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Hello
As you can see I am now in Hong Kong, and its amazing.
I arrived on 2nd September at 16:00 and after navigating myself round Hong Kong airport and getting through customs my friend Celia was waiting for me.
The Airport Express to Hong Kong Island was really straight forward, then we decided to get a taxi to the hotel. They are so cheap (26HKD)! (but not as cheap as public transport). Driving through Central Hong Kong onto Wan Chai was overwhelming, there was so much to see and never being to a place like Hong Kong before was far different to what I expected. However after an hour or so of being here I got use to the pace of Hong Kong life.
After a much needed shower, Celia took me to Stanley Market for dinner. This was my first experience on a Hong Kong bus. We ate at Mueey House, which is a English style building, which they had move from Central Hong Kong to Stanley Market. We had a range of asia food. Some of which I enjoyed. I recommend the Veg spring rolls. I think the resturant was called Chilly and spice but Celia was unsure of the english name.
Stanley market is also where the Maritime Museum is located in addition to markets, however they were closed by the time we got there.
3rd September
Yesterday was a fab day. We took First Ferry from Hong Kong Island to Lantau (22 HKD), which was about 30min journey. We then took the number 2 Bus to the Big Budda and Po Lin Monastery. The bus was only 16HKD for about an 1hr journey. This was a great trip through the Hong Kong countryside going through many small villages. On arrival to the Giant Budda, I was surprised how much of a tourist attraction it was, however, it was still peaceful.
After climbing the many steps to the top of the Budda, you can enjoy amazing views. You can go inside the Budda, but have to pay for a meal ticket. The food they offer is noodles and a desert. I did try them, but I have to admit I was not very keen (but I am just to fussy). The Temple was peaceful, and a calm haven from busy Hong Kong Island.
Celia took me to another temple, called Guan-Yin which was in between Po Lin and Tia O. I found this Temple to be an oais of calm and amazing views. There was no tourist here as it is off the tourist track, but definatley recommend. They have a room which has 10 thousand tiny budda going to the top of a dome. During my time here I was bless by a monk. Everyone was so welcoming.
Tia 0 is a tiny fishing village, which we visited next. On arrival we went on boat trip to see Pink Dolphins and the village housing. They living in housing that go over the river. They dont look very stable, but apparently they have never been affected by the storms. We didnt see any Dolphins but the trip was a great chance to take many photos of how the community live. Celia had to do a lot of interpreation for me during this visist, but the locals are able to speak limited english. There is also a lot of dry fish stalls and other market stalls. During my time here we met Celia Great Aunt and Uncle who have a dry fish shop. Whilst with them, I did feel lost in translation. I really recommend visiting here, as its full of character and I got a feel for how Hong Kong use to be.
Tia O is about 45 min from the ferry port. This cost 10 HKD and we took number 1 bus back.
In the evening I went to the Peak in Hong Kong Island. I had dinner here with Celia and Thomas. The views from the view point were amazing You could see Kowloon and Hong Kong Central, and some of the light display. It was also so romantic. we were very luckly as the weather was perfect. I was treated to Dinner at Cafe Deco, which was slightly more expensive than your average resturant, however for a one off its is really worth while. The restuarants have amazing and breath taking views of the Hong Kong sky line and at night the lights for the city make it really special. The only down side was the number of people fighting to see the view. There is also good shopping here although a little pricey.
Well today I am off to Kowloon, visiting many markets. I cant wait to experience another side of Hong Kong.
Lots of love
Helen
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