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New Year’s Eve Lanterns in Chiang Mai: How It Works & What to Expect (video included)
Releasing lanterns in Chiang Mai on New Year’s Eve is a magical experience that often gets confused with the Yi Peng Lantern Festival. While Yi Peng takes place in November, locals and travelers also release lanterns throughout the city to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Thailand. This guide explains how New Year’s lantern releases in Chiang Mai work, where to go, what to expect, and how this experience differs from the official Yi Peng festival. Where to go and how to spend New Years in Chiang Mai #newyears #thailand #chiangmai
New Years Eve in Chiang Mai, Thailand
How to Release Floating Lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai, Thailand
We went to the RISE festival outside of Vegas a few years ago, lighting lanterns then floating them into the night sky. However, in Chiang Mai on New Year’s Eve, they take it to another level!
Releasing lanterns into the night sky is one of the most magical ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai, Thailand — but it’s also one of the most misunderstood experiences. When I first researched this years ago, I kept running into information about the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, which actually takes place in November, not on New Year’s Eve. It made planning confusing, and I wasn’t sure what to expect when December 31 rolled around.
In reality, New Year’s Eve lantern releases in Chiang Mai are a separate, informal tradition. Locals and travelers gather throughout the city to release lanterns as a way to welcome the New Year, make wishes, and let go of the past year. There’s no official festival, no tickets, and no set schedule — just a beautiful, spontaneous celebration.
This guide walks you through what it’s really like to release lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai, where to go, what to expect, and how this experience differs from the Yi Peng Festival, so you can plan your night with confidence.
Don’t forget to check out our video towards the bottom of the post! :)
📍 Location: Chiang Mai, Thailand
🎆 When: December 31 (New Year’s Eve)
🏮 Festival: Not Yi Peng (informal lantern releases)
🎟 Tickets Needed: No
🌱 Eco Tip: Use biodegradable lanterns or release one as a group
Tha Phae Gate Ancient City
Yi Peng vs New Year’s Eve Lantern Releases in Chiang Mai
Many travelers assume all lantern releases in Chiang Mai are part of the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, but this isn’t the case.
Yi Peng is a traditional lantern festival held in November, aligned with the Loy Krathong festival and Thailand’s lunar calendar. It includes official events, ticketed lantern releases, and cultural ceremonies.
New Year’s Eve lantern releases, on the other hand, are informal and celebratory. On December 31, locals and visitors release lanterns throughout Chiang Mai to welcome the New Year. While not an official festival, it’s still a magical experience and requires far less planning than Yi Peng.
Quick Comparison:
Yi Peng: November · official festival · ticketed events
New Year’s Eve: December 31 · informal lantern releases · no tickets required
This guide focuses specifically on releasing lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai, not the Yi Peng Festival.
RELATED: Book our favorite Viator Tour to see Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple & Wat Pha Lat Hike
WHERE TO GO FOR NEW YEARS IN CHIANG MAI
Not only is it a party in the streets of Chiang Mai, but lanterns are released everywhere ALL night long!
After our long day with the elephants at the Elephant Nature Park Sanctuary, we took a nap to gear up for NYE! As I woke up around 7p the sun had set and lanterns were floating in the air! We stayed at the De Chai The Colonial Hotel (blog post review) and could start to see some lanterns in the distance, but needed to get in the action!
We made our way from our hotel to the Tha Phae Ancient City gate where we found a mob of people. On the other side of the gate, there was a street fair full of vendors selling food and other merchant goodies. May I recommend you arrive around 10:30p if you want to grab a spot near the gate.
Filled with wall to wall people and completely overcrowded, Rachadamnoen Road was completely shut down, packed like a fish swimming upstream!
Rachadamnoen Road New Years
Rachadamnoen Road CHiang Mai Vendors Glass blowing
Vendors sold all sorts of things: shirts, wallets, tchotchkes, food, jewelry, wood carved animals, you name it - they had it!
I couldn't stomach the street food and we ended up going to another restaurant near-by where we could watch the lanterns sail by.
RELATED: If you’re a foodie, try this tour Northern Flavours Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings
Rachadamnoen Road Street Food
Marketplace Chiang Mai New Years Eve Lanterns Floating
LANTERNS IN CHIANG MAI ON NEW YEARS EVE
WHERE TO GET A LANTERN IN CHIANG MAI
Lanterns were typically found in packs at random vendor carts, but we found a truck parked in an alley (it wasn’t as creepy as it sounds), that was selling lanterns 3 for 100 Baht.
PRO-TIP: A lighter is key! We bought one at a nearby 7-Eleven and glad we did, everyone was asking to borrow ours!
The Tha Phae Gate (ancient city gate) has the largest gathering of people who are setting off lanterns all over the place! We found a spot around 11:30pm and did a test lantern to make sure we would be pros by midnight!
As beautiful as they are, these lanterns are fueled by fire and can be dangerous. Be aware of your surroundings as so many people released them too soon, like this one that we caught (Yes, I am wearing elephant pants that I bought for $2!). Many lanterns ended up in trees and I am so glad nothing caught on fire or anyone got hurt.
SAFETY TIP: Always wait for the lantern to feel ‘heavy’ with hot air before letting go. If it’s sagging, it’s not ready and will likely crash into a tree or a person.
2025 Update: The Thai government has increasingly restricted lantern releases to specific zones and times to protect air traffic. Releasing them randomly near Tha Phae Gate is technically becoming more restricted. Mention that travelers should check for "Designated Release Zones" to avoid fines.
Related Post: See our FAVORITE hotel in Thailand, Cape Kudu Hotel
Catching lanterns
Safety Hazard Lanterns in trees
New Years Countdown
By the time midnight rolled around, we were ready to go. After you ignite the fuel bar, it takes about 3-5 minutes for these things to fill with air to take flight, we advise lighting around 11:55p to be ready by midnight!
The New Year countdown began... 5... 4... 3... 2... 1...
Lanterns light up Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai New Year’s Eve VIDEO:
See more videos in our Chiang Mai Story on Instagram
Amongst these beautiful lanterns, fireworks started to shoot off. I was officially in a Disney movie and the lost princess was saved (that is a Tangled reference with Rapunzel if you didn't catch that)!
Chiang Mai New Years Eve Lanterns and Fireworks
This night was truly breathtaking and one I'll never forget!
Like I said in the beginning, it was really hard to find info for Chiang Mai on New Year’s Eve. Leave a comment below if you have ANY questions!
Eco-Friendly Tips for Releasing Lanterns in Chiang Mai
While releasing lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai can be a beautiful experience, it’s important to be mindful of the environmental impact. Floating lanterns can create litter and may harm wildlife, livestock, and local ecosystems once they fall back to the ground.
If you choose to participate, consider these responsible travel tips:
Choose biodegradable lanterns made from bamboo and paper, and avoid lanterns with wire or metal frames.
Release one lantern as a group rather than multiple lanterns per person to reduce waste.
Follow local rules and safety guidance, as restrictions are often in place to protect both people and the environment.
Avoid releasing lanterns near farmland, water sources, or animals, where debris could cause harm.
Being a responsible traveler helps preserve Chiang Mai’s beauty and ensures this New Year’s Eve tradition can be enjoyed thoughtfully and respectfully for years to come.
New Year’s Eve Lanterns in Chiang Mai: FAQ
Is New Year’s Eve the Yi Peng Lantern Festival?
No. Yi Peng is not held on New Year’s Eve. Yi Peng is a traditional lantern festival that takes place in November and is tied to Thailand’s lunar calendar. Lantern releases on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai are informal celebrations and are not part of the official Yi Peng Festival.
Why do people release lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai?
On December 31, locals and visitors release lanterns to welcome the New Year, make wishes, and celebrate fresh beginnings. While it isn’t a formal festival, lantern releases have become a popular and meaningful New Year’s Eve tradition in Chiang Mai.
Do you need tickets to release lanterns on New Year’s Eve?
No. New Year’s Eve lantern releases do not require tickets. Unlike Yi Peng, there are no official events or organized ceremonies. People gather in public areas and release lanterns on their own.
Where can you release lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai?
Lanterns are commonly released in open areas around the city, especially near rivers, bridges, and large outdoor spaces. Availability and rules can vary each year, so it’s important to follow local guidance and safety regulations.
Is New Year’s Eve lantern releasing as crowded as Yi Peng?
No. Yi Peng is significantly more crowded due to ticketed events and international visitors. New Year’s Eve lantern releases are more casual and spread throughout the city, creating a less structured but still magical atmosphere.
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Hotel Review: Grand Wailea, A Luxury Waldorf Astoria Resort - Maui, Hawaii
Looking for where to stay in Wailea, Maui?! One of the best hotels we recommend is the Grand Wailea for couples, honeymoons, and families! It is a luxury resort with great amenities including an amazing pool and beach! See everything they have to offer and why you must stay here when planning your next trip to Hawaii!
#maui #hawaii #grandwailea #wailea
The Lucky Mermaid Fountain - Grand Wailea
The Grand Wailea is the best hotel on Wailea beach!
Where to Stay in Maui
We typically stay at the Sheraton Maui in Kaanapali because it holds a special place in our heart, it’s where we got married! We stayed at the Andaz Wailea once, but we loved our most recent stay at the Grand Wailea a Waldorf Astoria Resort! Sitting atop 40 acres in Wailea, It was the perfect location to walk to other hotels and shops, but also had amazing views with large rooms!
Related Post: Packing Essentials for Hawaii
Getting to Wailea
Wailea is located on the southwest shore of the island of Maui in the state of Hawaii (United States). The Grand Wailea is a quick 35-minute drive from the Kahului Airport and only a 20-minute flight if you’re coming from Honolulu. We took a direct flight from Los Angeles to Maui. We rented a car and had to valet every night, there isn’t any self-parking.
Grand Wailea Ocean View King Rooms
These rooms are 640 sq. ft. with gorgeous pacific ocean and garden views. The private balcony is large, and a wonderful place to have a cup of coffee in the morning or drinks in the afternoon on. You can also see what looks like a little island straight ahead, which is the Molokini crater. It is an excellent place for snorkeling and scuba diving! Also, if you look closely, you can catch a whale swimming by!
Note: Whale watching season is between November and May in Maui.
Ocean View Room - Private Balcony
The room had a nice plush, comfortable, king-sized bed, a private balcony, and a spacious bathroom with oversized bathtub and separate glass-enclosed shower! It’s large enough that you could do cartwheels in the bathroom (although I wouldn’t recommend it).
Grand Wailea Ocean View Room Bathrooms
In the room, there was also a Kurig with better than average coffee and tea options. There was also an empty mini-fridge, which was perfect to put our water bottles, leis, and Maui Brew Co beers! ;-)
Pro tip: Upgrade to the exclusive Napua Tower, so you can enjoy the best panoramic ocean views available! Napua has a private club lounge and other luxurious benefits.
The Grand Wailea Resort
Just walking around the resort was lovely. There were ocean views everywhere you looked and for being open-air, the resort was spotless.
Other amenities with the Daily Resort Charge: guest internet access; beach umbrellas; admission twice-daily scuba clinics and daily snorkel lessons; 45-minute photography session; beach cruiser bikes; yoga classes; scheduled cultural, garden, and art tours; local/toll-free calls
Pro-tip: Get to Wailea beach around 7a to get a front-row covered beach chair to spend the day by the water. It’s free of charge for guests! We would jump in the water, go for a walk, snorkel, play cards, or even take a nap. It’s a nice way to spend the day! Just make sure you head back to the chairs every hour.
RELATED POST What to do in Maui?: 10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN WAILEA
The Grand Wailea Pool
The Grand Wailea is like a waterpark and is known as Wailea Canyon including four jungle pools, five intertwining slides, a whitewater rapids slide, a Tarzan rope swing, a sand beach, six waterfalls, caves, three Jacuzzis, a water elevator, and a swim-up bar! Good enough for me and great for kids! The pool has the world’s first water elevator that takes you up to the waterslides! It’s technically the only one in the world, built for the owner’s son, who was disabled, this million-dollar elevator keeps you in the water the whole time!
Grand Wailea Maui Pool
There are quite a few water slides that connected smaller pools creating a lazy river feel! There were a few longer slides that went really fast, feeling like you were at a water park. The Tarzan rope swing is great for the kids to swing and jump into the water - big kids can do it too (I did!). The adult-only pool is the best way to keep splashing to a minimum and wade in the pool or spa with a tropical drink.
Grand Wailea Pool
Our favorite part of the pool was the swim-up bar! You can sit at the bar or there were a few booths where you can sit waist-high in the water! The boys liked the Grotto Bar to have a drink and watch sports without getting out of the pool. I liked it for the lava flows and cool pool booths!
Grand Wailea Grotto Swim-up Pool Bar
Grand Wailea Luau - 'Aha'aina Wailea
No trip to Hawaii is complete until you have checked a luau off your list! Enjoy a Hawaiian feast while watching traditional Hawaiian dances and there is an amazing fire dance performance you cannot miss! Get a great deal on the best luau in Wailea with tickets from Activity Authority.
Grand Wailea Luau
Restaurants and Shops
Just off the lobby, there were beautiful shops for resort wear, home goods, art, a market, and more! You wouldn’t need to leave the resort. However, if you like shopping there is a shopping center next door (the Shops at Wailea) with an ABC Store, restaurants, and some of your favorite retail shops.
Breakfast at the Grand Wailea
Since we were Gold Hilton Honors members, we were able to get a free continental breakfast or upgrade to the buffet breakfast for $19 which was totally worth it! The Grand Dining Room offers an omelet bar, fresh fruit, waffles, vegetables, potatoes, parfaits, rotating breakfast dishes including favorites like eggs benedict, pretty much EVERYTHING! Breakfast is my favorite meal, and this spread did not disappoint.
HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA'A
Easy for you to say! This was our favorite place to get a drink a fancy cocktail in the bar and watch the sunset. Humuhumnukunukuapua’a means triggerfish with a snout like a pig (it’s a reef triggerfish). Make reservations ahead of time for dinner here, the menu is fantastic!
HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA'A Sunset Drinks Views
VOLCANO BAR & GRILL
Located in the middle of the pool area, we had lunch at their poolside tables one day with sandwiches, quesadillas, and burgers on the menu! They also have a full bar menu.
Bistro Molokini
We had drinks and dinner at Bistro Molokini. Located near the adult pool and above the other pools, there are great ocean views, drinks, and food. We liked their pizzas and sandwiches but I wouldn’t get anything beyond that. Their Mai Tai was good, but see our Favorite Maui Mai Tai list if you’re looking for the best Mai Tai on the island!
Bistro Molokini at Grand Wailea
Botero Lounge
The most beautiful lobby bar surrounded by fountains and garden sculptures, it’s nice to relax and have a drink here.
Spa Grande
Don’t forget to relax! There are 40 treatment rooms in this 50,000 square-foot award-winning spa, which is the largest spa in Hawaii (that’s including all of the islands)! Enjoy services such as the Exclusive Healing Waters of Maui, a Hydrotherapy Circuit, and a unique haven of water therapies featuring a Roman tub, saunas, cascading waterfalls, Swiss jet showers, a Japanese furo, and five specialty baths. AHHHHHH…
New Years in Maui, Hawaii
Directly in front of the hotel on Wailea Beach, fireworks shot off for about 20 minutes from a barge in the ocean at midnight! It was a perfect celebration to ring in the New Year!
New Years in Maui - Wailea
Bring the kids? GREAT!
There is a 20,000-square-foot “Recreation Outlet Center for Kids” for children ages five to twelve. The qualified staff (also offer nighttime supervision so you can have that one on one time), Camp Grande is equipped with a children’s restaurant, craft room, theater, game room, and outside play area. The kids won’t miss you when they are distracted by activities such as hikes, nature walks, special workshops, such as lei making, ukulele lessons, and t-shirt dyeing.
Final Thoughts
Overall, we enjoyed our stay at the Grand Wailea Maui and would recommend you to stay here! We loved the rooms and the staff was very accommodating. This is a Hilton property so keep that in mind for your points!
We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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New Year's Eve Celebrations Around the World!
We’ve celebrated New Year’s Eve around the world! My favorite part is seeing how the different cultures come together and the unique traditions to ring in the New Year. Fireworks always ended with a bang for all New Years’ festivities!
We’ve celebrated New Year’s Eve in many different countries! My favorite part is seeing how the different cultures come together and the unique traditions to ring in the New Year. Fireworks always ended with a bang for all New Years’ festivities!
Lanterns on New Year’s Eve in Chiang Mai
Sending Lanterns off New Years Eve in Chiang Mai - Thailand
As soon as the sun went down on the last day of the year, lanterns started to light up the sky. Vendors all over the city sold lanterns and they were released all over the city! The biggest gathering was at the Tha Phae Ancient City gate. On the other side of the gate, there was a street fair on Rachadamnoen Rd full of vendors selling food and other merchant goodies.
At 11:30p, people flooded the area in front of the gate lighting their lanterns. People wrote wishes, hopes, and dreams, on their lanterns, hoping the new year would make them come true. At midnight the sky was completely full of lanterns and fireworks! It was a magical sight and an unforgettable night!
See our full post here New Years in Chiang Mai
New Year’s Eve in Sydney
Fireworks on New Year’s Eve in the Sydney Harbor - Australia
We watched the Sydney Harbor light up on New Year’s Eve! The first set off fireworks went off as a family show at 9pm, so kids could go to bed and not have to wait up. In this show, fireworks were launched from 4 barges while they played the songs of the year, which exclusively included "Let it Go." Although some might be sick of hearing Elsa sing, it was PERFECT fireworks music.
At midnight, there were panoramic views of fireworks that shot off on the bridge, the barges and near the Opera House! My favorite part was when they played Sia’s, “Chandelier!”
Northern Lights on New Year’s Eve in Norway
Northern Lights on New Year’s Eve in Norway
It may have been 20 degrees and below but we spent all night outside watching the Northern Lights from our cabin in Norway! The locals shot off fireworks at midnight, and apparently there is a friendly rivalry among the neighborhood as to who will have the best fireworks show! We watched the fireworks light up the sky for a while then went inside. At about 2am, the Aurora Borealis came through with bright green colors dancing across the sky! The northern lights were here and grew stronger and stronger until 6am! Definitely a New Year celebration we won’t forget!
See more in our post: 5 Days in Norway Itinerary
Aruba New Year’s Eve Celebration
Fireworks along the beach on New Year’s Eve in Aruba
Fireworks are legal in Aruba so they were going off all day along on Dec 31st with these giant firecrackers that people would set up randomly in the streets. We sat and watched as people set off sparklers and small fireworks around us.
We asked our cab driver where the place to be is at midnight on New Year’s Eve, to which he said, “right in front of your hotel!” Perfect. We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Aruba in Palm Beach and right at midnight, fireworks shot off on barges in the water up and down the coast! It was spectacular, the whole beach was lit up from this amazing display!
See more about Aruba and how we spent Dec 31st here: 6 Day Aruba Itinerary
Las Vegas Strip on new Year’s Eve
The Strip lighting up on New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas
I grew up spending a few New Years in Las Vegas! No matter where you go there will be a party! The Las Vegas Strip shuts down in the afternoon and people start celebrating! You can drink in the street and even buy beers from street vendors! At midnight, the Las Vegas Blvd lights up with fireworks shooting off tops of the hotels!
New Year’s Eve in TImes Square
Watching the ball drop in Times Square - New York City
I think everyone has seen the ball drop on New Year’s Eve in Times Square on TV with Ryan Seacrest or Dick Clark, but it is a completely different experience seeing it drop in person! Times Square is filled with people that start lining up early in the day to get a prime spot for midnight!
As soon as the countdown starts, the energy rises and the excitement of the countdown begins! The ball drops, fireworks shoot off and confetti fills the square!
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How to Spend 5 AMAZING Days in Sydney, Australia
How to spend 5 days in Sydney - Australia - Full itinerary! See all the things to do and where to stay in Sydney! See our tips in this great Travel Guide! This was our honeymoon and it was perfect!
Sydney Opera House
What to do for 5 Days in Sydney, Australia
While we were on our 3-week honeymoon, we spent a large chunk of it in Sydney! We had spent New Years in Sydney but left to let the crowds die down a bit and came back on the 3rd of January. Overall, we enjoyed our visit and would definitely go back. Making the long trek from California, we wanted to see all Sydney had to offer and spent about 5 days there.
Where to Stay in Sydney
We used our Hyatt reward nights, a perk from our Hyatt Credit Card, along with some points, and stayed at the beautiful 5-star Park Hyatt Sydney. It was the perfect location - across from the Opera House, near Circular Quay (where you can jump on a train or ferry and get anywhere in a matter of minutes), and under the Harbor Bridge.
Park Hyatt Sydney
Here was our 5-day itinerary for Sydney:
Day 1
Pancakes on the Rocks
MORNING
We started with breakfast at Pancakes on the Rocks. We love pancakes, figured it couldn't be bad with so many great Yelp reviews. The service was a little slow but the food made up for it. I had chocolate chips pancakes, of course, because everything is better with chocolate!
We went down to Circular Quay (pronounced "key") and took the ferry across the harbor to the Taronga Zoo.
There were Koalas, giraffes, kangaroos, everything that can kill you, and my favorite, the penguin exhibit that had Fairy Penguins!
Top of Taronga Zoo
The zoo is located on a hill with spectacular views of Sydney from all over, so we recommend you start at the top and work your way down.
Penguins in the Taronga Zoo
We took a few animal selfies too! We liked the zoo, but the Featherdale Wild Park was even better (see day 2 below).
AFTERNOON - Olympic Park
In the afternoon we took the ferry back to Circular Quay and boarded a train taking us out to the Sydney Olympic Park. Josh loves to visit Olympic Parks and this one had a lot to see and it was all outdoors!
The park was built to host the Summer Olympics in 2000. They had the torch, the Olympic Cauldron that looks like a spaceship which was where the flame was lit the duration of the games, markers that noted how high someone jumped, who won each sport, and name of everyone who participated.
Day 2
Morning - Blue Mountains
We booked a tour with Blue Diamond Tours, which conveniently picked us up from the hotel, and took us to the Blue Mountains National Park. The mountains look blue because the eucalyptus forest disperses droplets of Eucalypt oil into the atmosphere which combines with dust particles and water vapor, scattering refracted rays of light which are largely blue in color. #funfacts
The rock formation located in the Blue Mountains is known as the 3 Sisters, which aboriginals legend told, the 3 daughters from the Katoomba tribe fell in love with 3 brothers from a neighboring tribe, but they were forbidden to get married by tribal laws. The brothers didn't agree with this law and captured the 3 sisters, causing a war outbreak between the tribes and the sisters were turned into stone by a witch doctor to protect them. Unfortunately, the witch doctor died in the war and no one was able to turn them back.
From Scenic World’s Website
We took the Scenic World Skyway cable car suspended across the Jamison Valley to a park called Scenic World where they had attractions and the best views. You could look through the floor of the car and see the rain forest below.
looking through the floor of the skyway cable car
We also road the Scenic Railway, the world's steepest incline railway, which travels down a cliffside through tunnel and ancient rain forest at a gradient of 62 degrees. At the bottom, you can walk around the rainforest and check out the site of the old coal mine.
Afternoon - Featherdale Wildlife Park
ARCHER, THE KOALA, at Featherdale Wildlife Park
My favorite part of the day was when we went to see Australia's native animals at Featherdale Wildlife Park. I love animals and this was probably my favorite thing to do in Sydney.
You can get up close and personal with the animals - touch them, hold them, feed them. The ever so adorable Archer, the koala, is best-loved as he is the popular koala. I even had my Mom paint him from a picture I took because I needed to see him every day.
There are many other animals throughout the park such as kangaroos that are literally hanging out and let you pet them! We also saw more fairy penguins, wombats, wallabies, a Cassowary, and a Tasmanian Devil, OH MY!
Evening in Sydney
We came back to the hotel, freshened up and walked around the harbor over to the Opera Bar for dinner. The Opera Bar is located directly under the Opera House. They had a great food selection, we loved their burgers. The restaurant is set up with open seating and you order by the kitchen, get a number and they deliver to your table.
We also enjoyed their dessert (of course) having a crepe with chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream. I was a perfect ending to our perfect day with a gorgeous pink sunset.
Day 3
Morning in Manly Beach
We started our day going to Manly Beach! For food, we found this spot called Hemingway's which looked like a library but served food and alcohol. It was early, so we had coffee and breakfast with a slight breeze and gorgeous view of the crystal blue ocean.
We walked around and did a little shopping, buying souvenirs and gifts for friends and family.
Afternoon - Sea life Sydney Aquarium
PLATYPUS at the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium
We took the bus back and decided it was time for more animals so we paid a visit to the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium and found Nemo, Dory, and lots of sharks.
We walked through the aquarium and after scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef, it felt like we had seen a lot of these fish before. However, they do have unique creatures that are hard to find in the deep blue and were glad to see them here (love the platypus). If you have kids (or act like a big kid like me) there are interactive pools where you can touch sea cucumbers and starfish.
Also, the high point was the underground glass tunnels where fish and sharks swim around you on all sides and it feels like you're underwater with them.
Happy Hour in Sydney at a Secret Whiskey bar!
BAXTER INN - WHISKEY BAR
It was happy hour and we found a hidden gem! We went to a whiskey speak-easy called the Baxter Inn. It was a little challenging to find but worth it when we got there. You have to head down a nondescript alley on Clarence Street and walk through an unmarked door on your right, down a dark staircase to the basement level. The dim lighting and waiters outfits felt like we had walked into another dimension. They had 360 different whiskeys from around the globe and make their own apple juice for their fine crafted cocktail!
Baxter Inn Speakeasy Bar - Sydney
Afterward, we went to a casino in The Star hotel. Walking in, there was signage in front explaining the signs which show you might have a gambling problem because of Australia's gambling issue. It was kind of sad, but kind of funny. We played roulette and won! No gambling problem here.
Day 4
MORNING - Beach Walk
We took the bus over to Bondi Beach. We then did a 5 mile hike along the coast from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach. Along the way, we walked through the Tamarama and Bronte beaches. This wasn't an easy hike, there were steep inclines, stairs and sun. Lots of sun. The sun was intense and even after re-applying sunscreen a few times, we burned. It hurt.
AFTERNOON - Luna Park
Luna Park Entrance
We came back cleaned up and took the ferry over to Luna Park, a carnival-like amusement park with a scary entrance. and did a couple of rides, but the highlight was playing on the slides in the funhouse. Josh and I raced for at least 30 minutes. This was definitely made for kids.
Luna Park Slides
EVENING
Afterward, we had dinner at an Italian restaurant right next to Luna Park, called Ripples Milsons Point. It was right on the water overlooking the harbor and I had the most amazing pumpkin ravioli.
We came back to the hotel and wanted to grab a few pictures on our last night:
Harbor Bridge at Night
Opera House at Night
Day 5
MORNING - Opera House Tour
Our last day in Australia started with breakfast at the Park Hyatt Sydney. We overlooked the harbor directly at the Opera House and started to feel a little sad we were leaving.
Opera House Tiles Close-up - Chevron Design
We walked over and took a tour of the Opera House. As an iconic staple to the city, We were excited to see this gorgeous building and learn the history behind it. Up close you can see the shaped tiles that are shell-like making a chevron type pattern across the roof. The inside is just as stunning, as there are several venues within the house. The 2 largest concert hall is the largest and has the largest organ with over 10,000 pipes!
THIS IS KNOWN AS THE OPERA HOUSE CLEAVAGE
AFTERNOON
Since we were leaving that night, we had some time to kill but couldn't go too far. We decided to explore "The Rocks" which was the area right above our hotel. It's great for shopping and restaurants.
We went to Fortune of War (claims it is Sydney's oldest pub, which a lot of bars do) which wasn't anything special but nice to stop for a good cold brew.
Fortune of War - Sydney’s Oldest Pub
It was time to hop in a cab and head to the airport. We were sad to leave Sydney, but we weren't done with our Honeymoon yet, New Zealand and French Polynesia were next!
We would love to go back to Sydney and check off anything we missed! Let us know in the comments below if there is something you recommend!
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ARUBA HOTEL REVIEW: Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Casino and Spa
The Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa And Casino is the perfect place to stay in Aruba! Located right on the beach and walking distance to shops and restaurants, there isn’t a better place to stay. See our hotel review why you should stay at the Hyatt in Aruba!
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Casino and Spa
Address: Juan E, J.E. Irausquin Blvd #85, Aruba
Website: Hyatt Regency Aruba
We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Aruba for 4 nights over New Years 2019! Located mid beach of hotel row, it is the perfect place to spend the day at the beach and walking distance to everything!
Find the best rate to visit Aruba by booking your room through Booking.com and compare rates with Hyatt.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!
Rooms at the Hyatt Regency Aruba
The rooms were really nice, super spacious and very modern. Lined with gorgeous hard wood floors and a soft but firm bed, we felt right at home here. The balconies were very small, not really for sitting out on but good for shaking sand off clothes and shoes.
The room was equipped with new appliances like a refrigerator and a very large TV! We work in television, but typically never turn on the TV while we’re on vacation! In Aruba we celebrated New Years an hour before the East Coast, so we came back to the room and watched the ball drop with Ryan Seacrest on our giant tv!
In the window there was a chaise lounge where we would sit and look at the view, nap, or just hang out!
The water was so pretty in Aruba! We loved our view!
Bathrooms at the Hyatt Regency Aruba
Most hotels we’ve gone to lately that have renovated their rooms have walk in rain showers, this was another hotel to add to that list. Don’t get me wrong, they’re perfectly fine and seem to give more space in the bathroom. I like a big counter for all of my toiletries and this place checked all boxes for a perfect bathroom!
Casino at the Hyatt Regency Aruba
I’m used to Vegas casinos which you cannot compare to Aruba casinos. The casinos played in The American dollar with the options of slots in different denominations as well as tables including 3 card poker, black jack, roulette, etc. There wasn’t a fee to enter or anything, all the casinos seemed to have a players card option. If you play long enough you can get free drinks! It was so cool, on the slot machines, there was an option to order drinks once you hit the threshold!
Find the best rate to visit Aruba by booking your room through Booking.com
Not only will you find the best rate out there but by clicking this link and booking a night, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link! :-) Thanks!
Pool at the Hyatt Regency Aruba
There were a few pools to choose from to dip into! We enjoyed sitting in the half foot pool and observing around us! They even have a water slide that is fun for all ages!
If you want a drink but don’t want to get out of the pool, you don’t have to here! The main pool has a swim up bar and also a volleyball net.
Relax on the Beach
You can rent a little hut for free if you’re staying at the hotel! Full service and beach chairs come with the rental and feel free to dip in the warm ocean! There are many places along the beach to enjoy some surf - ski doo, wind surf, sunset cruises, pirate ship cruise, anything!
Forgot your sunblock or don’t have enough room in your suitcase? No sweat! For about $2 you can get a spray on by this cool high-tech booth!
Don’t forget to pack these guys:
Restaurants at the Hyatt Regency Aruba
As the Hyatt is a resort, there were many restaurants to keep you on property for convenience and accessibility.
Ruinas del Mar
Open air restaurant with food fresh from the sea or a savory steak. Join them for Sunday Brunch!
Kadushi Juice Bar
Not only do they have a great variety of juices and smoothies, they have POPSICLES! YUM!
Palms
We ate out at the bar between the pool and the beach one day. They serve basic lunch food such as salads, sandwiches, quesadillas, etc. happy hour runs everyday from 5:30-6:30p with discounts on drinks and half price quesadillas!
At night the bar closer to the lobby opens up for the rest of the evening. We had a night cap there every night!
Starbucks/Market
Their Market had a great selection of snacks, to go items and coffee! We grabbed pastries and coffee one morning before we went diving.
Wandering around the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort
The lobby was open aired and had plenty of little nooks to hang out in. Just connect to their wifi to plan your day or to sit and take a break!
My favorite part of walking through the resort was looking for wildlife! Parrots, swans, large iguanas, coi fish, and turtles were all over!
New Years at the Hyatt Regency Aruba
New Years Eve in Aruba
We asked our cab driver where the place to be is at midnight on New Years Eve, to which he said, “right in front of your hotel!” Perfect. He wasn’t wrong, we had a few drinks at the bar and wandered down to the beach around 11p. Fireworks are legal in Aruba so they were going off all day along with these giant firecrackers that people would set up randomly in the streets. We sat and watched as people set off sparklers and small fireworks around us. As soon as midnight hit, a bunch of barges in the water close to the beach shot off fireworks for a good 20 minutes! It was spectacular, the whole beach was lit up from this amazing display!
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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Find the best rate to visit Aruba by booking your room through Booking.com
Not only will you find the best rate out there but by clicking this link and booking a night, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link! :-) Thanks!
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Releasing lanterns in Chiang Mai on New Year’s Eve is a magical experience that often gets confused with the Yi Peng Lantern Festival. While Yi Peng takes place in November, locals and travelers also release lanterns throughout the city to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Thailand. This guide explains how New Year’s lantern releases in Chiang Mai work, where to go, what to expect, and how this experience differs from the official Yi Peng festival. Where to go and how to spend New Years in Chiang Mai #newyears #thailand #chiangmai