Top 5 New Year’s Destinations

Finding something fun and memorable to do on New Year’s Eve is a top priority. However, because it is such a common party occasion, there is a lot of pressure to do something original. One way to have a memorable New Year’s is to spend it away from home; use your vacation time wisely and visit a top party destination. In fact, with these 5 hotspots, you’ll be partying like never before!

5. Hawaii

Whether part of an all-inclusive package or on your own, there is a lot to do in Hawaii during New Year’s. Romantically inclined couples will want to reserve a table at some of the state’s finest restaurants and then relax on the beach with nothing more than a Mai Tai and some privacy. Even single men can keep busy, as many hedonistic-like parties take place along the beaches of Oahu and Hawaii’s Big Island.

You can book a nightlong cruise from Waikiki as well, where a nightclub atmosphere and live band can be found on a Luxury yacht. As midnight approaches, those onboard will have a great view of the New Year’s Eve fireworks. Of course, each resort within Hawaii offers its own full party, replete with seven-course meals, dancing and champagne. Pick your poison on New Year’s, because Hawaii has got it all.

Must-do: Try to get Tickets to a Hawaiian gala, where traditional New Year’s practices are mixed with good old-fashioned fun.

4. Morocco

When the champagne-filled parties get old, it’s time to consider something completely different. Certain Moroccan tour companies organize desert tours for New Year’s, where travelers get to spend the memorable night in an incredible oasis. You can stay in the ancient city of Ouarzazate, then move out into the Sahara and experience a nomadic lifestyle with the natives.

The vacation doesn’t have to be rustic either. If you don’t want to join a caravan and “rough it,” simply experience the New Year in the desert, enjoy the natural wonders and a new culture, and then adjourn to your hotel. For those with an open mind, Morocco offers great ways to usher in the New Year.

Must-see: After midnight, catch the bonfire and nomadic dances, which help transform the desert into an outdoor dancehall.

3. Sydney, Australia

All of Sydney comes alive for New Year’s Eve as Australia’s great harbor city offers a stunning array of activities that keep the energy up and the champagne flowing. The most popular spot to visit is the Harbor Bridge, where people come in droves to watch an impressive display of fireworks that starts over the water at the stroke of midnight. If you can’t get on the bridge because of the big crowds, sit on the steps of the legendary Sydney Opera House. Better yet, book a private charter boat for the night (it’s Romantic and original) and observe the action from the water.

Those who don’t go for the fireworks can usually be found in one of the city’s pubs. Try the Quay Bar or the Lord Nelson Brewery for a true Aussie New Year’s Eve experience.

Must-do: Prior to partying, grab a window seat in one of Sydney’s high-rise restaurants to get a view of the city’s activities while dining on great food.

2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio is a party city all year round, so imagine the ruckus that occurs when it’s time to ring in the New Year. Copacabana Beach serves as the setting for many of the outdoor parties, which are characterized by thumping samba music and many, many beautiful Brazilian females. In accordance with tradition, the two million partiers who drink and groove on the sand are usually all dressed in white, so follow along and soak up the wicked atmosphere.

If the weather isn’t as hot as the atmosphere, check out the nightclubs that run along Copacabana Beach. The parties are a guaranteed good time, but just like any other New Year’s event, you must be prepared to pony up a fair amount of cash for entrance fees and booze.

Must-do: At the stroke of midnight, celebrate by going for a dip in the ocean.

1. Las Vegas, Nevada

Want to gamble your money away, live in Luxury and see the stars? If yes, then hit Sin City for the ultimate bash. The standard Vegas activities are revamped for New Year’s Eve, as the strip is closed to traffic after 5 p.m. and is transformed into an enormous block party. Four hundred thousand people come to eat, dance and drink before visiting the shows or casinos. As an added bonus, you’re likely to spot as many street performers as you do celebrities.

The ultimate way to cap off your night is to check out one of the many concerts that take place. On December 31st or January 1st, Las Vegas offers performances by everyone from Metallica to the Goo Goo Dolls.

Must-see: The fireworks at midnight, which are best seen in front of Caesars Palace’s Forum Shops or on the observation deck of the Stratosphere.