It’s that time of the year when the sun starts shining in Adelaide and we start to realise that Christmas is just around the corner! The age-old question starts to pop up – what are you doing for New Year’s Eve? It is a lovely time to be here in South Australia, to head off to a beach town or celebrate in our amazing city or many wine regions. However, sometimes heading off on an adventure and ringing in the new year in a foreign city is just too tempting to resist.
We sat down with our friends at Peregrine Travel Centre to find out where the most iconic places to celebrate New Years Eve are around the world.
1. New York City
Watching the ball drop in Times Square is at the top of most people’s bucket list! It’s an experience like no other! Sure it’s freezing cold and there are millions and millions of people crowded together for the experience but it is something you will never forget. Beautiful festive decorations line the famous NYC streets and it’s a magical time of the year to visit this incredible city. If braving it out in the cold with Ryan Seacrest isn’t your thing, there are also plenty of options for indoor parties that you can buy a ticket to attend. You can fly to New York City from Adelaide from just $1,790pp* and experience a countdown to midnight you will never forget.
2. Paris
The city of love offers a range of options to celebrate the New Year and say Bonne année! Whether you want to party the night away or enjoy a delicious meal with champagne and a stunning view you will ring in the new year in style in Paris. For those wanting a crowd and spectacular views of the sparkling Eiffel Tower, our tip is to head to the Champs-Elysees grand parade. The avenue is one long street party and there are plenty of spots to have dinner or go out dancing around this area. For those wanting something a little less crowded you can visit the Sacre Coeur plaza for a more calmer experience, if the clouds are in your favour you’ll catch a glimpse of the impressive Paris skyline from here. And for something a little different, there are plenty of beautiful dinner cruises you can book onto for the evening – enjoy good food, champagne and good company as you cruise along the Seine river. Peregrine can help you experience Paris in style with a 3-night stay at the fabulous Le Meridien Etoile from just $310pp* twin share! Oh and the French keep celebrating this holiday throughout the month of January, so expect to hear well wishes if you extend your stay and explore the city.
3. Dubai
Dubai is a destination that doesn’t do anything on a small scale, their shopping malls, theme parks, hotels and city skyline are all on another level compared to the rest of the world – and New Year’s Eve is no exception! An epic fireworks display at a number of iconic buildings, including the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab and the Palm Jumeirah – Dubai has set the record for the world’s largest firework display. Simply grab a picnic rug and find a spot early to avoid disappointment. If you’re after a fancy way to start off your new year, Atlantis The Palm throws one of the city’s most sought after New Year’s Eve parties. Starring a 26 piece live band and an extensive fine dining buffet with everything from lobster to fajitas. If you’d like to discover Dubai beforehand, you can spend 3 days on a short tour from just $685pp*. Another unique way to ring in the new year in Dubai is at a desert safari party and experience an Arabian night.
4. Rio de Janeiro
When spending New Year’s Eve in Rio you can’t go past Copacabana beach. Live shows, live samba music, delicious Brazilian food and an impressive fireworks display will have you partying the night away in true Brazilian style. Of course, it can be very crowded (like most popular New Year’s Eve parties), but there are plenty of spots to catch a glimpse of the action along the beach front. Alternatively, you can book into a beachfront hotel and enjoy the festivities from the comfort of the hotel; such as the Rio Othon Palace on Copacabana Beach for 3 nights at $808pp* twin share (including breakfast!). One thing to note is that it is customary to wear white in Rio on New Year’s Eve as it is said to bring you luck for the year ahead. A bonus – it is summer in Brazil this time of year so you’ll get to enjoy some sun and relaxing beach time during your stay.
5. Bangkok
Thailand’s capital is a great option to celebrate New Year’s Eve abroad if you only have a week or two of leave and need to be a little closer to home. You can party the night away in the fabulous nightclubs, with guest DJ’s having you dancing til dawn, or enjoy a cocktail on top of one of the city’s numerous rooftop bars. Foodies can book a seat at one of the many restaurants that offer incredible buffet dinners showcasing a range of tantalising cuisines. You can get a taste of Bangkok on a 2 day organised tour from $545pp before spending New Year’s Eve in your place of choice. Although Thailand is home to a fairly big party scene, both party goers and those who prefer something a little quieter, will enjoy their end of year getaway to Bangkok.
6. Sydney
Our very own Sydney is home to a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration. An extravaganza filled with pre-show air and water entertainment, an enchanting light parade and two sets of amazing fireworks, both for families a little earlier and at the stroke of midnight. There are plenty of spots along the harbour to catch a glimpse of the event, but make sure you get there nice and early to secure a spot and avoid disappointment. If you’d prefer to have your own private viewing, you can stay in a deluxe room at the Pier 1 hotel overlooking the harbour for 3 nights is $2965pp* twin share! Of course, Sydney itself has plenty of great restaurants and nightclubs, so if the spectacular Harbour display is not your thing there are plenty more options for you to party into the new year!
Going on a holiday at the end of the year is a great way to rejuvenate after the year that was and kick off an exciting new year in style! Whether you want to go away for one week or more, or you want a sunny escape or a winter wonderland experience, there are plenty of options available for travellers at this time of year.
Top Booking Tips
- Book early! This time of year can be expensive, so securing flights and accommodation early will ensure you get the best price.
- It’s a good idea to also pre-book your party tickets or dinner beforehand so you are guaranteed entry. There’s nothing worse than missing out because you weren’t prepared!
South Australian New Years Eve destinations…
If you want to keep it local, Glenelg, Victor Harbour and Elder Park hold their annual, free New Year’s Eve celebrations with all ages welcome. Stay tuned for our New Years Eve Guide for a list of local venues hosting special events.
*All prices are correct at time of publication. Subject to availability and travel dates. Contact Peregrine Travel Centre on 08 8223 5905 or [email protected] to find out more!
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