Happy Lunar New Year!

Soon, it will be my seventh year of living abroad. Traveling the globe and living in cities different to my own, allows me to have the most unique cultural experiences.

For example, right now, we are in the midst of celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year here in Vietnam. I have only ever experienced this holiday in Hong Kong, where fitphyt is based, so it’s incredible to see the different ways in which it's celebrated throughout the world. In Saigon, the streets are filled with gorgeous yellow and pink flowers, and houses are decorated with traditional signs and offerings.

In the Chinese Lunar Calendar, 2019 is the Year of the Pig. It's believed to be a year filled with fortune and wealth for those who are born under this this zodiac sign. People who are born in the year of the pig are meant to be enthusiastic, happy and energetic souls that are successful and wealthy.

I was so intrigued to find out what my zodiac sign is, that I’ve included a list for you to check yours, too! Scroll down to spot yours. PS. I’m a snake :)

Festivities in the streets of Vietnam...

In honor of celebrating the Chinese festive season, I thought I would share with you a bit more about where fitphytleggings are made, and what happens behind the seams on a visit to the factory…

Our lovely manufacturing team are located in a province that makes up 2% of the whole of China. You’ll be surprized to know that this region alone, is twice the size of Ireland! Luckily, it’s only a few hours on the train from Hong Kong.

I love visiting our team, and often do so (sometimes up to three times a week! Call me crazy but I am committed to making sure your leggings are constructed well and in tip-top shape).

A typical visit would start (or end) with lunch at a local restaurant. It’s a great ice breaker, and a fantastic way to bond beyond all the pantone books, deadlines and misunderstandings! Lunch usually consists of lots of meat, veggies and rice, and consuming litres of traditional Chinese herbal tea! Delish.

It took nearly a year for me to find a team that I can rely on, and I’m so thankful to have found a manufacturing partner that are dedicated to bringing my visions to life. They “get me” (well, most of the time). Sometimes, there are issues like crazy stitching, colors that just don’t work or missed deadlines, which we tackle in person at the factory – another bonus. But all in all, we work closely together to make sure each style and pattern is created uniquely and beautifully for YOU.

I often end my trips to China swinging by one of the many gigantic textile markets for research and Instagram-worthy pictures (imagine a never-ending supply of bulk polyester in a rainbow of color), and a mani-pedi at one of the amazing salons (hit me up for a recommendation). I have added some pics for you to see :)

Inside and outside, the textile markets are filled with vibrant fabrics...

To this day, hopping across the border from Hong Kong into China, is my favorite thing ever. Not only is the landscape beautiful (think saturated green) and the food delicious, but it’s a big bonus to be located so close to our manufacturing team. In the coming months, I’ll be sharing more behind the scenes with you. This is just a glimpse!

xxo

Marelé

Check out the Chinese Zodiac Animal Chart below and let me know what your sign is by tagging @fitphyt in your posts :)