Each year in Malaysia’s vibrant capital of Kuala Lumpur, Chinese New Year Celebrations take on an exciting spin with two weeks of pure revelry that evokes some of the best elements of this intriguing cultural event. If you happen to be in town with the family during the time, make sure you book one of the quality Kuala Lumpur serviced apartments early, as these stylish residences tend to go quickly. The Ascott Kuala Lumpur, for example, is a popular option for long or short term stays and you will discover a range of luxury serviced apartments in Kuala Lumpur designed to cater to your lifestyle and budget. First up has to be the splendid cuisine offerings during New Year, and you will encounter a delectable bevy of buffets featuring the most scrumptious foods from the Hokkien, Shanghai, and Hakka styles of cooking, each endowed with its own spiritual meaning. And who can forget the traditional rice cake, otherwise known as Nian Gao, which symbolizes the increase of one’s prestige year after year. Dumplings are also a favourite culinary feature of the Chinese New Year, a popular menu item during the season. You will also be treated to some exciting parades featuring acrobats, fireworks displays, and of course, the traditional lion dance that is believed to send evil influences scurrying away with its forked tail between its legs. The city also features a host of Chinese Buddhist temples decked out in full celebratory regalia for the season, which also feature the aforementioned lion dance. With a host of exciting games, a unique paper boat ceremony where well-wishers set paper boats afloat on the river with a wish for good luck, exuberant parades and a customary orange-throwing session to look forward to at the New year’s end, your time in Kuala Lumpur during this time will be completely unforgettable.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.