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of the of theBESTBEST
LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS
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Time an Asia trip with the Lunar New Year for culture-curious clients, writes Laura French
he start of spring is a cause for celebration around the world, and few places do it better than in Asia, when the Lunar New Year sees festivities across the continent and each country adds its own flair. Also known as the Spring Festival or Chinese New Year, it officially starts on
the first day of the lunar calendar (this year, February 17) lasting for 15 days. It’s a time for families to come together to feast in the hope of good fortune ahead – but it’s also a great opportunity for clients to get a feel for local culture. From Hong Kong to Vietnam, South Korea to Singapore, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to experience the festival in 2027, when the new year falls on February 6.
travelweekly.co.uk MAINLAND CHINA
There are myriad festivities across China, with Beijing and Shanghai laying claim to some of the biggest. Temple fairs are the stars of the former, with folk performances, street food vendors and craft stalls taking over historic sites. Shanghai, meanwhile, hosts the Yuyuan Lantern Festival, when giant artistic creations illuminate Yuyuan Gardens and its ponds. “Beijing is at its most atmospheric during the Lunar New Year,” says Gary King, head of trade sales at Wendy Wu Tours. “Visitors can get a real sense of tradition, plus it’s an incredibly special way to understand how families
and communities across China come together in order to celebrate.” Book it: Wendy Wu Tours can offer a 10-day tailor-made Lunar New Year private tour combining Beijing and Xi’an from £4,490, including B&B accommodation and flights on February 5, 2027.
wendywutours.co.uk
DESTINATIONS LUNAR NEW YEAR | ASIA
1 HONG KONG
Hong Kong’s New Year festivities put vibrancy at the heart, with flower markets, a night parade and an extravagant fireworks display over Victoria Harbour among the celebrations. “Travellers can soak up the atmosphere watching lion and dragon dances and visit the temples at Wong Tai Sin, Che Kung and Man Mo,” says Mark Henderson, head of specialist product for Gold Medal. “There’s even a thrilling New Year race day, all against a backdrop of red lanterns, family feasts
and lucky red envelopes that bring the spirit of the festivities to life.” Book it: Gold Medal offers six nights’ B&B at the four-star Harbour Plaza North Point hotel in Hong Kong from £1,499 per person, flying from Heathrow on February 3, 2027.
goldmedal.co.uk
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PICTURES: Shutterstock/LeOSo, why2husky
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