Friday, June 28, 2013

Everyday Things

Here's a bit about our neighborhood and getting around town - and my favorite snacks.

Our apartment is located on the border of the Central and Sheung Wan neighborhoods near the corner of Gough and Aberdeen Streets. Gough St and the Sheung Wan neighborhood are an up and coming part of Hong Kong. Even since Sam moved in 9 months ago, he's seen one of his favorite dinner spots close down because the rent is increasing like crazy. This seems to be happening to several smaller shops in the area while high-end boutiques and name-brands like Ralph Lauren Kids move in. Our Sheung Wan stop on the MTR (public light rail) is currently the last stop on the west end. Work is underway on two more stops after ours, so the area is growing pretty quickly right now.

Our apartment building. 14 June 2013

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Dragon's Back

After spotting a clear day in the forecast, Sam and I made a plan to take advantage after having quite a few rainy days last week. Yesterday, we hiked Dragon's Back, one of Hong Kong's most popular trails. A relatively easy trail, with beautiful 360-degree views and an end at the beach was impossible to pass up on such a gorgeous day.

We took the MTR over to Shau Kei Wan, then took a light bus to the beginning of the trail. We were greeted immediately by some large spiders (about 5" diameter with their legs) in their webs for a reminder to always be on the lookout. As usual, it was 90 degrees and about 90% humidity, but we did our best to protect against the sun and were fairly successful. At the end, I resorted to using the umbrella for cover which I have always thought a silly idea, but completely understand now.



Dragon's Back Hiking Trail + Sam. 19 June 2013

Friday, June 14, 2013

Rainy Days


I've been in Hong Kong for just over 4 weeks now and realize that I was very lucky in that first month. Aside from the obvious - being able to live in Hong Kong - the weather was gorgeous. It was generally sunny with very little rain and several days that felt like the sun was bobbing alongside me as I walked down the street instead of 93 million miles away. That changed this week and I'm reminded what this region of the world can be like. You guessed it - rainy!

The first downpour we got caught in was on Monday night with another couchsurfer friend, Mario. Sam and I were showing him our favorite bars and upon leaving Le Boudoir, we were met with a rain that stops you in your tracks if you were previously planning a move outside. After attempting to stealthily move from doorway to doorway to avoid the rain, we realized it was useless and just ran around in the rain - which is pretty enjoyable when it's 85 degrees and you don't have to worry about looking nice at your destination (in this case, home).


Rain seen from Le Boudoir's doorway. Central, Hong Kong. 10 June 2013

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Victoria Peak

With Sam's schedule having Tuesday/Wednesday off work, we are currently enjoying our weekend. We took advantage of the beautiful weather we've been having and hiked up to Victoria Peak which is probably the biggest tourist attraction in Hong Kong. At a humid 90 degrees, we worked up a very real sweat climbing straight up the mountain but were rewarded with one of the most beautiful views of the city. If you look closely, you can see the rubber duck! Just in case that doesn't work - I took a photo through the telescope for you.


Hong Kong as seen from Victoria Peak. 4 June 2013