Monday, March 23, 2009

hongkong fever

It`s been a couple of months since I wrote my last memoir on this page and men I really long for this. Well, to begin with a juicy and most up-to-date news about me (as if people are fascinated enough to know what`s goin` on with my everyday life. I hope so! Hehe). I never thought of making “over-the-bakod” to another country. It just so happen that I was chosen by the company I am presently associated with to attend a so-called “colloquium” in Hongkong. Yes you read it right. Indeed, I crossed the unfamiliar territory all by myself to explore a land away from us where cantonese cultures are greatly observed. Good thing that all of my travel documents were fresh that time so I don’t need to join the more-than-an-hour-waiting-in-line at the DFA office just to get my passport and other legal documents. I was propitious that time so all I did was to arrange my suitcases as early as possible.
Spending 3 days in Hongkong and a day in Macau were quiet fulfilling. From the time my feet touched the ground of HK airport; the very first thing that comes into my cerebrum was Disneyland. Yeahba! "I can`t wait to meet my childhood idol Mickey Mouse and the different cartoon characters which I adore since then" was the very first thing i said to a friend whom i met at the airport. hehe...I was amazed by the fashion sense of the native dwellers and the too many buildings therein with their colorful illumination glittering upon them. The food was scrumptiously delectable at a reasonable priced. But what really amazed me more is their transportation system where coins or cash in hands is a big NO to them. Drivers do not collect coins or cash from their passengers. They don’t have “kondoktors” or dispatchers too. Instead, you will used a passenger`s card or token which you had to pay first before riding the ferry or bus. The MTR (like MRT in manila) has a range of exits to adjourning streets, so one is secured from extreme walking. The weather was absolutely exceptional because I had to wear jackets even at noon. Grrr…

Well, the following are the sum of everything i`ve discovered in HK:

1. Food lovers and who are looking for a cookery delight – Indeed, you won`t be frustrated by the range of delicious Chinese delicacies especially dim sum, wanton mee and other noodle-based dishes. I tried different kinds of noodles and men it feels like I wanna crave for more.

2. Peace advocate or a clean-living citizen - HK is the best place for you. Crime rates are low, a soothing climate, a very affordable transportation fees, and government are for the welfare of everybody.

3. Fashionista - If you have a tastebud on a latest fashion technique, HK is a place where most modern fashion trends are always on the go. Ladies wore different colors of stockings with boots that are quiet impressive, and men wore different styles of "crowning glory" tinted with different colors. If you are a shopaholic and planning to go on a summer vacation, HK would be a must on your list.

4. E-Gadget afficionado – Gadget shops in HK are fair enough because they sell the newest and very-up-to-date gadgets in the world. I am an electronic gadget afficionado myself and yes cellphones, media player and other electronic artifacts therein are very affordable. I got my apple iphone now.

5. Disneyland dreamer - this is much pertinent to those southeast asians who are on a stiff financial resources but who still covet for an enchanting magical Disney experience. You can stay in one of the hotels in Disneyland (Hollywood Hotel). When inside the Disneyland, grab a copy of the Disney map because it will guide you to the different sceneries therein such as The Lion King show, The Disney magical show, Merlin`s Treasure, Small World Castle and other magical scenes. Disney parade usually takes place at 3:30pm and fireworks at 8:00pm. Remember, you are not allowed to bring foods inside that are bought outside the Disney premises.

6. Landscape vista - There is what they call a Shutterbus ride and you will definitely worship the dramatic landscape going to "The Peak" (where victoria tower is located). Each day around 8pm, there is a "Light show" at the Pier which is definitely fascinating. You can also find night markets everywhere which sells different kinds of souvenirs at a very low priced.

7. Casino fanatic – Venetian and Babylon casinos are found in Macau Which took you 2 hours to arrive via ferryboat.You don`t need to have a visa to enter Macau. I didn't get to experience to play inside casino but what tempted me most is the Babylon restaurant which served a buffet style of service. Yummy!

In general, HK is the best place to unwind, chill and relax with your family or loved ones and even friends. If given the opportunity, I'd definitely return to HK for both the food, panoramic scenery, and the shopping experience! Aja!

P.S.
Watch (or read my blog) for my next adventure in Palawan, Batangas Makati, Cavite, China and Thailand this year. Weeee….