Got New Year’s Eve plans?

New Year's Eve revelers. Photo by Sue Frause.

The name of the NYC based tour company sounds a little stuffy, but their trips are anything but. Academic Arrangements Abroad has put together three trips to coincide with the winter holidays, all taking place over New Year’s Eve so you can welcome 2010 from somewhere other than your couch. Or just read about them from your couch and dream.

Undiscovered Mexico
On the Colonial Trail
December 26, 2009 – January 3, 2010

Celebrate the new year in colonial Mexico, jewel in the crown of imperial Spain. Visit highly ornate churches in Guadalajara, Queretaro, Morelia and more. Explore the aristocratic life of those who dwelled in mansions and palaces, and see first-rate pre-Colombian objects in newly redesigned museums. Special meetings are also arranged with renowned weavers and ceramicists. Land rate: $6,995

In the Land of the Tsars
Russian Winter Arts
December 26, 2009 – January 5, 2010

Russia in winter sounds magical. In Moscow, see the Kremlin, stroll the snow-covered Red Square and attend the New Year’s Ball at Catherine’s Palace. In St. Petersburg, glide on a troika through the royal park of Pavlovsk Palace and enjoy a private concert in the home of a famed composer. Land rate: $9,950

A Journey into Antiquity
Egypt & Jordan by Private Plane
December 30, 2009 – January 12, 2010

See Egypt’s pyramids and temples and Jordan’s rose-red city of Petra, carved into sandstone canyons and hills. You’ll explore Jerash, one of the best-preserved cities of ancient Rome, and experience the famed waters of the Dead Sea. This winter journey includes a four-night cruise along the Nile River complemented by private flights between destinations. Land/cruise rate: from $8,950.