We’re just about to welcome the new year that is 2016, and chances are, many of your friends, family or acquaintances will be ringing in 2016 while they’re abroad. If you have the extra moolah to spend, go ahead and hop on a plane now when you’ve still got time. Otherwise, you can always plan for next year! Here are six of the hottest New Year’s Eve destinations around the globe:
1. Berlin, Germany
You wouldn’t want to miss one of Germany’s biggest street parties on NYE that is celebrated between Brandenburg Gate and the Victory Column in Berlin, aptly known as the Party Mile. Along the two-kilometre stretch, there are music stages, party tents, laser and light shows, as well as a wide array of food and drinks.
New Year’s Eve is called “Silvester” in German, and the countdown party at Brandenburg Gate features live bands, DJs and a spectacular fireworks display at midnight, all free of charge for party goers.
2. Hong Kong
For the spectacular New Year countdown, one cannot go wrong with the Victoria Harbour in Hong Kong. Revellers will flock there to catch the eight-minute fireworks and Symphony of Lights display light up the skyline above the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, capping off with the countdown at Times Square.
The best thing about the countdown in Hong Kong is that the fireworks display is visible from anywhere with a view of the harbour, so it’s definitely worth planning early to ensure a prime spot that’s perfect for you and your company.
3. Edinburgh, Scotland
Popularly known as Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, the New Year celebration in Edinburgh isn’t a one day affair, but a three-day long event, packed with exciting events and incredible bands. From the Shetland Viking torch-lit procession, concerts and theatre productions to spectacular fireworks and street party extravaganzas, the renowned celebration is also featured under Discovery Channel’s Top 25 World Travel Experiences.
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is often celebrated with the accompanying sounds of traditional Scottish music in the Old Town. As the clock strikes midnight, it is a universal ritual for loved ones to sing Auld Lang Syne with their arms linked together.
4. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
It’s obviously no surprise that our beloved Kuala Lumpur is on this list. The streets of Kuala Lumpur, especially around the Petronas Twin Towers area, will be packed with people waiting excitedly for midnight to arrive. Regardless of their differences, it is a time when most Malaysians and travellers come together to celebrate, and witness the fantastic fireworks display from various locations.
For New Year’s Eve 2016 in Kuala Lumpur, try and get a prime spot around the Petronas Twin Towers park, or opt to stay nearby the Twin Towers, where you will have the perfect view of the fireworks. Alternatively, you can also check out the rooftop bars.
5. Sydney, Australia
This year, enjoy a more intimate countdown with your loved ones by ringing in the New Year on a cruise along the majestic Sydney Harbour. You can enjoy a banquet on a luxury yacht, or cruise the waters with a tantalising dinner and a show. For the avid party goer, there are also cruises available with a DJ and floor show for you to dance the night away.
More of a beach kind of person? Sydney has got you covered and one of these beaches you can visit is Dee Why beach, where you can bring your own picnic, or book a table at the beachside restaurants to witness the fireworks display, which begins at 9pm.
6. Times Square, New York
Who can forget the iconic Ball Drop at Times Square, New York? 60 seconds before the big moment, the New Year’s Eve Ball begins its descent and at the stroke of midnight, the ball’s lights are turned off as the numerals of the New Year burst to life, shining high above Times Square. A celebratory blizzard of colourful confetti is released, accompanied by vibrant pyrotechnic effects and it certainly is an extraordinary lifetime experience.
The annual event is graced by performances from top global artistes, and by purchasing a ball-drop pass, you will have access to multiple parties in and around the area.
If you’re planning to celebrate New Year’s Eve at anywhere around the world, visit Skyscanner to hunt for cheap flights to your destinations!
