And here's to 2019

Here's to wealth, health, happiness and more holidays in 2019!

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Festive experiences and year-end celebrations in Dubai

EMAAR Hospitality Group is all set to mark the festive season and welcome the New Year with an unparalleled array of extraordinary #festive experiences and sensational year-end events in the heart of #Dubai.

The incredible host of celebrations include over 100 offerings at more than 15 destinations across the city, to offer residents and visitors a truly delightful holiday season.

Offering the best of Dubai, visitors and residents can explore diverse offers under the five easy-to-navigate categories - Festive Season, New Year's Eve, Corporate Events, Festive Treats and Stays at http://www.myfestivedubai.com.

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Happy New Year!

Wishing you wealth, health and happiness in your travels in 2018!

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Seasons Greetings . . .

Seasons Greetings one and all and a Happy New Year!

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Cheers to the New Year

IN addition to dazzling palm-fringed and white-sand beaches to unwind on, neighbouring islands to explore, and cultural sights for the Instagram feed – visiting #KohSamui during New Year’s Eve presents a bonus for guests with the perfect backdrop of fireworks over the ocean. The rule of thumb in Samui is the bigger the beach, the bigger the fireworks. The famous Chaweng Beach, on which Amari Koh Samui is located, features numerous lively party spots and is certainly the place to experience the most colourful and festive celebrations.

Amari Koh Samui, located on a secluded stretch of Chaweng Beach, offers a New Year's Eve Package, which includes a New Year's Eve Gala Dinner on 31 December 2017, round-trip transfers to and from Samui International Airport, daily breakfast at Amaya Food Gallery and more. 

The package is available for a minimum three-night stay in a Superior Garden Wing King room, starting at £261 per night and is valid for stays from 25 December 2017 to 10 January 2018. 

www.amari.com/koh-samui/hotelpackage

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Thanksgiving to New Year in New York City

THE holiday season in New York City begins with the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in November and continues with the iconic Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center. Enjoy the unforgettable department store windows and artisan markets, plus attractions and events. The season concludes by welcoming in the New Year with lesser-known fireworks at Prospect Park in Brooklyn and, of course, the unforgettable New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square.

While there to experience Midtown holiday classics, it’s also an ideal opportunity to see what’s new. Midtown NYC showcases the “new” NYC. This holiday season, it is the heart of energy and development in Manhattan.

*  Gulliver’s Gate, housed in the former New York Times building on West 44th Street between Seventh and Eighth Avenues, features over 300 miniature buildings and models of iconic global landmarks. A full city block wide, the attraction is a technologically advanced, interactive and immersive world that ignites the imagination of visitors young and old (gulliversgate.com).

*  Opening October 6, National Geographic Encounter: Ocean Odyssey is a never-before-seen immersive experience in Times Square (West 44th Street, between Seventh and Eighth Avenues) that uses ground-breaking technology to transport guests on an incredible underwater journey across the Pacific Ocean (natgeoencounter.com).

*  Beginning in November, NFL Experience Times Square, a new attraction on the corner of 47th Street and Seventh Avenue, immerses visitors in the physical challenges of professional NFL athletes. Visitors enter as a fan, become a player and leave a champion on this hero’s journey (nflexperience.com).

*  New Broadway musicals will entertain guests over the holiday season. Visitors can see all current and upcoming shows at nycgo.com/broadway. Highlights include SpongeBob, sure to be a hit with families and nostalgic millennials alike, and The Band’s Visit, an artistic new work starring Tony Shalhoub, among others (spongebobbroadway.com, thebandsvisitmusical.com).

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Tickets on sale for New Years Eve fireworks in London

TICKETS for London’s world-famous New Year’s Eve fireworks went on sale on Friday 29 September at 12 noon.  This year’s stunning spectacle will once again be focused around the Coca-Cola London Eye on the River Thames.

More than 3,000 people, from pyrotechnicians to stewards, work together to ensure that the capital’s celebrations run smoothly and are the most dazzling on the planet. The renowned pyrotechnic and lighting display will feature more than 12,000 fireworks, 2,000 lighting cues and 30 tonnes of equipment on three barges.

While Big Ben’s famous ‘bongs’ have fallen silent during vital renovation works this year, the unmistakeable bell will sound to kickstart the fireworks, ringing in the New Year in true London style.  As well as being enjoyed by more than 100,000 spectators in the viewing areas, the display is watched by over 12 million broadcast viewers on TV, promoting London as global capital of tourism and culture.

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Picture Credit: Mexicanwave 62457680@N00/81087154 London says "Happy New Year" via photopin

Happy New Year to one & all

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Picture Credit: coloneljohnbritt flickr.com/photos/30453657@N04/23448450403 Happy New Year! via photopin

Gin Darling?

THE Rummer Hotel in Bristol will be holding a Gin Distilling Dinner, to celebrate New Years Eve where guests will be invited to choose botanicals at the start of the meal, and witness the new still being loaded up and started while enjoying a gin and tonic.

The regularly changing dining projects run by The Rummer's kitchens have provided numerous memorable dishes, which have been crafted into a seven course tasting menu to celebrate the New Year.

At the end of the meal guests will venture back to the micro distillery to sample their bespoke craft gin, and bottle some up to take home.

www.therummer.net

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Picture Credit: noeltock flickr.com/photos/26126276@N00/23105612186  via photopin

Industrial action is affecting Southern train services

IN the run up to the Christmas and New Year holidays make sure to check your travel arrangements if travelling by Southern or Gatwick Express services as Southern members of the ASLEF and RMT unions have announced industrial action.

Strikes will affect Southern and Gatwick Express services on the following dates:

Tuesday 13 and Wednesday 14 December (ASLEF and RMT drivers' strike)
Friday 16 December (ASLEF and RMT drivers' strike)
Monday 19 to Tuesday 20 December (RMT conductors' strike) - changed date
Saturday 31 December to Monday 2 January (RMT conductors' strike)
Monday 9 to Saturday 14 January (ASLEF and RMT drivers' strike)

Southern announced on their website that services are expected to be particularly disrupted on the drivers' strike dates with no services on most routes.

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Let it snow . . .

WAKE up this New Year to the fresh Alpine air in Italy’s beautiful Madonna Di Campiglio region, Switzerland or France?

Madonna Di Campiglio, Italy: seven nights at the three-star Hotel Touring on a half board basis over New Year from £1,455 per person. A charming, family run hotel offering breathtaking views and direct access to the nearest Belvedere blue run.

Flims Laax, Switzerland: seven nights over New Year staying at the four-star Sunstar Alpine Hotel Flims on a bed and breakfast basis from £1,330 per person. Situated in a stunning Art Nouveau style building, constructed over 100 years ago, it is located on the edge of the forest near Lake Cauma.

Five-star Christmas Val d’Isère, France: seven nights bed and breakfast accommodation during Christmas staying at the five-star Hotel Le Blizzard from £2,400 per person. This luxurious chalet style property features a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub and restaurant.

www.skisolutions.com

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"Best Time to Book" holiday report from TripAdvisor

TRIPADVISOR has released its "Best Time to Book" Holiday report, revealing the least expensive times to book hotels in popular global destinations for the December and New Year's Eve holidays. Best times to book vary from country to country but here is a sample of what the report found.

• Book U.S. hotels starting in November.

• Travelers should shop for European deals beginning in March but can find consistent value by booking after mid-November.

• Asia sees best savings from September on.

• Caribbean hotel prices remain relatively steady all year.

• Central America rates are flat and climb slightly towards the end of year.

• Middle East hotels prices drop starting in November. 

• Start booking your holiday stays in November for Africa.

• South America values available starting in September until the end of the year. 

• Book South Pacific from mid-July on to the end of December. 

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Picture Credit: ClaraDon www.flickr.com/photos/7267297@N05/4189043929 Ornaments via photopin.com

Warwick Castle festive treats

DECK the halls! The festive celebrations commence with the arrival of the 25-foot-high Christmas tree on 14 November. Hand decorated from tip to trunk, the tree will grace the iconic Great Hall until 3 January 2017.

Santa’s Stately Breakfast, a magical feast for families inspiring lifelong memories.For the first time in the Castle’s 1,100-years guests can feast at Mr. and Mrs. Claus’ very own private dining table set in the Castle’s fairytale State Dining Room. Children can enjoy games and festivities with Mrs. Claus and the elves while Santa presents a personalised gift to each child.

Santa Sleepover ( December 2,3,9,10,17-23) complete with an Elf wakeup call. Guests enjoy exclusive storytime with Santa after breakfast and can add an evening meal with Mr and Mrs Claus to their stay. 

Welcome 2017 with the New Year’s Eve Great Hall Ball, a captivating evening of enthralling entertainment from some of Warwick Castle’s best-loved characters, with fine food served in the distinguished surroundings of The Great Hall.

For more information and dates, go to: www.warwick-castle.com. To book an event for a private group of to join a shared party, email events@warwick-castle.com or call 01926 406 660.

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New Year on the slopes

THE new retro inspired RockyPop Hotel in Les Houches, just four minutes from #Chamonix, is set to become the hottest hangout for couples, groups of friends and families this #ski season.

Pop meets cabin at this funky retreat which features 148 stylish bedrooms sleeping between two and 12 guests, plus a number of open lounge and dining areas complete with playful twists such as 80s inspired Pac-Man décor and football tables.

Specialist operator, Ski Solutions has an exclusive New Year opening offer go to their website www.skisolutions.com for full details.

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Happy New Year!

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Christmas & New Year in … Edinburgh

The Scottish Market, St Andrew Square, until January 4 – The Scottish Market is a winter showcase of some of the best craft, food, and drink the country has to offer. The treats available include locally-produced sausages, fresh seafood, Scottish brewed craft beers, and unique chocolate alongside crafted jewellery, woodwork, and the best Scottish accessories. 

European Christmas Market, East Princes Street Gardens, until January 4 – The traditional and romantic Christmas market in the heart of the city offers a unique shopping experience, with crafters, artists, and gift shops.

St Andrew Square and East Princes Street Garden's Ice Rink, until January 4 – Glide all the way round the Melville Monument on this circular rink.

Virgin Money Street of Light, November 30-December 24 – The Royal Mile will be transformed when an installation of 60,000 bulbs illuminates the Virgin Money Street of Light, from the City Chambers to the Tron Kirk. A free light show synchronized to music from #Edinburgh choirs will run twice a day.

Hogmanay, December 30-January 1 – The world's biggest New Year festival presents 3-days of free and ticketed events at the home of #Hogmanay. The street party welcomes more than 75,000 revellers to bring in the new year beneath the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. Four stages feature the best alternative, traditional, and party music.

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Picture Credit: Edinburgh Christmas, Princes St Gardens, Dec 2014 by alljengi from Edinburgh - Edinburgh Christmas, Princes St Gardens, Dec 2014. Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons 

Christmas, Hanukkah & New Year in … West Palm Beach, Florida

Boca Raton's 45th annual Holiday Street parade – December 2:
More than 70 floats and groups entertain as they dance, sing, and celebrate the holiday spirit. The parade begins at 7.30pm along Federal Highway from SE 7th Street toward Mizner Park, with grandstand viewing at Sanborn Square.

Lighting the tree, December 3: The Delray Beach 100ft. Christmas tree lighting ceremony is one of the largest and most-celebrated holiday events in Palm Beach County. This celebration kicks off with Santa landing in a helicopter to light the tree. Ice skating, carousel, kiddie train ride, and mini golf. The event takes place from 5 to 9 pm, and admission is free.

 Hanukkah lighting, December 13: Celebrate Hanukkah, as the Mandel Jewish Community Centre lights the eight Hanukkah candle at Harbourside Place. The free programme (starting at 4pm) will include a clergy performance by all the local rabbis and cantors, and children's Hanukkah activities and information tables from synagogues and Jewish agencies from the area. The event begins at 4 p.m.

First Night 2016, December 31: Delray Beach throws one of the best family-friendly parties in South Florida. First Night 2016 offers fun and games for the whole family on New Year's Eve. The celebration begins at 4 pm. 

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CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR: New York most-searched destination, Dubai a close second

UK flight departures for the Christmas and New Year travel period show that New York is in first place as most-popular destination for a winter break for Brits, for both long and short breaks. 

The next most-popular destinations for Brits are Dubai and Lisbon.

Momondo’s top 10 most-searched Xmas/New Year destinations: 

• New York 
• Dubai 
• Lisbon 
• Bucharest 
• Orlando 
• Porto 
• Bangkok 
• Miami 
• Amsterdam 
• Tenerife

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Picture Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/10770655@N04/11597681383">Happy Holidays 2013 From NYC!</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com">photopin</a> <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/">(license)

Early release tickets available for London’s NYE celebrations

A LIMITED number of early release tickets for the Mayor of London’s New Year’s Eve #fireworks celebrations are being made available this month (June).

The early release of tickets will be available to the public from mid-day on June 19 at £10 per person. The main batch of tickets will be released in September.

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: ‘We are planning another stunning display to celebrate NewYear and showcase #London around the world. As in 2014, you will need a ticket, as part of our efforts to ensure the event is as safe as possible, but even if you do not have one, there will be plenty of fantastic celebrations going on across the capital to help non-ticketholders bring in 2016 with a bang.’

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Picture Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/55231259@N00/6623107611">NYE 2011 London Fireworks</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com">photopin</a> <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/">(license)

Year’s end in Edinburgh …

St Andrew's Day, November 30: A packed programme of free events in St Andrew Square.

Christmas: Santa Land and an ice rink in St Andrew Square around the Melville Monument.

Hogmanay, December 30-January 1: The world's biggest New Year festival presents offers three days of spectacular free and ticketed events. 

The world-famous Street-Party welcomes more than 75,000 revellers to cheer in the New Year beneath the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. It kicks-off on December 30 with a 35,000 strong torchlight procession through the city and ends with a packed programme of events on New Year's Day.

www.thisisedinburgh.com/christmas
www.thisisedinburgh.com/hogmanay

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Picture Credit: From Top: 'EdinburghNYE' by Robbie Shade (Fireworks over Edinburgh) via Wikimedia Commons; 'Scott Monument Portal' by Bluefinart (Own work) via Wikimedia Commons