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In Hong Kong Chinese New Year is the biggest celebration of the year but New Year’s Eve, December 31st, is not far behind and is celebrated with countdowns, fireworks displays and much partying.

One of the most crowded New Year’s Eve venues is the countdown at Times Square. If getting jostled by thousands of people is fun, then this is the venue for you. Live music makes the waiting bearable and taking along something to eat and drink will definitely enhance the experience. When the time is right everyone joins in the countdown after which a four minute multi coloured fireworks display bursts overhead and there is much hugging and celebratory handshakes around.

The fireworks display over Victoria Harbour is what the whole world associates with New Years’ Eve in Hong Kong. Viewers are offered great pyrotechnics, a combination of fireworks and laser wizardry that is set off from boats in front of Victoria Harbour’s high rises to the accompaniment of funky music. According to many it is best viewed from the water, while enjoying a dinner cruise. Views from the great open space on the Avenue of Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui are also said to be quite incredible.

Another way to celebrate the dawning of a New Year is to join the party at Lan Kwai Fong where some of the best restaurants and bars are. Most places will have big cover charges and others will have all inclusive deals. Again the place will be choked with people making movement impossible. Buying some drinks outside and enjoying it on the streets here may be a cheaper way of seeing in the New Year.

The city’s many luxury hotels also offer dinner and dance packages with free drinks. In this rarefied atmosphere there will be beautifully dressed people, fine meals, wonderful music, no crowds, Auld Lang Syne at the stroke of midnight when champagne corks are popped and confetti and streamers fall down from the ceiling. The hotels will also offer some of the best views of the fireworks over the harbour. The events at the best known luxury hotels are the most in demand during this time.

Then there are other more cost effective and less raucous ways to see the New Year in. Climbing to the top of the 934 meter Lantau Peak, Hong Kong’s best look out to see the first rays of the sun on New Years’ day is a fantastic idea. Having a barbecue at one of the city’s 21 public barbecue sites in its parks is another.

When in Hong Kong for business or leisure a location that allows speedy access to destinations is an important factor. Cosmo Hotel in Wan Chai, a popular Hong Kong boutique hotel offers not only an ideal location but an impressive array of guest rooms in different configurations to accommodate individual guests and families in comfort. Take advantage of offers and promotions to stay at this 4 star hotel Hong Kong that offers a great location, much appreciated facilities and services for a great price.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

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