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All Aboard For National Train Day!

Friday, May 10th, 2013
Kids on the Train

My son, Travis, and his buddies were super excited for their ride on the Historic Georgetown Loop Railway in Georgetown, CO.

Trains. Some say the invention of the railway was the single most important invention in our history.  It catapulted the industrial revolution and brought worlds together.  And even today with all of our modern ways to get places faster and even virtually, trains are still inspired, offering travelers convenience and an opportunity to experience the passing landscapes en route to their ultimate destination.

Whether simply for entertainment or for actual transportation, add a train-ride into your summer plans, such as a historic ride along a Narrow Gauge Rail such as the historic Georgetown Loop Mining Train to the modern cars and amenities of Amtrak.

Trains are often overlooked in favor of planes, but are in fact a great way of traveling. Europe, for example, has the InterRail service – a network of trains that enables people to travel from one country to another.  And even here in the US, it’s so easy and comes without the hassle of security lines; you can get to the train station 30 minutes before your train, and you even have nice options to dine and sleep comfortably.

National Train Day – May 11, 2013
Train stations and museums around the US are all celebrating National Train Day this weekend.

Los Angeles
The National Train Day event at Los Angeles Union Station (on May 11 from 11 A.M – 4 P.M) will feature free kids’ activities sponsored by Chuggington, interactive and educational exhibits, model train displays and giveaways.  Visitors will have the chance to tour private luxury railcars, freight and commuter trains, as well as current Amtrak equipment.

Grand Canyon, AZ
Take a ride at the Grand Canyon Railway on the Cataract Creek Rambler: a 45 minute train ride in either First Class streamliner cars or vintage Pullman coaches. This year, the Rambler will be pulled by Diesel Locomotive 6793, built by the American Locomotive Company in the 1950’s. Trains depart every hour on the hour from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

San Antonio, TX
The San Antonio Amtrak Station is playing host to a special one-day, large scale, and family-friendly event that is free and open to the public.  Visitors will climb aboard vintage Southern Pacific engine No. 794 for a rare chance to the see the inside of the locomotive cab and have a feel for what it was like to engineer a puffing steam engine a century ago.

Sacramento, CA
At the California State Railroad Museum, visitors will have the opportunity to tour modern-day Amtrak/Amtrak California passenger cars and learn more about train travel options in California by watching short films, browsing timetables and travel literature, and talking with rail transportation providers. Rides aboard the Museum’s Interpretive Handcar and a children’s “Chuggington Station” activity area will all be part of the fun. Admission to all activities – including the Museum – is FREE!

Kansas City, MO
The Kansas City Northern Miniature Railroad (16 inch gauge parktrain) will be celebrating its 20th year of operation by running trains on our half-mile oval of track in Line Creek Park. The Brush Creek & Western HO model railroad will be open to the public. Kansas City Parks and Recreation Department will provide entertainment, facepainting for children, and the zoomobile animal exhibit. Wooden toy trains will be on hand for the little folks to engineer around a tabletop layout.

Boston, MA
At the Boston North Station, Boston Cyclists Union Presents: 5th Annual National Train Day Bike Tour We will bike along the routes of parts of the old Eastern, Boston & Lowell, and Boston & Maine Railroads north of Boston. Along the way, they will stop to look at a number of historic railroad stations and talk about the competition between these railroads in the years surrounding the Civil War.

Share your Train Day photos with us here at Travel Smart Blog or to my Facebook!

 
 

 

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Cinco de Mayo with Tequila Sommelier, Courtenay Greenleaf

Friday, May 3rd, 2013

Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner! The holiday commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over France at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Although it’s a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, in the United States Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage. Tequila is one of the many items associated with Mexico and Cinco de Mayo. To get our readers in the mood to celebrate, I spoke with Richard Sandoval’s Tequila Sommelier, Courtenay Greenleaf about her job, her recent trip to Dubai and what she likes about traveling.

 1. What is a Tequila Sommelier and what does your job entail?

The job is very similar to a wine sommelier. I’m a tequila expert. Knowing the production of tequila, the states as to where it can be harvested and cultivated (all from Mexico and from one of the following states Tamaulipas, Nayarit, Michoacan and Guanajuato.) It also must come from the Agave plant, which is not a cactus; it is in fact from the lily family. Tequila MUST come from the Blue Weber Agave only. It is much like champagne. There is a Denomination of Origin. Then, learning how the different regions have different soil and learning how that can impart flavor to the agave. After you know the steps of the production you can start to understand how production makes a difference in the flavor. Factors that need to be taken into consideration are:

  • How long do they let the agave grow? 
    Trumpet player in Mariachi band
  • How do they cook the pinas (stone hornos or stainless steel autoclave?)
  • What is the juice extraction method (a stone tahona or a mechanical shredder?)
  • What’s the fermentation process?
  • Is it open vat fermentation or do they apply proprietary yeast?
  • Do they use copper still or stainless steel during the distillation process? I
  • t MUST be distilled twice by law, but is distilled three or four times?
  • Do they do an additional filtration process?
  • Next, while aging the tequila – what type of barrels do they use? A new oak (American, Canadian, French, etc.?)
  • Or is it in a used spirit barrel? Bourbon, wine or cognac? Do they toast of char the barrel?

These are questions I ask when I am learning about a tequila. They are all determining factors of how the tequila will differ and I expect to retain all of this knowledge when I taste something new.

2. How did you become trained to be a tequila sommelier?

Well, I was self-taught, but my introduction came while working as a bartender/mixologist. I would ask the reps and owners questions and would of course taste it along the way. There are also several certifications you can obtain; one is through the CRT (Tequila Regulatory Council).

3. You were recently in Dubai where tequila is a novelty; please tell us about that experience.

Yes, I was. It was very interesting. Dubai is a very lavish place. Everything in Dubai has a flare or exciting ‘wow’ factor. We built a tequila tasting room. Dubai had at most five brands or labels of tequila but now we are working on importing other labels and we have about 16 different labels. The guests were astounded by the different nuances that can exist in this spirit. People are realizing that it can be sipped just like a fine scotch or cognac, not just as a shot. And when you are drinking 100% Blue Agave it makes a world of difference in the taste of the refined spirit!

4. Dubai sounds awesome! Where else do you travel with your job and how often?

Dubai Mall next to Burj Khalifa , biggest shopping mall in the world with more than 1200 shops, Dubai, UAE. Image shot 2012. Exact date unknown.I travel to San Diego for the Spirits of Mexico festival and also Washington D.C. and Denver. I travel several times a year.

5. What’s your favorite part about visiting a new country?

I love learning about the culture and their cuisine and spirits. I love feeling how the air is different and smells different… how towns and cities are built and have their own heart beat. I also love traveling by myself as it is an entirely different experience.

6. What’s your most memorable travel experience?

Travel India. I spent 3 months in India. I spend some time in Tamel Nadu working at a school house and orphanage and then backpacked around southern India. It was amazing to literally live out of my backpack. Your world becomes so simple and rich!

Thanks so much to Courtenay Greenleaf for taking time to talk with us about her experience with travel, Cinco de Mayo and tequila!

 
 

 

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Where to Stay for Earth Day? The Animal Kingdom Lodge

Friday, April 5th, 2013

The view from our balcony – watching a cape buffalo graze.

Recently, we took our children to the savannas of Africa where giraffe, ankole cattle, gazelles, wild boar and zebras grazed right off our balcony. Okay… so we weren’t exactly in Africa. We were actually experiencing all this during a recent stay at the Animal Kingdom Lodge in Walt Disney World Resort.

It’s this amazing dichotomy of luxury accommodations, environmental conservation and education that make Animal Kingdom Lodge so unique. With over 30 species of African wildlife roaming the resort, the views from the public observation decks – to the early morning and late evening viewing from our room – were so exciting and breathtaking.  Staying there transports you from the fantastical fun of the Magic Kingdom and other nearby theme parks, which is actually a welcome retreat when you are visiting Disney for a few days.

Environmental Conservation

The generosity of Animal Kingdom Lodge guests helps to fund many conservation projects led by The Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund. Established on Earth Day in 1995 to support the study and protections of the world’s wildlife and ecosystems, projects have included protecting lions in Africa to projects closer to home. From efforts to protect the Northern Jaguar in Mexico to rehabilitating thousands of sea turtles along Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Waking up with the giraffes at Animal Kingdom Lodge

Additionally, Walt Disney World Resort’s approach to water conservation begins with using less water where possible and maximizing use of reclaimed water. Approximately 30 percent of the resort’s overall needs and 80 percent of its irrigation needs are met with reclaimed water. And waste not, want not! Disney’s Animal Kingdom provides some unique forms of “waste.” In 2011, more than 4,500 tons of manure from Disney’s Animal Kingdom and the Tri-Circle D Ranch was sent to the compost facility and produced more than 8,800 tons of compost throughout the year.

Family Fun

In true Disney fashion, the resort makes a stay at The Animal Kingdom Lodge unforgettable. Cast members (Disney employees) from all over Africa willing to talk and share about their countries, while there are also crafts in the lobby for the kids, evening campfires complete with marshmallow roasting and storytelling, and an 11,000 square foot pool area complete with water slides and pool-side games for the whole family to enjoy.

A variety of room types are available at the resort. The bunk beds in our room were a hit with my 6 and 8 year-olds, along with the towel animals left by the staff each day on our beds.

Campfire fun with marshmallows and the staff of the Animal Kingdom Lodge

Fun Fact

Animal Kingdom Lodge has one of the largest collections of African Art in the United States.

I’ll admit that it is not the most affordable accommodation option when traveling to Orlando (#3 US destination for travelers according to the Hotels.com HPI) with the family, but I do think it is worth the extra expense if you have some time to spend at the Lodge and can enjoy all it has to offer.

How do you plan to spend Earth Day this year?

 
 

 

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The Top 10 Irish Pubs… and Hotels Within Stumbling Distance

Wednesday, March 13th, 2013

You don’t have to wait for St. Patrick’s Day to get your “green” on and celebrate Irish style. The US has some of the best Irish pubs around that are neighborhood staples; legends in their own right. You can also count on the fact that these bars will all be celebrating this weekend what is now a global Irish holiday! So, if you are looking for a great St. Paddy’s Day party, check out the Travel Smart Blog list of Top 10 Irish Pubs and the cities that play host to them- (I wouldn’t begin to rank these top contenders).

I also took the liberty of finding the closest hotel within stumbling distance (and in some cases, a brisk walk) of each of these fine establishments. It’s worth noting that all of the hotels listed are worthy of a visit for their own reasons, not just the proximity to one of the best Irish Pubs around.

Rí Rá Atlanta
Atlanta, GA

Meticulously restored in Ireland and shipped to the US, Rí Rá embodies everything that you would expect from a genuine Irish pub. Speaking from experience, this bar has it all from the Irish staff down to the delectable Irish fare- not to mention the perfect pint of Guinness. Here you’ll find families celebrating, friends collaborating and an altogether good time.

…and for the stumble- Loews Atlanta.

Kevin Barry’s
Savannah, GA

Grab a couple of pints after a day of sightseeing at this authentic Irish Pub. Located on Savannah’s River Street, don’t let the surrounding tourist traps fool you – this bar is the real deal. For more than 30 years, Kevin Barry’s has been home to many US Armed Services members. Be sure to check out its Hall of Heroes.

…and for the stumble- Andaz Savannah, a Hyatt Hotel.

Molly Malone’s Pub & Snug
Los Angeles

Owned and operated by the same Irish family for more than 40 years, the pub serves up great food and ales. Molly Malone’s has an impressive movie resume as well as playing host to an impressive local and Irish music scene in “The Snug”. As the 5th most popular destination for foreign travelers according to the Hotels.com Hotel Price Index, Los Angeles has been making travelers feel at home in this Irish pub.

…and for the stumble- Wilshire Crest Hotel Los Angeles.

The Irish Oak
Chicago

A truly traditional age-old Irish pub located just one short block away from the Friendly Confines, otherwise known as Wrigley Field – Home of the Chicago Cubs. Irish Oak is a mixture of Old World atmosphere in a contemporary, vibrant setting. With most of the interior imported directly from the motherland, its two full bars are as authentic as the Guinness they pour. Don’t miss the Signature Whiskey Still Room and dine on Gaelic specialties like fish-and-chips, Irish Stew and Corned Beef Sandwiches. It’s also the official bar of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Go figure!

…and for the stumble- Old Chicago Inn.

Kelly’s Irish Times
Washington D.C.

Read the visitor reviews on this one to know just how special it is. Kelly’s Irish Times is known the world over, not only for being one of the most celebrated Irish Pub’s in America, but for Kelly’s famous wall of history. You’ll find details such as 1930’s Dublin Police Patches; one-of-a-kind unopened beer bottles from the 1800s; antique galvanized ice buckets from Glascow; torn Redskins Super Bowl tickets, Sonny Jurgensen autographs and a multitude of celebrity/politician what-nots. Kelly’s Irish Times is a popular bar for politicians, Irish and otherwise. It was even a St. Patrick’s Day favorite of President Ronald Reagan.

…and for the stumble- The Hotel George.

McGillin’s Olde Ale House
Philadelphia

The beer has been flowing since 1860 (the year Lincoln was elected) in this Philadelphia Irish establishment. It was opened by William McGillin, an Irish immigrant, who owned the bar and raised his 13 children upstairs. The list of famous visitors is long and storied but what keeps McGillin’s running after all these years is its high standard for good food, good friends, and good beer.

…and for the stumble- The Independent Hotel.

McSorley’s
New York City

McSorley’s boasts that it is New York’s oldest operating saloon, but this traditional pub has so much more to be proud of. For 150 years, this establishment has been the backdrop to many an important happening; like the subject of an E.E. Cumming poem or a John Sloan painting.

…and for the stumble- The Standard.

Harp and Hound Irish Pub
Mystic, CT

The Harp and Hound proprietor, Leo Roche, hails from Glin, Co. Limerick and is dedicated to keeping a fine “public house” with good food, good drink and good times. Situated in one of the oldest buildings in Mystic – dating back to the early 1700s, the Daughters of the Revolution had some of their earliest meeting within its wall.

…and for the stumble- The Steamboat Inn.

Finn McCools
New Orleans

Named after Finn McCool, the legendary giant of Irish Folklore, this New Orleans Pub battled its own giant, Hurricane Katrina. Its Irish community helped it to rebuild and Finn McCools reopened its doors on St. Patrick’s Day 2006. Since then, the bar has become a major part of the Mid City community and won awards for “Best Bartender in New Orleans” every year since re-opening along with “Best Neighborhood Bar”.

…and for the stumble- 1896 O’Malley House.

Four Green Fields
Tampa, FL

Voted one of the ten best Irish pubs in the world by the Dublin-based “Ireland” magazine, Four Green Fields has become a Tampa treasure over the past 20 years.  Enjoy a good Irish sing-a-long on most nights – crowd participation is encouraged. The thatched roof is truly unique, and the selection of Irish fare is as delicious as the Guinness is plentiful.

…and for the stumble- Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina.

How will you be celebrating this St. Paddy’s Day?



 
 

 

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In Search of GOLD: A St. Patrick’s Day Travel Adventure

Friday, March 1st, 2013

Leprechauns aren’t the only ones to enjoy all things gold. Embrace your inner Irish and check out these spots where gold is a given:

gold panningPutting for Gold

You may really feel a bit Irish if you enjoy all things emerald green and gold with a visit to… Scottsdale, AZ! At the Gold Canyon Golf Resort you’ll experience some of the best golf in the US and truly amazing views. The small city of Gold Canyon sits at the base of the Superstitions, one of Arizona’s most amazing mountainscapes. Finding it may feel like you are searching for that pot of gold at the end of a rainbow… but trust me this treasure is worth the effort!

Feel like Eating Gold?

At one of my favorite dessert spots, Serendipity 3, in New York City you can order the Golden Opulence Sundae complete with edible gold-coated almonds and gold shavings.

Personally, I’ll stick their frozen haute chocolate. With a price tag of $1000, this super sundae requires a 48-hour reservation in advance.

The Gold Coast (Barbados)

Some of the finest beaches in the Caribbean lie along the so-called Gold Coast of Barbados (sometimes upgraded to the Platinum Coast). It’s also home to some of the swankiest hotels, including The House by Elegant Hotels and The Fairmont Royal Pavilion Hotel.

Mining for Gold

Golden, CO – This town that claims to be “where the West was settled” is just a golden nugget away from Denver. You can pan for gold in Clear Creek, stay at The Golden Hotel and even tour the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum. This museum has more than gold dust. It’s also home to one of the state’s two Goodwill moon rocks collected during the Apollo 17 mission, was started in 1874 and displays mineral, fossil, gemstone, meteorite and historic mining artifact exhibits on two floors.

Need more golden inspiration? Try:

 
 

 

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Availability for SXSW Music in Austin, TX

Thursday, February 28th, 2013

South By Southwest Music is less than two weeks away, but it’s not too late to plan a last-minute trip to see some great free music! Below are the links for more information on free SXSW Music concerts and hotel availability:

Free Concerts During SXSW Music

Several Downtown Austin hotels still have room availability for the music portion of SXSW (3/12 – 3/17). Check out these properties within 1.5 miles of the Austin Convention Center, which is in the middle of all the action.

Hotel Recommendations

Extended Stay America Austin - Downtown – Town Lake (3.6 rating)
0.7 miles from the Austin Convention Center
Rooms starting at $245/night
*No availability on 3/12

DoubleTree by Hilton Austin - University Area (4.0 rating)
1.2 miles from the Austin Convention Center
Rooms starting at $389
*No availability on 3/12 or 3/13

There are also a number of properties within 3-5 miles of Downtown Austin that have affordable rooms available and are great options If you’re driving or planning to rent a bike.

Crowne Plaza Austin (4.0 rating)
4.7 miles from the Austin Convention Center
Rooms starting at $254

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Austin South (4.1 rating)
3.6 miles from the Austin Convention Center
Rooms starting at $229

Book quickly and let us know which SXSW concerts you’re looking forward to this year!


 
 

 

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Romantic Destinations for New Love… and Those Searching for It!

Thursday, January 17th, 2013

Is anything better than new love; the kind that makes your toes tingle and makes you willing to try new things? If you really want to impress your new sweetie or happen to be in the market for one –get planning! There’s just one month to go until Valentine’s Day. Where can you go for a little quiet time, romance and a whole lot of fun?

Sure, you can go to the most popular destinations (according to Hotels.com HPI): Las Vegas, New York, Miami and San Francisco and you are sure to have a good time. But if you are looking for a new spot to explore your budding romance, consider these destinations that are also great for the single-set. I threw in a few Valentine Getaways that are ready to be booked!

couple on the beach

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Don’t forget your dancing shoes! San Juan has it all: you can tour the historic city and visit the beaches by day and enjoy a vibrant nightlife after dark. Think, a late dinner typically followed with drinks and salsa dancing at a local nightclub. Bar hopping is an option through historic Old San Juan, and many of the city’s big hotels have casinos, dance clubs, and trendy bars as well.

Turks and Caicos

You don’t have to wait for that special someone to enjoy the tropical Turks and Caicos Islands. Club Med Turkoise resort is adults-only and tends to attract a lot of single travelers. Plus, fast-growing Providenciales has a nice selection of beach bars, sports bars, and a BET Soundstage.

New England

New England is the perfect place for a romantic getaway in any season, from summer at the ocean beaches of Rhode Island to fall foliage tours in New Hampshire to fireside dinners in Maine or skiing in Vermont. Romantic activities range from a horse-drawn sleigh ride, to antique shopping in Connecticut and beach combing in Rhode Island.

Washington D.C.

D.C. is great place to grow new love or to be hot and single! There’s a palpable energy in our nation’s capital that runs from morning to night. Check out funky Adams Morgan, with its expressive art, dining, shopping and ultra-hip nightlife.

VALENTINE’S DAY TRAVEL The Fairmont Washington, DC is offering a Romantic Valentine’s Getaway Package complete with:

  • Overnight accommodations
  • Full American buffet breakfast for two daily
  • Champagne
  • Chocolate Truffles

Rate: Starts at $509.

Wine Country – Napa and Sonoma, CA

“Couple” a visit to San Francisco with a sojourn in northern Wine Country where the wine is flowing and good times are guaranteed. It’s a great place to spend some time getting to know each other. You can’t go wrong with a stay at the Milliken Creek Inn and Spa.

VALENTINE’S DAY TRAVEL Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn is offering a Romance in Wine Country Package:

  • One night’s accommodations
  • Rose petal turndown
  • Two 60-minute spa treatments
  • Sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries
  • Tasting passes at Gloria Ferrer Winery

Rate: From $489 per night.

Sante Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is one of the top destinations in the Southwest. It is a unique fusion of art and culinary masterpieces in a beautiful desert setting. And it’s attracting a lot of young artists and actors (New Mexico is becoming quite a hub for TV/film production). Seriously, Santa Fe is for “Art” lovers.

VALENTINE’S DAY TRAVEL Hotel Santa Fe is offering a western romance package for two:

  • Accommodations
  • Fresh flowers and welcome basket with strawberries and champagne
  • Daily breakfast in Amaya Restaurant
  • Prix-fixe dinner for two in Amaya with complimentary bottle of wine
  • One-hour couples massage

Rate: From $319 per person.

Great Saving Tip: Once you select your destination, sign up to receive Groupon and Living Social deals for that city. Scour them daily for deals on spas, restaurants and activities that will let you have a big time on a little budget!

Where is your favorite place to get away for Valentine’s Day?

 
 

 

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Merry Christmas From the Travel Smart Blog!

Tuesday, December 25th, 2012

 
 

 

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Hotel Hook-Up: Scents of the Season with Milliken Creek Inn & Spa

Monday, December 24th, 2012

Merry Christmas Eve! Have I got a gift for you! So last week, you read about Giving the Gift of Travel and that’s exactly what we want to do today! Travel Smart Blog and the amazingly hospitable Milliken Creek Inn & Spa want to give one lucky Travel Smart Blog reader an amazing gift….keep reading!

Nestled on the banks of the Napa River in the heart of Napa, California’s esteemed wine country, you’ll find the luxurious Milliken Creek Inn & Spa. Originally an 1857 stagecoach inn, Milliken features 12 individually designed, spacious suites with thoughtful touches such as plush king-size beds with the finest linens, oversized hydrotherapy bathtubs, flickering fireplaces and private balconies with charming views.

Like most of the Napa Valley wines that improve with age, Milliken is a cherished retreat that continuously offers enhanced levels of serenity and relaxation to its guests.

Now is the time for you to experience the hotel that redefines luxury, intimacy, charm and the authentic Napa experience.

Now through the end of January 2013, Milliken is offering a “Scents of the Season package” for just $199.  This special accommodation includes:

  • One night’s accommodations in a Milliken room
  • L’Occitane gift bag with sample size products of Citrus Verbena Eau de Cologne, Effervescent Revitalizing Sugar Cube, Pillow Mist, Cade After Shave Balm for Men and Mains Shea Butter Hand Cream
  • Harney & Sons tagalong of Hot Cinnamon Spice and Holiday Blend teas
  • A $50 spa credit to use towards a decadent peppermint massage treatment or any other Milliken Creek Spa offering
  • Gourmet breakfast for two each morning served in-room or anywhere on property
  • Concierge assistance in planning Napa Valley outings including winery visits and dinners
  • Two guest passes to Synergy Wellness and Fitness Center
  • Daily sunset Magic Hour wine and cheese reception
  • Late-night cordial bar

Here’s the best part – Travel Smart Blog is giving away a Scents of the Season Package* to a lucky TSB reader!! Just comment on this post “I love the Scents of the Season from Travel Smart Blog and Milliken Creek Inn” and a winner will be randomly chosen, and announced here on TSB the first week of the New Year!! How’s that for a little holiday magic!

The Scents of the Season package is valid for stays Sunday through Thursday through January 31, 2013. For complete package details or to reserve your stay please visit www.MillikenCreekInn.com or call 800.822.8418.

Merry Christmas!!

 
 

 

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From Sydney to Berlin: Five Distinctive New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Thursday, December 20th, 2012

Fireworks over the Sydney Harbour Bridge

How do you ring in the New Year? Dinner dates with friends? Walking in a torchlight procession? Or enjoying a live concert and entertainment? There are tons of ways to ring in the New Year across the U.S. and the world!

While everyone rings in New Year’s on December 31, not everyone does it the same way. We’ve found a few of the most distinct New Year’s Eve experiences around the globe that perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to see this year or in the upcoming years.

Most Interactive Celebration

As one of the first cities to celebrate the New Year, Sydney, Australia, is known for going above and beyond to ring in the New Year. This year the city of Sydney is inviting revelers to download an app and participate in smartphone-generated light shows coordinated with one of the largest firework celebrations in the world – 11,000 shells, 100,000 pyrotechnic effects and 25,000 shooting comets.

Largest Open-Air Celebration

Known as one of the biggest open-air New Year’s Eve parties in the world, Berlin’s New Year’s festivities attract over one million travelers. With the Brandenburg Gate as the backdrop, partiers can enjoy over two kilometers of party fun between the Brandenburg Gate and the Victory Column. Enjoy live music and DJs, bars, laser shows, international food vendors, and dance floors. The best part? The party does not require a reservation or a name on a list to attend; it’s open to the public!

Highest Firework Celebration

Standing 160 stories tall, the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, in downtown Dubai plays host to the world’s tallest pyrotechnic displays. The extravagant firework show commences at the stroke of midnight and is broadcasted live to over two billion homes globally. This year, guests can see Snoop Dogg in concert with Faithless, Gorillaz and Armand Van Helden. The Queen Elizabeth 2 will also be docked in Dubai for a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner.

Most Expensive Celebration

Are diamonds, champagne and caviar your style? Then consider kicking off the start of 2013 in South Beach at club WALL. Costing $700 per ticket, travelers can enjoy an exclusive live performance by world-renowned artist OTTO KNOWS, gain general admission to the club, WET, and enjoy the live New Year’s Eve countdown.

Longest Celebration

Hogmanay, the Scots word for the last day of the year, is a three day New Year’s Eve celebration in Edinburgh, Scotland, packed with live music, carnivals, torchlight processions, film screenings, a New Year’s Day triathlon and Dogmanay (dogsled racing). On New Year’s Eve, join 80,000 of your closest friends on the streets below the famous Edinburgh Castle for live music, entertainment and DJs.

Have you experienced one of these celebrations or do you have one that you want to share that didn’t make the list? Please let us know in the comments section below. Happy (early) New Year from the team at Hotels.com and the Travel Smart Blog!

 
 

 

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