So I arrive in Hong Kong on a very early morning flight from Manila. I very kindly leant my RG to some Americans who hadn't done any research into the place & then didn't see them again. Serves me right for being too lovely. Won't be making that mistake again. So after a trip to a local book store & $300 later I am ready for the city.
Well it is bloody brilliant I can tell you. The first shops I see are Harvey Nicks & Jimmy Choo. I so should have been brought here by the ex when I/he had money, although having said that, it woulodn't have lasted long. Initially I was staying in the Central district which was great. Very close to the bar & restaurant area of Lan Kwai Fong. Have had some brilliant meals & as is so true in Asia, the street food is great. Moved now to a great hostel in Causeway Bay.Well it announces itself as a hostel but I am in my own en suite room in an aprtment block right on Fashion Walk. In fact opposite a Vivien Westwood shop.
Been using the MTR like a local & have seen pretty much all of the north side of the island. Been to Kowloon & had a lovely Tanquery & Tonic at the Inter Continental Hotel. The view was completely fantastic. Was speechless for about 30 minutes just taking it all in.
Now have made a mojor decision & purchased my train ticket from here to Beijing on Friday. It takes 24 hours so that should be a great experience. Being a cheapskate I have the cheapest ticket going which is a top bunk in a carriage for 6 people. Officially called a Hard Sleeper. My Chinese Visa was very staright forward to get. I turned up on Tuesday having filled out the form. Handed it in with my passport. Returned on Friday, paid $360 & received the visa in my passport which is valid for up to 30 days in China & lasts for 3 months. Just have to navigate myself around the Beijing underground & change trains to get to the hotel which should be fun.
Then it's a month in China before heading off to Thailand & yes you guessed it, Ko Pha Ngan.
Off to watch The Lions V the Wallabies this evening. Fingers crossed that the boys play well.
Helen x
