When circumstances prevented Chinese guests Mr. and Mrs. Xu from returning to China to celebrate Chinese New Year with their son – whom they had not seen in over a year – the Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi team decided to bring the festive atmosphere to the couple on property. In Chinese culture, the Lunar New Year is the single most important holiday. The Spring Festival, as it is sometimes called, is not simply a celebration of the new year. It is a time of family reunion. For some, it is the only time they can travel home to loved ones all year.

Having stayed in the hotel for 359 days (and counting) since Feb. 18, 2020, Mr. Xu spent much of his time getting to know every member of the Front Office team, all the while pursuing his interest in learning English. This inspired the team to record a video of them performing a popular Chinese New Year’s song in Mandarin – a language they went out of their way to learn. They also sang the song in English as part of Mr. Xu’s ongoing language education in courtesy of various Front Office Hosts.

The kitchen team played their part. They prepared a custom amenity of egg tarts (a traditional dessert sometimes served during Chinese Yew Year) and oranges, which symbolize good luck in Chinese culture. To put a bow on the surprise, the whole team also delivered a personalized card and a special gift that marks the year of the Ox, the second sign in the Chinese zodiac.

Upon receiving the gifts, Mr. and Mrs. Xu were overcome with joy. They penned a heartfelt thank you letter days later accompanied by a sweet treat for the entire hotel. Though Mr. and Mrs. Xu have yet to reunite with their family in China, they are in the company of their friends at Marriott in the UAE – the family they choose – in their home away from home.