The Worth-It Way to Celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong and Macau

Sneaker Street

When you think of traveling to Hong Kong, it’s easy to see why Macau is often visited too—they’re just so close! With its endless shopping spots, iconic attractions, and mouthwatering delicacies, these places have become popular holiday destinations for many Filipinos - especially during Chinese New Year.

Trips to these cities can feel pricey, especially if you’re traveling with family. But it doesn’t always have to be that way! There are plenty of cool spots and tasty eats in both cities where you can score great value without sacrificing the experience.

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And if you want great value, you can get that for sure when you use the ultimate shopping hack from GCash. All you need is your GCash Visa Card and e-wallet so you can Swipe-Scan-Tap. When you do, you can stretch every peso, thanks to lower forex rates, more deals, easy payments, real-time spend tracking, and no more counting change.

If you’re heading to Hong Kong and Macau for the Lunar New Year, check out these stops that are perfect for families and guaranteed to give a worth it experience.

Macau Tower

Shop sulit and smart hauls at wholesale stores and markets
Hong Kong is admittedly a shopping haven - but if you want to shop smart, you need to know where to go. Lung Fung Mall offers beauty, skincare, and health products at friendlier prices than malls. You can find fragrances, skincare, and other beauty products at reduced prices at their many locations across Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, if you’re finally ready to buy that brand new item you’ve been saving up for, like new running shoes, a bag, or workout gear, Citygate Outlets is your best option. They carry many brands, such as Lululemon, Evisu, Marimekko, and many more.

For seasoned travellers who frequent Hong Kong, going to Mong Kok to buy clothes, snacks, and a wide variety of anik-anik is also a no-brainer. If you’ve ever heard of Sneaker Street and Ladies Market, you can find things for you and for your pasalubong back home. The best part is that you can still haggle the prices in certain stores, making shopping in the area even more budget-friendly—so get your tawad skills ready!

And when carrying multiple bags after your pasalubong spree becomes a hassle, you can tap your way to easy, convenient payments with GCash Tap to Pay. Available for all NFC-enabled Android smartphones, it lets you pay with just one tap—making it much easier to get around the often-crowded streets.

Lung Fung Mall

Discover hidden gems and family fun in Macau
Macau isn’t just about its famous landmarks and beautiful architecture – though it is worth going just to see them for yourself. But there are also many fun experiences that the family can enjoy, and it’s all just a convenient ferry ticket away! These boat trips take about an hour from the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal, and you can secure your tickets by paying with GCash Scan to Pay for a hassle-free experience. Simply generate your QR code and select Pay Abroad with GCash, and look for merchants with a QR code bearing the A+ logo to scan. If you’re looking for local delicacies, head over to Taipa Village, where you can stock up on crowd favorites like beef jerky and almond cookies. These treats are delicious, affordable, and loved by locals!

You can also book tickets to team Lab SuperNature Macau, an incredible interactive art space with 8-meter-tall, colorful exhibitions that kids and adults will enjoy.

Team Lab Macau

Here’s a secret hack when paying with GCash abroad: some merchants also offer special promos and discounts up to PHP 1,500 off, just tap Travel and go into Travel Treats to browse what’s available.

Eat without the splurge at Yung’s Tangerine Peel Roast Goose and Cheung Hing Kee
One of the best parts of traveling to Hong Kong and Macao is the food. You can’t leave Hong Kong without trying their roast goose, and a great spot to try is Yung's Tangerine Peel Roast Goose. Yung’s is rich and flavorful, and best of all, budget friendly.

Yung's Tangerine Peel Roast Goose

When you hear that a restaurant has been recognized by Michelin, would you believe that you don’t have to pay a fortune for high-quality food? Because that’s what you can expect from MICHELIN Bib Gourmand Cheung Hing Kee Shanghai Pan-fried Buns at Lock Road. Other than their pan-fried buns, their scallion noodles and wontons are a must-try—perfect bites to snack on when you want to refuel while exploring the city.

 

Scan, Swipe, and Tap for a sulit and enjoyable trip
Traveling on a budget doesn’t have to mean limiting yourself. When you pay with GCash abroad, you get real-time control over your spending, low forex rates updated instantly in-app, and fast, convenient transactions throughout your trip — all while enjoying to the fullest.

Card, Tap to Pay, Scan to Pay

Remember to scan, swipe, and tap for an experience you’ll definitely say is worth it! Download the GCash app today to get started.

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Mapping Manila’s Chinese Temples at Yul Servo Nieto’s Directions VI

On January 15, 2025, the Art Gallery of The Manila Hotel hosted the opening reception of Directions VI, a solo exhibition of Filipino contemporary artist and City of Manila Vice Mayor, honorable Yul Servo Nieto. The event celebrated the fusion of artistry and heritage, as Nieto unveiled a collection of works inspired by Filipino-Chinese traditions and culture.

The event commenced with a warm opening remarks delivered by The Manila Hotel vice president for sales and marketing, Marvin Kim Tan, highlighting the institution’s commitment to supporting local art and culture. Following this, the artist delivered a speech sharing his inspiration behind the art pieces and announced that proceeds from the sales will go towards purchasing vital medical equipment—such as wheelchairs, nebulizers, hearing aids, blood pressure monitors, and walkers—to be donated to those in need. Manila City Mayor Honey Lacuna Pangan also delivered a few words before joining Vice Mayor Nieto and Marvin Kim Tan for the ceremonial ribbon cutting, marking the exhibit’s official launch.

In Directions VI, Nieto reinvents his signature metal art pieces with elements of modern Cubism, Cartography or the art of map-making, and Assemblage art. Moving beyond his earlier focus on planes, lines, and negative space, he now incorporates everyday objects—bolts, nuts, screws, and hinges—as symbolic markers. These striking pieces pay tribute to Manila’s cultural richness and include depictions of Manila’s Chinese temples and historic districts like Binondo and San Nicolas.

The exhibition’s centerpiece, Temple Splendor, reimagines Chinese temples with golden nuts arranged on a grid-like map of Manila. Complementing the wall-mounted works are two free-standing sculptures—Nest of Healing and Icons of Heritage. Forged from bronze and gold-plated alloys, these pieces explore themes of healing and cultural preservation.

As the Chinese New Year draws near, Directions VI pays homage to the rich traditions of Manila’s Chinese temples. These vibrant hubs of cultural activity come alive with lion and dragon dances, incense lighting, and offerings of lucky foods—time-honored practices that reinforce familial and cultural unity.

Nieto’s latest creations highlight the significance of safeguarding these cherished traditions while exploring new dimensions of artistic expression.

Directions VI is now on display at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery. Admission is free. For interested buyers, call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, or email r.lo@themanilahotel.com.

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“Her Locket” -- a family drama film set to open on January 22 in cinemas nationwide

As a pre-Chinese New Year offering, Rebecca Chuaunsu Film Production, in cooperation with Rebelde Films, proudly announces the commercial release of HER LOCKET in cinemas nationwide come January 22, 2025 (Wed).

HER LOCKET is a family drama film about a Chinese woman suffering from dementia is able to gradually recall memories from her past With the aid of a locket necklace. It garnered a total of EIGHT awards - - Best Film, Best Director and Best Screenplay, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Production Design, Best Cinematography, and Best Ensemble Acting -- at Sinag Maynila Film Festival held last Sept. 8, 2024. 

Noted Filipino-Chinese actress Rebecca Chuaunsu also won two (2) international Best Actress awards -- from Festival International du Film Transsaharien de Zagora in Morocco (held in 2023) and Wu Wei Taipei International Filipino Film Festival in Taiwan (held Sept 1, 2024).

Locally in the Philippines, Chuaunsu got rave reviews from film critics for her outstanding performance as lead actress Jewel Ouyang. 

The film also boasts of Elora Españo (as Teresa, the caregiver); Boo Gabunada (as Kyle, lawyer-son of Jewel); Sophie Ng (young Jewel); and Benedict Cua (young Magnus, brother of Jewel).

Completing the roster of cast are Francis Mata, Jian Repolles, Tommy Alejandrino, Zoey Villamangca, Norman Ong, Nellie Ang See, Angela Villarin, Ashlee Factor, Matthew Seaver Choy, Roberto Uy Kieng, George See, Rolando Inocencio, Atty. Kesterson Kua, Atty. Allan Jao, and Dr. Philip Tan Gatue. 

"I'm so happy that HER LOCKET will be screened nationwide this coming January 2025, so many more kababayans will experience a film that is inspired by a true story," quips actress-producer Rebecca Chuaunsu.

HER LOCKET is in competition at the Jagran Film Festival in India. It is covering 18 cities, which started from Delhi and traveling through Meerut, Kanpur, Lucknow, Prayagraj, Varanasi, Bareilly, Dehradun, Hisar, Ludhiana, Patna, Ranchi, Siliguri, Gorakhpur, Raipur, Indore, and Darbhanga, culminating in Mumbai (Dec. 2024 - March 2025).

HER LOCKET has also participated in Marche Du Film - Festival De Cannes (2023) in France; London East Asia International Film Festival (2023) in UK; 22nd Dhaka International Film Festival (2024) in Bangladesh; and San Diego Film Festival USA (2024).

Don't miss to experience this rare cinematic treat starting January 22 in cinemas nationwide, distributed by Solar Pictures.

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Celebrating Chinese New Year at Amiya Raya: A Spectacle of Tradition and Feng Shui

Amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Metro Manila skyline, Amiya Raya recently played host to a vibrant and culturally enriching celebration of the Chinese New Year. The event, held at the prestigious residential community, captivated attendees with a fusion of traditional performances, insightful feng shui wisdom, and the stunning allure of nature's canvas.

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the mesmerizing dragon and lion dance performance, which unfolded against the backdrop of a resplendent sunset. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the cityscape, the rhythmic movements of the dragon and lion dancers brought the ancient symbolism of the Chinese New Year to life. In Chinese Culture, the lion symbolizes strength, stability and superiority, while the dragon represents power, boldness and excellence. Dances for both the auspicious creatures are performed during festive occasions as a means to chase away evil spirits and welcome in prosperous times.

Adding depth to the celebration was a special feng shui outlook presented by an esteemed international feng shui master. Attendees had the unique opportunity to gain insights into the ancient art of feng shui and its profound influence on harmony and balance in living spaces. The master's guidance provided valuable perspectives on harnessing positive energy flows and optimizing the spiritual essence of the environment.

In a personalized touch, property owners at Amiya Raya received individual feng shui advice tailored to their residences. This bespoke service underscored the community's commitment to holistic well-being and its recognition of the profound interplay between architecture, nature, and spiritual energy.

Be part of the Amiya Raya community through your own Shanti condominium unit - a medium rise, low density condominium that not only gives you a chance to own a piece of Amiya Raya but also a real estate investment that earns for you.

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Attract Luck in Love in the 2024 Year of the Dragon at SM

As we approach the Lunar New Year of the Wood Dragon, SM Supermalls in the east have all you need to get ready to attract all the wonderful things in 2024.

Attract “Luck in Love” at SM with auspicious charms, food, items, and activities at SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, SM Center Angono, and SM Cherry Antipolo. Each mall has decked its areas with vibrant red and gold, huge lanterns, money trees, heart arcs, and a giant cheerful dragon. Chinese horoscopes are also on display for everyone to check out their fortune in 2024.

Celebrate with family with sweet and sticky tikoy, fruits, dumplings, and noodles from Chinese restaurants like King Bee, Classic Savory, and Chowking for the Luck in Love Feast. Shop for lucky charms for the house and personal belongings at SM Store and at the Luck in Love Fair. The lively and festive lion and dragon dance is set to perform on February 10 to attract abundance for tenants and shoppers alike.

For more exciting events, follow SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, SM Center Angono, and SM Cherry Antipolo on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok. Xin Nian Kuai Le!

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Lunar New Year at the top!

Community Creators, Inc. welcomed the Lunar New Year through a celebration at its premier community development, Amiya Raya Highland Homes, in San Mateo, Rizal. Guests were treated to a colorful dragon dance and firecrackers amid the development's 270-degree panoramic view. Celebrity Geomancy and Feng Shui expert Ms. Rhys Suiza Schmidt also shared her real estate outlook for the year 2022 and conducted one-on-one consultations with lucky lot owners.

Amiya Raya is an exclusive residential enclave that boasts of majestic views of the city, Laguna de Bay, and mountain ranges. Located 240 meters above sea-level and enveloped by its natural environs, it offers resort-like living that is only a 15-minute drive from the city. Visit @AmiyaRayaOfficialPage on Facebook for more information on this highland development.

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AMIYA RAYA welcomed 2020 at the top

Real estate company Community Creators Inc. welcomed the Year of the Rat in an auspicious celebration at the high location of Amiya Raya Development in San Mateo, Rizal last January 26, 2020.

The celebration treated guests to a colorful dragon dance accompanied by heart-pumping drumbeats and firecrackers amidst the development's 270-degree panoramic view. As part of the event, celebrity geomancy and feng shui expert Ms. Rhys Suiza Schmidt shared her real estate outlook for the year 2020 and conducted one-on-one consultations with lucky lot owners.

Feng Shui expert Ms. Rhys Suiza Schmidt

Ms. Rhys Suiza Schmidt and one lucky lot owner in Amiya Raya

Amiya Raya is an exclusive residential enclave that boasts of breathtaking views of the city, Laguna de Bay, and mountain ranges. The development is working on the completion of its 1,400-square meter clubhouse and sports facility, an 11-hectare nature park, a village center, and a retail area. Situated 240 meters above sea-level and enveloped by its natural environs, it offers resort-like living that is only a 15-minute drive from the city. It is an Asian-themed development located in San Mateo, Rizal, which makes it close to places of interests such as schools, churches, malls, and government offices. In Hindu-Sanskrit, Amiya Raya means “a view that delights the senses”. Visit @AmiyaRayaOfficialPage on Facebook for more information on this highland development.

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Cute Piggy plushies from Miniso this Chinese New Year

If you want a cute display as we usher in the Year of the Pig, Japanese fast fashion brand Miniso gives a wide collection of cheerful and huggable pig plush toys that will surely give you good luck and positivity this year.

For children born in the Year of the Pig are distinguished by a rare cheerfulness, optimism, and never lose heart. It is impossible to find a sad child of this sign, he or she finds happiness in small things: communication with close people and friends, favorite toys, delicious food. He believes that life is given for happiness, any problems are easily solved, the main things is health, a positive attitude. It's advisable to get close with this kind of children to bring you happiness in the new year.

Behind kindness lies a determined nature that always follows their goals, but acts gently and tactfully without offending the dignity of others. Pig girls are gentle, kind, and caring. Pig boys, on the other hand, are valiant knights with a good heart. He reads a lot, knows countless interesting stories, strongly achieves his goals with dignity. Surround yourself with pig-sign people to attract positive vibes and to stay focused.

Channeling the positive, joyful vibe of the Year of the Pig, Miniso has adorable and fluffy pig plush toys in dinosaur and bunny costumes as well as huggable pillows, creative eye masks and novelty neck pillows.

Check out these Year of the Pig inspired plush toys available this February at Miniso stores in most SM Supermalls nationwide. Also follow @MinisoPhilippines at Facebook for more stylistic and quality affordable products.

   

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Crimson Hotel Filinvest City Manila celebrations for Chinese New Year

5-star Crimson Hotel Filinvest City Manila hosts the Chinese New Year celebration with grand welcome to the Fire Rooster this weekend.

The lobby is decorated with trees made of upcycled materials made by artist Jevie Pagpaguitan, whom started it with 2 of his friends and later on building his own empire of upcycled materials turning them into good aesthetic use. There are also merchants that are selling Chinese goods and charms that can bring luck, fortune or anything that you want good to come in your life.

Spring Village at Crimson Hotel

Charms and crystals for good fortune

Delectable buchi

Crimson Hotel's CNY-themed cake

This Sunday, January 29, they are having a Chinese New Year Sunday Brunch Buffet at the Grand Ballroom featuring Feng Shui expert Joseph Chau. He will give tips and forecast for this new lunar year for every one that will attend this grand feast.

I was lucky to hear a few forecasts and tips for this year and I am thankful that the Year of the Rat is one of the lucky signs. There is also good fortune as the eldest son in the family and I can't wait what this year will bring.

Suckling Pig served during the CNY Sunday Brunch Buffet

If you want to know Mr. Chau's forecasts and fortunes, you may avail Crimson Hotel's Chinese New Year Sunday Brunch Buffet this Sunday for only PHP 1,588++ per person. There are many courses that you will enjoy like the suckling pig. You will also get the chance to win a staycation at the hotel's Presidential Suite for 4. Call 863-2222 local 1612 for reservations.

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