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The Ambanis, however, prefer a family get-together. According to Dattaraj V (Raj) Salgaocar, managing director, VM Salgaocar and Brothers, and brother-in-law to the Ambanis, the family is looking forward to a ‘quiet evening at home’. “I’m from Goa so obviously I will be here for New Year, most of our relatives from Bombay are also coming down to celebrate New Year with the family,” he said. 

Vijay Mallya, too, will be here to usher in the New Year. The business baron, known for his fondness for this tiny coastal state, will be having a private party at his ‘Kingfisher Villa’ in Candolim for the 700-odd high-profile guests coming down from India and abroad. The guest-list will include the who’s-who of high society, politics, Bollywood and fashion; but superstar Shah Rukh Khan — brand ambassador for Mr Mallya’s new Team Force India of the 2008 Formula One season is not likely to be part of it. Lionel Richie, who performed during Mr Mallya’s 50th birthday last year, is believed to be giving a special performance for the New Year too. “It’s a private party for Mr Mallya’s close friends. Obviously there will be lot of attention given to make it a memorable event,” adds a source. 

While most stars want to usher in the New Year with a big bang, for the Bachchan family it looks to be a quiet affair. Earlier, the Bachchans and Amar Singh had booked a place in a five-star resort in South Goa, but cancelled it later following the Teji Bachchan. “We had a large booking made for a grand party with many guests both from film and corporate industry, for a party to be thrown by Big B. But all this stands cancelled now,” said Vikram Antao, Intercontinental (Goa). 

The state expects nearly 15 lakh tourists from December 23 to January 2. Hotels have hiked room rates by over 50%, with rates in a five-star starting at Rs 25,000 and up to Rs 1lakh per night for a presidential room. So for those looking for some good year-end break, just pack your bags and have a blast.