For some, the stroke of midnight on Dec.31 means snuggling under warm sheets and enjoying a peaceful sleep, but for others, it is the moment to celebrate with fireworks, champagne glasses, party hats and a kiss. 

Whatever you choose to do, New Year’s Eve is the only time when everyone across the globe acknowledges that one year has drawn to a close and another has just begun.  Whether you celebrate with a small gathering or join throngs of people, it is the world’s biggest combined party. But the biggest question still burns: Where is the best place to bring in the New Year?

Whistler, Prague and Key West/Miami are guaranteed a good time. Depending on what you’re looking for, each brings something different to your New Year’s experience. That is why they are chosen this year as the places to visit. 

Snowmen Celebrate Too
Celebrate in the snow this New Year’s with fellow Canadians and international travelers alike in Whistler, British Columbia. The perk of going to Whistler is obviously for a memorable New Year’s experience, but also to participate in plenty of outdoor activities and to enjoy the Canadian winter. Arrive a couple of days earlier to fit in some skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding, skating, delicious meals and also to scope out your NYE location.  The Village is literally buzzing with people full of excitement and it won’t disappoint when the clock strikes 12. Whistler is one of the most popular and craziest ski resorts in the world and New Year’s Eve is like adding fuel to the engine – it just keeps revving it up. Moe Joes, Tommy Africa’s and Crystal Lounge are really great local bars to check out that night, with cover charge ranging from $50-150.

Duck Fast, Prague is Exploding 
Prague explodes on New Year’s Eve, literally. Nobody does a firework display on New Year’s Eve quite like the Czechs. So don’t be surprised at midnight when they raid the skies, as you wander in and out of pubs and cafes. At the Old Town Square you can set off your own hand-held fireworks with the locals; just make sure to not blow out your eardrums. 

If you’re planning on visiting an out-of-town city for New Year’s, don’t go to New York or Las Vegas because they’re too crowded and expensive. Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and unbelievably affordable, attracting people from all over Europe. Beers are from 25-35 crown (koruna/KC) or put simply, one Euro, or $2 CAD.  But who’s keeping count? You definitely won’t have to.

It’s a compact city, with no worrying about driving or cab rides.  The nightlife is always on the go and the dress is mostly casual. Bar Rock and KU Bar Lounge are hot spots, but if you check out Prague on New Year’s, you have to go to Chapeau Rouge. It is Prague’s best bar and dance club, not only beckoning people during a regular week, but most definitely on New Year’s Eve. 

A Seaside Escape
If you’re absolutely opposed to a cold destination during New Year’s and want to celebrate in a bathing suit on the beach, Florida is calling your name. Florida is the place for all ages to celebrate the New Year. From retirees to parents, young adults to kids, Florida has everything to keep you entertained for the big night. If you haven’t gone to Miami or Key West for New Years Eve, it is a must. For those of us living in Canada, it makes for an exciting road trip with friends before the 31^st.

Key West and Miami are cities that have a varied culture and vibrant lifestyle, with thousands of different people walking the streets, wolfing down delicious seaside meals, cozying up to the bar and breaking a sweat on the dance floor. Some places to visit are Sloppy Joe’s, Bourbon Street Pub and The Schooner Wharf.