Though being far from their homeland, Raymond Tang and wife Isabel Yung, long-time residents of Costa Rica, celebrate the Chinese New Year every year to maintain the tradition of their ancestors.

In an interview with Xinhua recently, the typical family of Chinese diaspora in Costa Rica said celebrating the festival outside China is difficult, especially when it comes to teaching their children why it is important.

"Since my children were small, we have tried to teach them about the Chinese New Year. This is hard because we are not in China and there is no festive atmosphere outside the house. However, we teach them not to forget our roots," Yung said.

This is why the family's house, located in the east part of the capital San Jose, remains adorned with red colors and has its door covered in Chinese characters and panels.

The day before the New Year which fell on Monday this year, the family dined with close friends and other family members.

Yung believes the most important spirit of the Chinese New Year is family reunion and that is why family and friends often get together on the first day of celebrations in her hometown. On the second day, meals are lighter and parents are invited to their children's home, while on the third day, people relax at home.

The Tang family normally starts to prepare for New Year celebrations two weeks ahead and festivities last 15 days, with each day having a special theme and providing a new opportunity for get-together with the loved ones.

They also put delicious food such as fish, pork, shrimps, vegetables and sweets on the dinner table to express their wishes for prosperity and happiness in the coming year.

In addition, the Tang family was actively involved in preparation work for cultural activities planned by the Chinese community in Costa Rica on the occasion to offer locals a glimpse of China and bring the two cultures closer.

They told Xinhua that they hope the Year of The Monkey that is named after the intelligent and agile animal will bring good luck to all and bring good fortunes for their home country.

"I think people in Costa Rica know what Chinese New Year is. People called me and wished me a happy Year of The Monkey and all the best in the year to come," said Yung. Endi

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