As 2015 is coming to an end, everyone is busy making plans for the upcoming year. Life changing resolutions, last minute plans with friends and the final goodbyes to the family for the holidays are all taking up your time but where should you be when the clock strikes midnight on December 31? Whether you like to ring out the year in style, dance well into the night or indulge in unique cultural traditions there are all kinds of special places where you can welcome 2016.
From the hot beaches of Rio de Janeiro to the iconic streets of New York, we’ve got you covered with a unique list of the best places to spend this New Year’s Eve.
New York City
The City that Never Sleeps might not be for everyone, but there’s no denying that New York is one of the most iconic places to ring in the new year. In the midst of the millions that gather in Times Square, you can take part in one of the world’s most famous parties with live musicians and the ball drop from One Times Square. For a less chaotic experience, book a hotel or restaurant with a view of Times Square and enjoy the show from afar.
Rio de Janeiro
On New Year’s Eve in Brazil, tradition meets the modern world as millions cram onto the two-mile long stretch of sand in the Rio de Janeiro’s famous Copacabana beach. Here, people from all over the country gather, all dressed in white (this is believed to bring good luck for the new year), to throw flower petals at the ocean as a gift to Yemanjá, goddess of the seas. This ancient ritual is accompanied by the world’s largest (and arguably wildest) party with live musical and dance performance and colorful fireworks.
Sydney
If you like to be the first of your friends to do just about anything, spending New Years in Australia is your best bet for ringing in the New Year. As one of the first cities in the world to welcome the New Year, you will find plenty of different options to celebrate around Sydney. Watch the fireworks at Sydney Harbor, enjoy your last meal of 2015 at a waterfront restaurant, or party it up at Bondi Beach – the choice is yours!
Madeira
On this Portuguese island, you will be able to enjoy great weather and incredible views. The rugged mountains drop down to some of the most beautiful beaches on the coastline, giving you lots of green space to explore. For New Years, the island puts on a spectacular fireworks show on the port of Funchal that has been recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest in the world in 2006. You won’t want to miss this incredibly show from your cruise ship or hotel balcony.
