Hong Kong

A bustling metropolis. 

Hong Kong is best known for its glossy skyscrapers and world-class attractions. The sights and sounds of this country describe its history, culture, and architecture. 

Traveling to Hong Kong is easy.  Visa is not required, and the airfare is not expensive coming from the Philippines.  This is a popular destination for Filipinos.  Hence, I have traveled to this country 3 times.  

My first trip was with my sister, Liz, and my college best friend, Marichu.  My sister then was building her chance to get a US visa, so she needed to travel to another country to prove that she could financially travel to the US. During those years, I was financially blessed with my business, so I sponsored her trip and lend my best friend the cost of her airfare. 

We stayed in a fancy hotel in Hongkong.  I bought an all-inclusive package, and part of it was a day tour to the "Window of the World" in Shenzhen, China.  It is a theme park with reproductions of tourist attractions in the world. We were able to travel the world in one day!

                                     

                                     

My second trip was with my 2 kids, Joshua and Mary.  I sold my condo and was preparing to immigrate to the US. I wanted to travel with them before leaving for the US.  Hong Kong was an easy choice, so we could enjoy Disneyland together. Disney is always a fun place to go.  We had fun.

I bought a package deal and stayed in a fancy hotel with an infinity pool overlooking the skyscrapers.  It was a fantastic view.  We went to Victoria Harbour, which is Hong Kong's biggest pride. We had a photoshoot with Jackie Chan and other Hong Kong celebrities at the "Avenue of Stars," a version of Hollywood's Walk of Fame. 

It was a fun trip to remember.  

                                 

                                 

                                   

                                  

                                  

The most recent trip was with my sister, aunt, sister-in-law, and son, Joshua.  It was a trip I've promised them.  I went back home to the Philippines for my son Jonathan's wedding, then we traveled to Hong Kong on Mother's Day. Plus, I bought them a Mother's day shirt that we wore together. 

My niece, Karen, who works in Hong Kong as a Civil Engineer, was our tour guide and sponsor.  We took a tram ride to "The Peak." It is the highest point in Hong Kong, the city's most exclusive neighborhood since colonial time, and the most popular attraction in Hong Kong. They said that if there's only one thing you can do in Hong Kong - go to The Peak. The view was spectacular.

We met some of our favorite celebrities, historical and political leaders at "Madame Tussauds Wax Musem." It was super entertaining.

Night Market is popular with visitors, so we didn't skip that.  It was challenging to haggle for the price, and the choices were overwhelming. You name it, you can find everything there.

At night, the skyline changes as the city lights fill the scene.  We watched the symphony of lights at the Star Ferry dock, which is the best location to watch the symphony.

We went to Hong Kong Park and visited the Museum of Tea Ware. Another way to experience Hong Kong is to give street food a go.  So we tried it, and we bought our favorite siopao. I love Chinese food, so eating authentic Chinese food was a pleasure. 

There are many Filipinos who work in Hong Kong because it is our neighboring country.  You will see them on the streets during their days off hanging around with friends.  

Most people and tourists use public transportation.  It's fast and efficient.  Hong Kong airport is named as one of the best and busiest airports in the world.

I love this slogan of a famous cosmetic brand, Sasa.  It says, "making life beautiful." 

Like New York City,  Hong Kong is densely populated and full of the hustle and bustle. It is a unique cosmopolitan city that should be on your list of countries to visit.