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Saturday, March 17, 2012

Hong Kong- Dreams do come true

When I was younger, my parents tell me that I've been to Disneyland when I was a suckling. But they never really had pictures to prove them. That's when I knew, that such was a trickster. That I have never been there. It was a small dream. To see Mickey Mouse, Parade around Tinkerbell's Castle, Play around with Woody and Buzz. This trip fulfills one of my childhood dreams. Hong Kong- Dreams do come true.

First stop. MTR. The Railway is awesome, comparing to our LRT/ MRT. It is very convenient since it can bring you to most parts of Hong Kong. I advise travelers to purchase a Tourist Pass. It gives you all access for the Rail for three days, unlimited.

Standing up was even enjoyable since the view at the window is picturesque. Plus the coaches smell s good and they're neat. Some maintenance huh.
First stop is the farthest end of the Tung Chung line. That's the gateway to the Ngong Ping 360. It houses the Big Buddha and they Crystal Cable Car. Tip: This mall sells the cheapest, authentic stuff. Shoppers, mark this place.

This is the first ting that you'll see arriving from the park. It's damn cold in this place. Probably because your near the top of the mountains. The air smells great too. There's a lot of tourists around. And theres your long walkway towards Buddha's lair.

There's a lot of monuments too. I heard they're the local heroes. Or something...

The signages are traveler friendly as well. They have both translations in Chinese and in English.
Starting line. A small feat to accomlish? Perhaps. On our way to the top.
One of my favorite statues around the top. The Lotus Temptress.
The monks man the temple. They're very nice, accomodating, and they speak english. I'm very lucky that this guy poses for a shot. Big smile. :)
And here goes the "Chinese Martial Arts Movie" temples. For fans of this kid of trip (Like my mom), its a winner. They get to light a lot of colored sticks that gives up a lot of incensce.
Nope, this is not your firecracker shop. Souvernir's sold at a reasonable price. Next stop, Victoria Peak.
It is one of those most iconic landmark in HK. Located at the Victoria Island. It houses the highest place in Hong Kong. Perhaps, the most photographed spot in the country. It houses a grand terrace where you can view the city and the brightest lights at night. We called it a day for now. And prepare for next our next stop.
Day two. We rode a tram that contains Mickey's as windows and handheld devices. Wherelse, we're off to Disneyland :)
We started our trip at 9am. And we're looking forward on spending the whole day here:)
Dreams do come true. When I entered the gates, I felt yeah. This is Hong Kong, for real now.
This is the Main street, directly in front of the gates. It primarily contains a lot of souvenir shops. Tip of advice: Avoid this place for now. Enjoy the whole adventure, save shopping for later because the lines are horrible.

You can save yourself for the trouble though. There are some free rides for the elderly (EHEM...!)
Stinkerbell's Castle. The Sky dance will be viewed from here at night. No fireworks, for now.  This place is where the Disney Parade goes around. They usually do their routine when the sky is up.  It's a fun view to watch.
They invite little kids to join in the fun. That's my sister in pink waving the flag.
Of course, you have to see Mickey. We had our rendezvous below some coves at the fantasy park. We rode almost all the rides and had total fun. We waited for the Sky Dance.
The Sky Dance is the last show of the Theme Park. When they're having this, it means that the theme park is closing.
It's a thirty minute show that illuminates Stinkerbell's castle with a lot of fireworks and lights. What a way to end our day. Day three starts in a few.
Day Three is Ocean Park Day. Another theme Park, but it's a whole lot of different thing from Disneyland. The rides were superb, and breathtaking.
It's thrilling to see the surroundings when riding this roller coasters. If by some though luck, you probably fall off the crevice. Oh and you'll definitely die haha!
Kid's won't enjoy much since there are limitations to the rides that they can manage to do. My sister here was just contented to the surroundings though. After the tiring day, we went back to our hotel, and welcomed the night.
I love the surroundings at night. There's a lot of bright lights and people strolling around. The best part: Night Markets. We're off to the most popular street market in the Land. Ladies Market.
The Ladies Market is around Argyle Street. They sell bargains, but you have to know how to haggle for better prices. My cousin thought me how. Always cut the price in half. Then walk away. The vendors go chasing after you. Voila, cheap stuff.
And here is one of the most popular boutiques. SOS: You can't haggle here.


The Chinese's secret for the small frame, is walking. They really walk a lot. Oh and they're pretty fast. They remind me of the movie "In Time". Maybe every second is gold for them.
Plus the noodles, They're good, and cheap stuff too. That's why it's very seldom that you see fat Chinese. :)
And of course, I cannot say I conquered HK if I haven't tried their local booze. We got Chiang Tao, Blue Lady and Skol. I love the Blue Lady.
Hong Kong requires a lot of walking. And this place makes walking a lot of fun. Just play at being street smart at all times, and keep track of the MTR map. A very tourist- friendly place indeed. Hong Kong- dreams do come true...