of choice. There are many places to choose from. For a relaxed vibe, head to Café del Mar for the fireworks. Many parties also have an open bar, such as the Midnight Madness party. If you hail from the USA, you may appreciate the Mardi Gras party. For amazing views, head to the Blow the Roof Off rooftop party. If you want to blend in with the locals, go to the Cartagena street party.
Getting there: You may have to stopover somewhere. Check out accommodation from Trivago.
Local’s tip: Wear white to signify a new beginning.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland is one of the trendiest destinations of 2015 and New Year’s Eve is no exception. Traditionally, the evening is very family orientated, with a bonfire starting proceedings. There are also minimal rules surrounding the use of fireworks, so the whole city will let them off, making for an impressive display. The best views can be found in Hallgrimskirkja, where the most Instagrammable pictures are created.
Getting there: Easyjet has affordable flights to Reykjavik.
Local’s tip: The atmosphere really gets going in town after 1am.
Atlanta, USA
If a sporty New Year’s Eve sounds like your kind of thing, Atlanta is the place to go. Celebrations kick off with the Chick-fil-a College Football Matchup tournament. If you have young children, you may enjoy ‘Noon Year’s Eve’ at Legoland, taking place at midday rather than midnight. If you’re looking for a more glamorous celebration, head to a masquerade ball or the traditional Atlanta Symphony Orchestra concert.
Getting there: Virgin Atlantic operate flights to Atlanta from across the UK.
Local’s tip: Opera Nightclub has a great vibe for younger people looking for a vibrant night out.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The fireworks at Copacabana beach are perhaps the most famous in the world. If anywhere knows how to ring in the New Year, it’s Rio. The beach will be crowded with millions of people, so best to get there early or better still, bunk up in a beachside hotel, where you will be offered a party package with a view of the fireworks. Locals will wear white to bring luck for the next year, so get involved and follow suit!
Getting there: British Airways offer non-stop flights to Rio de Janeiro from London.
Local’s tip: Buy some flowers during the day from street vendors. Locals make a wish, then toss them into the sea at the stroke of midnight as an offering to Iemanja- goddess of the sea. If the flowers wash out to sea, your wish will come true.
Chicago, USA
The USA appears on our list once again with the appearance of the Windy City. The main event happens at Navy Pier, where you will find all kinds of entertainment, a funfair and fireworks set to music. For something indoors, go to the Chicago Resolution Gala which has 30 bars and a ballroom. For something completely new, Chi-Town Rising is a concert headlined by famous bands, culminating in fireworks over the Chicago River.
Getting there: American Airlines has a direct flight from Manchester to Chicago.
Local’s tip: Drinks are sold across Navy Pier, so no need to go to a restaurant for them.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s official firework event is free and is located at the Montjuic Magic Fountain, where thousands come together to celebrate the new year. Many people also choose to continue the party after the fireworks end at 00.30, but if you do it’s best to purchase club/bar tickets in advance as you probably won’t be able to get in on the door.
Getting there: A range of budget airlines offer non-stop flights to Barcelona, so try Monarch or Ryanair for low fares.
Local’s tip: A tradition is to eat 12 grapes at midnight, one at each stroke of the clock.
London, England
2015 marks the second year that the fireworks on the River Thames will be a ticketed event. Tickets cost £10 and avoids overcrowding, so you can enjoy the fireworks comfortably. Don’t worry if you didn’t manage to get a ticket, as there are plenty of places you can see them from. One option is the Big Bang boat party- a party on the river where you can see the fireworks and drink an open bar dry! There are also lots of themed nights in bars and nightclubs, so something to suit every taste.
Getting there: London is so accessible by train. Check National Rail for times.
Local’s tip: Free tube travel is usually available from 11.45pm till 4.30am, so don’t splash out on taxis.
Bangkok, Thailand
Central World Square is where it all happens on New Year’s Eve in Bangkok. You can enjoy live music, a countdown and fireworks in style. However, if you prefer to spend your evening somewhere quieter, why not head to a rooftop bar or go out on a dinner cruise. Same views, less commotion!
Getting there: KLM can fly to Bangkok, via a short stopover in Amsterdam.
Local’s tip: The Red Sky bar has an amazing view of the skyline.
Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
The smallest of the four British Virgin Islands, Jost Van Dyke truly brings the party on New Year’s Eve. Foxy’s Bar hosts a two day ‘Old Year’s Eve’ celebration and there’s no need to dress up, just wear your favourite swimwear. Accommodation on the island is tight, with most revellers opting to sleep on their yacht in the harbour. Ferries go back and forth regularly to St.Thomas, Tortola and St. John islands. Be warned, that getting off the island can take a while as there’s so many boats moored.
Getting there: Jost van Dyke is only accessible by water. The closest airport is on St.Thomas, so for accommodation there visit Laterooms.
Local’s tip: Bring a souvenir to leave at Foxy’s bar, you’ll find all manner of things stapled to the ceiling!
Sydney, Australia
Sydney Harbour Fireworks are iconic. The budget is millions of Australian dollars and millions flock to see them. For the best views, go to the Royal Botanic Gardens or for true sophistication, head to the La Boheme Gala at the Sydney Operahouse. A truly glamorous celebration you’ll speak of for years to come!
Getting there: Direct flights to Sydney can be sparse, so ensure you have accommodation for your stopover by contacting Trivago.
Local’s tip: Visit David Jones Street Market and get a hot picnic to enjoy whilst you watch the fireworks!
Whatever you choose- island getaway, inner city party or beachside rave, these 11 places are the places to see and be seen!
