Hong Kong! 香港!

12 - 14 June 2016

DAY ONE
I woke up early, stuffed a few last minute things in my backpack, and headed to Pudong Airport. I had a 2.5 hour flight on Spring Airlines, and Hong Kong was the destination! Several friends had traveled to Hong Kong, and I heard many great things about it, and I would be spending a day at Disneyland, so I was very excited! The plane hit the tarmac about noon. After successfully making it through customs, I exchanged some RMB to HKD, then immediately purchased a temporary, pre-paid SIMcard. It costs about HK$80 (~US$10), provides 1GB of DATA and unlimited local call and text. Being a single girl, travelling alone, I was not about to be phoneless.

After purchasing my SIMcard, I went next door and purchased an Octopus Card (HK$50 deposit, HK$100 on card). This handy little card works with lots of the public transit options, and from what I gather, can work as a pre-paid debit card at many places. It's a handy gadget to have if you plan on visiting or living in Hong Kong. If you remember to return it at the end of your trip, you can get your deposit and the remaining card value returned to you. I did not remember...

With a quick stop at the information desk and the help of a very kind lady, I found out where I was headed and how to get there. From the airport, I caught the bus to Tung Cheng Station where I walked the short distance to the Ngong Ping Tram. I paid HK$185 for a round trip, standard cabin tram ticket. Which may seem a bit overpriced, but remember... it's about a 25 minute tram ride to Ngong Ping, and if you're afraid of heights... perhaps take the bus? When the fog rolled in and the wind started blowing me around, it got a bit intense. The world around me essentially vanished for the last half of the ride up, and all I could see outside the windows was an endless sea of fog. Prior to fogocalypse, the tram provided a great view of the Tung Cheng area, the bay, and the airport.

When purchasing a ticket, their are two options of tram car. The standard, or for a little extra money you can get a car with a glass floor.

...I went with the standard...

The view before the world dissolved into a sea of endless fog.

There's lots of family friendly entertainment to do in Ngong Ping. Take a look at the website for more information on transportation, events, activities, sites and fares.

The Village of Ngong Ping has most amenities you may need while visiting. Food, drinks, souvenirs, entertainment, and even a Starbucks.

A short and leisurely stroll through the village and I find myself at the foot of the Big Buddha steps. 268 steps later, I stand in front of the 34 meter, bronze Buddha; shrouded in the seemingly ever-present fog. Clearly, today was probably not the greatest day for this. Sadly, time was not on my side so this would have to do. We can't have it all, I suppose...






The fog brought a rather Tomb Raider-esque quality to the place, I half expected Lara Croft to come running down the road, bow drawn, hunting down some malevolent treasure hunter. Instead, I just sweat through the tropical weather and chugged any cold beverage I could get my hands on. After I'd had my fill, I headed back to the tram for the return trip down.

Using my octopus card, I boarded the metro and headed into the city. I would take the metro to Tsuen Wan West. From there, I boarded the Royal View Hotel shuttle bus. After a quick check-in, I went up 17 flights to my room. I am pleased to say, my hotel room was lovely! I had a view of the sea and the bridges, and my room was spacious, comfortable, and well equipped.

In Hong Kong, for roughly $100USD a night, you can get a beautiful suite with a view. Though I did not partake on this particular trip, I did scan the room service menu and it seemed quite affordable.

The hotel also sported an indoor swimming pool, spa, bar, restaurant, cafe, convenience store, and sandy beaches just outside the door. After a shower to wash off the layers of sweat (glamorous, I know), and a quick power nap, I headed to Tsim Sha Tsui to find some dinner. As is the usual with me, I somehow managed to end up in an Irish pub, Delaney's Irish Pub to be more precise. This time, I found good conversation with some fellas at the bar, who will forever be remembered as South Africa, England, and Canada. It was quite the little English club we had formed. We joked and discussed the state of the world, and what brought us all to Hong Kong, and the trials and tribulations of expat life. Finding myself wanting to fall asleep at the bar, I bid them adieu and headed back to the metro and the shuttle bus.

DAY TWO

Up early and out the door! IT'S DISNEY DAY!! The early shuttle to the metro, the metro to the special Disney line, and I'm 2nd in line at the park gates! For the first time I am able to watch the cute little key ceremony they do each morning with a lucky little guest to open the park. Not a good enough view for a picture, but a view in the least...

Before the crowds really pack in, I decide to stop and capitalize on the photo ops with Pluto and the Mr. & Mrs.










At one point the Mrs. thought I was hitting on her man. I assured her there was nothing going on between us, and that he loved her unconditionally. He was very happy I said so.

Sure, going to Disney by yourself can be a bit of a drag... if you let it. But really, it's kind of great. Why? Single Rider Status! My longest wait time was 20 minutes, and it was for the Wondrous Book show (which is a must-see!). Though, I do admit it would have been nice to have someone to dine with, or converse with during whatever downtime, or to take pictures with. Which may have led to a future economic endeavor. I'm thinking "#singlerider" tees. Then when you see another single rider in the park you can high five and plan a time to grab some lunch later to discuss your various adventures and Disney escapades.

Due to my single rider status I rode many rides several times. In fact, I rode Grizzly Falls every time I walked by it, as I only had to wait 1 minute to get on. Only once did I feel compelled to use a fastpass and it was for Hyperspace Mountain... which I also rode several times. In short, being a single rider can be a big, fat WIN! You also get to stop, rest, and eat when and where you want. Which is a nice perk too.

I was able to plan accordingly and watch all of the shows provided in the park including the Lion King Acrobat (more like Dance) Show, Mickey's Philarmagic, and Mickey and Wondrous Book. The Wondrous Book show was by far superior to the others and worth seeing. I was a little disappointed with the Lion King show, but I've also seen the Broadway show in two different languages. So.... maybe I'm biased? Philarmagic was... so-so. It provides a nice, entertaining break from the heat. It is in 3D and multi-sensory. The senses of touch and smell are incorporated, which is a direction more and more live shows seem to be going lately anyways.





Similarly to the Anaheim park, Hong Kong Disney has Hyperspace Mountain. The Star Wars version of Space Mountain. I think it really does give a much needed kick to the old ride, and it's perfect for your inner (or outer) Star Wars geek.

The Paint the Night Parade was a fun show of lights and music. The lyrics switch between English and Chinese (sorry, I can't say if it was Mandarin or Cantonese.... my Chinese skills aren't nearly that impressive), and I was particularly impressed with how lights are incorporated into the different costumes.





Following the Paint the Night Parade was the Disney in the Stars Fireworks show. The fireworks show is probably my favorite part of any Disney park adventure. It's the perfect way to end a magical day and to enjoy the beauty of childhood, imagination, and creative storytelling. Not to mention some impressive projections, pyrotechnics and water works.

Following the fireworks, I made it my prerogative to beat as many people back to the metro as possible. I was ready to go back to the hotel, shower, and collapse into bed. While it was a very fun day, it was also a very hot and long day.

And so concluded my visit to Disney Park #5.

DAY THREE
After the long day yesterday, I decided to wake up at my own pace. I called my folks back home, and leisurely got ready to check out of the hotel. Which didn't take too long considering I only had a backpack.

Later that morning, I was on the Metro and heading toward Hong Kong Island. I enjoyed a walkabout downtown (definitely NOT because I was lost). After I got my bearings and turned myself in the right direction I stumbled upon St. John's Cathedral. Which was quite the site being surrounded by all these chrome, shiny, modern buildings.






I later arrived at the tram to Victoria Peak (aka The Peak). If you use your Octopus card here, you get a nice little discount on tickets. You can also refill your card here (or rather at the top, where the line is shorter).






The Peak offers lots of shopping, and dining, views of the city below (sometimes cloudy), and even a Madame Tussaud's! I strolled the shops, and gazed down on the buildings below for a while. I did a small amount of shopping, as room in the backpack was limited. I was able to FINALLY find a Christmas ornament for my Mother. Whew!





With some time to kill before I need to head back to the airport, I make the cross from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon Island and the Tsim Sha Tsui area. A friend had told me about Hong Kong's version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, so I decide to check it out.

Garden of Stars is a raised park and promenade, and is quite picturesque with Hong Kong Island and blue sky in the background.

Bruce Lee's statue. Cause he's kinda famous, ya know.












Rather than putting their handprints on the ground, where they will be trod all over, they're artistically displayed. I would guess it lights up after dark....

Power to the women in film and the performing arts!! Represent!

I head back to the airport via the express metro line for a 17:20 flight back to Shanghai. Exchange unused HKD for RMB. 

And thus concludes my quick trip to Hong Kong.

Nanjing! 南京!

27-28 April 2016

187 miles northwest of Shanghai is Nanjing, aka Nanking. Some of you may remember learning about the Rape of Nanking in your history or literature classes. One-in-the-same.

An hour and a half on the G-train and a short metro ride (the metro here is operated via coins, FYI) and I'm in the city center.

Upon emerging from the hollowed depths of the metro, I find myself in the middle of the war to end all wars. A single modern palace is besieged upon by opposing forces. The courtyard is no-mans-land, sprawled with friend and foe; wearing their chosen badges proudly as they partake in quiet discourse. Hushed tones plot the demise of the opposition under the shelter of branded canvas while each loyal vanguard clings to what's left of their precious black-gold. The battle field is littered with emerald and crimson placards emblazoned with their infamous insignia. Yes, it's the battle of Hogwarts, the Battle of Waterloo, of Yorktown, and Agincourt! It's... Starbucks v. Costa Coffee. Now I find myself plagued with the paralysis of indecision. Which side do you choose? ...Needless to say, I found this terribly amusing. 

Adjacent to the battle field, a memorial was erected to remember those lost to carbonated caffeine.

In the aftermath of Spring Festival, these forgotten, yet lovely miniature lanterns continue to grace the branches of this cherry blossom tree.

Umbrellas artfully strung above a courtyard to provide shade to passersby and diners.

A small pop-up market selling all sorts of handmade goods and trinkets.

A beautifully decorated patio adorned with stained-glass windows and foliage braided through the eaves.

The Gate of the Presidential Palace and the China Modern History Museum.

The Palace housed the Office of the President of the Republic of China since 1927 until it was moved to Taiwan in 1949.

Note: Republic of China and the People's Republic of China (or PRC) are not synonymous. PRC=Mainland China, while ROC=Taiwan. Learn more here.

Entering the Palace.

There was lots to see in this museum. Not all of it is English-speaker friendly, but many exhibits do come with multi-lingual placards. It's worth a tour, especially if you have a few hours to kill before you can check into your hotel room...

A Propaganda piece, in French.

Seems rather poignant these days...

You've got England, Germany, the USA, Russia, and Japan all wanting a piece of that China pie.

The Meeting Hall in it's original WWII-era state.

The Exterior of one of the many buildings on the property. One of the more beautiful, in my opinion. It's like New Orleans meets China.

A quiet place for a rendez-vous.

The old and the new.

I love the little bridges.

So well manicured!

A small pavillion atop a rock sculpture of... rock. I really had no idea what the deal was with all the rocks, so I did some research and here's what I found...

"Rock Gardens and Rock Decor

Every Chinese garden has some type of rock element. Some designers opt for a simple rock garden, while others construct miniature mountains from a collection of rocks. Sometimes gardeners make mountains from both rocks and dirt. Large, classic Chinese gardens will have a huge faux mountain with a pavilion located at the summit.

Rocks are chosen based on their shape, texture, substance, color and softness. Limestone rocks that have taken strange shapes due to erosion are among the most valued rocks for Chinese gardeners.

Meaning of Rock Mountains

Including a miniature mountain in the Chinese garden isn’t just for aesthetics. Mountains have symbolic meaning in Chinese culture, too. Mountain peaks symbolize virtue and stability. They also symbolize belief in the philosophy laid out by Confucius. Also, the legend of the Isles of the Immortals had a mountain peak as its main focus point, which is why the mountain is a central unit in several Chinese gardens."

From China Highlights

Hobbit Hole, anyone?

The beautiful garden.

Close up shot on a wall decal.

A royal throne for a royal tush.

A statue with another cool wall medallion.

More well manicured gardens, and beautiful footpaths.

A picturesque pond, complete with a bridge, hobbit hole, and Chinese landscaping.

Some important looking building sporting key elements of Communism-era architecture.

Feeling a bit knackered, I walked the few blocks to my hotel. The Golden Eagle Summit Hotel. I spoiled myself a bit on this trip and went for a Suite, complete with a view and a bathtub!! I made full use of that tub. Bubble baths really are wonderful!

After checking, I decided to see what I could find for dinner. A quick search on iMaps (yes, it works in China) and I found a good ol' Irish Pub. A 5 minute taxi ride later, and I am walking down a beautiful alley way that I imagine gets pretty busy on the weekends. I find the pub, and step inside. As it is still a little early, the only other person inside is a man, sitting at the bar with a guitar, singing an old folk tune. ...and I am dying inside a little. This is awesome. He sees me and immediately jumps up and lays the guitar on the bar. He greets me in a lilting Scottish (yes, scottish) accent and asks what he can do for me. I saddle up to the bar and ask what he can recommend on the menu. He says the Roast is quite delicious, so that and a Kilkenny is what I order. We sit and talk, just the two of us; swapping back stories and discussing world politics and whatnot. I also learn he is not just the bartender, but the owner of this fine establishment.

After a bit he asks if he might play me a song. I all but beg him to. So, he resumes his seat at the bar and strums the strings as he begins to wail out Wilde Mountain Thyme, a song I am very familiar with. The scene is so perfect, my eyes actually began to well up a bit. I was completely captured by the moment, I could hardly move for fear of ruining it.

Needless to say, the food was delicious, as promised. The atmosphere was charming and homey, and the service was wonderful. I would highly recommend this place should you find yourself in Nanjing.

Oh, and for all my fellow Oregonians... they have Rogue's Dead Guy on tap. Win!

After the delightful meal, I bid my farewells and caught a taxi back to the hotel. I made myself a lovely bubble bath, then nestled into my large, cozy bed.

I woke up early, checked out of the hotel and had the front desk call me a taxi. The first stop of the day was...

Hall of Sun Yat-Sen Mausoleum
Or, as I like to call it.... The Pilgrimage. There's about .25 miles of a slight incline, then another .2 miles of.... stairs. Shade is minimal, and the vendors have a monopoly on the bottled water service at the top, so pack it with you.

The first flight of stairs.

The next "set" of stairs...

A look back. You can see the path fade into the horizon...

What's at the top?  A Mauseleum to Sun Yat-Sen, a Chinese revolutionary, first president and founding father of the Republic of China, and a medical practitioner. He's one of the few people from the early revolution years to be honored by PRC citizens. You can learn more about him here.

After Sun Yat-Sen, I traveled across town to the Memorial of the Nanjing Massacre. This was one powerful Memorial. I remember learning about this in school, but nothing had prepared me for this. I couldn't begin to image actually experiencing an event like this.

300,000 innocent lives in 6 weeks. 

Halfway through, my gut was sore, and my tear ducts were barely hanging in there.

The first statue upon entering the memorial grounds.

As you walk down the side of the main building, you see these depictions of the brutality and heartbreak of the event.

300,000.

Three Hundred Thousand.

Trois Cents Mille.

Trecente Mila.

In remembrance. Let these atrocities never again be committed.

Iris Chang, Journalist, Historian, Human Rights Activist and Author of The Rape of Nanking.

An eternal flame burns in remembrance of those lost.

Never Again.

At the end of the memorial is a tribute to the pursuit of Peace.

PEACE.

Forgive, but never forget.