Cover Image: Courtesy of The Ritz, London
Jet-set into the New Year as these cities play host to some of the best unique experiences to usher in 2019
Tatler Asia
Above Image: Courtesy of Bennelong

1. Indulge in fine-dining in Sydney, Australia

One of the first capitals to receive 2019, Sydneysiders sure know how to throw themselves a massive party and show the world how it’s done. Head Down Under and set yourself up for an exquisite night of celebrations as you wine and dine your way through at Bennelong’s, the award-winning restaurant beneath the sails of the city’s landmark Opera House. Helmed by Executive Chef Peter Gilmore and Head Chef Rob Cockerill, know that your night is in safe hands with their meticulously designed five course menu, featuring the finest Australian wines and produce for your maximum enjoyment. Held at the restaurant’s private terrace, it secures unprecedented views of the blazing fireworks showcase by the harbour for you to bid farewell to 2018.

bennelong.com.au

 

Tatler Asia
Above Image: Courtesy of the Museum Hotel

2. Rise above the ethereal valley in Cappadocia, Turkey

Transport yourself to an ethereal fairy-tale by soaring way above the Cappadocian winter landscape in your very own hot air balloon this New Year’s. Famous for their blazing hot air balloons colourfully scattered across the sky, create the most unique memories as you welcome 2019 at the break of dawn, joining the party in the skies just a few thousand feet off the ground. As you take-off, witness the sunrise beyond the horizon and see the snow-powdered peaks of the fairy chimneys appear subtly in the light. A few minutes later, feel the warm glow of the rays against your skin as you take a moment to bask in this dreamlike flight and reflect upon the happenings of 2018. To compliment your magical experience, a stay at the Museum Hotel will then provide unrivalled panoramic views of the valley, serving up a multitude of photographic opportunities to document the welcoming of the New Year.

museumhotel.com

Tatler Asia
Above Image: Courtesy of The Balmoral

3. Venture to the highlands in Edinburgh, Scotland

The Hogmanay Gala Ball is Edinburgh’s most glamorous New Year’s Eve celebration hosted by The Balmoral hotel under the clan of Forte family-owned estates. The celebration promises an evening of drama and opulence which will see guests welcomed by Champagne and canapes in the lavish Holyrood Suite. After which, Executive Chef, Jeff Bland, will serve up the most decadent four-course dinner in the Sir Walter Scott Suite, accompanied by a careful selection of fine wines by their experienced sommelier. As the live ceilidh band chimes into the festival mood of the evening, guests will dance their way into the New Year while watching the city’s renowned fireworks display over the iconic Edinburgh Castle into the wee hours of the night.

roccofortehotels.com

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Above Image; Courtesy of the Belmond Copacabana Palace

4. Clad yourself in white in Rio-de-Janeiro, Brazil

Explosive, spirited and unapologetically colourful, watch the vibrant city of Rio-de-Janeiro come alive and witness the sky light up with freckles of fireworks from Brazil’s landmark beachfront gem, the Belmond Copacabana Palace. According to tradition from the Cariocas, join in the celebrations along the Copacabana beach adorned in white as a symbol of peace and give offerings to the goddess of the sea, Lemanja, asking for good health and prosperity in the coming year. After thousands of small wooden boats filled with flowers drift off into the sea at the stroke of midnight, join in on the beach Reveillon featuring live music stages and champagne showers at one of the world’s most-sought after cities to usher in the New Year.

belmond.com

Tatler Asia
Above Image: Courtesy of The Knickerbocker Hotel

5. Be the closest to the ball drop in New York City, USA

Big lights and big city, the Big Apple lives up to its name and continues tradition with their momentous ball drop event atop One Times Square at midnight this December 31st. The Knickerbocker Hotel is the new kid on the block to join the city's ever-growing list of luxury hotels and offers a grand alternative for those seeking an exclusive countdown experience. Situated in the heart of Times Square, it is the closest rooftop venue to ring in the New Year just 150 feet below the Times Square Ball. Since it is New Year’s, go all out with their platinum package that includes a top shelf open bar, hors d’oeuvres and exquisite food stations prepared by renowned chef Charlie Palmer. As the party continues, toast to a New Year at midnight and retreat to an overnight stay at one of their luxury accommodations to end the celebrations.

theknickerbocker.com

Tatler Asia
Above Image: Courtesy of Atlantis The Palm

6. Be treated like royalty in Dubai, The United Arab Emirates

Exclusive, premium and simply over-the-top, The Atlantis Royal Gala is quite undoubtedly the most extravagant and glamourous countdown event in Dubai to grace the beginning of 2019. Held at The Palm’s private beach, this man-made archipelago will see hundreds of esteemed guests wine and dine in their best ensemble, as well as party till the wee hours of the New Year. Starting off with delectable canapes and champagne, have your fill and indulge in a luxurious spread of culinary cuisines as the evening progresses. Expect everything from sushi to caviar and stations for the little ones as well. Set against the backdrop of The Palm, skyscraper skyline and much-anticipated fireworks, start 2019 off with nothing less than a spectacular celebration.  

atlantisthepalm.com

Tatler Asia
Above Image: Courtesy of The Ritz, London

7. Toast to the New Year in London, UK

There is absolutely nothing more dazzling and glamourous than to raise a glass at The Ritz on the stroke of midnight. The London based black-tie gala boasts an outstanding Michelin six-course dinner, with a half bottle of Taittinger Comtes de Champagne, Blanc de Blancs especially for the occasion. But what’s a party without spectacular entertainment? Rest assured as a nine-piece live band and bagpipe performances will be present to entertain the crowd as guests gleefully enjoy their meal. And if that isn’t enough, a 14-piece military marching band will lead all partygoers into the New Year against the backdrop of a striking firework display, perfect to start off 2019 with a bang.

theritzlondon.com

Tatler Asia
Above Image: Courtesy of Ridgeline Images

8. Embark on a spiritual pilgrimage at Mount Takao, Japan

Following the celebrations from the night before, embrace the dawn of the New Year by witnessing the most breath-taking sunrise over Mount Takao—a pilgrimage to embark on just slightly out of the capital of Japan, Tokyo. In-line with the spirit of good luck and prosperity, the Japanese have been upholding the tradition of hatsuhinode since the Meiji era by making wishes as the first sight of dawn breaks over the horizon. Hear the mountain reverberate with the sound of conch shells made by the yamabushi and witness the Geikosai festival at the mountain’s shrine to welcome the light. Undoubtedly popular amongst locals and tourists, feel the spiritual atmosphere as you pursue a time for quiet reflection while setting out on a route lined with tall, ancient trees and food carts offering hot sake and light bites. Whilst in Tokyo, why not stay at the luxe Aman Hotel as well? Known to the discerning traveller as a sanctuary atop the Otemachi Tower with towering views over the Imperial Palace Garden and city landscape, it truly is an urban oasis to retreat to for the New Year.

aman.com

Tatler Asia
Above Image; Courtesy of Skye Niseko

9. Retreat to the slopes in Skye Niseko, Japan

Retreat to the snow-capped mountains of Hirafu and treat yourself on an alpine holiday at Skye Niseko, Hokkaido. Starting their ski season for the first year, this new luxury resort part of The Luxe Nomad's portfolio is linked to four others in the area, covering an astounding 47km of groomed slopes in total. While you're there, stay at the Penthouses located on the top floor of the resort, which enjoy pristine views as well as the service of a private concierge who facilitates your every need. Step out on to the expansive private balconies, furnished with a fire pit and rotenburo (outdoor onsen) for maximum enjoyment during the winter as well. At Skye Niseko, drift off into absolute bliss at the Ryko Spa as you enjoy one of their world-class massages or dip into the warm water Float Tank—a first in Hokkaido. After an exhilarating day on the slopes, wind down in the onsen, each filled with mineral-rich hot water from deep within the region. To be offered a chance to disconnect from the city and cruise on the fresh powder fields with icy joy? New Year’s never sounded so good.

skyeniseko.com; theluxenomad.com

Tatler Asia
Above Image; Courtesy of Hofburg Silversterball

10. Suit-up for a classical night out in Vienna, Austria

Dress up in your most dapper and elegant ensembles, as the Hofburg Silversterball hails only the most spiffy and classy of crowds. Located in the heart of Vienna, the annual ball returns to chime into the festive spirit with an evening brimming with highlights—from top orchestras to the most graceful ballets, they’ve really got it all. Hosted in a former imperial winter residence, this enchanting evening will have you savouring a wonderful four-course gala dinner, accompanied by Austria’s finest wines and glass of bubbly during the countdown. As the clock strikes midnight, grab your partner and waltz to Johann Strauss’ ‘Blue Danube Waltz’, before rocking it out to the electronic beats on the dancefloor. Simply put, this classy night will see you welcoming 2019 in the most elegant way possible.

hofburgsilvesterball.com

 

Tatler Asia
Above Image: Courtesy of Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort

11. Embrace the arctic wilderness in Lapland, Finland

Venture into the Arctic circle and immerse yourself in a complete change of scenery in the aurora season, under the star-lit skies of Lapland’s Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. World-famous for their glass igloos, winter escapades don’t get any more romantic than this—sharing the wonder of the Northern lights experience snuggled up close with a loved one. Travelling groups will also be thrilled to know that their new kelo-igloos sleeps up to six and features a beautiful bedroom with their iconic glass roofs overhead, so no one misses out. Embrace the longer days during this period by embarking on one of their many winter activities tailored for the audacious adventurer to the timid vacationist. From steering a husky sled to ice-fishing on Lake Inarinjärvi, the possibilities to engage in Lapland’s wilderness are endless and waiting for you to explore this New Year’s.

kakslauttanen.fi

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Above Image; Courtesy of Four Seasons

12. Check off your bucket list in Tanzania, Africa

Imagine waking up to wandering elephants and grazing zebras surrounding the waterhole, moments away from your lavish Four Seasons Safari Lodge in the Serengeti; hopping into a trusty 4x4 to witness the Great wildebeest migration and witnessing predators of the safari pouncing into action. Dreaming of a safari adventure? Then embark on your long-deferred trek up Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, with pictures taken at every base camp to document your journey of self-discovery. This New Year’s, cut the excuses and start checking off these experiences from your bucket list to usher in 2019 with a bang.

fourseasons.com

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