24-Hour Party – New Year’s Eve Countdown

By the time we’re popping champagne corks to the sound of Big Ben’s bongs, half the world has their head in a toilet and the rest is only getting tiddly. Here’s my rundown of some of the world’s best parties for New Year’s Eve… 

On your marks: Millennium Island in the Pacific island nation of Kiribati is recognised by most people as the first place on earth to see in the New Year. But Christmas Island is probably a better bet for those wanting to get away from it all. Known as the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean, it really is paradise.

1pm: It’s not until we get to Sydney that there’s an all guns blazing New Year’s extravaganza. The fireworks in Sydney are world famous and thousands of people venture out into the balmy night to see them first hand.

3pm: Tokyoites head to the Meiji Shrine on New Year’s Eve and the Oshougatsu festivities continue for three whole days. Ever a city of crazy contrasts, visitors can enjoy the bright lights of the city as well as the bells and traditions within the shines. Soak up the sake with some noodles by the bonfire.

6.30pm: The beach parties near Panaji, Goa, are rightfully legendary. Whether you fork out for a cruise or head to a rave, this place will not disappoint. Weather-wise, you are guaranteed sunshine and humidity is at its lowest, so it’s a great time to be in this part of the world.

10pm: Cape Town has a massive party with fireworks, music and dancing. And on New Year’s Day, The Cape Town Minstrel Carnival brings thousands of musicians, singers, performers and dancers together in a big noisy affair. Hangovers are not an option.

11pm: Parisian lovebirds snog along the Champs-Elysées at midnight while the Eiffel Tower sparkles. Bring your own champers and then head to the Latin Quarter to dance until the wee hours.

Midnight: Club nights are plentiful in London, and a little forward planning can make it a blinder. While the tourists are watching the fireworks display along the chilly Thames, the locals are enjoying the alternative events, theme nights and kooky goings on that the city is famous for.

2am: Rio is famous for parties, and New Year’s Eve is one of the biggest. There’s a huge fireworks display on Copacabana Beach and many revellers end up splashing in the waves.

5am: North Americans go mental for the famous ‘Ball Drop’, but to many New Yorkers the obsession is a bit of a mystery. With so many amazing restaurants, clubs and events to choose from, why would you squeeze your way into Time Square to watch a little ball?

8am: The campness of New Year’s is embodied in Vegas. Glitter, feathers, fireworks and bubbles explode from every angle as The Las Vegas Strip shimmies in the New Year. Check out the shows and roll some dice.

10am: Hawaii’s islands boast themed parties, concerts, cruises and fireworks. Party with the locals (watch out for firecrackers!) or find a secluded hideout until it’s all over.

And finally: Head to Samoa for real-life time travel. The end of this year will see the nation officially change time zone to be in line with Australia and New Zealand. This means it will jump from the 29th to the 31st of December and will actually be one of the first nations to greet the New Year. Confused? Don’t worry. Have a kava.

Next time: Travel Wishlist for 2012…