New Years is a special occasion filled with hope, traditions and good wishes. It also a special time of year that is celebrated with family and friends, so why not celebrate this festive holiday in a unique and spectacular place? Check out some of the best spots to ring in the new year with this guide by azureazure.com.
Celebrate the New Year Under the Stars
Astronomical tourism continues to light up the world, especially in Chile, which currently has over 40% of infrastructures that are used for astronomical studies. Bring in the new year under a sea of stars in El Valle del Elqui and experience star-filled skies like no other.
The Gemini Sur astronomical observatory, one of the most modern and best prepared places to observe the night sky, is home to an 8-meter telescope, that guests can use view the closest planets and distant galaxies, while learning more about the infinite realms of space.
Elqui Domos, a hotel in Elqui Valley, Atacama Desert, Chile, is another option for guests looking to experience new years in a unique way by staying in one of four cabins that offer expansive views and luxurious amenities.
Night landscape in the Elqui Valley, Chile. Photo: Matías Guerrero Gatica
Stay in a private reserve in South Africa
South Africa, which is home to an array of wild animals and exotic parks, is one of the best places to welcome the new year. The Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa, in the Sandhurst neighborhood of Johannesburg, is an oasis of luxury spanning over 10 acres of land, and is home to some of the most famous safaris in the country.
Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa in Johannesburg, South Africa. Photo: www.saxon.co.za
The Nelson Mandela suite at the Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa in Johannesburg, South Africa. Photo: www.saxon.co.za
Another recommended destination in South Africa is the private nature reserve of Grootbos, in Gansbaai, with its two 5-star lodges that offer excursions into the nearby centennial forests and whale watching at a sanctuary in Walker Bay. Cheetah Plains Lodge, in the Sabi Sands Reserve, in Kruger Park, is another dream location that allows you to stay in the middle of the jungle, surrounded by animals, in exclusive cabins with a luxury service.
Villas de Grootbos in Gansbaai, South Africa. Photo: www.grootbos.com
Experience New Years in Dubai at Burj Al Arab
Located on an artificial island in the Persian Gulf on Jumeirah Beach Road, in the city of Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, is Burj Al Arab, one of the tallest and most luxurious hotels in the middle east. With a height of 1,053 feet, it is the fourth tallest hotel in the world (surpassed by Abraj Al Bait in Saudi Arabia, Rose Rotana also in Dubai and the Ryugyong Hotel in North Korea).
Hotel Burj Al Arab in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Photo: Pixabay
Hotel Burj al Arab overflows with luxury on each of its 52 floors, with prices ranging: from $2,500 to $30,000. Its restaurants are also impeccable: Al Mahara, underwater, becomes an aquarium to spot marine species while you eat, and Al Muntaha, allows you to see the city of Dubai at your feet. It should be noted that on the terrace of the hotel there is a heliport pad that is also used as a tennis court.
Float in the Middle of the Seine River at this Scenic hotel
Hotel OFF in Paris on the Seine river. Photo: www.offparisseinne.com
Visit Paris and stay in the middle of the Seine River at OFF Paris Seine. Anchored at the Austerlitz station, this hotel is a former catamaran that offers panoramic views of the river, a lounge bar, a small pool and a marina. Its bar-restaurant has French dishes based on local products, along with cocktails and a curated selection of tapas and wines. Jazz and pop funk themed parties are also organized every three days, offering guests a good time.
Spend New Years Nestled in the Mountains
Hotel W Verbier in Switzerland. Photo: W Verbier
If you decide to take refuge in the mountains, there are two end-of-the-year plans that are a must-see for travelers looking to experience something new. The first is the W Verbier in Switzerland, the first alpine and ski refuge of the W Hotels brand by Marriott, which is the only 5-star hotel in the Swiss Alpine resort of Verbier with direct access to the slopes.
Ballynahinch Castle hotel in Scotland. Photo: www.ballynahinch-castle.com
The second is the Ballynahinch Castle Hotel with County Galway Park, which offers views of the great lake and accommodations fit for a true Scottish lord. Now that you have the inside scoop on each of these unique destinations, which will you choose to celebrate the new year? ■
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