The Year of the Ox begins on February 12, an exciting time for many around the world as it carries the promise of peace, prosperity, health, and happiness. From the exhilarating city of Hong Kong to Bali's sacred temples, this trio of specially designed stays and experiences feature standout details, including good luck welcome amenities, afternoon tea, and themed journeys, to help celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year.
"An Ox-Picious Journey" at The Peninsula Hong Kong
Dubbed the Grand Dame of the Far East, The Peninsula Hong Kong is a storied property well-known for its annual Lunar New Year-themed offerings. This year’s “Ox-Picious Journey” invites travelers to celebrate Chinese New Year in style from 12 to 18 February with a host of luxurious privileges. There’s a good luck windmill welcome amenity and daily breakfast for two in the lobby in addition to a one-way arrival transfer. Guests can also select one Peninsula “Historical Journey” or “Artisanal Journey” - options include an aviation history tour and a visit to the hotel’s helipad and a master photographer class by Leica. Suite guests are entitled to a Chinese New Year “Tour of Luck and Fortune” in a Peninsula Rolls-Royce to bestow auspicious wishes for the Year of the Ox. Deluxe Rooms and Superior Suites range from HK$3,88 to HK$5,080 and up.
Call The Peninsula customer service center at (852) 2910-1628 or visit peninsula.com.
'Bring it Ox' at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong
Chic, modern, and boasting some of the best views in Hong Kong, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, gives new meaning to sky-high hotel experiences. Their “Bring It Ox” staycation includes breakfast for two guests at The Lounge & Bar to a complimentary bottle of Ritz champagne and themed amenities. Fortunes can be doubled with a stay of two or more nights, which comes with exclusive benefits, including a complimentary room upgrade, romantic afternoon tea, and The Ritz-Carlton picnic basket for two. There’s a four-course Chinese New Year Dinner at The Lounge & Bar (February 11 and 15); for reservations falling on February 14, a three-course Valentine’s Day dinner menu will be served in-room. Subject to availability, guests who also reserve two nights or more can enjoy an upgrade from Deluxe Rooms to a Deluxe Victoria Harbor Room for those coveted Instagram-worthy views.
For reservations and inquiries, call (852) 2263-2100 or visit ritzcarlton.com.
~ Said to scare away spirits of bad fortune, red is considered a lucky color to wear on the first day of Chinese New Year. Feng Shui homes with red lanterns to attract “lucky” energy, plus bamboo stalks and water fairy flowers to signify health, wealth and family unity. ~
A bespoke retreat at Fivelements Bali
For travelers already on the ground or heading to the Indonesian island, eco-luxe wellness resort Fivelements Retreat Bali has put together a bespoke experience to celebrate the Lunar New Year. A peaceful sanctuary on the banks of the Ayung River in Bali’s spiritual center, Ubud, the focus at Fivelements is very much centered on authentic healing traditions, sacred arts, and plant-based foods. The two-night stay (February 12 to 14) includes accommodation in a Riverfront or Hillside Pool Suite, breakfast at Sakti Dining Roo, morning yoga sessions, afternoon tea, and a warm stone massage at the Healing & Wellness Sanctuary among other perks and special pricing on treatments. A fruit basket, welcome drink, and fortune cookies also await guests upon arrival. Price from IDR 3,200,000 or around US$228 per night, visit fivelementsbali.com for more details.