New Years Eve plans don't have to include ways to stay warm while singing Auld Lang Syne, or fighting for a cab in a snowstorm. it's summer down under in Australia! And some time spent with friends and family on a beach or dining alfresco while watching a fireworks display of Olympic proportions can surely be on your December 31st agenda. Australia is one of the first countries to ring in the new year. Each city center hosts a myriad of events showcasing the individuality of each region, while drawing domestic and international visitors alike.
Please make sure you leave the fireworks to the professionals, however, as they are illegal throughout the country. Here's what's going on, plus our own tips for what to go if you find yourself in Australia this weekend:
Sydney:
Offering one of the most world-famous fireworks shows on the planet, Sydney puts on an event to remember. The Sydney Harbour Bridge is the epicenter for the fireworks that not only reflect off the water, but cast a rainbow of light onto the iconic Opera House's white tiles. Our recommendation is to join the boats in the harbor for some unobstructed views of the pyrotechnics. Taronga Zoo, on the opposite side of the water, also offers some of the best firework views coupled with a meal and cocktail party.
Away from the city, Bondi Beach is host to a giant beach party called "Shore Thing." This all-night shindig attracts live musical acts and gives open-air partygoers the opportunity to watch the first dawn of 2012.
Melbourne:
Australia's second largest city, not to mention cultural capital, Melbourne hosts a number of events. With a casino and hotel as extravagant as many Vegas outposts, Crown would make a perfect river-side location to watch the firework show which uses the buildings' skyline as the backdrop to a colorful evening.
Our recommendation is to head out of the city towards the shores of St. Kilda. This bayside suburb offers beautiful views of the ocean and the city, with only a fraction of the crowds. Have a beautiful dinner at Stokehouse on the water, watching the fireworks display from afar.
Brisbane:
Utilizing a handful of bridges that cross the city, Bris-Vegas offers fireworks with various hot spots. Any views of the Storey Bridge will be perfect for catching the contained explosions. Or spend the day at the inland beach of Southbank, catching rays, and when the sun goes down, cross the river to Powerhouse. On the banks of the river, surrounded by New Farm Park, this vintage electric power house is now home to a handful of theaters, a few eateries and a bar.
Perth:
Located on the west coast, Perth offers a good amount of low key and high energy fun. For fireworks, head to the foreshore of the Swan River in East Perth. Or count down the last minutes of 2011 on the historical Town Hall clock while listening to live music and sampling any one of a number of boutique beers. Our recommendation goes to Sail & Anchor, for its 42 local brews on tap.
Since the summer is just getting hot in most of the country, any celebration outdoors would be most appropriate. If you want to be truly Aussie, grab some kangaroo sausages, called "kanga bangas," a few beers and head down to the beach with a few mates. Whatever your desire, or location, please celebrate responsibly.
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