This year marks the Year of the Dog in the Chinese New Year calendar and the Dog is the eleventh of all zodiac animals with celebrations starting today. The year of the Dog is associated with the Earthly Branch and in the terms of yin and yang, the Dog is yang. A Dog’s most defining characteristic is their loyalty meaning they will never abandon their friends, family or work.
Chinese New Year always welcomes week long celebrations, but the Lunar New Year is celebrated across Asia in between mid-January and mid-February. Hong Kong is the place to be during these celebrations and the city goes all-out. Opulent firework displays, seven course menus at discounted prices and colourful lanterns decorate the city.
The famous Hong Kong skyline lights up with neon depictions of the animal whose year we’re entering and the sight across Victoria Harbour is worth seeing. The night displays start at 8pm where the iconic buildings turn on lasers and LEDs accompanied by music.
To make the spectacle more unique, we recommend hiring a traditional red-sailed Hong Kong Junk boat for the occasion and schedule it for around 7pm to end on a high. Alternatively, catch the regular ferry between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, which departs every 15 minutes to enjoy a spectacular view of the lights.
Vegetarian food is particularly important during Chinese New Year as many use this time to visit temples, where meat is rarely eaten. The best way to experience traditional vegetarian food is by visiting Chi Lin Vegetarian, a restaurant underneath a waterfall tucked away in Nan Lian Garden. The gardens are opposite a beautiful temple making for a great day out.
Simplexity Travel Top Tip: Find the best dim sum at Lung King Heen in the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong. Ask the concierge for a table by the window for great Victoria Harbour views.
Stay at: Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong
Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong has always been a byword for elegance and impeccable service and continues to feature in the list of best hotels in the world. Dedicated to unsurpassed luxury and known for its legendary service, this heritage has made it the address of choice for visiting royalty, film stars and notable public figures for almost half a century. It offers Michelin-starred dining options, an award-winning spa and a location in the heart of the city that is only steps from the city’s finest shopping and historical sights.
When booking with Simplexity Travel, receive:
- Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Welcome amenity
- $100 USD Equivalent Food & Beverage or Spa Services credit, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Complimentary Wi-Fi for duration of stay
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
With bookings up to April, also receive your 3rd night free.
To book your stay, call us on 0203 535 9290 or email leisure@simplexitytravel.com