New Year Traditions Across the World
Not everywhere across the globe sees in the New Year while shivering in sub-zero temperatures. Here at Windmill Lodges, who offer hot tub holidays in the heart of Suffolk, we have a look at some of the traditional turn-of-the-year celebrations across the world where it isn’t winter.
Australia
In some areas, December is already summer. For many Australians, heading to the beach on New Year’s Day is almost a rite of passage. Many like to enjoy a swim or a surf because the water temperature isn’t too cold (usually in the mid-20s), and the air temperature is usually a few degrees higher.
If the weather’s good but the beach is too crowded, many opt for a get-together (and a barbecue) in the local park. New Year is a public holiday too, so there’s usually plenty of live music and events to go to, as well as a New Year cricket match to watch (either in person or on TV).
Brazil
In Brazil, although it can be wet, January temperatures are usually in the upper 20s. This means thousands of people congregate on the beaches such as Copacabana and have a massive party that starts on the 31st and continues into the New Year.
There are a couple of other traditions; if you jump seven waves while making seven wishes, you are supposed to receive spiritual purification and strength. This is a homage to Yemanja, their goddess of water. You are also supposed to eat lentils for your first meal of the year, as this is supposed to bring good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.
Singapore
Is also warm in January, with average temperatures in the mid-20s or higher. There are beach events to see in the New Year, as in Australia and Brazil, but these aren’t quite as widespread.
Singapore is more influenced by Oriental culture and the Chinese New Year. They go for things that are visually spectacular, such as outdoor fireworks displays and the tradition of sending wishes for the year ahead down the Singapore River. These are sent in little spheres and are often lit up. When there are thousands of these floating downstream it looks very striking.
South Africa
January is also warm in this Southern Hemisphere country, where temperatures can reach up to 32C in some hotspots. Again, many people head for the beach to soak up the sun and cool off.
In Cape Town, there’s usually a big party or musical event at the foot of Table Mountain. There was also one odd tradition where people used to throw items of furniture out of the window to mark the New Year – particularly in the Hillbrow area of Johannesburg. However, the police have now cracked down on this (because of the risk of injuries) and the practice has more or less died out.
Hot Tub Holidays in Suffolk at Windmill Lodges
We may not be able to recreate the outdoor temperatures of Singapore, Brazil, Australia or South Africa, but we can offer you the chance to enjoy your own hot tub holiday in central Suffolk. It doesn’t have to be over the New Year period either because we have good availability throughout the whole of January – making us the perfect place to recover and wind down after all the effort you have put into Christmas.
As well as your own private hot tub, there are plenty of other facilities in our authentic log cabins. They all have their own coal-effect fireplaces and underfloor heating so you won’t get cold even if you aren’t in the water. All our lodges are also fully equipped for self-catering so it’s easy to cook your own meals.
You can bring your dog with you too as we have a couple of pet-friendly lodges, Woodpecker and Wagtail.
And we’re open all year round – so why not book a romantic log cabin break for your wedding anniversary, or for Valentine’s Day? Our larger lodges are also ideal for a family getaway.
If you would like to check our latest availability, follow this link or give us a call directly on 01728 685338.