Wednesday, Apr 24, 2024 | Last Update : 03:25 AM IST
Amidst the skyscrapers
The trip was pleasant mainly because the locals were friendly and warm to us.
A few months back, I went to Hong Kong along with my friends. I picked the country, because it has its own traditions and has a contemporary culture, as it got its independence from the British only in the year 1997.
I was there at the time of the New Year, when the weather was pleasant. I have to tell you, the New Year’s Eve was awesome and exhilarating at the Victoria Harbor!
What makes HK so special is that it’s unique in its own sense — it has many naturally-scenic places and also equally amazing man-made skyscrapers. It has mountains and shores as well, which are just an hour’s travel by road.
Since it was a seven-day trip, I visited as many places as I could — and among them, I would strongly suggest visitors to explore Victoria Peak, Lantau Island, Tsing Ma Bridge, Central HK, Statue Square and the Avenue of Stars. I also recommend casual strolls in the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok.
The trip was pleasant mainly because the locals were friendly and warm to us. I also noticed that they are disciplined, right from respecting the traffic signals, trashing the waste into common bins, etc. People maintained right conduct — which I think actually is inculcated from a very young age. Local transport is also very convenient — their metro service, which connects all important places, is very good and efficient.
I had a chance to try out several types of Hong Kong cuisine. The authentic local cuisine is healthy and they serve you mint, green or lemon tea instead of water everywhere. Their noodles are also different from the Chinese or the Mandarin ones, which we usually find in India. You can get various kind of meats ranging from chicken to crocodile! The best among all street food was the crispy chicken, waffles and fresh sugar cane juice you get in the streets of Mong Kok.
The ideal time to visit Hong Kong is during the winters — especially during New Year, as it is one of the most happening places during that time of the year.
Pack a few winter clothes as nights are rather cold. Next on my list is New Zealand, a beautiful country with lovely landscapes.
(As told to Balajee C R)
