I Was Wrong About Hong Kong

Its exactly one month ago today that I step foot in Hong Kong. It took me more than 50 years of my life to discover that it is an interesting country after all. I have been to many other countries but I deliberately choose to avoid Hong Kong for various reasons. For one, my idea of a vacation abroad must be filled with sight and sound of a totally different kind. I am Chinese so I thought it made no sense to go to another country where everyone speaks the same language as in my own city. As if I didn't fly out at all. I have also heard alot of unpleasant stories from friends who have returned from a Hong Kong holiday. The rude people being one of them.

On one account, a friend who complained to a restaurant manager that his waiter was mopping the floor under her feet while she was still half way through her lunch, was bluntly told that its alright for him to lose her bowl of business but he cannot afford to lose his staff! She was asked to finish her lunch quickly and leave! Another classic one was not to ask to touch and feel a product from a shop if you don't end up buying it. You will most likely get a earful of insults from the sales attendants.

Maybe that was many years ago when I gather those grouses. But now and after my visit to Hong Kong on 19th of February 2009, I have nothing but good things to remember about the intriguing and fascinating country.

Top ten most memorable moments I will always cherish about Hong Kong in a satisfactory way.

1. The Over-Hanging Street Signs
The most characteristic feature of Hong Kong. A clear reminder that you are right in the heart of this vibrant country. That's the first thing I encounter when I step into the streets of Hong Kong. Gave me such a thrill to realise I am no longer staring at any postcards but for real.


2. The Unique Food Taste
Dim sum and wanton noodles are totally out of this world unlike the ones we have in my country. Here is where you get original dim sum and wanton. The land that created and perfected it. Of course you have to know where to find the better restaurants. Thankfully we have HK friends to take us there.


3. The Reliable Public Transport
Trains, ferries or buses, they are always on time. We were never worried about being delayed or get caught in a traffic jam. Come to think of it, despite HK being a crowded city, I haven't seen any traffic jams. Amazing.


4. The Vibrant Harbour by Night
One of the most colourful skyline in the world captured with my own eyes. Needless to say any tourist like me will not miss the dancing neon and lazer light show by the harbour. The lazer show was not as impressive but the fact that I laid eyes on the most recognisable skyline is a sight to behold.


5. The Warm Hong Kong Friends
The Hong Kong friends are warm and friendly in a matter-of-fact way. Taking time out to meet us and one kind HK pal even throw an open-house party and invited us to join them. We were fortunate enough to be invited and caught a glimpse of how they live their lives. The picture above show us walking towards a condo. Rare occasions I cherish.


6. The Efficient Restaurants
From small cafe to fancy restaurants, they are always crowded but service is consistently efficient in as far as I have encountered. The waiters are alert and always quick to take orders. The food arrive fast and steaming hot. More importantly when you are especially hungry after a full day of touring.


7. The Cool Cold Peak
We took a tram up to the top of the peak over looking the entire Hong Kong captivating harbour. We were there at the right time to experience the cool winter breeze right at the top of the peak but didn't get a very clear view around due to the cold mist. But we got the idea.


8. The Unique Cantonese Sound
Everyone in Hong Kong speaks cantonese as if they are straight out of a Hong Kong TV or movie show. It's their intonation and the way they express themselves. I speak cantonese too but not as accurately since my cantonese has been mutated in a Malaysian way. So in a country where cantonese are used so skillfully from sales attendants to friends, I decided not to embarrass myself and converse in English instead. What a shame.


9. The Disney Experience
A whole new world. Check out Mickey Mouse speaking in cantonese when you are there. Never fail to amuse. Going on a Monday is a wise thing to do. That's because its not as crowded and we don't have to wait in line for any rides or entertainment. Even then, I have some younger friends who dashed from one rides to another giving me an impression that one full day is not enough in the land of Donald Duck.


10. The Pyjamas Party
After every exhausting day of wondering around Hong Kong, its nothing like hanging out with friends in the comfort of pyjamas. Sharing our life experiences and reflecting on the day's accounts complete with wine all round. It all boils down to one thing about this trip. Friends who travel with you make alot of difference in making a vacation more satisfying.


A Movie Sum Up of My Hong Kong & Macau Adventure:



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