This week’s TRIP PICK is a bit different than usual. Instead of naming a specific trip, I am recommending the best place to spend New Year’s. There are lots of great places across America and around the world but I have chosen Scotland for a special reason. Edinburgh hosts one of the biggest outdoor parties in the world on New Year’s Eve. It is known as the Hogmanay Street Party and it is on par with Times Square in New York City. People travel to Edinburgh from all over the world to participate in this spectacular event, which includes a Torchlight Procession, fireworks, bands, dancing, and more. At midnight, an incredible fireworks finale takes place at Edinburgh Castle. Earlier that evening or on New Year’s Day you can cap off your experience with an authentic Scottish dinner.
Other activities you may want to enjoy is shopping (lots of lovely galleries), sightseeing (on foot or by hop on hop off bus), exploring, ice skating at Prices Street Gardens, and The Big Wheel. The Big Wheel is Edinburgh’s version of London’s SkyWheel. It is a great way to get a different view of this grand old city. Furthermore, there is a Christmas Market right in the center of the city where you can fin Scottish gifts galore.
Scotland is safe and easy to explore on your own so you can travel independently or take a tour. Tour Radar offers 3 – 7 day packages starting at $538pp. Or you can also find packages through Untours, Trafalgar’s or British Airways. Wouldn’t this be a great way to kick off the new year?
Terrance Zepke studied Journalism at the University of Tennessee and later received a Master's Degree in Mass Communications from the University of South Carolina. She has studied Parapsychology at the renowned Rhine Research Center. She began her career as a freelance writer and photographer, ... 
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