No matter how much time remains before the New Year and Christmas holidays, you need to plan your vacation and book accommodation now. We look where to go to New Year inexpensive and where you can have fun.
St. Petersburg
Why you should go: New Year in St. Petersburg is celebrated on a grand scale. There are no such lights, fireworks and laser shows in the province. Nevsky Prospekt becomes pedestrian, New Year fairs work, and Palace Square flares up so brightly, as if another revolution had begun there.
How is the weather: during the winter holidays, there may be a slight frost down to -10 ° C, or it may be around zero. In any case, it is better to warm yourself to protect yourself from the winds from the Gulf of Finland.
Things to do: watch daily light shows on Palace Square, relax on Nevsky and marvel at the variety of lights, visit museums with discounts for children and walk around other iconic places of St. Petersburg.
Moscow
Why you need to go: the country's main tree on Red Square, Christmas fairs, colorful fireworks, large-scale festivities - in Moscow you can have a great New Year with your family. Both an adult and a small child will be glad to the capital.
What about the weather: in late December - early January it is quite comfortable in the capital: a slight minus during the day, and a little colder at night. Sometimes there are thaws with rains.
How to have fun: first of all, go to Red Square and feel yourself in the center of national celebrations, along the way, skate on the rink and shop at the fair. Folk festivities are also held in other places: Gorky Park, VDNKh, Poklonnaya Gora. For children, performances are staged on Pushkinskaya Square and Tsvetnoy Boulevard. If the noise gets boring, you can go to one of the many Moscow parks.
Sochi
Why you should go: here you can relax, enjoying the fresh air and relative warmth, and, if you wish, ride alpine skiing in Krasnaya Polyana.
Holiday weather: Sochi is warm and humid, because there is a sea nearby, which does not cool down so quickly, and mountains, which prevent the winds. During the day, on the coast about + 5 ... +10 ° С, in Krasnaya Polyana from +2 ° С to -5 ° С.
Things to do: the main events take place in the port, on the area of \u200b\u200bthe South Pier. Fireworks rise into the sky no worse than those that were at the Olympics. And walking through city parks and streets, you can understand that the Christmas trees between palms and cypresses are great. If you are celebrating the New Year with children, go to Sochi Park, which is modestly called the local Disneyland.
Kazan
Why you need to go: to see how Russian and Tatar traditions merge into one - New Year's.
What is the weather: winters in the Volga region are variable, but on New Year's days there are usually no surprises, and the temperature is kept in the region of -5 ... -10 ° С.
Things to do: go to the city's main Christmas tree in the Millennium Park, where you can also go for a skating rink and buy souvenirs. There is an ice town near the Eriyat puppet theater. Of course, it is worth taking a walk along Bauman's pedestrian street and the Kremlin, which is incredibly beautifully illuminated.
Veliky Ustyug
Why go: to look into the residence of the country's main Santa Claus, which was built legally, so no one took it off from drones.
What about the weather: winters are frosty here, reaching -20 ° С, but is this an obstacle for those who want to get into a New Year's fairy tale?
Things to do: the country residence of grandfather with a real, not glued beard is located about 30 minutes from the city, on Sovetsky Prospekt. The house was built in a beautiful forest, there are attractions, and excursions around the world of Russian fairy tales are arranged for children. Of course, there are entertainment programs and new Year's performances... In addition to the manor, you can also enjoy the city itself, full of merchant mansions and ancient temples.
Veliky Ustyug is quite popular with tourists, so we advise you to make an early booking for the New Year 2020.
Ski resorts
Why you should go: and celebrate the holiday, and go in for sports. In addition, the atmosphere in the resorts is calmer than in large cities with their New Year's bustle. Such places are some of the best for a New Year trip.
Where to go: Sheregesh, Kirovsk, Dombay
Which resort to choose: the most comfortable resort is Sheregesh in the Kemerovo region. There are 10 routes with different heights. The snow does not stick together, which is especially popular with freeriders.
Dombay is located in the Caucasus Mountains, on the territory of Karachay-Cherkessia. Local mountain valley so beautiful that it brings pleasure not only from skiing, but also from the contemplation of the neighboring mountains, forests and gorges. The trails here are varied, suitable for skiers of different levels.
The base in Kirovsk is located within the city of the same name in the Murmansk region. The trails are well maintained, the lifts are new. Here you can not only spend time on the slopes, but also go to the city to celebrate the New Year there properly.
Kaliningrad
Why you should go: be in a festive atmosphere against the backdrop of ancient European-style architecture.
What is the weather: quite warm, about zero, it can snow or rain. There is a breeze, so bring warm clothes.
How to have fun: the main festive events are held on Victory Square: concerts, New Year's performances, fireworks, fairs. However, this is not even the main thing, because in Kaliningrad there is a scattering of interesting places. No matter how fun you celebrate the New Year, be sure to go to the Cathedral, where the Kant Museum is located. It is also worth going through various gates: Royal, Brandenburg, Zakheim. It is unlikely that you will pass by the Amber Museum, the exhibits of which will give odds to any New Year's garland.
Minsk
Why you need to go: comfortable weather, inexpensive vacations, a visa for Russians in Belarus is not needed, and although it is fun on the streets, it is calm - still, with such and such a president.
How is the weather: there are no severe frosts, mainly from -5 to +5 ° С.
Things to do: take a walk in the central districts and squares, which are literally flooded with festive lights. The building of the National Library is especially beautifully illuminated. A New Year tree is being erected on October Square. There you can also walk through the glowing balls, buy souvenirs and have something tasty and warming to eat.
Where to go for the New Year with children? As an option - Nesvizh and Mir, which surprise with ancient castles. After walking in the fresh air, we advise you to eat hot homemade sausages and, of course, potatoes. You can go to Belovezhskaya Pushcha - Belarusian Santa Claus lives there, who entertains children as much as he can.
New year 2020 at sea
Why you need to go: this is a good chance to escape from winter - to a place where it is warm.
How is the weather: swimming on the Russian coast is unlikely to work, but walking in warm and comfortable weather is quite.
Where to rest: the most suitable option is Crimea, where there are two seas at once - Black and Azov. Recently, a road bridge was opened here, and now you can get here not only by ferry.
In Crimea, it is rarely below 0 ° С, and local beauty and excursions do not disappear anywhere even in winter. Throughout the peninsula, the New Year is celebrated on the same scale as in the rest of Russia. For example, on the embankment of Yalta they put a Christmas tree and dancing fountains, hold concerts and light fireworks.
Altai
Why go: feel the amazing atmosphere of peace and feel the energy of an extraordinary nature.
How is the weather: there may be a light frost in the region of -10 ° С, but there are also real cold weather.
Things to do: in Altai you can get energized for the whole next year. Usually tourists book tours for the New Year, which locals called Chaga-Bairam, or White holiday. You can meet it both traditionally (with a Russian steam room, horseback riding and sleigh rides, playing in the snow and a New Year's banquet), as well as extreme (for example, going to the mountains).
Altai is also home to the Belokurikha ski resort. Here you can perfectly celebrate the New Year with friends. The total length of the slopes in the resort is about 7 kilometers, and all of them are surrounded by beautiful pine trees.
Baikal
Why go: see the cleanest, deepest and most mysterious lake on the planet.
How is the weather: rather frosty, it can reach -22 ° С.
Things to do: Traveling to Lake Baikal is never boring: you can communicate with seals in the nerpa, take helicopter rides over the lake or go skiing on Mount Sobolinaya. As for folk festivals, they can be visited in Irkutsk and in the village of Listvyanka.
Novosibirsk
Why you need to go: in the capital of Siberia, everything is on the level.
How is the weather: quite fresh (reaches -20 ° С), but there are more sunny days at this time than in other winter months.
How to have fun: Lenin Square with ice sculptures and slides becomes the center of festivities. You can also take a walk along Mikhailovskaya Embankment, where you can slide down the hill right to the bank of the Ob. Of course, the main attractions of Novosibirsk, such as the Opera and Ballet Theater, the Planetarium, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and other significant places, do not disappear anywhere on New Year's holidays.
Karelia
Why go: feel the unique natural energy among thousands of lakes and waterfalls.
What about the weather: There are about the same number of sunny days as cloudy ones. The average temperature is -5 ° С. ideal conditions for a New Year's fairy tale: on average -9 ° C and a lot of snow.
How to have fun: on holidays the capital of the Volga region looks magical. The Minin and Pozharsky squares, as well as the Gorky square are beautifully decorated. Festivities are also held near the Chkalovskaya Stairs - one of the symbols of the city. From it you can go down to Rozhdestvenskaya Street, which corresponds to the holidays both in name and in essence: a cozy festive town is being set up here, food and souvenirs are sold.
Ekaterinburg
Why go: one of the best cities in the country, lots of entertainment and opportunities to celebrate the New Year together or in a company.
What about the weather: cool (down to -15 ° С), but there is little precipitation and there are thaws.
Things to do: the center of the festivities is the square of 1905, where they create an ice town with figures not only of fairy-tale heroes, but also of local celebrities, for example, famous Ural rockers. You can also walk along the pedestrian street Weiner and admire the sights covered with snow: the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Sevastyanov's house and the Vysotsky skyscraper.
Many are inexpensively interested in where to go for the New Year 2018. Prepare for the New Year holidays in advance. As the celebration approaches, airlines are raising ticket prices, so it's worth deciding on a vacation spot in six months.
Finding a tour for the upcoming holidays is not easy. Each country is special, stands out for its traditions and sights. First of all, it is worth deciding what kind of vacation is a priority: at sea, in Russia, in Europe.
Based on your own feelings and capabilities, you can plan an inexpensive, but bright, trip for the New Year.
Exotic lovers prefer to spend their winter holiday in a southern country. What could be nicer than the sun and sea \u200b\u200bair? Tour operators offer tons of options to take you on an unforgettable journey:
- Resorts in Thailand are very popular among Russians. To travel to this country for a month, a visa is not required, so there is no threat of queuing at the embassy for those wishing to rest here.
Fine sand envelops with its tenderness, plunges into a magical atmosphere. The beaches are amazing with their beauty.
Many tourists are looking for a long time where to go for the new year 2018 inexpensively. Low prices for accommodation without sacrificing comfort make the country especially popular. The cost of the flight will be several times higher than the cost of the rest itself. The average tour price for 10 days in Thailand is 40 thousand rubles.
Those who want to save money can choose an option even cheaper. However, you will have to abandon the hotel by the sea and choose a place that is quieter and without entertainment.
- Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country that is gaining popularity every year. Here, a luxurious vacation on the beautiful coastline can be combined with diving and surfing, and the fascinating stories of local guides will tell many ancient stories about ancient times and luxurious architectural monuments.
The main advantage of Vietnam over other resorts is its tourist youth. Many hotels are still under construction and will soon open their doors to vacationers.
Also worth mentioning is the stunning nature - tropical jungle and national parks delight the eye with an abundance of flora and fauna.
Entertainment plays an important role in the country. There is a whole island with attractions. You can get to the place of rest only by cable car passing over the sea.
The average price for a vacation in Vietnam is 100 thousand rubles, the tour is designed for a week. If you want to save money, you should pay attention to last minute tours. Their cost starts from 40 thousand rubles, vouchers are quickly sold out.
- Goa is a wonderful place. The beaches are spacious and sandy. They are conventionally divided into tourist zones. In the northern part of the island, you can plunge into the atmosphere of an eternal holiday with night discos and entertainment that amaze the imagination. The southern part is suitable for those wishing to soak up the white sand and dive in the strikingly clear ocean water. You can ride an elephant. Tourists line up to mingle with the giant.
When deciding where to go for the new year 2018, it is important to know that a tour to Goa will cost about 100 thousand rubles. Another nuance - to return from an exotic vacation should be the same type of flight that arrived. Thus, a regular passenger will not be able to fly home on a charter flight.
New Years in Europe
In winter, European resorts have a rest. It is already cold to swim, and you will hardly be able to sunbathe. Despite the cool weather, the flow of tourists for the New Year holidays only increases. It is worth figuring out which places are attractive and attract vacationers.
- Prague is a favorite place for foreigners. Visitors are happy to celebrate New Year's holidays in a wonderful city with its stunning architecture and hospitable people.
The capital is decorated in a special way for the celebration. An elegant, huge Christmas tree can surprise every tourist. Unusual toys and bright lights are the best decoration of the city. Shops are open without interruption and offer a huge range of gifts and souvenirs.
Even an ordinary walk around the city will allow you to plunge into the magical atmosphere of the holiday and understand that this is really a fairy tale.
A three-day vacation in Prague will cost 1500 euros, the basic cost depends on the hotel. You can find a more budget option.
- Finland. The country attracts with its unique nature, famous for its numerous lakes. How you want to be in silence and enjoy the tranquility after a noisy and dusty metropolis! Winter holidays you can celebrate in nature, visit events and mass celebrations dedicated to the New Year - the Finns have a special attitude towards it.
A week's vacation in the country will cost 20 thousand rubles.
- Milan. The capital of European fashion on New Year's holidays pleases with discounts. Young people do not mind visiting their favorite places, making many purchases. To get to the dream city, tickets should be booked in advance. A weekly tour costs $ 400.
- Germany - Happy New Year is celebrated in this country. For tourists, the most favorite cities are Munich, Cologne, Berlin. New Year's fairs are immersed in an amazing atmosphere. There is an opportunity to taste local food at the lowest price. Everything is decorated with garlands. Bright toys allow you to immerse yourself in a fairy tale.
The cost of a weekly tour is 40 thousand rubles. If you wish, you can find cheaper hotels.
- England. The main festivities are held in London. Numerous fireworks are launched from rafts, near the Ferris wheel. There are paid places for celebrating the New Year at venues near events. You will only be able to get to private parties if you have tickets. That is why it is worth purchasing them in advance.
On January 1, you can see the largest theatrical parade, which takes place on the streets of the city. Many tourists come to the country for new experiences and an amazing sight. London will reward expectations and will gladly give a lot of positive emotions.
London in fireworks
When choosing where to go on vacation in the new year 2018, it is worth studying the cost of the tour. Tickets will cost 15 thousand rubles. It will not be possible to find cheap hotels. Even budget options cost from 6 thousand rubles.
- Switzerland is another favorite tourist destination. The country is distinguished by its stunning climate. Fluffy snowdrifts immerse you in a fairytale atmosphere. If you want to celebrate the New Year holidays, then it is best to go there for Christmas. This is due to the fact that the New Year is celebrated here modestly.
For 2018 on a grand scale, it is worth choosing the largest cities. So you will be able to visit fairs, become a participant in mass festivities.
For lovers of a quiet environment, there are also proposals. Ski resorts invite for new sensations. You can combine rest - celebrate a holiday in the city, and then go to a ski resort.
Tickets cost 14 thousand rubles. Hotels cost from 6 thousand rubles. In the center, prices will be even higher.
New Year holidays in Russia
A few years ago, tours to Turkey were the most popular. Now, many Russians prefer to celebrate the holidays at home. After all, Russia is such a huge country - for every inhabitant there is a place to their liking:
- Sochi is the most popular place in Russia. A wonderful vacation in the winter, there is practically no snow and warm weather all year round. How to celebrate the holiday - everyone decides independently. There are many options in the city. You can choose a restaurant, club, outdoor activities.
The cost of the tour in Sochi differs depending on the chosen hotel. Budget rooms will cost only 1200 rubles. The price of five-star hotels is from 13 thousand rubles per day. Tickets to Sochi - about 15 thousand rubles when leaving the capital, in both directions.
- St. Petersburg celebrates the holiday on a grand scale. Where to go for the New Year 2018 is a rather relevant question. Interesting excursions have been created especially for tourists. With their help, it will be possible to get acquainted with the beauty of the city, learn its history.
New Year's festivities are very large-scale. They are represented by concerts, fairs, New Year's fireworks. You can become not only a spectator, but also a participant in public events.
The holiday can be celebrated in a more relaxed atmosphere. Dinner with relatives, in a cozy restaurant, will make the New Year's Eve unforgettable.
To get to the city, you should think over the route in advance. The airfare is 6 thousand rubles. Overnight at the hotel - from 3 thousand rubles.
- Kazan is a great option for a family vacation. It will be possible not only to relax, but also to learn about local attractions. Modern and historical architecture are in perfect harmony, complement each other. A city of incredible beauty.
Every tourist can find something to their liking. A water park has been created for children, which is striking in its scale. For active people there is a ski resort.
The cost of the flight to Kazan is from 4,500 rubles. A hotel room is about 2 thousand rubles. If necessary, it is possible to find cheaper options.
- Veliky Ustyug - if it has not yet been decided where to go to rest on the New Year 2018, you should pay attention to this city. The rest will be unforgettable, because the place is considered the birthplace of Santa Claus.
You will be able to visit merchant courtyards, ancient houses, temples. The organizers have prepared an entertainment program especially for children. Kids will be able to plunge into the New Year's atmosphere, plunge into a fairy tale.
Theatrical performances, mass events, a visit to the Palace of Father Frost will make the rest varied and fun for children and adults.
There are several ways to get to the magical place. The cost of a three-day tour is 15 thousand rubles.
- Karelia is located not far from Finland, but, nevertheless, is a Russian holiday destination. The holiday can be celebrated as you like. A rented house will allow the whole family to gather at one table. The friendly atmosphere and cozy atmosphere will help to cheer you up and make your holiday unforgettable.
On other days, excursions are available. Northern nature will open from the other side, will demonstrate its uniqueness. Fans of extreme sports can go in for sports.
Tickets can be purchased for 8 thousand rubles. The cost of a hotel room is from 2 thousand rubles per day. For those wishing to move into more luxurious apartments, there are also offers. The presented numbers have a cost of 9 thousand rubles.
Specialists have developed recommendations especially for beginners. Thanks to some tips, you will be able to have a wonderful rest and save some money.
New Year
Particular attention should be paid to the following nuances:
- It is necessary to book tickets in advance. It is best to do this already six months before the holidays. The closer the celebration, the higher the prices.
- If it doesn't matter where to celebrate the holiday, but you just want to change the atmosphere and go on a trip, then it is best to relax on the 20th of December. The time must be calculated accurately in order to return home by the New Year.
- If the purpose of your trip to other countries is shopping, you can go to any city in Europe on the 20th of December. It is at this time that grandiose sales with big discounts take place.
New Year at the sea is a rather popular alternative among many tourists to a somewhat boring holiday in their home country. Most of the beach countries that are chosen as places for the holidays are very different in the cultural sense from European ones, and therefore an unusual phenomenon appears: the usual realities and traditions of celebrating the New Year are superimposed on the unique flavor of the sea capitals. That is why such a trip will not only allow you to relax, finally, feeling the gentle breeze and soft sunbeams, which are so different from the summer heat that burns the lungs, but also fill this holiday with new meaning, refreshing it. We will tell you where you can relax on the sea for the New Year.
Why not take a cruise? The prices are very affordable! ,.
In terms of the main points, the Turkish New Year resembles that familiar to the inhabitants of Eastern Europe, but in a slightly different tone, because winter Turkey is not much like that hot and dusty country that is flooded with thousands of tourists on summer weekdays. This Turkey is more measured, less scorching and richly decorated - what could be better than the subtle aroma of salty air combined with traditional pastries and colorful sweets?
The most popular among foreign tourists who want to spend the New Year holidays in Turkey is Istanbul, as the most Europeanized point of the country, and the city of the so-called Turkish Riviera with their numerous tourist complexes... In addition, a visit to Turkey at this time will provide an opportunity not only to spend the holiday itself in a slightly different atmosphere, but also to visit those points tourist program, opposite which it was not possible to put a confident tick during a similar trip, but in the summer due to the heat or obsessive crowds of tourists.
Maldives
The Indian Ocean is conducive to immersion in the world of the spicy East, the subtleties of its culture, fanned with a light flair of myths. Unique nature, beautiful views, warm sea - all this strikingly contrasts with a similar time period, but in the European region, and therefore the celebration of New Year's days, for example, in the Maldives will allow you to plunge headlong into a completely different world, refreshing the somewhat boring ritual of celebrating the familiar New Year. Most often, the following islands of the Maldives archipelago are chosen for these purposes: Ari, Raa, Male or Baa. It is noteworthy that some of them have only one hotel or resort, which creates an absolutely indescribable atmosphere of soft privacy, filled with the sea breeze.
Seychelles
Seychelles has long been a classic Indian Ocean, implying the presence of comfort, high-quality service, original excursion programs, pristine beaches and colorful coral reefs. All this causes delight and satisfaction among all guests of the islands - the calm beauty of the oceanic expanses, but the presence of at least a light entertainment program in a festive flavor fills the already bright days with new impressions.
The celebration of the New Year can also become such an impression, which can be held in any form - as long as imagination is enough. Often, hotels provide a special New Year's menu and invite performers who will be able to color the atmosphere correctly, but meeting the New Year on the deck of a personal yacht that goes out to sea and follows a pre-selected route that is guaranteed to become the most beautiful screensaver for any holiday is also popular.
Philippines
The Philippines has hundreds of thousands of islands, each of which has its own flavor, and therefore you need to clearly prioritize interests and only then make a choice in favor of one or another place for a banal vacation or celebration of events from the category of New Year's holidays. The New Year on the islands will always be different from the mainland holding of such festivities. And the point is not even in the presence of an immense and ferocious ocean in its power, embracing the horizon, and not even in a humid, really warm climate, into which the prospect of playing snowballs does not fit in any way. The Philippines remains the Philippines - pictures change at a fast pace, the companies are noisy and invariably cheerful, the New Year somewhere on the coast pleases with a breeze and sweet cocktails.
Vietnam
New Year, like most other holidays, in Vietnam is celebrated on drifting dates dictated by the lunar calendar. As a rule, these dates fall in February, while the usual European version of the New Year celebration is celebrated here rather pale and only to please thirsty tourists. And therefore, visiting the original holiday, of course, will leave a lot more emotions, especially since their ideas are similar. In Vietnam, they do not know about the importance of the role of Christmas trees, but no one here will argue with the importance of peach or tangerine flowering.
The branches of these particular trees adorn every home. The streets are also decorated, although somewhat unusual - there is no usual illumination. It is replaced by small notes, usually on magenta paper. Desires and requests are hidden in these notes. Some New Year traditions in Vietnam can be especially interesting for foreign guests countries, for example, performances in a puppet theater, which is located on the water, cockfighting known all over the world, as well as unusual festive food - pies or cakes, repeating a square and a circle in shape.
Indonesia, Bali
Indonesia belongs to the list of countries that decided to take advantage of this opportunity and integrate European holidays with their traditions into their cycle of life, however, this did not in any way affect the fact that the more familiar dates for them have survived and continue to be honored. Thus, Indonesia celebrates two New Years that are completely polar in their mood. The first is for Europeans in accordance with their tastes, the second is for the indigenous population of the country, and the latter is distinguished by a certain gloom. The fact that the year is replaced by a year from 31 to 1 is not accepted by all residents of Indonesia, and therefore it should not be surprising that celebrations on this night are usually held only in tourist areas, especially since they are held on a grand scale and chic ...
For the aforementioned luxury, it is worth going to the island of Bali, which turns into a huge masquerade on New Year's Eve, and it turns almost forcibly, since only those who have taken care of the presence of a costume can take part in the carnival procession and the subsequent fun on the beach. A more classic New Year with candles and a Christmas tree can be found in Jakarta, which was imbued with European traditions and tried to transform as much as possible, however, without snow and the atmosphere of winter renewal. Extreme New Year is in great demand in Lombok, where the holiday with all its attributes is transferred to the underwater space.
Dominican Republic
As a rule, the very sight of a kind grandfather with a fluffy beard and the usual purple clothes evokes trust and almost tenderness, because this image in distant childhood caused so many anxieties, fears and hidden delight! True, Dominican Santa Claus or Santa is more likely to cause laughter from any of the European guests, because a cozy pensioner with beard whipped cream, a hat with pom-poms and shorts is more likely to cause a smile. What can you do - the Dominican Republic is a rather hot country, and therefore the New Year holidays are held here in a warm summer version - with a soft tan and a pleasant sea. The Dominican Republic adds a spicy note to the "home" New Year. This is manifested in everything, for example, the round dance of guests plying around the tree is replaced by couples selflessly dancing sambo.
Participants of the festive processions also try to keep up - feathers, rhinestones and the most loud outfits in the rhythm of Latin American music. The dishes traditional for the Dominican Republic, which are served on New Year's Eve, are also somewhat "hot". So, the delicious goat meat is encrusted with red wine, a ton of spices, garlic and onions, which does not make the dish less tasty, just unusual. Local cocktails, on the other hand, taste rather mild. The most popular are Banana-Mama and Coco-Loko, which are definitely worth a try. Coffee will not be superfluous - real Dominican coffee, especially, already in the morning, when the hops disappear a little from the head, and the body begins to whine pleasantly after dancing and participating in games.
India, Goa
India is a country that is highly exotic and incomprehensible for most of the pragmatic inhabitants of the Western world with their criteria of life far from abstract, and therefore acquaintance with examples of architecture or any other material manifestation of culture causes impatience and delight, but intangible culture and traditions continue to meet with misunderstanding ... New Year in the usual meaning for European inhabitants in India is simply absent as such.
True, over the past years, the tradition to at least somehow designate the night from 31 to 1 has nevertheless appeared, but this happens in the attributes familiar to all the same Europe and practically does not imply Indian influence. What can not be said about the local New Year, the onset of which falls on different dates depending on the region of the country. The Festival of Lights, whose origin is still not entirely clear, is celebrated on a special scale and can attract with its brightness - lanterns, bonfires, candles - new guests of the country.
Cuba
Cuban rum and cigars - everyone knows about this legendary and almost classic duo, and most are not averse to trying this tart combination personally. Cubans, in their desire to spend the outgoing year, are not much different from Europeans - a glass of champagne, however, is often replaced with a glass of the same rum, instead of ritual burning a piece of paper with obliquely written desires - grapes - one for each of the twelve beats and one for each desire, and the usual tree is not so important, because you can also decorate a palm tree. New Years in Cuba are squared and sometimes cubed.
So, instead of one tired Santa Claus or any other European enthusiast from children's fairy tales, three cheerful and quite friendly crowned magicians work here at once. True, Cuba also has its own New Year's features, for example, writing "letters of happiness", in which you can describe your own expectations from the coming year in more detail. These happy letters make up whole mountains, wrapping up the bases of araucaria instead of snow - trees that are green regardless of the season, which play the role of Christmas trees in Cuba. Do not forget that Cuba is primarily a maritime country, and therefore banal white sand, the warm enough sea and the gentle sun, fortunately, have not been canceled.
On the unique island of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka, eternal summer reigns throughout the year. Warm weather conditions will allow tourists to celebrate the New Year in this exotic place comfortably and unforgettably. In winter, the average air temperature here does not drop below +35 degrees, and the waters of the Laccadive Sea warm up to + 25 ° C. Fashionable hotels with developed infrastructure are concentrated in the southwestern part of the island, where most of the tourists flock.
A small original state attracts tourists with its enchanting beauty of nature. These are wide white sandy beaches with lush tall palm trees, impenetrable tropical jungle, waterfall valleys, mountain ranges, tea plantations and numerous gardens with fragrant plants. Monumental architectural monuments reflect centuries of Buddhist culture. The island's buildings and sculptural compositions evoke spiritual jubilation.
To make a trip to distant Mexico is a great opportunity to celebrate the New Year unusually on the amazing warm Caribbean coast. The North American country will delight tourists with an ideal subtropical climate for winter recreation. In early January, the air and sea temperature exceeds +25 degrees.
The tiring flight is more than compensated for by the popular resort city of Cancun, located on the Yucatan Peninsula.
This is a multi-kilometer white sand spit washed by the turquoise azure waters of the Caribbean Sea. Cancun is famous for the abundance of hotel and entertainment complexes, as well as the location of the architectural ensemble left over from the ancient Mayan tribe. During the New Year holidays, colorful carnival processions are held here to the accompaniment of melodic Mexican rhythms and various festivals with fireworks.
In the cold winter time the most demanded tourist destination is a distinctive exotic Thailand. The South Asian country attracts with its pristine tropical nature, golden beaches and unique cultural traditions. The "high" season begins in Thailand from December. Favorable dry weather is established. The air warms up to +32 degrees. All this contributes to an increase in the flow of tourists from all over the world, which entails a significant increase in prices.
The evergreen Thai island of Phuket has excellent conditions for a beach holiday during the New Year's holiday. It is the pearl of the Andaman Sea coastline. The wide beaches are framed by hills covered with dense vegetation. A festive New Year atmosphere reigns in hotels and numerous entertainment complexes.
Hot untouched by civilization, Tanzania will expand the palette of impressions even for the most sophisticated travelers. Traveling to this amazingly beautiful African country will be significantly different from the traditional festivities during the New Year's holidays. Numerous national parks with organized safaris, picturesque savannahs and warm waters of the Indian Ocean create a positive experience. Throughout the winter holidays, the weather is dry and sultry. The air temperature is +35 ° С.
The main resort in Tanzania is the island of Zanzibar. Visitors are attracted by endless beaches covered with white coral sand. Along coastline there are numerous cozy bungalows. Nearby, there is a jungle with mangrove thickets, in which wild predators live.
The North African Republic of Egypt hospitably welcomes tourists at any time of the year. Moderately warm weather awaits tourists who wish to spend their New Year holidays abroad. In winter, the temperature of the air and sea water does not drop below +25 degrees. The weather conditions create a comfortable environment for swimming and getting a bronze tan. The country of pyramids and pharaohs amazes with the most ancient monuments of architecture and the beauty of the underwater world of the Red Sea.
Among the desert, mountains and water surface is one of the most famous Egyptian resorts - Sharm el-Sheikh. The picturesque coves of the sandy coast are built up with magnificent hotel complexes with a vast well-groomed territory. The turquoise waters of the Red Sea are rich in corals and colorful fish. Sharm el-Sheikh is replete with entertainment venues, the show programs of which create a festive aura of New Year's celebrations.
In the Indian Ocean lies the emerald island of Mauritius, where tourists can escape the cold winter of the Northern Hemisphere. This corner of the planet attracts with its unusually diverse and picturesque nature. Here harmoniously combine mountain peaks, cascades of waterfalls and white beaches. The coastline is a blue lagoon that is sheltered from the big waves by coral reefs. The island is literally buried in thickets of mangrove forests, palms and flowering shrubs, which gives the landscape of an exotic region a captivating image.
Reserves, where wild animals live, make pleasant impressions. In Mauritius, the summer season lasts from November to April. During the day, the air temperature rises above + 30 ° C. The transparent waters of the gentle and warm ocean warm up to +28 degrees. A trip to the tropical island of Mauritius will be a memorable New Year's gift for the whole family.
The UAE is a hand-made Arabian fairy tale. The land of Arab sheikhs has long been associated with a high standard of living. Among the sands of the desert of the Arabian peninsula, there are monumental architectural ensembles, fashionable hotel complexes and entertainment venues for every taste.
The UAE invites tourists to spend exciting New Year holidays under the crowns of lush palm trees on the shores of the Persian Gulf. Winter weather conditions will please with moderate warmth. The average temperature of water and air is + 27 ° С.
Dubai is a popular resort destination for the perfect beach holiday. Wide white beaches with clean fine sand, turquoise sea, all kinds of attractions and a multicolored palette of landscapes create a pleasant relaxing atmosphere. Picturesque parks with shady alleys are located along the coastline.
Where to go? No, the question is different: what to choose from a great variety of options. Now let's quickly estimate at least ten.
Give by hand
Why not consider the cities of the Golden Ring? Sergiev Posad, Pereslavl-Zalessky, Rostov, Yaroslavl, Kostroma, Ivanovo, Suzdal, Vladimir. This is a classic version of small tourism. All these cities are located at a short distance from Moscow (maximum 350 km), they are accustomed to guests, and if you wish, in three or four days you can drive all eight, even with a family, with children, without denying yourself long stops, sightseeing, purchasing souvenirs.
A lot of impressions are guaranteed. Indeed, in every city you can stay for a long time, take a walk, see enough of the sights, taste local treats and even mead. With some diligence, it will be possible to book accommodation even on new year holidays, although at this time and inflate prices. Of course, you will have to spend time studying the offers on some aggregator site. But the choice of a hotel or a private house for rent turns out to be an exciting experience. In the absence of places for accommodation in the city itself, I advise you to look in the suburbs or even the nearest villages. Most likely, there will be places there. Traveling 30-50 km by car is not such a problem, but it will be calmer in a private house in the village. And maybe cheaper.
Couldn't find options on the Golden Ring, or have you seen everything? Why not expand your geography? And not to go, for example, to the City of Craftsmen Tulu? From Moscow - 180 km along a good road, only 2.5-3 hours drive. And in the center of the city there are a lot of interesting museums, a freshly restored Kremlin. There are a lot of tourists, but so far fewer than in the same Yaroslavl and Vladimir. Hotels for every taste and budget. For a country walk, you can go to Yasnaya Polyana, the estate of L.N. Tolstoy. Only from December 31 to January 2, and on the 7th, at Christmas, the museum is closed, on other days it is waiting for guests. By the way, the Yasnaya Polyana brand produces delicious gingerbread cookies with a variety of fillings that do not stale for a long time. Another option is gingerbread "Old Tula". Even for tea (which is correct to drink for a long time and from a samovar, at least an electric one), you need to take Belev's pastille and Suvorov's sweets.
And on the way to Tula or on the way home, you can drop in Polenovo, the estate of the artist Vasily Polenov (Tula region, Zaoksky district, p / o Strakhovo). Open from 11 am to 6 pm, days off - Monday and Tuesday. Horseback riding is offered.
At the same distance from Moscow, 180 km, just to the east, is Ryazan - also an ancient city founded in the 11th century, beautiful, with a lot of attractions. It is strange that he was not included in the same Golden Ring. However, this saves the city from an avalanche of tourists. And here, less than 30 km from the city, there is its own literary Mecca - the village of Konstantinovo, the birthplace of the poet Sergei Yesenin, beautiful at any time of the year. From 2 to 8 January, there will be a variety of New Year and Christmas programs for children and their parents, for example, "Bilbock da Brykalka". What it is? But you will go and find out.
To the trip to Ryazan and Konstantinovo, you can add a visit to Zaraisk, a 12th century town with its own Kremlin, many monasteries and cathedrals. In addition, here, in the very center of the city, there is an ancient settlement of the people of the Paleolithic era, which is simply called "Zaraiskaya site". From the Moscow Kremlin to the Zaraisk one along the M4 highway - 178 km.
137 km south-west of Moscow - Tarusa, a city first mentioned in the chronicle of 1246, a favorite of musicians, artists and poets. Marina Tsvetaeva lived here, there is her house-museum, a monument to the poetess stands on the Oka embankment. In 2013, a monument to Bella Akhmadulina (the work of her husband Boris Messerer) was also erected over the Oka. It's a pity that the house-museum of Konstantin Georgievich Paustovsky, a great writer, before whom Marlene Dietrich, Remarque's muse, was adored, is rarely open. The famous actress was once struck by Paustovsky's "Telegram", read to her in German. Read or re-read in Russian. And, of course, Tarusa is associated with the "buoykeeper's house" Svyatoslav Teofilovich Richter, the great pianist.
To the East
But why are we all circling around Moscow? Maybe you are ready to go further away? Say, 400-500 kilometers? Such a drive in a good car is easy even in winter, even with children. Why not take a trip, for example, to Nizhny Novgorod? Even if you were there, but many years ago, the current state of the historical center will pleasantly surprise you. You will walk along the restored Kremlin, stand over the Volga on the Chkalovskaya stairs, walk along Bolshaya Pokrovskaya, cross the river on a funicular. This is a mandatory program for visiting Nizhny Novgorod. The city is interesting both in itself and in its surroundings. And on the way, you can see something. For example, Shorin's house in Gorokhovets and the monumental five-domed cathedral opposite. Yes, the same ancient Vladimir, one of the cities of the Golden Ring. Nearby - Bogolyubovo, where the famous Church of the Intercession on the Nerl stands. If the navigator offers to go around Vladimir by the side, do not agree. Better to organize an overnight stay there.
Nizhny Novgorod can be made as an intermediate point on the way to Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan. From Moscow it is 812 km. The city is interesting for its combination of Asian and European cultures, antiquity and modernity. There are a lot of sights and beauty. Many of them were created for the Universiade held here three years ago.
And how many different delicious dishes in Kazan! Having tasted everything, even getting up from the table is difficult. So if you decide to go to Kazan, plan to live in the city for at least three days. And on the way there or from there, be sure to look into Sviyazhsk, founded under Ivan the Terrible - a town reminiscent of Kitezhgrad and Lukomorye from the story "Monday Begins on Saturday" by the Strugatsky brothers. The only thing I want to warn about is that in Tatarstan you need to be an overdisciplined driver, to follow the rules of the road as much as possible. Local traffic police officers are especially attentive to visitors.
To the west
It has its own classics - Seliger and Valdai, about 372 and 392 km by car. There are plenty of recreation centers, private houses and cottages for rent. I just (December 19) checked the accommodation in Ostashkov and Valdai, there are options in hotels, boarding houses, guest houses.
You can go to brotherly Belarus (Belarus). Prices for hotels and food are reasonable, there are many interesting places. And not only in the capital. Mir and Nesvizh castles, numerous churches and monasteries. Whether to visit the Brest Fortress and Khatyn - decide at the family council. Everyone needs to see them at least once in order to better understand the horror of war, but a hard impression remains. It may be worth making a separate trip there, and it may be the topic of your next trip to Belarus, which you will surely enjoy. No visas are needed, the road is straight and good, from Moscow to Minsk is only 713 km. What you should take care of is to buy a "green card", a foreign type of OSAGO, on time. You can even arrange it in Moscow or buy it in one of the many stalls in front of the border.
What if you have a passport with an open Schengen visa? One of his colleagues unexpectedly announced in mid-December that he would drive with his wife in a car to the Baltic States, visit Riga and Tallinn. Of course, this is a greater distance, and the customs post on the border will have to go a little longer, but the Baltic cities look amazingly cute in snowy weather. New Year and Christmas mood is guaranteed. As a bait - a few photos of Christmas Riga.
Not? No foreign countries? Only domestic? In the same westerly direction are the ancient Pskov, Izborsk and Pechory, full of fortresses, temples and monasteries. Along the way, you can visit the Pushkin Mountains, the literary reserve named after the sun of Russian poetry and simply the most beautiful, beautiful place for hiking. The only big "but": most likely, it will not work to stay overnight in the Pushkin Hills themselves (there are many tourists even in winter), so you will have to spend the night in one of the nearest cities (for example, Ostrov).
Since we have remembered Pushkin (which is not surprising, he is not only the greatest poet, but also a great traveler, even though he has seen only Turkey from abroad), let us turn our attention to the Grad of Petrov, St. Petersburg. Personally, I am always ready to come to St. Petersburg, at any time of the year, and I am always interested. In addition to St. Petersburg itself, there are several satellite cities that would also be worth paying attention to. Gatchina, where the palace of Paul I and the Priory Palace are located, Peterhof (although it is less interesting in winter than in summer when fountains work), Kronstadt, a once closed military port, Shlisselburg with the Oreshek fortress, Koporye (and there is a fortress there).
If you are attracted to ancient history, from St. Petersburg you can go for a couple of days to Vyborg, which was once both Swedish and Finnish: take a walk in Mon Repos park and the streets of the old city, see unusual graffiti, climb St. Olaf's tower ... Decide to follow this advice - I beg you, dress as you can warmer. Thermal underwear, windproof jackets, shoes with woolen socks. The most frequent guest on observation deck towers - strong wind. But even if you dress well, then you still have to keep warm. For example, in the nearest "Krendel" or "At Knutsson" (to the right and left of the monument to Torgils Knuttson, respectively).
South
You say, what have we forgotten about the south? Everything is simple here: take a map, remember how many free days you have, figure out the path that you master at the wheel every day. The roads in that direction, the main one of which is M4 "Don", are good, there are many paid sections, you go fast, but with very young children you should not cover more than 700 km a day. There will be no rest. And if you stay in Voronezh (there is the birthplace of the Russian fleet, nearby - Kostenki, the parking lot of ancient people), Rostov-on-Don (the southern capital and the gates of the Caucasus), Krasnodar (the capital of the Kuban), you can just get to Sochi in a week and return home do not have time.
On North
Better then to the north - to Vologda and Veliky Ustyug, to the official headquarters of the Russian Father Frost. This is a classic of New Year's tourism, and children will definitely love this trip. For those who are older and more enduring, we highly recommend visiting Karelia. What to do? Explore the beauty (the Ruskeala mountain park, the Kivach waterfall, the Kizhi wooden architecture museum, feast on gates and kalaruoka, ride dog and reindeer sleds). The road is good, surrounded by sparkling snow and white-clad Christmas trees, along the way there are a lot of gas stations with cafes where you can make a “pit stop”. And on the spot - different entertainment programs for children and adults. Sorry, not free. So someone will have to fork out.
As a rule, children are looking forward to the winter holidays no less than the summer ones. After all, winter is a truly fabulous time, especially for New Year's travels. Every day there are more and more opportunities for an exciting and unforgettable family winter vacation. The choice of a place for such a trip depends on financial capabilities, interests and the exact time of the intended departure. Many travel agencies offer a wide variety of offers for have a nice rest for every taste and pocket. So, if you wish, you can choose a tour for yourself to warm and sunny countries or to ski resorts, where the most beautiful landscape slopes.
Where can you relax during the New Year and Christmas holidays?
Relax on the beach
If you want to change the gray winter environment, then a beach holiday in warm countries would be the best option for you. There you and your kids can soak up the warm sun on the colorful coastline. If you decide to go to a place where it is always sunny and warm, then such a popular country as Egypt will be an excellent place. There is a large influx of tourists in it, but there will certainly be a place for your family. The temperature of the Red Sea in winter in Egypt averages 22 degrees. The most popular resort in this country is Sharm El Sheikh. Almost all hotels here operate on an “all inclusive” basis. In addition, you can have fun in water parks, dolphinariums, discos and excursions.
Admire oriental flavor? Then your family needs to visit Thailand, which amazes with its hospitality and reverent attitude towards children. In this country, divine views and truly heavenly corners. Thailand is the country where the tourist season lasts all year round, and you can choose the resort that your heart desires. If quality service and beautiful nature are important to you, then the island of Cuba will be one of the most colorful countries for winter holidays.
Latin American beaches are ready to receive guests all year round. Here you will definitely find a resort for every taste. In winter, the temperature of the Caribbean Sea reaches 26 degrees. In addition, while vacationing in Cuba in winter, your family members will have a unique opportunity to visit numerous carnivals, dances, and also try local drinks and food. In general, there are a lot of countries for relaxing on the beach in winter, but those listed above are the most proven and really interesting.
Skiing holidays
Winter holidays have many benefits. There are ski resorts in almost all popular tourist countries, where you can breathe in the clean cool air, and, of course, go skiing or go for walks on flat skiing. There are a lot of countries that offer skiing, but Bulgaria will open up ample opportunities for you to enjoy your winter holidays. In addition, reasonable prices for ski resorts in Bulgaria cannot but rejoice. Moreover, the affordable cost of the tour in no way affects the quality of service. The most popular resorts in Bulgaria are Vitosha, Bansko, Pamporovo and Borovets.
Ski holidays in Turkey are also considered one of the best. In this country, reasonable prices and excellent quality of service are appropriately combined. Kartalkaya is considered a wonderful place in the winter resort of Turkey. Going there, you can enjoy perfectly clear snow and twenty equipped ski slopes. In addition, it is worth paying attention to such resorts as Uludag, Sarikamysh and Palandoken. If you want to have endless opportunities for recreation, entertainment and sports, then it is worth staying on a tour to Austria. This small country has a huge variety of ski resorts with slopes of all difficulty levels and glaciers that allow them to operate all year round.
Holidays in Europe
Would you like to get to know personally the magnificent views, castles and other sights of Europe? No problems. Any travel agency will pick up an excursion or even a wellness tour to your taste and pocket. Sightseeing tours are a great opportunity to get acquainted with the culture, traditions and gorgeous views of European countries in one trip. Tours to Europe can be of very different duration and saturation. So you can go on Christmas holidays to Spain, Hungary, Czech Republic, Greece and many other European countries. It all depends on your financial capabilities and personal preferences.
Holidays in Russia
If you do not want to leave Russia, but in the presented state are waiting for a frosty winter to go on a trip, then you can plan your winter holidays without leaving the country. So, you can go to snow-covered Siberia, where a rich excursion program and a lot of active entertainment will await. Your best winter vacation can take place in Karelia, on Baikal or in amazing places in Kamchatka.
How much does a winter holiday abroad cost?
If we talk about warm countries, then a vacation there, in winter, will cost you an average of $ 400 to $ 600. The cost of a vacation at ski resorts depends on its duration and starts at $ 600. Concerning sightseeing tours in Europe, then everything here depends on the route chosen and on the countries themselves. All details and price ranges can be found in any travel company... The most budgetary winter vacation are tours in Russia. Where to go to you is a purely individual choice.
When you decide on the desired tour or excursion trip in Europe, you should immediately order tickets (vouchers), book tours and pay for them. Benefits early booking The tour is, firstly, a guarantee that you will get to the best and most popular hotel and, secondly, you will save a significant amount, since on average you will be able to get about 30% discount on the entire cost of the tour.
Give your child the opportunity for new experiences and an unforgettable stay abroad or in Russia. The fabulous places of the world will obviously not leave indifferent either you or your children.
