6 original ideas for New Year's Eve

How about escaping to an exclusive paradise, far from civilization, without unwanted noise, crowds of people or neon lights? And what if we add to that (weather permitting) a dreamy sunset, a starlit night and the first dive of the year in turquoise waters on a deserted beach? Well, know that all this is possible – follow the suggestion of All About Portugal and live the New Year's Eve night aboard a houseboat in the Ria Formosa. There are three types available, so decisions have to be made. Summon your group of friends, drag your family or melt the heart of your most-everything with a little getaway in paradise. It is true that we are in the middle of winter, but the Algarve rarely disappoints. Cross your fingers!

The night promises to be a long one so spend the last hours of the old year pampering yourself to enter the new year full of energy. And because we promise original ideas, this time we suggest a spa, not for massages or detox treatments, but for a floating session. The therapy consists of floating effortlessly in a water solution with a high amount of salt and at body temperature. You will have to enter a closed capsule or, if you suffer from claustrophobia, you can opt for the open top floats (which are not covered). Whatever your choice, get ready for a unique experience. Without the force of gravity and deprived of all senses, you will lose track of time and feel levitated. Experts say that one hour of fluctuation is equivalent to four to six hours of sleep.

Do you like original accommodation, but don't do without the comfort of a good hotel? Are you a music lover and believe that every special moment calls for a bespoke soundtrack? If you answered yes to these two questions, we have an irrefutable proposal. Hurry up and discover the M.Ou.Co., in Porto, a kind of hybrid between hotel and music house. It has everything you are looking for in a hotel: 62 rooms with modern and harmonious decor, swimming pool, restaurant, bar and terrace. And there's music everywhere! In the rooms, you will find records and guitars. At the Music Library you have at your disposal a collection of over 600 vinyl records and music books. It also has rehearsal rooms and a concert hall, where concerts, exhibitions and gatherings take place. Check the schedule and make plans for a memorable New Year to the sound of the songs of your life.

Take advantage of the festive date for a quick getaway to an unfamiliar place, preferably far from the hustle and bustle of the city and close to nature. In the North, Gerês is always a desirable destination and the cold gives it even more charm! Head to the Arcos de Valdevez and fall in love with the village of Sistelo. Classified as a National Monument and one of the winning villages in the “7 Wonders of Portugal” contest, it is known as the small “Portuguese Tibet” for its breathtaking terraced landscape. Walk through the alleys and appreciate the castle, the manor houses and the typical granite houses, the granaries, the washing facilities and the Roman bridge. Get ready for an authentic journey back in time, painted in all shades of green.

If you're in love and in the mood for romance, you'll certainly have no shortage of original ideas for New Year's Eve. But follow All About Portugal's advice: forget about dinner by candlelight at the usual restaurant and surprise your better half with one night of pure luxury in a motel near you. Find one that meets your fantasies. Mirrors on the ceiling, swings and rods, waterbeds and Jacuzzis, glory holes and tantric chairs – there is a whole universe to explore for two. Just dare!

It's a common dream for many mortals and maybe it's already been their wish for the New Year: to experience the sensation of free fall and fly! If fear has paralyzed you, know that it is possible to do so in complete safety. In Porto and Lisbon, DreamFly -Indoor Skydiving promises all the adrenaline of freefall and body flight without literally having to jump out of a plane. The sport is practiced in a vertical wind tunnel that simulates winds in the order of 300 km/hour. And the best part is that you can do it individually or share the moment with your favorite people. Know that one minute of flight is equivalent to a descent from an altitude of 4000 meters! After such an adrenaline injection, you will be more than prepared for a super year.