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5 Most Exciting New Year Countdown Destinations to Party for Friends & Couples (2025)
Key Takeaways:
- Major cities like Dubai, Bangkok, Tokyo, Sydney, and New York each offer unique ways to ring in the new year, from fireworks and rooftop parties to cultural rituals and scenic escapes.
- Some destinations emphasise tradition and reflection, while others focus on vibrant nightlife and large-scale public celebrations, allowing travellers to choose an experience that suits their style.
- Planning ahead is essential when travelling during the festive season. This includes booking prime viewing spots, understanding local customs, and preparing for large crowds.
- Travel insurance offers an added layer of assurance when you're heading overseas, especially during busy travel periods like the year-end holidays, providing protection against common travel inconveniences such as damage to personal belongings, personal accident, medical expenses while overseas and trip cancellations due to unexpected events.
Where to Celebrate the New Year Around the World
There is something magical about a New Year’s celebration. As the clock ticks down to midnight on 31 December, the air buzzes with excitement. Fireworks light up the sky, music fills the streets, and people everywhere come together to celebrate fresh beginnings. Whether you're planning a big night out with friends or a special moment with your partner, we’ve rounded up some of the most exciting places to usher in the new year.
Destination 1: Dubai
A New Year’s celebration in Dubai is nothing short of spectacular. For the full spectacle, head near the Burj Khalifa to witness dazzling fireworks and a captivating water show. Arrive by 5.30 pm to secure a good spot, or reserve an outdoor table at the luxurious Dubai Mall for a prime view.
If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, consider watching the fireworks from Atlantis or the quieter shores of Umm Suqeim Beach. For a touch of romance, dine under the stars at Dubai Opera with live entertainment, or take in the city skyline from a luxury dinner cruise along the Marina, Creek, or Water Canal. You can even welcome the new year with a peaceful beach picnic on Jumeirah’s golden sands.
Wherever you choose to go, remember to respect the local cultural etiquette by dressing modestly and celebrating with care.
Destination 2: Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok remains a top pick for Singaporeans seeking a vibrant getaway. With endless street food, bustling night markets, and a lively cultural scene, there’s always something to enjoy. As the year winds down to its final months, the city begins preparing for one of its biggest highlights—the New Year's celebration.
If you're planning a trip to welcome the new year, the New Year’s Eve Bangkok Fireworks at ICONSIAM promises an unforgettable night along the Chao Phraya River. Popular viewing spots include Vertigo at the Banyan Tree, Mahanakhon Bangkok Sky Bar, and Asiatique The Riverfront, where you can soak in the fireworks against a stunning skyline.
For a romantic twist to your trip, consider a short island escape to Koh Samui, Koh Si Chang, or Koh Talu, where you can welcome the new year with seaside serenity.
Destination 3: Toyko, Japan
Tokyo offers a unique blend of tradition and quiet celebration to ring in the new year. While you won’t find large-scale fireworks like in other cities, what makes ringing in the new year in Japan special is its deep cultural significance and timeless rituals.
On 31 December, temples across the country ring their bonshō (temple bells) exactly 108 times in a ceremony called Joya no Kane. Each strike symbolises the letting go of worldly desires, clearing the way for a fresh start. Visiting a shrine for hatsumode, the first prayer of the year, is another meaningful experience. Pick up an omamori (good luck charm) for the year ahead, and if you have one from a previous trip, you can return it as a way of casting off last year’s misfortunes.
For a rare and memorable moment, visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace on 2 January, when the inner grounds open to the public and the Emperor makes a traditional New Year greeting. If you're extending your trip, consider a scenic getaway to Hakone or Lake Kawaguchi to see Mount Fuji—a breathtaking sight in the crisp winter air.
Destination 4: Sydney, Australia
As one of the first major cities in the world to ring in the new year, Sydney knows how to make it unforgettable. The city’s famous fireworks light up the sky over the harbour, drawing thousands to its shores each year.
There are more than 50 viewing spots to choose from, including free and ticketed locations. Top picks include Barangaroo Reserve, the Sydney Opera House, Shark Island, and Taronga Zoo, each offering incredible views of the festivities.
While you’re there, take time to explore some of Sydney’s iconic landmarks. Walk across the Harbour Bridge, unwind at Bondi Beach, or indulge in fresh seafood at the bustling Sydney Fish Market. It’s no wonder the city is often called “the Emerald City.”
Destination 5: New York City, USA
From movie scenes to viral clips, the Times Square ball drop is one of the most iconic images of New Year's celebrations. Each year, around a million people gather in the square to count down to midnight, while millions more watch from home. If you’re after a high-energy experience, downtown clubs and rooftop bars offer a lively alternative to the packed crowds.
But the Big Apple offers far more than just a countdown. Explore world-famous attractions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the National 9/11 Memorial & Museum. For those looking to splurge, helicopter tours provide an unforgettable view of the city skyline, especially under the winter night sky.
After the festivities, continue your winter getaway with a walking or cultural tour of New York’s historic neighbourhoods. To start the year with a sense of awe, make your way to Niagara Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder just a short flight away.
Traveling For a Countdown
A year-end trip for a New Year’s celebration can be exciting, but it also comes with a few practical considerations. From checking operating hours to planning your route through crowded areas, a little preparation goes a long way. Amid the festivities, it's easy to get caught up in the moment, so stay alert and be mindful of your belongings, especially in busy public spaces.
To travel with greater peace of mind, consider protecting your trip with Income’s Travel Insurance. It offers:
- Protection for travel delay of up to 120 hours1 for any reason2 not caused by you.
- Up to $2,0001 baggage delay coverage
- Up to $8,0001 coverage for loss of travel documents
With travel insurance, you can focus on enjoying the countdown and starting the new year on a positive note.
Speak to an Income advisor today to choose a plan that suits your travel needs.
1 For Preferred Plan. Policy Ts&Cs apply.
2 Except those caused by the insured. Policy Ts&Cs apply.
This article is meant purely for informational purposes and does not constitute an offer, recommendation, solicitation or advise to buy or sell any product(s). It should not be relied upon as financial advice. The precise terms, conditions and exclusions of any Income Insurance products mentioned are specified in their respective policy contracts. Please seek independent financial advice before making any decision.
These policies are protected under the Policy Owners’ Protection Scheme which is administered by the Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC). Coverage for your policy is automatic and no further action is required from you. For more information on the types of benefits that are covered under the scheme as well as the limits of coverage, where applicable, please contact Income Insurance or visit the GIA/LIA or SDIC websites (www.gia.org.sg or www.lia.org.sg or www.sdic.org.sg).
This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
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