New Year: These destinations to ring in the year differently

Even though the Africa Cup of Nations is about to begin in Morocco in a few days, nothing prevents some travelers from taking advantage of the period to treat themselves to new experiences, both within the Kingdom and internationally.

In Morocco, Marrakech retains its status as a flagship destination. The ochre city charms with its unique energy at this time of year: fully booked palaces, gala dinners, lively rooftops, and electro or oriental evenings that attract both local and international clientele.

A few kilometers away, the Agafay Desert offers a highly sought-after alternative: a New Year’s Eve under a luxury tent, campfires, live music, and a starry sky to welcome the new year far from urban hustle and bustle.

Further south, Merzouga and the dunes of Erg Chebbi embody another strong trend: the experiential New Year’s Eve. Here, no fireworks, but an almost sacred silence, punctuated by Gnawa percussion and the sunrise over the sand.

In contrast to this Saharan atmosphere, Essaouira attracts those looking for a more bohemian New Year’s Eve, facing the ocean, between intimate concerts and seaside dinners.

Internationally, certain classic European destinations remain unmissable (Barcelona, Paris, Budapest, Prague) for their festive and affordable atmospheres.

At the other end of the spectrum are sunny destinations like Rio de Janeiro, which continues to fascinate with its giant New Year’s Eve celebration on Copacabana Beach, where millions of people, dressed in white, celebrate the new year in an atmosphere unique in the world.

Another vibe, another setting: Las Vegas, the temple of entertainment, transforms its famous Strip into a huge open-air party, with fireworks and spectacular shows.

But a more pronounced trend has emerged in recent years: that of disconnection.

Iceland appeals to travelers in search of raw nature and winter magic, with the promise of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights at the moment of the transition to the new year..

Rio de Janeiro

In Rio, New Year’s Eve takes on the air of a planetary celebration. On the legendary Copacabana Beach, millions of people, dressed in white, celebrate the new year amid giant concerts, traditional rituals, and one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in the world.

Agafay

Less than an hour from Marrakech, the Agafay Desert stands out as the chic alternative to an urban New Year’s Eve. Luxury tents, dinners under the stars, live music, and campfires offer an intimate experience, where mineral silence and elegance replace the agitation of the city.

Budapest

Known as the “Paris of the East,” it charms with its balance between celebration and refinement. Cruises on the Danube, evenings in bars, and open-air concerts set the rhythm of New Year’s Eve, while the thermal baths offer an ideal moment of relaxation to start the year gently.