What with the Ball Drop in Times Square, New York, and musical fireworks displays in Sydney, Australia, New Year’s Eve is one of the top celebrations in the world. However, at the tail end of the pandemic, many people feel tired and not really looking for a major party to ring in the New Year. While many cities are packed with thousands of revelers, how about celebrating somewhere a little more under the radar? The following four locations are ideal for anyone looking for a less stressful experience and without the huge crowds of revelers.

Ring in the New Year in Ecuador

Ecuador is an ideal location for anyone seeking a unique experience on New Year’s Eve. In fact, at the end of the year, the locals build giant scarecrows or dummies from old clothing and newspaper. Meanwhile, the idea is that the scarecrows will capture all the negative energy of the past year, ready to be destroyed before the sun rises on a brand new year. Across Ecuador, as the clock strikes midnight, the locals set fire to the dummies to start the new calendar year with a clean slate. In the case of the image above, likely the two virus dummies were first on the flames!

End the year in Reykavik, Iceland

While Iceland’s capital city does celebrate New Year’s Eve, the party is less hectic than in other major cities. Likely the subzero temperatures at that time of year tend to bring people indoors. However, Reykjavik still throws a great fireworks show to ring in the New Year at midnight. After this, everyone heads indoors to celebrate at the city’s bars and clubs, like Club Kiki, Prijo and Kaffibarinn. If not wishing to dance the night away, head north or south of the city to enjoy a spectacular and natural light show from the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis).

Celebrate in Madeira, Portugal

While Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, puts on a major party on New Year’s Eve, a quieter experience can be had on the country’s islands. In fact, Madeira is an ideal choice, with its excellent Madeira wines. Admittedly, this gorgeous Portuguese island brings in the New Year with a spectacular firework display over Funchal Bay.

However, a quieter experience can be enjoyed at the city’s many restaurants. Picture relaxing over a delicious seafood dinner, washed down by the local wines and making your resolutions for 2023. Instead of nursing a hangover the next morning, spend time exploring this quaint island and its waterways, or going for a hike in the beautiful hills.

New Year’s in Tasmania, Australia

Why not avoid parties and fireworks completely and head out into nature instead? Tasmania is one of the best places to go when looking for excellent hiking trails and gorgeous landscapes. In fact, this is the ultimate place to go off the grid and start the New Year on the right foot.

Avid hikers will enjoy the Overland Track, taking them through the challenging landscapes of Cradle Mountain – Lake St. Clair National Park. For those wishing to truly go off the grid, head to the South Coast Track, set in lush rainforests. Here in the mountainous heights is one of the best bird-watching locations in Tasmania. Those seeking a more active adventure can experience a whitewater rafting expedition on the rapids of the Franklin River.

Wherever you choose to see in the New Year, we wish you a happy, prosperous and less stressful 2023.