Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, People’s Republic of China - Oct 24, 2011

Hong Kong, New York City on steroids, officially Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People’s Republic of China, consists of a mainland on the country’s southeastern coast and about 235 islands. It is bordered on the north by Guangdong Province and on the east, west and south by the South China Sea. Hong Kong was a British dependency from the 1840’s until July 1, 1997, when it passed to Chinese sovereignty as the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. When Hong Kong was returned to China in 1997, it had existed as a British colony for 156 years. The total area of Hong Kong is small, only 422 square miles: and the surrounding territorial waters cover 707 square miles. Hong Kong’s mainland consists of the urban area of Kowloon and the portion of the New Territories, a large area that became part of Hong Kong in 1898. Lantau Island, ceded to Hong Kong as part of the New Territories but often considered separate from that region, is the largest island. Located about six miles east of Lantau Island and across the Victoria Harbour from Kowloon is Hong Kong Island. The city of Hong Kong faces the harbour on the northern part of the island.

Hong Kong is a modern contradiction on the South China Sea. Its bustling business and modern architecture are juxtaposed against a way of life centuries old. One our first day in this incredible city, the Ensemble Travel Group, hosted by Cliff and Grace, gave us the Ensemble Experience which consisted of a boat, train and motor coach orientation that brought both aspects of this leading financial center into perspective.

After the picturesque sail we we off and crossing Victoria Harbour using the traditional crossing ferries of the Star Ferry. Beautiful. Pictured here is our guide, Wing (she called herself chicken wing to help us remember - she was a hoot).

 Then up to Victoria Peak on the funicular which gave us the breathtaking views of the Harbour and Kowloon.

 We then boarded a coach which gave us views of Hong Kong’s most popular beaches and beautiful hotels. We continued on to Aberdeen where fishermen and their families live on thousands of junks and sampans. We had the opportunity to travel the harbour here in one of the sampans and had an opportunity to see how families live in their floating residences. Some of these families do not set foot on land their whole lives as they consider it to be bad luck. 

 Jewelry maker.

 We then had a wonderful Dim Sum lunch at a local restaurant, Shu Zhai. For those who know me, I am not a big Dim Summer, but after this incredible lunch (with the safe Dim Sum), I am now converted. This restaurant was not of the high volume, bus tour type, the Ensemble travel group found and reserved the entire lower floor of this restaurant for our enjoyment and it was very much appreciated.

 Shu Zhai restaurant is in the famed Stanley Market district were we had some time to some time to stroll and view all the items that the vendors were selling.

 A wonderful tour as it was relaxed (a limited number of people) busy enough without being overwhelming and with no pressure in having to purchase anything. So we thank Cliff and Grace and the Ensemble Travel Group on this great tour, looking forward to what you are offering to us in Sydney.

Back to the ship for a quick drop off and then back out for an evening stroll on the sidewalk of the stars and the spectacular night laser, music show. None of our pictures would have done this show justice, if interested just go to youtube and and search Hong Kong Laser show I am sure someone has posted the ten minute show there.

 The night prior to coming to Hong Kong we received an e-mail indicating that some friends were going to be in HK the same time we were there. With room number in hand we strolled the ten minute walk from the ship and surprised called them from the lobby phone of the Intercontinental Hotel and although they had a black tie dinner to attend we were able to get together for a drink, it was wonderful to see Brian, Anna and their daughter Kate.

 Off for a night stroll to the night market. 

Tip or comment of the day. Seize the spontaneity moments although perhaps your schedule is limited.