With its spectacular fireworks display on the banks of the river Thames and massive parties, London is of course an obvious choice for a New Year’s Eve celebration. However, for those seeking an alternative, there’s a wealth of possibility outside the UK’s capital.

In Edinburgh, thousands of revellers will take to the streets to celebrate Hogmanay, singing Auld Lang Syne and enjoying a street party of epic proportions. For a spot of Scottish tradition, there’s the world’s largest outdoor ceilidh, while the annual ‘Concert in the Gardens’ will this year see the Pet Shop Boys perform, supported by The 1975 and Nina Nesbitt. All these New Year’s Eve festivities will be preceded by a torchlight procession on 30th December, with more than 30,000 people expected to attend.

For those hoping to spend the night in warmer climes, the southern hemisphere hosts some excellent parties. The fireworks and party in Sydney, Australia are well-renowned, but for something a little different, Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is an attractive option. The city has a festive atmosphere in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve as the competitors of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race arrive, with people gathering at the waterfront of Battery Point to welcome the sailors. Then, on 31st December, the city hosts the 25th anniversary edition of the annual Taste of Tasmania NYE bash, featuring two sets of fireworks, music, and delicious locally produced food and drink.

A little closer to home, New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam is a feast of music, champagne and deep-fried pastry snacks called oliebollen. At De Oosterdok, in front of the city’s Maritime Museum, a giant sing-along has been organised before the official countdown to midnight. To start off 2014, numerous parties will be held around the city – the largest ones will be at the Nieuwmarkt, Museumplein and Damplein. Alternatively, the night could be enjoyed on a rented boat on one of Amsterdam’s many canals.

To get to any of these locations, there’s no easier way than using a British Airways American Express credit card. Not only will you receive Avios points to put towards your next flight for almost every pound spent using the card, but other benefits include automatic membership of the British Airways Executive Club – giving you great perks like priority boarding and access to airport lounges to make your next trip extra special.