Away with 2009
Sebel Pier One Sydney Hotel 11 Hickson Rd. The Rocks Sydney NSW 2000, Australia 011 61 2 8298 9999 www.sebelpierone.com.au
Sebel Pier One
Sydney Hotel
11 Hickson Rd.
The Rocks
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
011 61 2 8298 9999
Be among the first in the world to greet 2010 with a stay at this 160-room converted wharf. Nestled alongside Sydney harbor's famous bridge, it's the perfect spot to watch the city's fireworks. Choose from three New Year's Eve dinner options: The Dawes Point and HarbourWatch packages include a seafood buffet, beverages, dessert or a cheese selection, and live music; the 7-Course Signature Degustation Dinner matches wines with each course. All dinners $318 per person. Rooms from $459 per room per night; four-night minimum.
Dromoland Castle
Newmarket-On-Fergus
County Clare, Ireland
1-800-346-7007
Dust off your tux for the New Year's Eve Gala Black Tie Ball at this 16th-century, 99-room Irish castle. Festivities at the five-star property include a cocktail reception, bagpipes processional, fireworks over Loch Dromoland, 10-course meal accompanied by wine, champagne toast, band and a DJ, and daily Irish breakfast. Three-night package (valid Dec. 29-Jan. 2), from $895; two nights (Dec. 30-Jan. 3), from $693; one night, New Year's Eve, from $447. Rates are per person, double occupancy.
Dec. 28-Jan. 2.
Uma Paro
Paro, Bhutan
011 975 8 271597
Escape to this 29-room, 38-acre resort in the Himalayas and start off the New Year with guided visits to Buddhist temples, monasteries, villages, and museums. The "5-night Festive Package" also includes walks, mountain biking, and a hot-stone bath treatment. On New Year's Eve, there will be a Bhutanese dance performance, traditional music, canapés, champagne toast, and a degustation menu. Includes airport transfers and all meals (not beverages). From $5,306 per room for a five-night stay starting Dec. 20-29.
La Suite Rio
501 Rua Jackson de Figuereido
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
011 55 21 24 84 19 62
With just seven guest rooms tucked into a cliff, La Suite Rio will make New Year's Eve feel like the ultimate house party. Dress in white - traditional for reveillon - and enjoy a buffet dinner, cocktails, and dancing. Or take a chauffeured ride to Copacabana for its famous fireworks. From $544 per room per night; five-night minimum. Copacabana trip: $293. I