TRAVEL WATCH: JANUARY 31, 2000 VOL. 155 NO. 4

	ALSO IN TIME
	Getting Down and Dirty with China's Masses When Mao Zedong said China's strength lay in its peasantry, he didn't mean as a tourist attraction. But these days more and more visitors are eager to drop in on the masses Detour Don't be put off by the exclusive-sounding name of the Red Capital Club Hot Tip While the millennium bug proved toothless, the Year of the Dragon is about to roar into Asia

Hot Tip

KUNG HEI FAT CHOI: While the millennium bug proved toothless, the Year of the Dragon is about to roar into Asia. This most auspicious of years is being greeted in many parts of the region with parades and fireworks. One of the best shows will be in Hong Kong. The annual Chinese New Year Parade takes to the streets on Feb. 5, the first day of the lunar calendar, with colorful floats, performers from all over the world and, of course, dancing dragons that will wind through the waterfront areas of Central and Wanchai. The following evening will feature a fireworks show over Victoria Harbor. Tickets for general seating are $18.

SINGAPORE SWING: Not to be outdone, Singapore's Chingay Parade takes to the streets on Feb. 12. Chingay means "the art of masquerading," and the procession was once a purely Chinese affair. But Singapore's other cultural groups now join in, along with troupes from Europe, North America and all over Asia. Jugglers, stilt walkers, firebreathers, dancers and floats will fill the streets, along with an estimated 100,000 spectators. This year's procession starts at City Hall at 8 p.m. and ends in Suntec City.