Several European countries have locked down and tightened their health restrictions in recent weeks due to a new surge of coronavirus. Celebrations and public events were, therefore, cancelled as gatherings are limited to a certain number. Still, other countries are preparing to welcome the New Year in a more relaxed atmosphere, with social distancing and the wearing of masks as the new normal.
United Arab Emirates
The UAE has never really closed its borders to foreign nationals. In fact, Emirati authorities have been luring visitors and expatriates with a range of benefits, in order to boost their tourism sector and their economy. So it's quite natural that the end of the year events are taking place almost normally while the rest of the world is cancelling theirs. In Dubai, for example, residents will be delighted by the New Year's Eve shows. Celebrations will start from 8 p.m. as seven different countries, namely, China, Thailand, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Russia, welcome the New Year. The fireworks will begin on the first stroke of midnight as the UAE welcomes the year 2021.
New Zealand
Unlike Australia, where end-of-year festivities are still on hold as we publish this article, New Zealand is about to welcome the New Year with grand parties. New Zealanders are allowed to travel within the country, so they will obviously enjoy the sun, beaches, green spaces, and many events. If you're currently in New Zealand, from late December to early January, you can choose from a range of concerts and festivals, such as The Other Side NYE 20, HighLife NYE, and AUM New Year's Eve Festival, etc. Make sure to book your tickets though.
Spain
Spain is one of the few countries in Europe where the end of the year will be celebrated. Bars and restaurants are already busy with preparations, including special drinks and dinners for the New Year's Eve. From December 23 until January 6, residents are allowed to travel, so many will be taking a short vacation and visiting their family and friends abroad. Ski resorts have also reopened their doors since a few weeks. However, social gatherings are limited to 10 people until further notice.
Mauritius
Unlike their neighbours in Reunion Island, Mauritians are fully enjoying the holiday season. The wearing of masks and social distancing remain compulsory in Mauritius, although people tend to disrespect these rules. Like every year, shops and shopping centres are full for late-night shopping, and various events have been held since early December. As international borders remain closed, Mauritians are taking vacations with their families thanks to special hotel packages offered by hotels. Bars, restaurants and food courts are houseful, and takeaway services are overwhelmed with calls. Mauritius is lucky to be one of the few "COVID-free" countries so far.
The Maldives
Would you believe that the Maldives welcomed nearly 500,000 tourists during the year 2020? This archipelago, which has lifted its border restrictions since long, offers a wide range of events and activities for the end of year celebrations. With nearly 4,000 daily tourist arrivals, the Maldives are fully prepared to meet demand. Until January 3, 2021, visitors will be delighted by the various events starting with culinary and cultural festivals, including games, concerts and movie nights and dance parties with some of the best resident DJs. There is something for all tastes and all ages. For football amateurs, there's a football tournament scheduled on January 2, 2021.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali is also preparing to welcome the New Year in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Indeed, hotels, restaurants, as well as tourist sites, have set up a health protocol with the collaboration of local authorities to ensure a safe end-of-year celebration. If you're an expat in Bali, you can choose from brunches, lunches and dinners, and enjoy the grand fireworks on the New Year's Eve. However, the Malaysian government expects people to avoid large gatherings in order to limit the risks of a new surge of COVID-19. Besides, most leisure facilities, including hotels, are operating at 50% capacity.
