Chinese whispers
The Chinese new year is celebrated with exuberance in Hong Kong, with dragon dancers the star attraction at the main parade on the waterfront at Wan Chai and fireworks over Victoria Harbour. This year's celebrations fall on February 1.
Seven nights over the new year at the Hotel Inter-Continental, Kowloon, cost from £1,470pp with Bales Worldwide (0870 2413208, balesworldwide.com).
Carnival time
Mardi Gras in New Orleans is North America's biggest carnival celebration, a colourful pre-lent party and parade spilling through the streets. This year's celebrations climax on March 4.
Four nights from March 1 at the downtown Ramada Inn cost from £545pp with Funway Holidays (020-8466 0222, funwayholidays.co.uk) including flights. Extra nights from £41.
