Hey peeps!

For those of you out in China or will be heading out there in the next couple of weeks - it's Chinese New Year on 14th Feb and it will be the year of the Tiger.(Meow!

Yes, even though it does clash with Valentine's Day, the Chinese do manage find a way to celebrate both at once. Just check out all the crazy marketing of kissy kissy cartoons all dressed up in traditional bright red outfits!!

Just to gear you up with a few tips and possibly get you some more "Lai See" (Red Pocket with real $$$):-

- Lai See are only given out by those who are married to those who are not. It is filled with real $$$ ranging from pennies to quite a lot depends on how close you are to the person and how well off they are.

- During that week or so, when you greet anyone (especially married people), remember to put your hands together (as if you are praying) and shake them gently in front of your chest directed at the person you are greeting and say "Kung Hei Fat Choi!". That basically means Happy Chinese New Year but it's literally meaning is Congratulation (Kung Hei) get rich (Fat Choi).

- CNY is basically Christmas in the Chinese culture, therefore, be prepare for lots visits to / from family and friends, eat and drink a lot and exchanging of presents.

Shame I won't be back in Hong Kong this year as I have to wait for my Thai visa in the UK, but please do let me know your experience of CNY and how many Lai See you have received with my tips! Photos or videos are always welcome!

Enjoy.

S

• Chinese New Year
• China
• culture
• Tradition