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For a New Year celebration with a difference, consider a short winter break to Norway, Iceland or Finland. This special New Year getaway will suit those looking to celebrate the end of the year somewhere unique with a chance of witnessing the magnificence aurora borealis.

Norway

Currency: Norwegian Krone
Pack your: Multi-Currency Card
Best time to see the Northern Lights: November – February

Svladbad in Norway is high up into the Arctic and the higher the latitude, the better the chances are of seeing the Northern Lights. Between mid-November and the end of January, Svalbard does not see any daylight, also increasing chances of seeing the Aurora. Explorers are likely to come across reindeer, walrus and polar bears.

For a true adrenalin rush, visit Lillehammer where the former Olympic bobsleigh venue offers 60mph sleigh rides for grown-ups. Those brave enough to try this sport will be under instruction from the GB team.

Iceland

Currency: Icelandic Króna
Pack your: Multi-Currency Card
Best time to see the Northern Lights: November – February

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital is one of the most affordable places to see the Northern Lights. In January 2015, 9,003 Britons visited Iceland to see the spectacular light display. Guided tours are recommended as they are led by expert guides and drivers who closely follow the forecasts.

For visitors that don’t get a glimpse of the Northern Lights, there are plenty of other activities in Iceland. The Blue Lagoon stays hot all year round, and thrill-seekers can enjoy snowmobiling and skiing, as well as trekking to Iceland’s Games of Thrones locations. The country is renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscape of geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, glaciers and black-sand beaches, so you won’t be short of photo opportunities.

Finland

Currency: Euro
Pack your: Euro Currency Card
Best time to see the Northern Lights: January – March

In Finnish Lapland, visitors can see the Northern Lights from the comfort of a glass igloo, or stay in a traditional log cabin complete with an open fire. Snowy activities such as a reindeer safari, sleigh rides and snowmobiles make Finland an ideal festive break for friends, families and couples. For those looking to turn off and relax, choose from a herbal Jacuzzi, walking tours, massages, or museum visits. New Year’s Eve in Finland is an unforgettable extravaganza of fireworks, music and fine food.