December 2009

Countdown to 2010.

End 2009 on a high note and boogie the night away at these New Year’s Eve parties

WORDS YOUNG LIM

BLUE MOON
The most sought-after location on New Year’s Eve in Bangkok is Shangri-La hotel’s poolside bar. The lush riverfront setting offers front-row seats to the annual grand fireworks spectacle along the Chao Phraya River. Tickets to Blue Moon include gourmet dinner by Angelini restaurant, dessert buffet, live entertainment and the countdown party. Tickets cost S$530 (includes international set menu, dessert buffet and complimentary champagne). 89 Soi Wat Suan Plu, New Rd, Bangrak, Bangkok, Thailand, tel: +66 (2) 236 7777

THE BEAUCHAMP HOTEL
Sydney offers visitors the rare opportunity to count down to the New Year with 1.5 million other revellers. Highlights include the massive pyrotechnics display and light parade that take place along the Harbour Bridge at midnight. Afterwards, head for celebratory toasts at The Beauchamp Hotel, which boasts several plush concept bars spread out across three levels; the rooftop bar has bridge views. Expect to pay AU$60-100 (S$77-128.40; cover charge entitles entry to the clubs, two drinks and party favours). 267 Oxford St, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia, tel: +61 (2) 9331 2575

NEW ASIA
Toast to the New Year at New Asia Bar in South-East Asia’s tallest hotel. Choose from a seven-course or nine-course French menu prepared by chef Hugh Styles. After taking in the sights from way up above and jiving to the beats of international guest DJs at the bar, hop down to ground level to party on the streets. Dinner costs S$300-400 (pre-party dinner reservation required). Level 71, Swissôtel The Stamford, 2 Stamford Rd, Singapore, tel: +65 6338 8585

PARTY OF THE YEAR

Events and bar consultant Aloysius Leo gives his tips on throwing the perfect bash this holiday

What’s the rule to remember?
Double the quantity of what you think you need, because people will consume more food when they drink.

What activities do you suggest?
A mobile disco is always good; also have card games, mahjong and perhaps a karaoke set available. A party is going well when the crowd finds ways to entertain themselves.

Three simple cocktail recipes:
1) Absolut Mango with apple juice (1 part vodka, 3-4 parts apple juice, top up with ice)
2) Absolut Kurant with cranberry (1 part vodka, 3-4 parts cranberry juice, top up with ice)
3) Chivas Royal (1 part whisky, 3 parts apple juice, 1 part ginger ale, top up with ice)