The Best Places to Spend The New Year

Should auld acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind. Yes, it's that time of year again already—when people start asking you what you'll be doing on New Year's Eve with the expectation that you'll be having the night of the year. These are some of the world's biggest parties to give you an idea of what to do—or at least of what to say you'll be doing.

New York's Times Square has to be first on the list because it's probably the most famous. All the biggest events are going to be thronged with people waiting for the final countdown—in this case accompanied by the dropping of a 1,070 pound Waterford Crystal Ball down a pole—but you're there for the atmosphere and the chance to usher the New Year in with goodwill for all mankind! In Times Square, expect your goodwill to mingle with that of about a million others, not counting people watching on TV—that's a lot of goodwill.

London has celebrations along the same lines in Trafalgar Square and a fireworks display along the Thames around the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. Revellers pack into small spaces, which is useful because it helps keep out the cold, and the fireworks usually warm everyone up. There's family firework early in the evening—the New Year comes early to under 12's.

In Sydney, the cold isn't a problem and the harbour is lit with colour in the moments before and after midnight as the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House cascade with fireworks. Warm humour for all mankind is certainly easier in the warm weather and there are some great New Year parties raging though Sydney, followed by some famous recovery parties at Bondi. Auckland is the first major city to celebrate New Year, but its easterly neighbour Gisborne catches the first rays of the New Year's sun after spending the evening celebrating with a Rhythm & Vines Concert.

Rio de Janeiro's biggest party is Carnival but New Year on Copacabana Beach is a close second. Water is an important element to New Year celebrations here because it's also the time to celebrate the Festa de Iemanja, the festival of the water goddess, mother of all gods. Nearby Sao Paulo is known for its New Year's Day marathon but on the big night head to the Copa for about 20 minutes of fireworks and parties till dawn and beyond with about two and a half million other revellers.

Berlin parties around the Brandenburg Gate—expect the kind of DJ fuelled dance parties this city is well known for, while Paris says Bonne Annee! along the Champs-Elysees and exchanges bises—small kisses on the cheeks—on Sacre Coeur's hill for a perfect view of the fireworks that dazzle even the city of lights.

Moscow's Red Square under the Saviour Clock tower is the place to be, but you do have to be wary of the metal detectors and security, so for a less strict approach pop round the back of St. Basil's Cathedral for the best view of the fireworks, which are set off behind it.Reykjavik has long evenings at this time of year—all the better for getting out of town and spending New Year's Eve in front of the natural sky show of the Northern Lights—but in town people go to mass at Reykjavik Cathedral, also the highest spot in the city and the best place to see the man-made fireworks, before hitting the party circuit.

Toronto puts on a good show in the sky as well before adjourning home to watch the football on the box on New Year's Day, and Hong Kong warms up for it's main celebrations for Chinese New Year in a couple of months time, centring its parties around Times SquareShopping Mall and Victoria Bay, so the best views are from Victoria Peak.

In Madrid people gather round the Puerta del Sol where tradition dictates the eating of a grape for each of the twelve (((bongs))) of the big bell—not as easy as it may sound—and the wearing of yellow underwear. In Tokyo the Buddhist bells ring 108 times in the lead up to midnight so it's lucky they don't observe the same grape eating traditions. Here the done thing is to clean your home, visit a shrine and watch a singing competition between maleand female celebrities on TV—seriously, the competitions been happening for the last 50 years.

But as far as New Year's parties go the Scots probably take it most seriously. In Edinburgh, they call it Hogmanay, a celebration which culminates with cannons firing over EdinburghCastle and the singing of the Robbie Burns classic the rest of the world has adopted—For auld lang syne my jo.

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The 7 best Christmas Markets in The World

Ever fancied a romantic walk on a city with snow-covered roofs and avenues that are bustling with charm and traditional food? It's also where you may find the best 'Christmassy' markets that make for a holiday goer's delight.

Salzburg, Austria

Scent of mulled wine and stalls with traditional Christmas knick-knacks, the Salzburg Christmas market is one of the most popular haunts. Said to go back as far as the 15th century, it's located at the foot of the Hohensalzburg fortress. The Oberndorf Christmas Market, a village north of Salzburg, is where the world's favourite Christmas carol, "Silent Night", was written.

Cologne, Germany

The Gesrman city offers eight Christmas markets with wooden pavilions that offer mulled wine and traditional foods - bratwurst, yeast dumplings with jam and vanilla sauce, crepes and chocolate. The city's Floating Christmas Market on the River Rhine has culinary fare from all over the world and there are choir performances in the City Hall.

Covent Garden, UK

This one's a visual fantasy! With striking light installations and giant chandeliers, the whole area around the Covent Garden Piazza and Market Building is stunning. There are live performances and events, Yuletide treats and cake-making workshops.

Prague, Czech Republic

Fairytale-like spires, cobbled streets, charming avenues, and stalls make for a pretty picture in this quaint city. A must buy are the bohemian-style jewellery and Trdelnik - the Czech

Strasbourg, France

This one has been held around the town's cathedral way back since 1570 and is the oldest in France. There are several different markets here with chalets selling everything from figurines to foods.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Set in the Tivoli Gardens, this market is almost like a winter wonderland with its lights and decorations, the concerts and the pantomime and ballet performances. There's kiddie fun in store too, with an ancient rollercoaster and pony rides.

Manchester, England

The chalet-lined streets here are packed with yuletide spirit - savoury treats and gifts like crafts and jewellry. You can sip on some hot chocolate as you wander about the stalls that sell home made wares in Albert Square. A charming, bustling atmosphere all right!

Crossworld Holidays gives the best Group Tour Pacakges from Thane, Mumbai 

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Ground Floor, Ram Smruti,
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Tel:+91 - 22 - 4038 4747 
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Cold Vacations That Will Warm Your Soul

Gulmarg, India

For an Indian destination that’s breathtakingly beautiful and also a hub for winter sports, Gulmarg—at the higher reaches of the Kashmir Valley—is undoubtedly heaven on earth. In the winter months it exudes a charm few other places do. Owing to its location, Gulmarg gets some of the heaviest snowfalls in the Himalayas, and has earned the distinction as the best ski resort in the country. So once you've feasted your eyes on all the beauty, immerse yourself in some activity by hitting the slopes. Catering to both beginners and professionals, skiing here can be one of the most powerful experiences (ski season starts mid December and lasts till the beginning of April). If skiing isn’t your thing, try sledging or snowboarding; and if you’re just there for the beauty, a cable-car ride affords you stunning views and a bird’s eye view of the snow-covered mountain slopes.

Budapest, Hungary

While most tourists avoid making a trip to Budapest during the winter months, a dash of snow only enhances the city’s beauty, making it one of the best winter destinations in Europe. The biggest perk of visiting during the winter months, is the lack of tourists—with the city devoid of visitors, you can have it all to yourself—which will allow you to take in its many offerings at a more leisurely pace. One of the things Budapest is most famous for it’s thermal baths, and what better time to take a dip, than at the peak of the chilly season (imagine soaking in a steaming pool of healing water while watching the snow come down). Those who prefer to pack in a spot of activity can go skating on Városliget (Europe’s largest pond).

Nagano, Japan

Having first appeared on the global map after hosting the Winter Olympics, Nagano is today hailed as one of the premier ski destinations in the world, and although that might be the city’s claim to fame, there’s lots more to do for those who’re not hitting the slopes. This Japanese city offers a plethora of attractions for tourists—from exploring its historical towns, gazing at the stunning architecture displayed by the snow-covered Buddhist temples and bathing in the therapeutic hot springs on the outskirts of the city, to binging on delicious local cuisine and enjoying some world-class whisky—you’ll have more to do in Nagano than you bargained for.

Ireland

While winter might not seem like the best time to visit Ireland—given the fewer daylight hours—it is definitely a good time for those looking to escape the throngs of tourists and keen to explore a side to the city that is usually reserved for the locals. Although some of the city’s more popular tourist attractions might be closed to public, you can explore a plethora of beautiful castles, cathedrals and palaces, binge on delicious local fare, drink copious amounts of freshly brewed beer, and enjoy everything the city has to offer, sans the teeming crowds. There are also several winter festivals that take place during these months, and Christmas festivities transform the city into a wonderland of cosy reds and greens.

Munich, Germany

With its Christmas markets, glittering lights, mulled wine and roast goose, Munich is an attractive holiday destination all year round, but the city takes on a certain charm during the white months of winter. Whether you’re partaking of the many activities offered at the Tollywood Festival; taking in the city’s countless cultural and historic attractions; or drinking and dining your way through the atmospheric cafes, restaurants and bars dotting the streets; Munich will keep you suitably occupied. In addition, there are some excellent Alpine slopes just an hour outside of the city, so it’s perfect for those who want to couple activity with relaxation.

Salzburg, Austria

Whether you know it as the city of Mozart, of as the home of the Von Trapp family, Salzburg is best visited during the winter months—even though it’s peak tourist season and rates are sky-high—when it’s at its picturesque best. Whether you’re exploring the Old Town; taking a dip at an outdoor hot water bath at below-zero temperatures; snacking on caramelised almonds while strolling through the Christmas markets; or carolling through the winding streets (Silent Night was performed here for the first time in 1818)—this will be one of the most magical and unforgettable winter vacations of your life.

Tromso, Norway

As far as winter destinations go, Norway is probably the first place that comes to mind. Make your way to Tromso—popularly referred to as the capital of the Arctic—which is breathtakingly beautiful during the winter months. One of Norway's most beautiful cities, this is the best place for spotting the northern lights, aside from which Tromso offers visitors a treasure of activities. If you’re interested in discovering the local culture, there are plenty of excellent museums you can visit—from the Polar Museum (a fascinating window into the history of Arctic expeditions) and the Tromso Museum (famous for its exhibitions done by the local Sami people)—and those who prefer the outdoors will love skiing here.

Banff, Canada

Many people consider Banff the ultimate winter destination, and with good reason. Few places are as picturesque as this Canadian town—the scenery is absolutely magnificent, with a blanket of snow as far as the eye can see—and there’s a long list of activities to keep you busy. If you’re an adrenalin junkie, you can go skiing or snowboarding (there are three excellent ski resorts to choose from); opt for something less extreme like snowshoeing, ice climbing, dog sledding, hiking, and snow tubing; and if relaxation's the only thing on your agenda, you can visit one of the many therapeutic hot springs, and book a range of relaxing therapies for a vacation that equals rejuvenation.

Yosemite, California

Winter is the least crowded and possibly the most beautiful time to visit Yosemite. With its cascading waterfalls, snowy meadows, gurgling streams, alpine sunsets, hiking trails and pines draped with frozen icicles—the breathtaking beauty of a Yosemite winter is unparalleled—and the landscape is transformed into a pristine white wonderland. Adventure lovers can enjoy a slew of exciting activities ranging from cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, to sledding and hiking. The days are bright and sunny, temperatures drop below zero, the crowds go home, and hotel rates drop drastically—there’s no better time to visit.

Prague, Czech Republic

Winters in Prague are nothing short of magical. December marks the beginning of the cold season, which lasts all the way up to February. Whether you go in time to relish the festivities of the Christmas season in December, the fireworks in January of the romanticism of Valentine’s Day in February—Prague will charm the socks off you. With its winding cobbled streets, snow-covered shingles, towering spires and quaint gas-lit street lamps, this fairy tale city is relatively free of tourists during the winter months, which adds to its appeal. Embark on a museum trail, or ensconce yourself at one of the cosy cafes and raucous pubs while you watch the snow come down and envelop the city in a blanket of white.

Crossworld Holidays gives the best Group Tour Pacakges from Thane, Mumbai 

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Stunning Indian destinations to visit in December

Christmas, New Year and those crackling bonfire sessions—if the mere thought of this has set you in motion, it is time for that perfect December trip. This guide to the best places to visit in December is precisely what you need for that perfect year end trip. Choose from places like Goa that will make you ring in the new year in all excitement; or, hit it out at one of those clean, no-crowd beaches in Diu. Add to it the lure of Tagore’s land, Shantiniketan, for it hosts the Poush Mela that’s clearly a lifetime’s experience.

Gangtok, ring in the new year from the Himalayas

Nestled in the lower Himalayas, the city of Gangtok has grown over the mountains and in the valleys. Seen from the skies or even from the ropeway, Gangtok shows a colourful façade against the backdrop of the snow-clad mountains. At one time, Gangtok was an important stop on the trade route between British India and Tibet. The Nathu La pass saw a constant stream of traders and travellers come across mountains on either side, bringing not only goods but religious texts and beliefs too.

All that came to an end with the Indo-China war of 1962, which ended the independence of Tibet and closed its borders with India. In recent times, the situation has improved with the pass being opened for trade at regular intervals, and also with the route to Kailash being opened through this side. Things are looking up for Sikkim, and especially Gangtok. There is so much to see and do, that tourists are pouring in! Here are top 10 places to visit in Gangtok!

Gulmarg, of gondola rides and skiing!

If you’re looking for a destination which is as breathtakingly beautiful as it is adventurous, then look no further than Kashmir. The Kashmir valley is considered heaven on earth, and when it’s blanketed in snow, it exudes a charm few other places do. The tiny and isolated hill village of Gulmarg is situated at the western extremity of the Himalayas in a subsidiary range called the Pir Panjals. Lying about 50 kilometres from Srinagar, it can be easily accessed by tourist buses, taxis and even by air. Owing to its location, Gulmarg gets some of the heaviest snowfalls in the Himalayas and has earned the distinction of being the best ski resort in the country.

So once you’ve feasted your eyes on all the beauty, immerse yourself in some activity by hitting the slopes. Catering to both beginners and pros, skiing here can be one of the most powerful experiences. For the more mild adventure enthusiasts, there’s the option of sledging, cable-car rides and snow boarding. Ski season starts mid December and lasts till the beginning of April. As for accommodation, there are various options. From state-owned huts and cottages, and beautifully appointed mid-range hotels like Nedous Hotel, to luxury accommodation at Hotel Highlands Park, there’s something to suit every budget.

In addition, Gulmarg offers several other sites of interest for tourists. It has the highest golf course in the world, the frozen Alpine lake of Alpather, the Baba Reshi shrine and the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserves.

Udaipur, romance in the lake city

With the majestic city palace looming over the old city, a lake studded with palaces in the middle and romantic restaurants interspersed in every nook and corner, couples will never run out of things to do in Udaipur. As the backdrop of countless romantic movies, Udaipur charms with its regal splendour and stately aura. Pretend to be king and queen for a day, slow down on a romantic boat ride, stay near the glistening waters of Lake Pichola and walk hand-in-hand through Dudh Talai—here is your guide to discovering Udaipur’s most romantic spots.

Shantiniketan, Tagore’s tales and unforgettable fairs

Located about 212 kilometres away from Kolkata, Shantiniketan is a popular tourist destination in Birbhum District, West Bengal. It was founded by the famous Tagore family. Earlier this area was referred to as Bhubandanga (after a local dacoit). Later, this site with red soil and vast paddy fields was spotted by Maharshi Debendranath Tagore who built a house here and named it Shantiniketan, meaning abode of peace. Afterwards, in 1901, his son—the Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore—established a school (Brahmacharya Ashram) modelled after the ancient gurukul system. Gradually the school went on to become the famous Visva-Bharati University with illustrious students like Satyajit Ray and Amartya Sen. There are various places of interest in Shantiniketan, such as the Tagore Ashram, where you can get an insight into the life of not only the poet but the entire Tagore family. While exploring the campus, you will also see beautiful frescoes, sculptures, paintings and murals of Rabindranath Tagore, Binodbehari Mukhopadhyay and several other renowned personalities. There are many other attractions within the campus, such as Chhatimtala, Sangeet Bhavan, Bichitra Bhavan and Cheena Bhavan, to name a few.

A visit to Rabindra Bhavan and Nandan Museum at Kala Bhavan is something that you cannot miss. Besides, you might get an opportunity to listen to the mystic minstrels (Bauls) which is quite refreshing. Moreover, depending on the time of your visit, you can attend fairs and festivals like Poush Mela (January) and Basanta Utsav (March) that attract many tourists to the region every year.

Goa, parties, honeymoons and more

From sun-kissed beaches to vibrant flea markets to stunning Portuguese architecture, there are so many places to visit in Goa that you'll find it difficult to fit them all in one trip. Add its water sports, happening seaside clubs, and a truly eclectic dining scene to that list and you know you’ll definitely be spoilt for choice. Here is your quick guide to the very best of Goa, including the best of beaches, night clubs, bars, markets and festivals. Enjoy.

Diu, the one with solitary beaches

Diu, one of the remotest points in western India, offer scenic delights that have wooed everyone from the Mughals and the British to the Portuguese. Hence most of the places that you will find yourself headed to are footprints left behind by the erstwhile rulers; a rather colourful motley. Don’t be misled by the size; despite its tinyness, this Union Territory has plenty to charm you. Hop on a bicycle and check out the massive Diu Fort and Panikotha, the ancient Gangeshwar Temple, the very Portuguese St Paul’s Church and some of the most solitary beaches that India has. Discover what makes Diu, the Isle of Calm.

Mount Abu, the hill town in desert

Watered by the serene Nakki Lake and perched at an altitude of 4000 feet, Rajasthan’s only hill station is quite unlike the rest of the state. Offering a perfect respite from the scorching heat of the desert, picturesque Mount Abu is thronged by travellers throughout the year. Here are the places to visit in Mount Abu that you must include in your Mount Abu itinerary.

Crossworld Holidays gives the best Group Tour Pacakges from Thane, Mumbai 

Crossworld Holidays Tours & Travels (IATA approved)

Ground Floor, Ram Smruti,
Opp. to New English School,
Ram Maruti Road, Cross Road,
Thane (W) - 400602, India
Tel:+91 - 22 - 4038 4747 
Fax:+91 - 22 - 2542 3427
E-mail: crossh@gmail.com