Towards the end of December, snowstorms are raging across Russia and the frost is getting stronger. Anyone who wants to have a great Christmas holiday and save money at the same time should know which country you can go to by sea for the New Year 2020 without a visa.

Brazil is able to please with only 12 sunny days. For the New Year, it is best to visit Florianópolis, Recife, and Natal. It's too hot in Manaus. The air there warms up to 31 degrees.

The number of sunny days in Indonesia is 15. For the New Year, it is best to visit Padang, Bintan, Medan. The weather conditions in Bandung are not very good.

In Vietnam, the sun will be warm for only 15 days.

For the New Year, it is best to visit cities such as Hanoi, Dalat, Phu Quoc.

The Dominican Republic will delight you with 15 sunny days. For the New Year, it is best to visit cities such as Cap Cana, Arena Gorda, Boca Chica.

In Cuba you can enjoy the sun for 12 days. For the New Year, it is best to visit cities such as Holguin, Cienfuegos, and Baracoa. It is better not to go to Havana, because it is not warm enough there.

India can rightfully be added to the list of countries to celebrate the New Year. . More details in the next video.

Find out from the video:

Do you need a visa for Goa?
what is the temperature on the island;
climatic features of the tropical climate.

You can go to New Year without a visa. This country includes hundreds of islands. The most attractive place for a New Year's holiday is Bali.

Place of unearthly beauty - Thailand

Excursion to latex factories.
Visiting historical sites.
Thai boxing.
Visit to crocodile farms.

Fans of extreme recreation can go snorkeling or diving.

Dominican beach

Fans of tropical nature are recommended to visit the island. Saona. Spearfishing enthusiasts must dive into Fun Fun Cave. The Dominican Republic attracts both family travelers and singles. Fans of active recreation can go windsurfing or rafting.

Don't know where to relax for the New Year?

We found:

7 countries where to go for New Year 2020 inexpensively at sea and more;
6 visa countries for an interesting holiday;
Domestic New Year's holiday: where to go in Russia;
Where you can relax with your child abroad and in Russia.

Where to relax for the New Year inexpensively at sea

Holidays in visa-free countries can be both beach and excursion. The best countries for a seaside holiday in December–January:

You can also have an interesting time in Georgia and Turkey.

For an overview of the weather, prices for holidays abroad, as well as attractions, see below.

Vietnam

From 130,000 rub. Ancient temples, beautiful views and endless beaches.

Vietnam is a wonderful beach holiday, a rich excursion program, active entertainment, fun parties on the seashore and in big cities.

Visa

You can stay in Vietnam without a visa for up to 15 days. In Fukuoka - up to 30. But you need to fly to the island on a direct flight and not leave from there until the end of your vacation.

The resorts of the south are ideal for a beach holiday in winter. In January there is pleasant soft sun, warm water and almost no rain. Phu Quoc has snow-white beaches, wonderful views, and calmness. Nha Trang – active entertainment and vibrant nightlife. Tranquility and seafood delicacies - Phan Thiet.

Popular Attractions:

South – National Park, waterfalls and Stone Garden in Nha Trang, crocodile nursery and mineral springs in Phan Thiet.
North – tea and coffee plantations, a mountain with temples, Halong Bay.
The central part is a huge Buddha statue, Marble Mountains, the longest and highest cable car in the world.

Egypt

From 45,000 rub. Beach holidays in winter at low prices.

Popular resorts are ready to welcome young people and wealthy people. You can swim all year round. But in winter prices are much lower. Beach holidays are diversified by excursions to ancient cities and temples.

Visa

A visa for up to 15 days is issued upon arrival.

Things to do and see

Main attractions:

Sphinx;
pyramids;
temples of Luxor.

The main resorts have everything for a beach and active holiday. Clean sandy beaches, warm sea waters, boat trips and several dozen water activities. For those who do not like to sit still, excursions to Thebes, Cairo, and Nile cruises are organized.

Sphinx

On a note! Strong winds blow periodically in January.

Thailand

From 117,000 rub. Celebrate the New Year according to Asian customs.

Thailand is a true paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers. New Year is celebrated here noisily, cheerfully and on a grand scale as many as 3 times! Twice in January and once in April.

Visa

Tourists from Russia can stay in the country for up to 30 days without a visa.

Things to do and see

In the many faces of Thailand, there is entertainment for every taste. Curious travelers head to the cultural capital of Chiang Mai. Fans of active and spectacular entertainment - come to Bangkok. Beach lovers head to the main resorts and islands. The ideal time for swimming is from to.

Phi Phi Island

Popular resorts

– vacation for any budget. Entertainment - diving, fishing, swimming on the beach, excursions by sea or into the jungle. The best beaches: Patong, Kamala, Bang Tao, Surin.
Krabi These are the most beautiful beaches. The best beaches are Ao Nang, Hat Rey Le, Hat Tham Phra Nang. You can relax on the nearby islands of Phi Phi, Koh Samui and Hong.
Samui suitable for a relaxing family holiday. The best beaches are Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut.
Samet- for a relaxing holiday. Entertainment - excursions to Pattaya and Bangkok, diving, Ao Phrao viewing platforms. The best beaches are Hat Sai Kev, Ao Phrao, Ao Nuan.
Pattaya– the most budget and noisiest resort. There is everything for wild fun - parks, bars, attractions, a Floating Market. To relax on the beach, it is better to go to the islands.

Weather in Thailand for New Year holidays 2020
	daytime temperature,ºС	temperature at night,ºС	water temperature,ºС
+30...+32	+20...+22	+27
Phuket	+30...+32	+21...+23	+28
Krabi	+29...+31	+22...+23	+29
Samui	+30...+32	+19...+21	+26
Pattaya	+30...+32	+19...+21	+26
Samet	+31...+33	+20...+22	+26
Chiang Mai	+26...+28	+14...+16	-

Dubai, UAE)

From 82,000 rub. An incredible fairy tale city.

People come to the richest city in the UAE for a comfortable holiday, incredible views from skyscrapers, interesting excursions, vibrant festivals and unusual entertainment.

Do you want to go skiing in the land of eternal summer or become a pearl diver for a while? See the city from an unreal height or go on an exciting safari tour? Then New Year's holidays in Dubai are for you.

Visa

A visa valid for up to 30 days is issued upon arrival in the Emirates.

Things to do

The main winter event is the Shopping Festival with discounts of up to 80%. It starts at the end of December and lasts a whole month.

Attractions:

World Trade Center;
Burj Hadifa is the tallest (828 m) skyscraper in the world;
Sheikh Said's house made of coral;
artificial Palm Islands;
singing and dancing fountain.

Entertainment for children - zoo, water park, Wonderland amusement park, aquarium.

On a note! The beach season in Dubai is spring and autumn. In winter, strong winds prevent swimming.

Israel

From 58,000 rub. Beach holidays on the shores of the Red and Mediterranean Seas.

All types of recreation are developed in Israel - beach, excursion, health, active, pilgrimage.

Visa

Russian tourists do not need a visa if the duration of the trip is less than 90 days.

Things to do and see

People come to Israel to see the main religious shrines in Jerusalem and Haifa. Have a blast in the clubs and beaches of Tel Aviv.

Best beach resorts:

Tel Aviv - for young people;
Netanya – for holidays with children;
Herzliya - for wealthy tourists;
Eilat is for divers and water sports fans.

The Dead Sea coast is a zone of medical tourism. The most famous resort is Tiberias.

On a note! In winter, it is better to relax on the coast of the Red and Dead Seas.

Türkiye

The beach season ends at . On New Year's Day people come here to explore the sights and ski resorts - Uludag, Kartalkaya, Sarykamysh, Palandoken.

Visa

A visa is not required if the travel period is less than 60 days.

Things to do

In summer in Turkey, you can spend your entire vacation on the beach with a clear conscience. In winter, tourists can enjoy other entertainment:

New Year celebrations with fireworks and street concerts;
excursions around Istanbul - visiting the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern and others;
rock monasteries of Cappadocia;
antique buildings in Antalya;
ruins of ancient temples, mosques and luxury restaurants in Ankara.

Georgia

From 85,000 rub. The eternal beauty of the Caucasus Mountains and Georgian hospitality.

In winter people come here for the sights. Treatments at Borjomi mineral springs. Getting to know national cuisine.

Visa

Not needed if the trip is less than 90 days.

Things to do

In Georgia, you should definitely learn hospitality and the ability to say beautiful toasts. And also:

visit cheerful Tbilisi, ever-blooming Batumi, ancient Kutaisi;
go skiing on the slopes of Gudauri and Bakuriani;
go to Mtskheta - the second Jerusalem;
book an excursion to the Vardzia cave monastery;
celebrate the New Year on a Georgian scale.

Want to know where the cheapest tours are?

Where to go on holiday for the New Year abroad with a visa?

Those who want to celebrate the New Year in romantic Europe or colorful India will be interested in:

Finland;
Prague;
Italy;
Germany;
Budapest;
Portugal.

Read below for information on where to apply for a visa, weather and prices for tours.

Finland

From 76,000 rub. New Year's Eve visiting Santa.

Visa

A tourist visa is required. The form is filled out online.

Things to do

Tourists come to the country of thousands of lakes and hot saunas to:

enjoy the natural beauty and see the northern lights;
visit museums and fortresses in Helsinki;
go fishing on the Åland Islands;
go skiing in Koli;
stay in a hotel made of ice;
get to the grand Christmas sale;
go to Lapland to the residence of Santa Claus and Lemmenjoki National Park with wild deer, wolverines, foxes and eagles.

Prague, Czech Republic)

From 61,400 rub. A city that cannot be forgotten.

Visa

Needed. You can apply on your own at the Visa Application Center or through a travel agency.

Things to do and see

In Europe's largest city, you can discover something new every day. In Prague you need:

stroll through the historical center with medieval streets;
dedicate part of your vacation to shopping - at the beginning of January, prices for branded items are very low;
walk across the Charles Bridge;
take a photo in front of the National Theater and the largest fortress, Prague Castle.

Italy

From 66,500 rub. A global center for fashion, art and leisure.

Visa

Needed (Schengen).

Things to do

The beach season begins in May. In winter it is worth spending time on the cultural program:

walk through the boutiques of Milan;
visit the colorful Cinque Terre;
admire the masterpieces of world art in the Vatican Museum complex;
ride a gondola in Venice;
enjoy the rural flavor of Tuscany;
see the main attractions of Rome - the Colosseum, Capitoline Hill, Pantheon, Sistine Chapel and others.

Goa

From 75,500 rub. Popular destination.

India is a country of contrasts. Holidays to the country's premier resort vary in price and style depending on where you stay.

The south is expensive, respectable, measured. The beaches are snow-white, uncrowded and clean. The North is budget-friendly, democratic, full of noise and fun. The sand on the beaches is dark gray. In addition to a large number of diverse people from all over the world, you can always see dogs or cows here.

Visa

A visa can be issued upon arrival if your stay in the country is less than 15 days.

What to see

Must-sees in South Goa:

Old Goa;
Dudhsagar waterfall;
spice plantation;
Cotigao Nature Reserve.

From the northern part of the state you can also take an excursion to the Old Town and the waterfall. And also visit the flea market in the village of Anjuna and the ancient fort of Aguada.

Germany

From 57,000 rub. Germany is for those who value good service.

Visa

You can apply at the Embassy, a German visa center or through a travel agency.

How to spend your time

In winter in Germany you can:

visit museums and galleries in Berlin;
wander through the castles and fortresses of Lower Saxony;
admire the Alpine slopes and Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria;
feel the charm of Dresden;
undergo a course of medical procedures in Baden-Baden;
go skiing in Oberstdorf and Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Budapest

From 38,000 rub. The most beautiful city in Europe.

Visa

You need a Schengen visa. It can be issued at the Embassy in Moscow, St. Petersburg and Yekaterinburg.

How to spend your holiday

Budapest is:

walks through the ancient Baroque quarters;
cozy restaurants;
the impressive Parliament House;
famous baths;
the luxurious Royal Palace and the romantic Vajdahunyad Castle;
the majestic Danube.

Dozens of architectural monuments, churches, ancient quarters and charming streets.

Portugal

Visa

Tourists from Russia need a Schengen visa.

Things to do and see

In winter, it is better to relax in the south of the country. It's quite sunny there and almost no rain.

Worth visiting in Portugal:

its capital is Lisbon;
the city of Porto with the huge Church of São Francisco and the Cathedral;
the oldest university in Coimbra;
ideal places for gastro tourism are the cities of Evora and Fara.

You can also go to the shrines in the religious center of the country, Braga.

Where to go in Russia for the New Year holidays?

You can have an interesting vacation without leaving the country. IN:

Veliky Ustyug;
Moscow region;
Kazan;
Karelia;
Kaliningrad;
Sochi;
in Altai.

Read about costs and entertainment below.

Veliky Ustyug

Small but great.

A visit to the residence of Father Frost is a mandatory part of the excursion program in Veliky Ustyug. The fabulous estate is located 13 km from the city. Walking along magical paths, riding on a fairy stove, fun games and many other entertainments await children and adults.

What to see

city residence, fashion house and post office of Santa Claus;
Museum of New Year's toys and nature of the region;
Museum of Local Lore;
Michael the Archangel Monastery;
natural attractions in the vicinity - the Vaskin Klyuch waterfall, the dangerous Sukhona river rapids, protected forests.

The best option is to purchase a 3-day tour to the Estate of Father Frost. The price includes railway travel, meals, excursions, theatrical performances, etc. Prices:

from Moscow from 16,000;
from St. Petersburg from 8,600.

Moscow region

Hundreds of tourist sites.

Where to relax

There are more than 80 cities in the Moscow region and each has its own highlight:

Fans of alpine skiing can safely go to Volen, Sorochany, Yakhroma.
Lovers of antiquities go to the oldest cities - Volokolamsk, Zvenigorod, Dmitrov, Kolomna.
Those interested in history will enjoy visiting the Borodino Museum-Reserve, Serpukhov and Chekhov.
Sergiev Posad is the center of Orthodoxy.
Pavlovsky Posad is famous for its down scarves.

Prices

Depends on the duration of the trip, type of accommodation and meals, program. Prices from Moscow for tours:

Weekend with visits to 4–7 cities – from 6,000.
Festive and event - from 7,000.
Multi-day excursions – from 6,800.

Kazan

The pearl of Tatarstan.

Where to go

Kazan Kremlin with the Kul-Sharif mosque and the leaning tower of Syuyumbike;
Tatarskaya Sloboda;
pedestrian street Bauman;
National Museum of the Republic of Tatarstan;
Peter and Paul Cathedral.

A trip to the Temple of All Religions, the Raifa Monastery, Sviyazhsk will leave a lot of impressions.

Prices

A trip to Kazan for 7 days for one will cost at least 11,000:

Accommodation – from 700 rubles in a double room.
Meals – from 600 rubles per person.
The road from Moscow there and back is from 4,800 by plane, from 1,900 by train.

Karelia

Unique nature and architectural monuments.

What to see

In winter in Karelia you can:

Go skiing in one of the ski resorts.
Visit natural attractions - Paanajärvi National Park, Kivach and Kostomuksha nature reserves.
Go to historical and architectural complexes in the open air - Kizhi, Valaam Reserve, Solovetsky Archipelago.
Look at the petroglyphs on the shore of Lake Onega.
Visit the sights of Petrozavodsk and its surroundings.

The cost of a three-day tour from Moscow starts from 9,000 rubles.

Kaliningrad

Winter holiday on the seashore.

What to see

There are 3 districts in the city. Each of them has its own attractions:

Moskovsky - Fr. Kant, Cathedral, Fishing Village, churches and gate museum.
Leningradsky - amber museum, Royal Gate, barracks, quarter of German villas.
Central - ancient buildings, zoo.

Altai

A place of unity with nature.

Altai is very large and recreation in it is varied. Passive, excursion, active, adventure, recreational, event.

What to see

The main attraction is nature. Dense forests, fast mountain rivers, turquoise Katun, passes. The majestic mountains are compared to the Alps and Tibet. Every year tourists come here in search of the mystical Shambhala.

Marals

In Altai you can:

Improve your health at the resorts of Belokurikha and Lake. Yarovoe.
Go skiing in the vicinity of Gorno-Altaisk and lake. And I.
Go on an excursion to Lake Teletskoye, to the Tavdinsky caves, to the deer breeding farms, about. Patmos, Manzherok, Chemal.

Vacation prices

It is most profitable to buy tours. Minimum cost – from 21,000 rubles. Includes three meals a day, excursions, transfer. In some cases, you will have to pay additionally for a flight to Barnaul - from 14,000.

Sochi

We're going to the sea in winter.

If you didn’t have time to get to Sochi in the summer, it doesn’t matter. In December and January, the Black Sea resort is warm and has little rainfall. Of course, you won’t be able to swim in the sea. But you can have a lot of fun in the water park.

Things to do

Take your children to the amusement parks “Riviera” or “Sochi Park”, to the aquarium, arboretum and to the fabulous “Berendeevo Kingdom”.
Buy a ticket to the performance of KVN teams. The first will take place on January 5 at the Zhemchuzhina Hotel.
Book excursions to museums and natural attractions.
Learn alpine skiing and snowboarding in Krasnaya Polyana.

Price

Accommodation in a double standard room – from 1,500 per night.

Meals – from 600 rubles per day.

Round-trip air travel – from 13,800 rubles.

1 visit to the water park - from 500 to 1,300 rubles.

Where to relax with a child?

For holidays with children, pay attention to the following destinations.

Go ahead to meet Santa Claus!

This is a short journey into a magical world. The city of Rovaniemi is a center of attraction for tourists in winter. In its vicinity is Santa Park and its village.

Expecting children:

Meeting with Santa.
Games and master classes with elves.
Ride the magic train.
Gingerbread factory and other magical activities.

In Lapland, you should definitely visit a traditional reindeer farm. Ride a reindeer or dog sled. When I go for a walk, I need to dress warmly. In January, the thermometer can drop to –27˚С.

Important! Don't forget to apply for a Schengen visa.

In Russia

Where to relax in Russia with a child for New Year 2020
	Entertainment	How to get there from Moscow
Veliky Ustyug	A magical journey to Santa Claus	by plane with a transfer – 15 hours by bus with a transfer in Vologda railway tour “Winter Express” – from 16,000 for a child, from 21,000 for an adult
	water parks, Sochi Park, automobile museum, oceanarium, dolphinarium, botanical and dendrological park, Berendeevo Kingdom	by plane – 2.5 hours by train – from 36 hours by car – from 30 hours
	free open-air museum of military equipment, petting and regular zoos, amusement parks, “House of Entertaining Science and Technology”, puppet theater	by plane – 1 hour 30 minutes by train – from 19:00 by bus – 18 h by car – from 12 hours
Saint Petersburg	museums, fairy tale and puppet theaters, dolphinarium, oceanarium, zoo	by plane – 1 hour 40 minutes by train – 6 hours on the Sapsan and Nevsky express trains – 3 hours by bus – 11 hours by car – 9 hours

On the sea

Phan Thiet, Goa, Phuket or Samui? What to choose?

A winter holiday at sea promises a lot of pleasant entertainment and swimming in warm waves. The beaches at resorts for families with children are clean and sandy. The entrance to the sea on most of them is gentle. The infrastructure is well developed.

Where to relax with your child at sea for New Year 2020
Country and resort	Do I need a visa?	What is interesting to children?	Air and water temperature, ˚С

New Year is the most desired holiday of the year.

At this time, people spend the maximum amount of money. And if possible, they try to fly to another country for this holiday, because How you celebrate the New Year is how you will spend it.

Cheap flights to Thailand

Where to fly for the New Year?

It is better to prepare for the New Year in advance.

It is better to start booking a hotel and desired destination in August or September. At this time there is an “early booking” promotion, and prices are significantly lower than they will be during the season.

Conventionally, New Year celebrations can be divided into several categories:

beach holiday;
winter (ski) holidays;
excursion tours.

Each of these areas in turn is divided into many small and unique ones.

For example, during the New Year holidays you can sunbathe inexpensively in Egypt, Thailand (and other resorts in Asia), Africa, South America or the Middle East.

Winter holidays are possible both at domestic resorts and in the Alps, or on the slopes of neighboring Finland.

Paradoxically, some African countries can also boast of snow in their mountains (Tanzania, Morocco), or you can safely ski in the Troodos Mountains of Cyprus in winter.

When talking about excursion tours where you can fly for the New Year, first of all you imagine traditional Europe. Where there are a lot of Christmas markets, lights and other attributes of the main holiday of the year.

Where to fly inexpensively for the New Year?

It should be understood that the New Year and Christmas holidays are considered high season.

At that time hotels are raising the cost of living, and in many countries it is mandatory to purchase a paid New Year's or Christmas dinner.

Of the beach destinations, the cheapest place to celebrate the New Year is in Egypt.
If we talk about Europe, then you can go on a bus tour to Poland or the Czech Republic.

We should not forget about low-cost airlines. With their help you can get to any European country at fairly low prices.

Where to fly without visas?

What to do if you didn’t have time to book your New Year’s celebration in advance? Accordingly, you do not have time to get a visa to Finland or to any European country.

What to do? Go to celebrate the most important holiday in one of the visa-free countries.

If you are interested in a winter destination, in particular ski resorts, then pay attention to the slopes of Serbia or Montenegro. This direction is absolutely not popular, but it offers quality service.
Another winter destination is Türkiye. True, the slopes here are more suitable for beginner skiers. Most hotels operate according to the standard all-inclusive concept for Turkey.
Among the most popular beach destinations, you should consider Egypt, you can break here at any time.
You can also fly to Thailand or the Dominican Republic on a last-minute ticket, in winter, charters fly here, and there is also no need to obtain a visa in advance.

It is most pleasant to celebrate the New Year in warm countries, because how you celebrate it is how you spend it!

Seaside resorts can be divided into several categories:

Asia;
Africa;
Europe;
Caribbean Islands;
Near East;
Islands of the Indian Ocean.

Where to fly after all:

From Asian resorts you should pay attention to Thailand and India;
In the Caribbean The most interesting thing will be in Cuba;
In the Indian Ocean The Maldives and Seychelles are traditionally considered the most popular islands to visit;
Near East represented by the Emirates;
African continent famous for Egypt.

New Year in the Canaries

The Canary Islands are almost the only European destination where the most comfortable conditions for a beach holiday are created in winter.

The air temperature at this time is about 25-28 degrees, and the water is about 25.

Beach holidays can be combined with excursions and shopping.

It should be remembered that at the end of January the sales season begins in European outlets, when clothes, shoes and accessories can be purchased at a discount of up to 90%.

Happy New Year, Cuba!

Cuba is the island of Liberty and, perhaps, the most colorful destination in the Caribbean.

In addition to a beach holiday, there are many opportunities for active pastime: diving, snorkeling, kitesurfing and more.

The island also has a rich excursion program.

Maldives and Seychelles

The Maldives and Seychelles are perfect for romantic getaways and honeymoons.

This destination is an ideal choice for couples who want to enjoy a gorgeous beach and each other’s company.

The Maldives can offer peace and tranquility. The islands do not have a rich excursion program, but there is an opportunity for solitude.
The Seychelles has nature reserves and natural parks. In this region, everyone can enjoy the beautiful nature, beaches and high level of service.

Holidays in Egypt

Egypt is one of the most popular and budget New Year's destinations.

When booking a particular hotel, you should understand that 95% of all hotel complexes, in addition to the cost of the tour itself, will include a mandatory New Year's and Christmas dinner, the amount of which depends on the hotel and can range from 25 to 200 dollars.

Holidays in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates is the most popular destination in the Middle East.

It’s hard to imagine, but in the place where the ultra-modern metropolis stands 30 years ago there was a desert.

On New Year's Day, a month of sales and discounts begins in the Emirates, particularly in Dubai.

Goa is the most popular resort in India.

It is paradoxical that residents of the country consider this state to be the most non-Indian in the entire country.

Goa is divided into two parts:

North;

In general, the total length of the coastline of the entire state is about 100 kilometers, so this division is very arbitrary.

Northern part More suitable for youth recreation, there are a lot of bars, clubs, life is in full swing 24 hours a day. However, even in the sun there are spots, and here too, the coast itself is not very clean, the water in the sea is quite cloudy. While sunbathing, your neighbors on the beach may be stray dogs or cows.
South Goa- This is a more prestigious and expensive region, there are higher-level hotels here, where there is good quality service, clean beaches and turquoise water in the sea.

Holidays in Thailand

The most popular Asian destination is undoubtedly Thailand.

Depending on your preferences, you can choose resorts located on the islands or noisy Pattaya, which is also on the mainland.

It will be no less interesting to visit Bangkok.

Almost all tour operators offer combination tours, during which you can visit Bangkok for several days, and then go to one of the beach resorts.

There are also tours that combine Bangkok, Pattaya and a holiday on one of the local islands.

New Year with excursions

New Year is especially interesting in Europe.

At this time, most European cities host a variety of New Year and Christmas fairs and street food festivals. This is also the start of the sales season in all shopping centers and outlets.

In pursuit of the Christmas spirit: we are going to Europe for the New Year!

Europe is so New Year's and festive throughout the year, and especially during the Christmas holidays.

Every year at the end of November, all major European cities turn into a big, beautiful New Year's fairy tale.

The streets are decorated with festive garlands and lights, and everywhere there are souvenir shops and kiosks with traditional New Year's treats.

Inexpensive to Europe for the New Year

There are stereotypes that a European vacation is a very expensive pleasure. Is it so?

The question is controversial, it all depends on what kind of transport you will use to get to your destination, in what conditions you will live and other other factors.

Eg, bus tours in Europe are available to almost everyone. During these trips you visit several countries and see the main attractions.

Prague, Czech Republic

The Czech capital is a symbol of Christmas and New Year. After all, the city lights up with a lot of lights, various fairs and festivals take place here.

The atmosphere during this period is saturated with the spirit of the holiday, and the aroma of festive gingerbread and aromatic mulled wine wafts through the city.

In addition to these traditional attributes, you should try local smoked meats and beer.

The history of Prague began more than a thousand years ago. Now the symbol of the city is its cobbled streets, ancient pavements and beautiful architecture.

Riga, Latvia

The Latvian capital is at the same time a typical old European city, which has preserved the charm of past years.

Annually on the eve of the Christmas and New Year holidays, numerous fairs and concerts are held here.

Anyone can take a ferry to Stockholm for one or two days.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest can be called the European Hollywood, because half of the film is shot in this country and in this city.

Wide avenues and narrow streets are decorated with many garlands and festive lights.

You can also warm up in one of the local thermal baths.

Rome, Italy

Eternal Rome has preserved a lot of attractions, centuries-old history and the charm of the past.

If you wish, you can visit the Vatican and some neighboring cities.

When coming to Rome, you should take a ride on the City Bus, which will take you to the most significant sights.

It is noteworthy that there is a single ticket system. By purchasing an entrance ticket to one tourist site, you can visit several more for free.

To Europe for Christmas and New Year, sparing nothing!

It should be remembered that most European countries celebrate Catholic Christmas, which takes place on December 25th.

Seasonal fairs begin in early December or late November, with most ceremonies and celebrations taking place from December 24 to January 1.

New Year's Eve skiing

The most traditional way to celebrate the New Year will be in winter destinations, where there is a lot of snow and opportunities for skiing.

In most cases, ski holidays go to various European countries, for example, France, Austria or Finland.

The most children's ski destination can be called Lapland, where, according to legend, Santa Claus was born.

Officially, there is no such country as Lapland, and the territory that defines it belongs to four states at once:

Finland;
Sweden;
Norway;
Russia.

Nature has it that during the New Year and Christmas holidays the air in this region seems to be painted an unusual blue color. This makes the atmosphere even more New Year's and festive.

The main asset of this region is the birthplace of Santa Claus. According to legend, until 1985 he lived on Mount Ear, and later moved closer to the Arctic Circle.

Now his home is located near the city of Rovaniemi in the Santa Claus Village.

Many young tourists come here on the most important children's holiday of the year; they can visit the amusement park here - Santa Park.

Tyrol, Austria

Austrian ski resorts will be among the highest quality in Europe.

When going on vacation, you should definitely take warm and comfortable clothes, because in addition to ski holidays, there are many places for hiking.

The Tyrol region includes several resort areas:

Innsbruck;
Seefeld;
Kitzbühel;
Otztal;
Ishgil;
Arlberg;
Pitztal;
Serfaus.

The total length of all pistes in the region is 3,500 kilometers, there are several ski areas and 53 ski lifts.

There are trails in the region for both professional skiers and those taking their first steps in this sport.

French ski resorts are considered one of the most prestigious in Europe.

One of the advantages is the opportunity to combine skiing, excursion programs and shopping.

The largest skiing region in the world is the French Three Valleys.

There are several completely different and dissimilar resorts here:

Courchevel;
Les Menuires;
Val Thorens;
Brides-les-Bains;
La Tania;
Meribel.

The total length of all trails is 600 kilometers, there is a common lift system, as well as a lot of secluded places and a variety of entertainment.

The trails in the region are presented at different levels of difficulty - from blue-green (for beginners) to black (for professionals).

The history of local ski resorts dates back to 1925; it was at this time that the first hotels began to appear here. Most of the hotels and apartments are located directly on the slopes and near the ski lifts.

In addition to skiing, it is fashionable to go snowboarding, dog sledding, go-karting, and soak in the thermal baths.

Nightlife in the region is also presented in assortment; in addition, there are a lot of cafes, restaurants, a lot of shops and brand boutiques.

Courchevel – the most prestigious region, where the richest people of this world and the richest people of Europe and the CIS countries rest.

Courchevel

In addition to quality slopes, there are high-quality hotels, restaurants and several tourist villages.

The most popular resort among Russians is Courchevel 1850. Almost all the hotels here are VIP level, there are restaurants with Michelin stars, expensive establishments and the most prestigious boutiques.

In the center of the Three Valleys is the resort region of Meribel. The majority of vacationers are families with children; the trails here are flat, wide and safe.

Meribel

Val Thorens– one of the most active resorts in the region, all those who cannot live without skiing, snowboarding and extreme sports relax here.

The resort itself is located at an altitude of 2300 meters above sea level and is one of the highest resorts in the world.

It is also home to one of the most dangerous black runs.

Les Menuires is considered one of the most budget resorts in the region. The total length of local trails is about 160 kilometers, most of them are perfect for those who are just starting to ski. The most budget resort in the region is Brides-les-Bains.

Doesn't have to be done at home. Russians traditionally have a holiday vacation of almost 2 weeks - and during this time it is quite possible to change the environment and relax. Some people always take a vacation in December in order to relax longer and cheaper. In view of the crisis that has broken out, the main criterion for the majority is cost - so that it is within the budget. The question of where to relax in the winter of 2017 needs to start being decided now. IQ Review collected the best destinations for winter holidays and reviewed current prices to help readers choose a place for their New Year's holiday.

The cheapest air tickets for the New Year

Where to go on holiday in Russia in winter

Our country has a huge number of places where you can go to relax in winter. For those who don’t know where to relax in December, and so that it’s inexpensive, you can pay attention to the sights of the Motherland.

Winter in Russia

New Year's trip along the Golden Ring

For those who want to get to know the beauty of our land, its history and culture, the best option would be to travel along the Golden Ring. It doesn’t matter how you plan to spend your winter holiday - with children, in the company of friends or colleagues, or with your significant other - such a trip will be interesting in any case. True, the New Year holidays are unlikely to be enough - after all, for 8 (and these are just the main places!) cities you need much more time than 1-2 weeks. It is best to choose one city and get to know its beauty normally, rather than gallop through all of them, seeing only its most famous part.

The benefits of such a holiday include:

Travel without a visa or passport.
Cheapness.
The absence of a language barrier and all the difficulties associated with traveling to a foreign country (currency exchange, ignorance of rules and laws, different mentality, and so on).
The ability to quickly return home if necessary.
The ability to go on vacation by car rather than by public transport e.

A trip to the sea in winter

A trip to the sea coast is good and useful not only in summer - numerous boarding houses and health centers operate in the winter season. This winter holiday is most suitable for those who have health problems or want to prevent them. And just visiting some famous seaside cities is interesting in itself, without sunbathing and swimming. Such places include:

Sochi;
Almost the entire Crimean coast;
Adler;
Gelendzhik;
Anapa;
Kaliningrad region (Curonian Spit);
Tuapse.

Winter holidays on the lakes - list of the best destinations

Northern lights on Baikal

A trip to the shore of a lake can be no less interesting - there are many reservoirs of unique beauty in Russia. This kind of holiday should appeal to lovers of tourism and nature. Attention should be paid to the following points:

Baikal is a huge (more than 600 kilometers long!) lake and the protected forest surrounding it, every Russian should visit it at least once in their life. You can purchase an extensive tour that will take up to 8 days - just in time for the New Year holidays. Holidays on Lake Baikal are expensive; for two people with a flight from Moscow to Irkutsk you can spend 100 thousand rubles or a little less. The cost of a ten-day tour (only excursions and accommodation without air tickets) for 2017 is from 30 thousand rubles. Residents of the European part of Russia who want to relax beautifully, but cheaper, can be advised to other lakes that can be reached by car.
Seliger is a lake system in the Tver region, including more than two dozen lakes (with more than one and a half hundred islands). In summer, kayaking trips are popular there; in winter, Seliger is suitable for barbecue and winter fishing, or just for walks in nature. Another advantage is the proximity to large populated areas.
Lake Ladoga is the largest freshwater lake in Europe - near St. Petersburg. Fans of tourism and fishing come here all year round, as well as those who like excursions - the Valaam Monastery is located here.
Ilmen (or Slovenian Sea) - more than fifty different rivers flow into this lake in the Novgorod region. Holidays on its coast are suitable for lovers of fishing and tourism.
Big Yarovoye Lake - located in the Altai Territory - should be of interest to those who plan to improve their health. There are several large multidisciplinary sanatoriums on the lake coast. Like Baikal, Altai is a rather expensive holiday destination for residents of the Central Federal District and other regions on the other side of the Ural ridge. We can talk about a budget of 40-50 thousand per person with a flight from Moscow.
Teletskoye Lake - the protected area around this Altai lake attracts a huge number of tourists all year round.

It's time to visit major Russian cities where you have never been before

Many Russian cities are interesting in themselves - for their architecture, monuments, and museums. This change of scenery will suit absolutely everyone - you don’t need to think long about choosing a place, just buy a ticket to any metropolis - and an interesting pastime is guaranteed. Any city with a population of over a million can be easily reached by any means (by bus or train, by car or by flight), and upon arrival it is easy to find a place to stay (hotels, hostels or apartments for rent).

The most interesting options for a winter excursion:

Moscow - here you can find recreation for every taste: from shopping in countless shopping centers and boutiques to excursions to museums. However, living here is quite expensive, so such a trip can hardly be called budget for residents of the regions.
St. Petersburg - the northern capital is suitable for those who are attracted by excursions to historical and cultural places.
Kaliningrad - this city will definitely interest those who are attracted to European culture. One of the few opportunities to travel to Europe without a visa.
Nizhny Novgorod is one of the most important cultural centers in Russia. It has a huge number of architectural monuments, including numerous temples. Nearby there are no less interesting settlements - Murom, Boldino.
Yekaterinburg, the “capital” of Trans-Urals, cannot boast of such a large number of architectural monuments, but it has a considerable number of various museums and exhibitions. Did you know that the Yeltsin Museum is located here?
Volgograd is a must-go for those who love their Motherland and its history. It is here that one of the tallest monuments in the world is located - “The Motherland Calls”.

Each of these cities has a large selection of different excursions that are offered year-round.

We do not list prices, since most of the costs for this type of vacation are tickets, and the cost of the trip for residents of different cities will differ. You can check prices for air tickets right now using the built-in form.

Unusual excursion routes around Russia

If you don’t want to take a regular sightseeing walk, museums and shopping don’t appeal to you, but you want new sensations, you can pay attention to more original tours. Popular options include the following:

Trout farm in Adler, Krasnodar region. You can learn about the features of “artificial” breeding of this fish, as well as go fishing and try fish dishes.
High-altitude observation platforms in Moscow. If you don’t have enough time for walking around the capital, but want to see as much as possible, do it from a height of tens of meters.
Walks through the mystical places of Moscow - places where ghosts were seen, where various mystical events took place.
“Exit to the city” is an opportunity to visit unusual, but famous and important places in Moscow for free. Among the places there can be either the embassy of a country or someone’s private mansion - the list of excursions is constantly changing.
“Retro train” is a trip on an old (produced more than a century ago!) locomotive train around Moscow and the Moscow region, stopping at various interesting places at the request of the group (this could be Star City, the Museum of the History of Railway Transport, and so on).
Excursions to the roofs of various Moscow buildings from famous roofers. If the weather is bad, this option is no longer available.
Moscow Bar Tour - suitable for lovers of alcohol and pub crawls. The guides are experienced bartenders who show several of the most famous and interesting drinking establishments in the capital with tastings of various drinks.
A tour of the former glory of the Leningrad rock club - suitable for fans of Russian rock of the 80s and 90s. The main gathering places and concerts of famous rock bands are visited, with their history and biography told.
“Secrets of underground Moscow” - for dungeon lovers. The tour is led by diggers and takes place at a depth of 15 meters.

Inexpensive Russian ski resorts

Animals living in resorts

Some people want to spend the New Year holidays watching movies or cutting salads, while others don’t sit at home and want adventure and active recreation. The most common option is ski resorts. Moreover, you don’t have to go to the mountains to do this - the descent can be done in the capital.

Ski areas in Moscow and the region

Sparrow Hills
Sorochany
Yakhroma
Kurkino
Extreme Park "Freestyle"
Shukolovo
Fox Mountain
All-season ski complex “Snezh.com”

Where to ski in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg also has several places for alpine skiing:

Golden Valley
Malskaya Valley
Yucca Park
Tuutari Park
Okhta Park
Kavgolovo

Other places for skiing and snowboarding in Central Russia

In the central part of the Russian Federation you can ride the slope in the following places:

Shaksha
Demino
Kwan
Zhebrei
Krasnaya Glinka
Sviyaga

Ski places in Siberia

For residents of Siberia, there is also where to go:

Manzherok
Syrkashi
Sheregesh
Yugus
Tanay
Yurmanka
Belokurikha

Active winter holidays in the Urals

In the Urals, ski lovers can visit the following places:

Ak-Yort
Zavyalikha
Stack
Checkeril
Polazna
Uktus
Mratkino
Silenced

“Ready” New Year’s programs

If your destination doesn’t play a special role and you just want to change the scenery by spending your holidays in any place other than home, you don’t have to bother yourself with a long search by ordering a New Year’s program from any tour operator. Options may differ from each other; if you wish, you can even create an individual vacation plan. However, several common and popular programs can still be identified:

New Year in Karelia. These could be excursions to Petrozavodsk and Kondopoga, including trips on dog sleds or snowmobiles through the forest, a visit to the Karelian Santa Claus, waterfalls, as well as hikes through adits and drifts.
New Year in Vyborg Walk around the city, excursion to the castle and Olaf's tower, visit to the museum-reserve. During the New Year holidays, the city hosts several large performances, stylized in antique style.
New Year in Vladimir. Visiting famous excursion places in Suzdal, Bogolyubovo and Vladimir itself.
New Year in Crimea. It may include both a visit to a particular city and a sightseeing tour. Trips are usually made to Yalta, Simferopol, Bakhchisarai, Massandra, Alupka.
New Year in Uglich. Excursion for 3-4 days, including a trip to several cities: Suzdal, Gorokhovets, Arzamas, Bogolyubovo, Nizhny Novgorod.
New Year in Yaroslavl and Kostroma. Includes visits to several monasteries.
New Year in Veliky Novgorod. Includes a visit to St. George's Monastery.

This is a budget option for a winter holiday, within 25 thousand rubles per person. Similar tours are available in almost every major Russian city. Most often, they last 1-5 days and include a tour of the most famous places (done during the day), and then a celebration in an establishment chosen according to the budget. People with family (children) do not choose such a holiday very often; most often, couples in love, as well as groups of friends and acquaintances, celebrate the New Year this way.

Winter holidays abroad

Despite a significant decline in the number of people going on vacation abroad, there are still plenty of people who want a change of scenery by visiting foreign countries. It all comes down to the budget - if you wish, you can arrange a full-fledged beach holiday in winter, returning to work in early January with a peeling nose and a bronze skin tone. Let's look at several options for different budgets.

Budget excursion tours

New Year's fireworks in Freiburg

If finances are limited to up to $1000

If you are ready to spend up to 65,000 rubles per person on a New Year's holiday abroad, you can go on excursion tours to any European city, having previously obtained a Schengen visa. Eg:

Prague - the cost of a 5-day tour starts on average from 25,000 per person.
Amsterdam - a week-long excursion will cost at least 45,000 per person.
Berlin is a little cheaper - for the same 7 days you will have to pay about 40,000 rubles.
Paris - you can admire the Eiffel Tower and other delights of the French capital for at least 35-40 thousand rubles for 7 days.
London - a week-long excursion tour will cost at least 40,000. London is further from Russia, therefore the flight is more expensive.

If the budget is even smaller

You can choose closer and simpler options:

Baltic Sea Cruise(includes visits to Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga). It can last from 2 to 6 days, the price is from 12,000 rubles.
Bus tour of the Baltics(Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn) lasting 4-5 days, will cost at least 14,000.
Various excursion programs to Finland from St. Petersburg- for 3-5 days of New Year's holiday you will have to pay at least 9-10 thousand rubles.

Beach holidays abroad for the New Year holidays

Those who want to swim in the sea, sunbathe and walk under the hot sun in shorts and a T-shirt in winter need to plan such a vacation in advance. Due to the popularity of budget resorts, hotel rooms are being sold out - it can be difficult to find a place in the fall. If you don’t plan your vacation in advance and buy tickets in December, you will overpay at least 1.5-2 times.

And the New Year holidays - the most popular dates - are the first to be booked. Buying a successful trip at the end of autumn is real luck. However, it is possible that it will be possible to snatch a last-minute trip - people who had planned a vacation, say, in May-June, could change their plans due to the crisis, and a place would become available.

Budget holiday options

The question of where to have an inexpensive winter holiday at sea abroad is probably the most pressing. Here are the most popular options:

Egypt – Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh(these are the most popular destinations for the New Year 2017) - from 32,000 rubles per person for 7-8 days.
Goa (India)- from 60-64,000 rubles for 10 days.
Canaries- from 65,000 rubles for 8 days.
Vietnam- from 50-55,000 rubles for 8-10 days.
Thailand- from 70-75,000 rubles for 8-10 days.

Please note: the price of such tours does not include a ticket to the airport (Moscow or St. Petersburg). Additionally, you have to pay for food (at least partially) and, of course, excursions. Prices are indicated only for round-trip tickets and hotel accommodation (3* or similar class).

Dominican Republic in winter

Elite destinations

More expensive trips to warm countries include:

Mexico- from 80,000 rubles for 7-8 days.
Brazil- from 90,000 rubles for 7-8 days.
Cuba
Maldives- from 100,000 rubles in 7-8 days.
Jamaica- from 95,000 rubles for 7-8 days.

These are the best options for winter holidays for those who want to swim and sunbathe. Please note that in this case, such a price must be sought using special offers from tour operators, and the hotels will be budget. A holiday in a five-star hotel in Bali or the Dominican Republic for two people over 2 New Year’s weeks can cost about 7-10 thousand dollars including flights, if you don’t bother looking for a last-minute tour or buying tickets in advance.

For the New Year 2020 to warm countries: where to go, TOP countries

It is no secret that the majority of tourists prefer to relax in the summer, when the sea is warm, when the sun is warm and you can lie on the snow-white sand. but it’s a very long time from summer to summer, so people are looking for options to be near the sea in winter and feel its warmth. New Year tours are especially popular. It’s so unusual to celebrate the beginning of a new year near the sea and on the sand, and not near the TV at home and with snow outside the window. But where can you go for the New Year 2020 in warm countries, so that it’s inexpensive, but it’s hot and there’s a warm sea? In fact, there are many options, and it’s difficult to choose. Let's try together to understand which country is best to celebrate the New Year 2020 so that it will be remembered for a lifetime.

Hainan is the winter capital of heat!
When in Russia people are waiting for the chimes to strike and open champagne, on Hainan Island they are enjoying the sun and warmth. In December and early January, the average daily temperature in local resorts is above +22 degrees. But the sea is even hotter, up to +25 degrees! Why is the sea temperature higher than the air temperature? And everything is simple - water flows to the shores of Hainan from the shores of Thailand and other countries where in winter there are real tropics. It does not have time to cool down and approaches the shores of the Chinese island, warm and pleasant for swimming.

What to do in Hainan at this time of year? Firstly, you can take a swim. And even though local residents do not like to swim in winter, for them the water is +25 degrees cool, tourists happily accept the sea and splash in it. Also on the island you can see nature reserves and enjoy solitude with nature. And if you love experiencing other cultures, then sightseeing will be your thing.

As for prices, they are much cheaper here than in spring or summer. Still, there are not many tourists, and they are all mostly from our country or from Asian countries. Therefore, local hotels try to lure them over and reduce their prices to ridiculous levels. Holidays for the New Year in Hainan are a great start to the new year!

Dubai - prices are the same. The service is much better!
If you fly to Dubai, then it’s for the New Year. the city is located on the shores of the Persian Gulf. There are luxury hotels, incredible beaches, and a lot of water. Water is everywhere: in the sea, in pools near hotels and in the city in the form of fountains.

According to statistics, 13% of tourists from Russia who go to other countries for the New Year choose Dubai.
The UAE has the same time zone as Moscow, but the climate is completely different. In the winter months there is no stifling heat here, there are no hot winds that bring dust and sand. The average air temperature in Dubai during the day is no higher than +28 degrees. And the sea in the bay is +24 degrees. Tourists who come here sunbathe more on the sand. but there are also those who happily swim and enjoy it. True, it is best to swim in a pool, where the water is heated by the sun's rays and heated artificially. And if your hotel has a rooftop pool, then you should definitely relax there.

What else to do in Dubai in December-January? Of course, shopping! These days, when it’s Christmas in Europe and New Year in Russia, local stores and shopping centers are holding huge sales. If you have time and are lucky, you will buy a quality item for pennies! Millions of guests fly here for sales, so this is not a hobby, but more of a sport, where the one who gets there first wins.

In recent years, an interesting situation has developed in the tourism market. Tourists prefer Egypt most of all for the New Year. This turned out to be 36% of all those who left Russia for the New Year holidays. Second place, as written above, was taken by Dubai, accounting for 14% of our compatriots. 11% of Russians left for Thailand. And the same number, 11% of Russians, preferred to vacation in our country at our resorts: Crimea and Sochi.
Among European countries, Russians choose the Czech Republic. 4% of tourists from Russia fly to Prague every year for the New Year holidays. But 1.4% of all tourists fly to the farthest point from Russia – the Dominican Republic. And this is not so little.
As for the hotels that Russians booked, 34% preferred a 3-star hotel, 35% preferred a 4-star hotel, and 25% chose the most luxurious five-star hotels!

Thailand and local “hot” resorts.
Resorts in Thailand are fully booked for the New Year. And exactly a tenth of tourists are from Russia.

For the most part, people come here not to celebrate the New Year, but simply to relax. Almost the entire territory of Europe is covered in snow, Russia is also covered in snow, so tourists tend to go where there is heat, sand and sea. And Thailand is an ideal place in this regard.
In the winter months the air warms up to +33 degrees. The sea water is simply gorgeous up to +27 degrees. But the prices are not very encouraging. After all, it’s the peak season, there are a lot of tourists, and therefore prices tend to rise, as does the air temperature.
We should also say about the beaches - they are amazing and gorgeous. Here you can find both large beaches where there are thousands of vacationers, and beautiful beaches with palm trees, which are called wild and there are dozens of tourists on them. Such beaches are mainly located in bays, which are difficult to get to. For example, you need to cross rocks or sail a boat. But this doesn’t scare tourists, because such a vacation is a memory for a lifetime!

As you can see, you can choose completely different directions for the New Year. You can visit Asia, you can take a crazy flight to the other side of the world and enjoy the clear waters of the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean. Or you can, like 10% of Russians, stay at home and watch the Russian winter in the south of the country. The choice is yours, and there is always one!