There’s something about the dawn of the new year that brings out your celebratory side. Whether the past 12 months has been filled with trials, tribulations or a healthy mix of both, the infamous countdown to midnight wipes the slate clean, leaving it fresh for a new set of goals to aim for and memories to treasure.
No wonder, then, that we try to do something to mark the occasion with our nearest and dearest. Some people might prefer a glass or two of bubbly with a close group of friends, others might see it as the perfect excuse to dress up to the nines for a night of fine dining and even finer entertainment. But for those with that sparkle of wanderlust in their souls, perhaps it’s time to try something a bit different this year… Or should that be ‘somewhere’.
If all the world’s a stage then you can bet your bottom dollar it puts on a heck of a show for New Year’s Eve. We’ve picked some of the most incredible cities around the world that go all out for this special night – which one appeals to you?
New York City
The atmosphere in New York City when it comes to New Year’s Eve is electric. Perhaps this is why the Big Apple’s celebrations have become one of the mot famous in the world. If gathering with the crowds in Times Square to watch famous music acts perform and the 12 foot crystal ball drop at midnight isn’t quite your thing, consider booking a table at one of the bars or restaurants that offer a similar view and a more sophisticated experience. Alternatively, hop on board one of the boat rides which offer the best views of the midnight fireworks display. If you’re heading to the Big Apple just before New Year’s Eve, you’ll still be able to enjoy the spectacular Christmas lights – head to the Rockefeller Centre, Saks Fifth Avenue, the Lincoln Centre and Radio City Music Hall for some of the most awe-inspiring displays – selfie sticks at the ready!
Paris
Treat your loved one to the ultimate romantic experience this Christmas and whisk them away for a New Year’s celebration, set against the backdrop of the magnificent Eiffel Tower. As well as a spectacular fireworks display and copious amounts of Champagne, Paris offers picturesque dinner cruises along the River Seine – ideal for those craving a slightly more intimate celebration in the City of Light.
Las Vegas
Not one for the faint-hearted, the party town of Las Vegas is a wild assault on the senses all year-round; expect New Year’s Eve to knock your socks off. More than 300,000 revellers turn up in Sin City to see in the new year with a huge variety of hotels, clubs and bars hosting special shows and activities. The infamous neon-lit Strip is closed off to traffic to provide the atmosphere of a giant street party, further illuminated by the dazzling fireworks displays overhead.
Sydney
If you fancy heading Down Under for New Year’s Eve, Sydney’s celebrations offer a wide range of fun and games to choose from. Raise a toast at midnight with a view of the iconic Opera House and watch the reflection of a superb fireworks and light shows shimmer its way across the harbour. Admire the lighted boat parade, head down to the dance party on beautiful Bondi Beach or, if you have little ones in tow, drop into Taronga Zoo to explore the special children’s events on offer. Plus, you can recover by soaking up the sun on the beach the next day.
New Orleans
Although this city might be most famous for music and Mardi Gras, we can guarantee you won’t be disappointed by the New Year’s entertainment on offer. Expect a phenomenal 15-minute fireworks show to light up the banks of the Mississippi River then head down to Bourbon Street and the Latin Quarter where all manner of talented musicians will keep feet dancing ‘til dawn.
Edinburgh
New Year’s Eve, or Hogmanay, is celebrated with gusto in the capital. In fact, the celebrations take place over three days with world-class musical acts, candlelit concerts and a raucous street party on the eve itself. Traditional music and Ceilidh dancing plays a key part in celebrations as the night sky lights up over the Royal Mile with a vibrant fireworks display.
London
Last but certainly not least, how could we create a list of incredible cities for New Year’s Eve and forget the Big Smoke? More than 250,000 visitors line the banks of the River Thames in Britain’s historical capital to join in the countdown to midnight with the towering silhouette of Big Ben presiding over the celebrations. As the clock tower marks the hour, a riotous firework display begins, but the festivities don’t stop there. The next day, marching bands and the Queen’s horses parade through the town whilst brightly coloured floats and dancers put on street shows to welcome the New Year in style.
If your looking to stay rather close to home then why not check out European Best Destination Guide for more information on where to go and stay.
Wherever you choose to see in the New Year, make sure you do so with the right travel insurance in place. That way you can relax in the knowledge you’re covered against any eventuality and focus on having the time of your life. Let Now Travel Insurance help get your New Year off to a bang with cheap travel insurance!