Year of the Horse:
Riding steadfast into the Lunar New Year

What does the Year of the Horse hold? The Experientialist® explores the Lunar New Year through the lens of travel, Chinese astrology, ambition and renewal. The Year of the Horse symbolises energy, independence and bold action – a call to embrace change, set intentions and navigate life with courage. We speak with eight (the number eight represents prosperity in Chinese culture) hospitality leaders of Chinese descent around the world, uncovering how they interpret the Horse’s influence on work, family and personal growth; and reveal what adventures, opportunities and challenges may await you in this high-energy, galloping year.

It’s that time of year when cities across Asia shimmer with lanterns, fireworks, the scent of incense and burgeoning hope. Alongside, Chinese enclaves in the rest of the world ready themselves for the upcoming Lunar New Year – a celebration steeped in heritage, superstition, family and most importantly, a profound sense of renewal. This year, the festival ushers in the Year of the Horse, a symbol of strength, freedom and forward momentum. For the billions of Chinese people and those of Chinese descent, it is a time not only to honour customs, but to pause, reflect and embark on one of life’s most meaningful journeys: the one home. Across the globe, travellers will crisscross continents, converging on ancestral towns and bustling urban centres to reunite with parents, siblings, extended and chosen family, a reminder that migration, travel and the tradition are, at their heart, about connection.

The Horse, in Chinese astrology, embodies energy, independence and ambition. Those born under its sign are said to be spirited, adaptable and adventurous, a natural reflection of the dynamism of modern travel. Yet beyond the symbolism, the Horse year is a collective call to action – a chance to harness determination and embrace change. Lunar New Year, therefore, is more than the exchanging of red envelopes or the whirl of lion dances; it is a shared human experience, a celebration of resilience and hope and a moment to set intentions for the year ahead.

Chinese astrology and its zodiac cycles hold a unique place in shaping outlooks on work, family and life. Belief in these signs is intertwined with aspirations for prosperity, health and harmony. The annual zodiac forecast guides decisions, inspires reflection and provides a framework for understanding one’s path. For those in hospitality who live and work across cultures and borders, the insights of the Horse year resonate deeply: it is about balancing ambition with care, mobility with rootedness and career with personal fulfilment.

In anticipation of the Year of the Horse, we reached out to hospitality leaders of Chinese descent, to ask how they feel about the year ahead. What does it mean for their families, their teams and their own journeys – both literal and metaphorical? Their reflections reveal that Lunar New Year is actually a reminder of why we travel, why we strive, and why, in every corner of the world, the call for connection is irresistible.

Jeannette Ho, Vice President, Head of Brand-Commercial
Banyan Group, Singapore

Zodiac sign: Rooster

What is the significance of the Lunar New Year to you? Lunar New Year is first and foremost about family for me, celebrating bonds with those close by and with loved ones across the world. One of the traditions I cherish most is “Lo hei”, a communal dining ritual famous in Singapore and Malaysia, centred around the eating of “Yu sheng/Yee Sang”, a colourful raw fish salad that symbolises abundance and prosperity. Family and friends stand around the table decked with various ingredients (each carrying its own auspicious meaning), lifting their chopsticks together to toss the salad high into the air while calling out blessings, hopes and wishes for the year ahead. The higher the toss and the louder the voices, the greater the fortune it is believed to bring. During the ritual, you will often hear people shout “Huat ah!”, a joyful expression that means prosperity, adding to the energy, excitement and sense of shared celebration.

One particularly memorable moment for me was introducing my European daughters- and sons-in-law to our traditions and celebrations in Singapore. Seeing them embrace these customs so wholeheartedly was a joyful reminder of how Lunar New Year traditions continue to connect generations and cultures in meaningful ways.

What are your aspirations in the Year of the Horse? On a personal level, I hope to find a more harmonious balance in life: prioritising good health, making joyful time for family across and staying grounded in work that feels meaningful and purposeful. Professionally, I hope to carry forward the bold, energetic spirit of the Horse, keeping that sense of momentum and optimism alive within our teams, fostering a shared Banyan team spirit that keeps us energised, connected and moving forward together towards a successful year ahead.

What is your brand doing to celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year? Across Banyan Group, Lunar New Year is an important moment for us to celebrate reunion, cultural continuity and a sense of place. This year, we are marking the season across many of our resorts globally, with special celebrations at all our China resorts and hotels, alongside thoughtfully curated experiences beyond China that honour Lunar New Year in a way that is relevant to each destination.

In Singapore, Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree is hosting Lunar New Year reunion banquets set within its rainforest surroundings, bringing families and corporate groups together over symbolic festive dishes that represent prosperity, longevity, and abundance. The experience blends traditional flavours with a strong sense of nature and togetherness, which is central to the spirit of the season.

In Vietnam, Banyan Tree Lang Co is marking Tet with an immersive calendar of more than 20 traditional activities, allowing guests to experience the richness of Vietnamese New Year customs, crafts and rituals in a deeply local and participatory way.

In the Maldives, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is taking a broader cultural approach. The resort celebrates Chinese New Year with a festive beachfront dinner that brings together symbolic Chinese dishes in a relaxed island setting, before transitioning into Ramadan observances that honour local Maldivian traditions.

Overall, our approach to Lunar New Year is not about a single uniform celebration, but about creating meaningful, place-led experiences that respect local cultures while celebrating the shared themes of renewal, reunion, and goodwill that define the season.

Jimmy Wong, Executive Chef, Yun House
Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Zodiac sign: Goat

What is the significance of the Lunar New Year to you? Lunar New Year is generally a time for family gatherings. Over the past decade, since I’ve been in Kuala Lumpur, celebrations have mostly been centred around dining together. While I am away from family who are in Hong Kong, I’m grateful to have met many customers who have become friends and invited me to their homes to celebrate together.

What are your aspirations in the Year of the Horse? To continue perfecting every dish and to preserve our Cantonese heritage by sharing it with the younger generation.

What is your brand doing to celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year? Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur will be celebrating the upcoming Lunar New Year with an exciting ‘Yee sang’ tradition, lion dance performances and a selection of culinary delights at Michelin-acclaimed Yun House. Guests can choose from three set menus: Majestic, Auspicious and Yun House Fortuity, with an additional option thoughtfully provided for vegetarian diners. There will also be a themed afternoon tea, with an extraordinary repertoire of sweets and savouries. Merging beloved Chinese flavours with classic European elegance, each bite carries a heartfelt wish for luck, longevity and prosperity.

Josephine Png, Area Director of Sales and Marketing
Capella Bangkok and Ubud, Bangkok, Thailand

Zodiac sign: Monkey

What is the significance of the Lunar New Year to you? Lunar New Year is, above all, a time of homecoming for me. I will be back in Singapore with my family and friends, gathered around the reunion dinner table, an annual ritual that grounds me no matter how global my work may be. One tradition we never miss is ‘steamboat’ (hot pot) and “Loh hei”, where everyone gathers to toss its ingredients together, sharing wishes for prosperity, good health and success for the year ahead.

Another deeply meaningful moment is when my mother gives out ‘ang pow’ (red packets) on Chinese New Year’s Eve, which we call “Ya sui qian”. Beyond the red envelopes themselves, it is the gesture that matters: a blessing of protection, good fortune and care passed down from one generation to the next. For me, Lunar New Year represents continuity – honouring where we come from, celebrating family and stepping into the new year with intention, optimism and gratitude.

What are your aspirations in the Year of the Horse? This year calls for momentum and fearless forward motion. Personally, I want to run with strength and vitality, honouring my health so I can keep moving with endurance and clarity. Professionally, it is about accelerating progress, leading with confidence, driving growth, empowering teams and unlocking new opportunities across markets, while staying true to purpose, people and long-term value.

What is your brand doing to celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year? At Capella, we welcome the Lunar New Year with time-honoured traditions brought to life in a refined way. Celebrations include a vibrant lion dance to usher in good fortune, along with festive touches throughout the hotel. For families staying with us, red packets are thoughtfully given to children as a gesture of blessing. It is our way of honouring tradition while creating warm, memorable moments for guests of all generations. 

For turndown service this month at Capella Bangkok, we offer a Feng Shui coin as a gift, blessed by our local neighbourhood temple. It is a symbol of protection, harmony and auspicious beginnings for the Lunar New Year ahead.

Mark Wong, Senior Vice President, Asia Pacific
Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Singapore

Zodiac sign: Goat

What is the significance of the Lunar New Year to you? Lunar New Year has always been a time for me to slow down and reconnect with family and friends. Having lived abroad for over 15 years and having a busy travel schedule, I have missed out on many family and friends’ reunions. Ever since I moved back to Singapore, I have made a point to host home-cooked dinner parties and honour festive traditions every year.

What are your aspirations in the Year of the Horse? According to Chinese astrology, the Year of the Horse should be quite favourable and complementary to the Goat. Therefore, I am very optimistic for the coming year. Professionally, I’m planning to discover new destinations and enrich my travel experiences, especially to visit and connect with places that value culture and community. Personally, I will be focusing on love – loving myself more and finding a partner in life.

What is your brand doing to celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year? At Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Lunar New Year aligns naturally with our belief in personal connections. Whether that means travelling home for reunions or travelling together as a multi-generational family unit, we encourage more purposeful travel through intimate dining and meaningful cultural moments. As part of our ‘Stay Longer, One Night on SLH’ offer, guests can extend their heartwarming memories by receiving one complimentary night on bookings of 3 or 4 nights or more when they book at one of the participating SLH hotels.

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What does your Chinese horoscope say about you and how you’ll travel in the Year of the Horse?

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Melody Wong, Director of Wine
The Peninsula London, London, UK

Zodiac sign: Horse

What is the significance of the Lunar New Year to you? Lunar New Year is all about family, reunion and celebration. We usually start preparing about a week in advance by making festive foods like “Nian gao” (sweet glutinous rice cake) and “Lo bak go” (turnip cake with Chinese sausage and air-dried meat) and decorating the house to welcome the New Year. There’s always plenty of food and sweet treats at home, which adds to the festive feeling. Growing up in Hong Kong, the Lunar New Year meant visiting friends and relatives, playing mahjong together and going to lively New Year markets filled with street food, crafts and lion and dragon dance performances. These traditions have made the Lunar New Year very special to me; it’s a time that brings everyone together and reminds me of home.

What are your aspirations in the Year of the Horse? The Horse represents energy, passion and success in the Chinese zodiac. People born in the Year of the Horse are often associated with positivity and drive, and I hope to carry that same energy forward. As we enter the Year of the Fire Horse, I aspire to embrace greater strength and enthusiasm in both my personal and professional life. I look forward to new opportunities for growth, pushing myself beyond my comfort zone and approaching challenges with confidence and determination.

What is your brand doing to celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year? For one month, The Peninsula London will be celebrating Lunar New Year with time-honoured customs, immersive experiences and contemporary artistry. From Tuesday 3rd February to Saturday 3rd March, the hotel will present a curated calendar of celebrations inspired by The Peninsula’s rich Asian heritage, ranging from Lunar New Year menus at Canton Blue, spectacular dragon dances in The Peninsula’s courtyard, room packages to a striking new art installation by Chinese textile artist Lin Fanglu, lent by The Peninsula’s Art in Resonance programme.

Nicholas Liang, Vice President, Operations
The PuLi Group, Hong Kong, SAR

Zodiac sign: Monkey (although an on-the-cusp Rooster!)

What is the significance of the Lunar New Year to you? Having grown up in Hong Kong, the Chinese New Year has always been a special and memorable time for me. As a child, I loved visiting family and friends and indulging in “Nian gao” – the sweet, sticky pan-fried cakes that instantly bring back fond memories of my Hong Kong childhood. In more recent years, the occasion has become a time for reflection and anticipation of the year ahead. Now, with two young children of my own, we try to preserve certain traditions – sharing family meals and enjoying our own version of the “Cheun hup” or ‘Tray of Togetherness’ (a sectional serving platter with eight compartments filled with candies and treats). After all, who doesn’t love picking at snacks from a rotating tray?

What are your aspirations in the Year of the Horse? I had a positively challenging Year of the Snake from a professional perspective. During that time, we established a new corporate office in Hong Kong and laid the foundation for a structured hotel management company – The PuLi Group – together with a talented new team. Looking ahead to the Year of the Horse, my personal aspirations are to maintain focus on my family and health. I feel energised and confident, and I’ve found a meaningful balance between what excites me personally and what fuels my professional passions. There’s so much to look forward to at The PuLi Group as we head into 2026, with a clear focus on purposeful growth and the exciting relaunch of The PuLi, Shanghai, marking a significant milestone in our journey.

What is your brand doing to celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year? We’re ringing in the Lunar New Year with gratitude for everything we achieved in 2025 and for the amazing team that came together this year. It’s the perfect time to reflect, celebrate and get excited for the new beginnings ahead!

Peter Yeung, Managing Director
Walker Hotels, NYC, USA

Zodiac sign: Boar

What is the significance of the Lunar New Year to you? Often seen as generous, compassionate and hardworking (though sometimes naive or indulgent), Boars are known for their sincerity, love of life and strong sense of responsibility, thriving in supportive, creative roles and valuing deep relationships, with potential pitfalls in overindulgence. These can be hit or miss … but for me, this is spot on. I am a true boar! I am a first-generation Chinese-American. My father immigrated our family from Hong Kong back in the mid 1970s. He owned Chinese restaurants when I was growing up, and each Lunar New Year was the only time he would cook at home for us. He would do it alongside my mother to prepare a festive, traditional New Year’s meal for our family. If we were lucky, he would make homemade dumplings and candied walnuts. I may be biased, but I still cannot find dumplings or candied walnuts that taste better than my Dad’s. He is no longer with us, but I’d like to think that he is cooking in heaven now.

What are your aspirations in the Year of the Horse? Horses are smart and sensitive animals and can feel your intentions and emotions. Personally and professionally, I want to be a better listener. I also want to grow my emotional intelligence.

What is your brand doing to celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year? Last year, Walker Hotels partnered with the Asian American Art Alliance for a special red envelope giveaway, offering guests the chance to win various prizes, including up to $500 in cash and a free hotel stay. The red envelope was designed in collaboration with Brooklyn-based Chinese-Indonesian artist Gentle Oriental, aka Gabrielle Widjaja. While we aren’t doing any promotions this year, Walker Hotel Tribeca is conveniently located near all the festivities in Chinatown, so guests can get into the spirit there!

Teresa Muk, Head of Brand and Strategic Marketing
Swire Hotels, part of The Set, Hong Kong, SAR

Zodiac sign: Ox

What is the significance of the Lunar New Year to you? Chinese New Year is probably my favourite festival of the year. There are so many annual rituals I loved growing up: our family dinners, where the whole table was covered with food, and I’d always get a new haircut, and we’d have to clean the house before the new year (to signify a fresh start). We’d then go to the special Chinese New Year flower market (where they also sold super fun items with Chinese New Year designs) to buy fresh flowers for the house, such as tangerine plants, and other flowers that signify growth, luck and fortune, such as chrysanthemums and sword lilies.

We’d then decorate the house with red banners and buy new clothes (not red underwear, though, you can Google the superstition around that!). We’d visit my relatives to get red packets, although now that I’m married, it is I who has to give out red packets! We’d also play Mahjong. The noise the tiles make, and the cheer and laughter, are still so evocative for me. Other rituals would include playing a dice game called “Fish, Prawn and Crab”!

Having married an Australian, I actually feel more Chinese than before when it comes to the Lunar New Year. I now double down on all the traditions: I write my own new year greetings on red banners, for example (it turns out my Chinese calligraphy isn’t all that bad). I also get the whole family, including my Australian husband, to wear traditional Chinese jackets throughout the whole week, and everyone gets to pick their own colours. One thing I do – that I find quite funny – is getting the kids to engage in what I tell them was a family tradition: making them kneel and say lucky blessings to their ‘elders’ – my husband and I – when they receive their red packets. Just don’t tell them that this wasn’t something I ever had to do as a child!

What are your aspirations in the Year of the Horse? According to my Feng Shui Master (she’s an old school friend), the Year of the Horse is not a lucky year for us Oxen. So, I will be lying low. Without the lucky stars on my side, I will have to continue to do things my way and hope for the best! I’ll work hard, play harder and find the most fun and interesting things to keep me going – play more tennis, do more pilates, eat, sleep, travel and continue to create amazing experiences for my favourite hotels at Upper House.

What is your brand doing to celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year? Upper House welcomes the Lunar New Year with a series of carefully considered celebrations across Chengdu, Hong Kong and Shanghai, each shaped by local tradition and the brand’s signature sense of calm.

In Chengdu, the season begins with a traditional lion dance, followed by calendar-making workshops, floral rituals and sound-bowl meditations, before culminating in a Chinese New Year’s Eve dinner co-created with the MICHELIN-starred Mi Xun Teahouse, showcasing refined Sichuan vegetarian cuisine.

In Hong Kong, festivities unfold above Victoria Harbour with firework-viewing stays through the ‘House Occasion’ room package, a celebratory five-course Chinese New Year Fireworks Dinner at Salisterra, and a limited-edition afternoon tea created in collaboration with Mi Xun Teahouse. 

Shanghai offers a more urban interpretation, with curated stay packages pairing elegant accommodation, spa rituals and festive dining at Sui Tang Li, including a special Chinese New Year menu and four newly introduced private dining rooms.

Together, these moments express Upper House’s approach to the season, rooted in tradition, elevated by design and guided by intention, renewal and a deep sense of place.

Portrait photography courtesy of respective individuals