New York City
Where would you like to be as you count down the final seconds to 2016?
Saying goodbye to the old and ringing in the new is sure to create mixed feelings of nostalgia and anticipation. It’s what makes New Year’s Eve such a memorable time. This year, why not make it extra special and even more unforgettable with a destination celebration?
With the help of Varinnia Colemere of Nervig Travel in downtown Panama City, we’ve hit the highlights of a few destinations near and far that have their own special ways of ringing in the New Year. [/box]
New York City is one of the world’s most popular destinations for a fabulous New Year’s Eve experience. New Year’s Eve at Times Square can be seen in the movies and in live broadcasts around the world, but the best view of the fireworks and skyline is from the water.
Hornblower Cruises offer several Gala events aboard their 168-foot “Hornblower Hybrid,” New York’s premier eco-friendly luxury yacht that offers 360-degree views from its Atrium Deck and first-class amenities. The Admiral’s New Year’s Eve Gala departs from the South Street Seaport, Pier 15, and sails along Manhattan’s coastline. The three-and-a-half hour excursion offers prime views of the city’s famous sites: the dazzling lights of the city skyline, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
New York City Guests enjoy seating on the atrium deck, a fivecourse, sit-down dinner, an open bar, midnight toast, and a live feed of the ball drop on Times Square. After the countdown to the New Year, the sky is set ablaze with a magnificent display of fireworks. Entertainment throughout the evening includes dancing to a DJ’s selections along with a live accompanist. The Admiral’s New Year’s Eve Gala is one of three Hornblower cruises offered for New Year’s Eve.
The “Hornblower Hybrid” is docked at 353 West St., New York, NY 10014. The best travel arrangement is to fly from Panama City into New York’s LaGuardia Airport (about four hours travel time) and take a taxi to your hotel.
Pier 15 is a short distance from the SoHo and Tribeca neighborhoods where there are a great number of hotels from the posh and chic such as the Smyth Tribeca to the Andaz Wall Street in the Financial District to your standard Four Points by Sheraton, Hampton Inn, and Courtyard by Marriott.
During your visit, be sure to check out the area’s fine dining establishments such as Corton, Bouley, and Atera. Or choose unpretentious neighborhood spots that combine excellent food and the local scene such as Bubby’s (farm-to-table fare) or Viennese Blaue Gans (splurge on Schnitzel and a liter of Bitburger).