Photography courtesy of Shutterstock.
– Story by Mimi Yacob
New Year’s Eve is one of our favourite times of year, the endless possibilities to pursue new resolutions has the optimistic vibe we like! Whether you plan to party like a rock star, gaze at incredible fireworks, or dine at an extravagant restaurant, where you are on New Year’s Eve adds to the magic of this holiday. We round up the best spots to spend New Year’s Eve across the globe.
Where: London, England
Why You Need to Go: London is one of our favourite places in the world and we love it even more during the holiday season. The romantic feel that blankets the city with bright lights and decadent décor is contagious, while the fun, festive party atmosphere is what the Brits are known for. This magical combination is what makes celebrating New Year’s Eve in London so special. Get the full New Year’s experience and celebrate at the Thames. Situated alongside the Victoria Embankment, (the same area as the London Eye and Big Ben), the magnificence of the fireworks over the River Thames is a must see. Dubbed as one of the world’s best fireworks display, which roughly draws in 100,000 people in viewing range, the fireworks light up Big Ben and bounce reflections on the Thames. At only £10 per ticket, this is the perfect event for New Year’s Eve fun. Just be sure to wrap up warm and bring a long a hot, cozy drink to take it all in. Post fireworks show, there is no shortage of after parties in London on New Year’s Eve, popular spots like McQueen and The Cuckoo Club are just the surface of endless options in the bustling city, so keep the party going!
Where to Stay: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London
Located on the South Bank of the Thames and Big Ben, this sleek hotel is a vision of sophistication. Enjoy the signature French Brasserie restaurant and convenience of location.
Where to Find:
200 Westminster Bridge Road
London
1-800-777-1700, parkplaza.com
Where: Ottawa, Ontario
Why You Need to Go: Ringing in the New Year in the heart of Canada’s capital is a no brainer! It’s easily the best spot to welcome the New Year and it’s the biggest party in the country. Ottawa knows how to throw an epic party (if you’ve ever spent Canada Day here you know what we’re talking about). Head to TD Hogmanay Scottish New Year’s Party in the Ottawa City Hall for the best fireworks display. This Scottish inspired bash aims to reproduce Edinburgh’s legendary Royal Mile with highland dancing, scotch tastings to keep your toasty warm, and outdoor skating. If you are in the mood for an entertaining outdoor concert then make your way to Metcalfe Square and Sparks Street for a sampling of the best bands. If dance clubs are more your scene, The Mansion Nightclub, and Barrymore’s Music Hall both throw amazing New Year’s Eve parties, where you can dance the night away in a much warmer setting.
Where to Stay: Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Next door to the Parliament Buildings, this landmark French Chateau guarantees the full Ottawa experience. If you feel like staying in, then you’re in luck since the reputable Wilfrid’s New Year’s Eve Dinner will be hosted at this hotel, a delicious venture in Canadian cuisine.
Where to Find:
1 Rideau Steet
Ottawa, ON
613-241-1414, fairmont.com
Where: Singapore
Why You Need to Go: We can’t get enough of this Southeast Asian country that’s filled with beautiful architecture, stunning beaches, and delicious food. And let’s be honest, saying you rang in the New Year in a major Asian metropolitan city is truly a once-in-a-lifetime deal. Our favourite New Year’s Eve parties to attend in Singapore is hands down in the Marina Bay area where the fireworks are the best in the city (which showcase the impressive skyline against the Marina Bay backdrop). It’s an extra special celebration this year since it’s Singapore’s 50th year of independence — 5,000 red spheres and 20,000 white spheres will be set afloat in the bay to form the number 50 in honour of this milestone. If a beach party is more your scene, then the 12-hour Siloso Beach Party has a reputation for being the best beach party you can find (and comes equipped with a giant foam pool. Need we say more?). Dabble in the best Singapore has to offer and check out Singapore Flyer and Labrador Park as great alternatives and fewer crowds for New Year’s events.
Where to Stay: Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
This upscale, art infused lavish hotel, is the best option while staying in Singapore. With a spectacular view of the Marina bay from your hotel room, it’s as close to the action as you can get.
Where to Find:
7 Raffles Avenue
Singapore
+65-6337-8888, ritzcarlton.com
Where: New York City, New York
Why You Need to Go: No New Year’s Eve list would be complete without mentioning NYC. But be forewarned — this is not a destination for the faint-of-heart New Year’s Eve crowd. The buzz, crowds and party are all massive, so you need to be up for it. This deserving choice has consistently been immortalized by Hollywood as the place to be on New Year’s Eve. Up to 1 million people flock to Times Square to watch the the iconic ball drop, (dating back to 1907). The intoxicating energy in Times Square is mind-blowing, and no other place in the world compares with this atmosphere. If that wasn’t enough, America’s sweetheart Taylor Swift is the headlining musical act this year. So you can ‘shake off’ 2014 and get ready for 2015! If the hustle and bustle of Times Square is too overwhelming, then we recommend Grand Army Plaza at Flatbush Ave and Prospect Park for electrifying fireworks. We love NYC nightlife, and trendy clubs like Avenue and Marquee are a hot ticket on New Years’ Eve but practically every bar and club in the city will be hosting a party, so get your tickets early.
Where to Stay: Crowne Plaza Times Square
This extravagant hotel is not only a gorgeous venue, but it’s as close to the heart of NYC as you can get. Moments away from the theatre district, shopping, and of course Times Square, all the New Year’s fun in one hub!
Where to Find:
1605 Broadway
New York, NY
1-212-977-4000, ihg.com
Where: Honolulu, Hawaii
Why You Need to Go: If you are dreaming of ringing in the New Year with some fun in the sun, is there any better hot island destination then Honolulu? We think not. Sit alongside Ala Moana Beach or anywhere along Waikiki for the best fireworks on the island. Attend a block party like no other at Aloha Tower Marketplace where live music, dance performances and DJs rule the night. This annual event boasts 50 performers and a dazzling fireworks display. Often hailed as the “party of the year,” we can’t forget Kakaako Park which promises entertainment with carnival rides, food trucks and fireworks. The beauty of Honolulu is brought to new heights on New Year’s Eve, so pack your suitcase because you may want to stay awhile.
Where to Stay: Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk
The epitome of opulence, this hotel has everything you could want and more. Overlooking the Waikiki beach New Year’s fireworks, indulge in the exclusive boutiques, 24/7 room service and first-class amenities.
Where to Find:
223 Saratoga Road
Honolulu, HI
1-808-683-7777, trumpcollection.com
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