What are your plans for New Year?

Well everyone i hope you all had a lovely Christmas. Jonathan and i had a great Christmas, however we both had two Christmas dinners so my stomach was not overly chuffed come bed time. I don’t think we will be doing that again or i’m going to have to have smaller portions at dinner time.

Of course now is the time we are being asked what are we up to for New Year and the answer is not a lot. Last year we had a nice chilled night with my cousin and his girlfriend so i think this year we will return the favor.

We keep saying that one year we will have to spend it abroad. I’ve got to admit there are some really interesting cities on this list of intriguing places to consider celebrating New Year.

1. New York

I think everyone must think about seeing Times Square at New Years Eve some point in their life. No one knows how to do over the top street parties like the Americans, and here you’ll find Times Square re-imagined as thousands wait for the Waterford Crystal LED ball to drop. I’m sure the exciting place to be however i dread to think what time you have to turn up to reserve your spot.

2. Madrid

Always a safe bet for the weather if you can’t fly too far. These guys have very unusual New Year celebrations. You will see the locals swallowing grapes. That’s right, the locals gather and swallow 12 grapes, one for each stroke of the clock after midnight. This is considered good luck if you finish them on time!

3. Rio De Janeiro

The Brazilians never miss a chance for a party. The the celebrations are known as “Reveillon” and everyone dresses in white. Millions take to the streets and then head to the beaches to throw flowers into the waves of the sea which is set to give thanks to a sea goddess. Afterwards, the celebrations go up a gear as dancing and revelry hit the bars, restaurants and clubs.

4. Tokyo

For me, any excuse to visit Japan. At midnight bells ring from temples and the following two days are the only time of year that the emperor opens the palace grounds to the public. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and spend New Year’s Eve as if transported back hundreds of years ago.

5. Sydney

Australia is the first country to see in the New Year. The first part of Australia to see the New Year is Lord Howe Island and here residents celebrate with huge beach bonfires… and a little skinny-dipping! Alternatively, head to Hobart and eat your way into the New Year with a wealth of markets showcasing the region’s food, wine and beer!

6. Cancun

For one of the best parties of the year, head to Cancun in Mexico. Here the beach parties on December 31^st are world famous for their dance events, abundance of famous DJs and it starts at sunset… until the last person goes home.

7. Paris

Paris always proves to be a magical setting for anyone looking to celebrate the New Year watching firework displays, take a trip down the river or to sit under the Eiffel tower with a bottle of wine.

Have you managed to visit any of these places for New Year’s Eve? Or is there anywhere else you have celebrated New Year that wasn’t on the list? Share your comments with us. If you haven’t made any plans yet for 2018 take a look here at some of our best selling itineraries.

Happy New Year everyone, have a good one.