(OK, I know, it’s two words, not one).
Starting a new blog was part of the New Year’s resolutions for 2012. The thing is that if you decide to begin on January 1st, you might have to deal with the hungover first. Luckily, this time I didn’t have to, but I couldn’t help to remember the previous times where I needed at least two days to get together myself back among the living.
For sure, the best New Year parties I have had were in Valparaiso, Chile. In Europe I have experienced Paris and Amsterdam so far, but none of them could compare to the tremendous party that takes place every 31st December at the Valparaiso docks. It is true that almost a million of people congregate there to watch the fireworks and to party afterwards, and it might get dodgy at some point of the evening. But it is definitely worth it to be there for the fireworks display, and if you are a party animal, you will just love staying there.
Whether you ride by bus or you rent a car to get there, the best plan is to arrive at least one day earlier to avoid the masses of cars and find yourself a good spot to enjoy the fireworks. Once there though, try to use the public transport (buses and metro) so you won’t suffer the endless pain of finding where to park.
Some of my personal favourite places to watch the fireworks are the Paseo Gervasoni, Paseo Yugoslavo and Paseo Atkinson, all of them close to each other (in case one is too crowded you can check the other two). These are high-demand spots, so better make sure you get there early – like in the morning early. The view is stunning, and the party goes all night long. Make sure you are wearing solid shoes, cause the broken bottles are legion around 2 am.
Going to the northern side of Valpo (towards Muelle Baron) there are other good spots – not as close as the ones I listed before, but good view and stunning landscape anyway. Mirador Portales and Paseo Wheelwright are my personal favourites, the latter being the newest one (it was finished in 2006). This coast promenade connects Muelle Baron and Caleta Portales, so if you want to be really close to the sea for the fireworks display, just go there.
Other options for enjoying the fireworks are renting boats (at Muelle Prat mostly) so you and your family/friends get to see the show real close. Check this link if you want to get an idea of how much will it cost for the night.
Yes, Valparaiso might be at the end of the world. But it is one of the most beautifully eclectic cities I’ve ever been to. And the New Year’s Eve it’s oh, such an experience!
(Here you can check a map with the spots I mentioned before)
And some pictures to get you in the mood 😉
Flâneuse Mag 