Where to go this NYE
Some of the details may change, but year in and year out, these destinations around the world have a well-deserved reputation for traditionally being the best places to celebrate New Year's Eve. So let the countdown begin. Here are 5 great places where you can travel for a New Year's Eve you'll never forget:
1. Sydney
Sydney, Australia, is the first major international city to greet the New Year at midnight. The major fireworks display takes place at Sydney Harbour with the Opera House and Harbour Bridge providing a spectacular backdrop.
Islands in the harbour or family-friendly parks on either side offer great views.
A bonus for Sydney: Summer's just started there, and you can also take advantage of the city's beaches, including Manly, Bondi and Bronte.
2. Hong Kong
The dramatic skyline in Hong Kong provides a sight visitors never forget, and New Year's Eve fireworks just up the ante. The fireworks that illuminate stunning Victoria Harbour are set to music. You might catch the dazzling display from one of Hong Kong's many hotels with great views, or head down to the harbour front to enjoy optimum views. Crowds gather a couple of hours early at Star Ferry Pier (Tsim Sha Tsui) for some theater, dance and circus performances.
3. Bangkok
Bangkok often tops roundup lists of Asia's best nightlife cities. So of course, it's a natural place to ring in the new year if you like crowds, noise and revelry.
Bangkok's answer to Times Square, CentralWorld Plaza is one of the main gathering spots for celebrations. Another popular gathering spot is the Asiatique shopping and entertainment area along the Chao Phraya River.
You may want to continue the celebration at one of Bangkok's stunning bars such as Red Sky or a sky-high restaurant such as Sirocco.
5. Dubai
The Burj Khalifa in Dubai is one of the most attention-grabbing skyscrapers in the world, and it's only more so at New Year's Eve. As it brings in 2019, the Burj Khalifa holds the record for world's tallest building (2,716.5 feet), and throngs gather at the footsteps to welcome a new year with an amazing fireworks show. Not too far away, Burj Plaza is a little quieter and popular with families.
Dubai is building a reputation as a major food destination, so you may wish to indulge in top-tier restaurants such as Cavalli Club Dubai while you're there.
And if you have shopping in mind, check out Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest.
5. London
Stately London along the Thames always provides a remarkable backdrop for New Year's Eve fireworks. Tickets sell out fast for the official staging area, but you may be able to see the fireworks for free from hilltops such as Primrose Hill, Parliament Hill on Hampstead Heath, Greenwich Park and Alexandra Palace.
One great vantage point is a river cruise on the Monsoon Clipper or other boats.
A perfect way to greet the prospect of a new year is to settle down in one of London's oldest pubs, such as the Old Bell Tavern, serving up adult beverages since 1670.
