Perhaps the last few festive seasons have just passed by and you cannot remember anything extraordinary about them. Consider breaking routine this year and celebrate the start of 2013 in style.
I often discover, to my delight, that impromptu mini-holidays roll out much better than a trip that has been debated upon in a ‘shall we, shan’t we’, fastidiously-planned fashion. Shimmy out of your comfort zone, tell yourself this will be the best party ever and get going.
Surf the net for inspiration – Europe is looking good this time of year – try not to read every review; this is what takes the impulsiveness out of an ad hoc getaway.
Choose destinations that look set to go the extra mile for the New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Work out the flying time; it’s not cool to be travelling for hours when you only have a short break. Book and pay for your tickets and any necessary travel insurance. Then grab a travel bag (you are only going for a couple of nights and don’t want to have to check in luggage), pop in a hip and happening ‘number’ for the big night, some essential toiletries and a couple of mix and match, non-crease outfits.
Don’t forget your passport and credit card that you booked your flights with; ‘hey presto, it’s off to the continent you go’.
In order to find a great hotel try to remain open-minded about the location; after all this not an everyday occurrence. Enchanting Luxembourg, GMT +1, a mere 1.5 hour’s flight from London, traditionally meets and greets the New Year with panache and enthusiasm.
Jet off to the Mediterranean coast for a bit of warmth; a visit to Barcelona GMT +1, will get you into the party spirit. Locals normally celebrate the evening with family and friends before joining the crowds to see in the New Year; it’s worth mentioning that the nightlife in Barcelona doesn’t begin till late in the evening. So take advantage of that and, after all the excitement of choosing to party away from home, enjoy time out in a great Spanish hotel. Perhaps the Hotel Pulitzer off Catalunya Square will tempt you with its luxury amenities, such as its contemporary cocktail lounge, full access to the Holmes Place fitness centre and stunning rooftop terrace.
Major street parties occur all around this vast city; consider dancing the night away at the Plaça Reial (Royal Plaza). Barcelona boasts some fine nightclubs such as Sala Razzmatazz Calle Pamplona, 08018 Barcelona. This vibrant venue is a mere 5-10 minute’s stroll from The Metro and presents an eclectic mix of gigs aimed at ardent clubbers.
