Hong Kong Travel Blog

Hong Kong Chinese New Year Firework 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:42:00 +0000

It is a tradition in Hong Kong that on the 2nd day of Chinese New Year, firework will be shown atop Victoria Harbour. I live on Hong Kong Island, so my best place to view firework is Wanchai ferry. In fact I must say viewing firework from Tsimshatsui waterfront is the best. Below I've borrowed a photo from Ming Pao which is taken from Tsimshatsui and is really stunning.

Weather is really cold this year - only 8 degrees and it was quite freezing standing for 23 minutes outdoor at the harbour front. Even so, there are thousands of people crowding over both sides of the Victoria Harbour, not to mention people viewing the show from boat cruises, restaurants, offices and homes with harbour view.

Firework at Victoria Harbour 2012

Photo source: Ming Pao

Next year if you happen to visit Hong Kong during Chinese New Year, don't forget to view the firework show at 8pm on the 2nd day of Chinese New Year.

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Firework 2012

Chinese New Year Photos in Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:39:00 +0000

As Chinese New Year is approaching, the city of Hong Kong is getting more and more colourful. Shops, restaurants, homes, everywhere - people are beautifying places with flowers and all kinds of CNY decorations. Let me share with you some of the views of Hong Kong.

Large floral decorations at Pacific Place Shopping MallA Close Up of the Tao Hua. May be weather is getting warm, flowers are opening up quickly.
Red and gold are typical Chinese colours at Chinese New Year. A big new year decoration at the shopping arcade of Times Square.

Even on a street, you can find decorations like this - Russell Street, outside Times Square.

My office is here at Times Square. Here are the tangerines at the lift lobby.

Almost all commercial buildings are deocrating their lift lobbies. Here's another one resembling the year of Dragon.

Chinese like gold bars, gold cubes, gold everything are used to decorate display windows.
The floral arrangement within hotels are added some Chinese colour as well. The yellow ones are only available around Chinese New Year.
Some traditional new year decorations outside a hotel restaurant.
The reception areas of a Chinese restaurant. See beautiful floral arrangements.

Even MacDonald's is adding some Chinese taste to its cappuccino. I really don't know how they turn their house symbol 'M' into this Chinese character 'fortune'. Wonderful!

Chinese New Year Dim Sums are all given good names. The dumplings below have pork's tongue, dry oyster and hairy vegetable - all related to profit, good business and lucky money.
Pork's knuckle is also a must-eat during Chinese New Year, meaning lots of lucky money throughout the year.

City Views of Hong Kong - Chinese New Year 2012

Cantonese Opera Day

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 11:42:00 +0000

Today is the Cantonese Opera Day in Hong Kong. In fact, this event has been held on the last Sunday of every November since 2003.

November is the month with best weather in Hong Kong - clear sky, sunny but cool. We gather around at the Cultural Centre at Tsimshatsui for a fun afternoon. I have been a volunteer worker of the event for many years. I love watching Cantonese Opera and it's fun doing volunteer work at the same time.

There are many venues around, both outdoor and indoor, featuring various opera shows, seminars, exhibitions, games and autograph sessions.

This year there is something new - English Guided Tour. I was assigned to that area to help with the guided tours. If you happen to visit Hong Kong by end of November and want to see some life shows of Cantonese cultural heritage, this is a very good event. And it is FREE.

Below is the major stage with the beautiful Victoria Harbour as the backdrop.

Now let's see a show in motion. There are six Cantonese Opera Excepts in this area. Some of the shows were more focused on singing, some on fighting, and some on both. Below is my favourite show - Monkey King.

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Cantonese Opera Day

Sedan Chair Race and Bazaar 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 11:34:00 +0000

Today is Halloween and also the The annual Sedan Chair Race and Bazaar, hosted by the Matilda International Hospital. If you happen to visit Hong Kong by end of October, you would have the chance to share the fun.

The First Sedan Chair Race was inaugurated in 1975 with four entrants running for "The Matilda Hospital Shield". In 2011, this annual event has over 50 teams participated from a wide cross section of Hong Kong's schools, clubs, associations and corporations competing for numerous trophies and raising funds for charity.

Today 30 October, 2011, our company participated in the event for the first time, so we were very excited in going up to the peak early in the morning as cheer leaders.

I’m really impressed that most of the companies are very dedicated in decorating their sedan chairs. Similarly our company and our team put in a lot of effort in practicing, decorating and fund raising.

The chairs have many themes, here are some of them.

Hudson Shrek

Elvis Presley - from which organisation?!
DFS's Guitars

Morgan Stanley Piano

The Yellow Submarine of Noble Group
The Honorable Guest of the Event is a TV Star

Teams of eight, carrying sedan chairs with ‘life human’ passengers racing around the Peak on a route of 2.1km start and end at The Matilda International Hospital.

Here are the trophies.

The fund raised goes to support charitable organisations that generally do not receive assistance from the government or other major charity bodies.

Teams from a broad cross-section of Hong Kong – corporations, associations, clubs and schools – are all welcome to join the Race.

For more information, visit Sedan Chair Race and Bazaar 2011 official website

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Sedan Chair Race 2011

Bird Viewing in Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 13:46:00 +0000

If you are a fan of bird viewing, Hong Kong has some excellent sites to offer.

The Wetland Park is rich in mangrove birds and some of them are close to extinction such as Black-faced Spoonbills. If you enjoy watching birds in the wild, it is certainly an ideal site which has a lot of visitor facilities.

If you don’t want to travel a long way to the Wetland Park, there is a more convenient way to watching birds. Hong Kong Park has an aviary with plenty of bird species. Apart from the birds living inside the aviary, there are also many other types of bird habitants including the beautiful Cacatua Sulphurea 小葵花鳳頭鸚鵡. Bird watching groups gather here every Wednesday. Depending on opportunities, they may even set up binoculars for visitors to view the wild birds they’ve spotted. I had that chance to share the fun last week.

Last Wednesday October 5 was actually the Double Nine Festival (9th of September in Chinese calendar) and it’s a public holiday in Hong Kong. According to Chinese tradition, we need to go up to high altitude in order to avoid bad luck. Hence the Peak Tram line was long and other public transportations going up to the Peak were full. We’ve therefore decided to go mid level where the Hong Kong Park is. Conveniently situated in central Hong Kong, you can easily access the Park by MTR. Get off at Admiralty and you’ll be connected to the Park by escalators.

On a regular day, you can go watch the birds at the aviary and then continue to go up to the Peak, as the Peak Tram station is just next to the Park. Alternatively you can visit the Tea Museum within the Park. Also next to the Park is the Bank of China where mini exhibitions are usually held at the lobby. On the day of our visit, we decided to go there to see The Living Earth exhibition.

Back to bird viewing, below are a few of my photo collections. Hey, I’m not a professional photographer and birds are not photogenic models. The photos I’ve taken were results of luck.

Maroon-breated Crown Pigeon 紫胸鳳冠鳩

Bali Mynah 長冠八哥Red Lory and Wompoo Fruit Dove
紅頂吸蜜鸚鵡 / 巨果鳩

Australian Pelican 澳洲鵜鶘

Crested Pigeon 冠鳩

Java Sparrow 爪哇和雀
Following instruction, you can exit the Park and cross the road to the Peak Tram station.
Bird Watching Sites in Hong Kong
Bird Species in Hong KongHong Kong Travel Blog - Bird Viewing

Disneyland Hong Kong Visiting Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 14:34:00 +0000

Disneyland Hong Kong is celebrating its 5th anniversary in 2011 by price increase. Effective August 1, the Park’s Day Pass will go up to HK$399 which is a 14% increase. I went there just before the price raise.

Though there are lots of fun inside the Park, but you need to be well prepared if you go on a hot summer day. I’ve gathered some tips based on my experience yesterday. Here you go.

Some Tips of Visiting the Disneyland Hong Kong in Hot Summer Days
1. If you go in May, June, July or August, temperature can go up to 32 degrees or 33 degrees with lots of sunshine. It is better to go in late afternoon, say after 3pm. There are several advantages of doing so. The sun will set around 7pm. But soon after 6pm, it will be less hot.
2. The queues are relatively short. You’ll spend less time waiting, hence can play more games or see more shows.
3. Bring lots of water or some snacks if possible. There are restaurants and drinks available in the Park but VERY expensive. Bottle water of 500 ml will cost HK$20 (US$2.56) or a hamburger with chips will cost HK$80 (US$10.25).
4. Make sure to wear sun block and bring with you an umbrella and a hat. A handkerchief or towel will help as you are likely to sweat a lot.
In fact, spending six hours in the Park is quite sufficient. If you go around 3pm, you can view the Parade at 4pm and wrap up your day by seeing the firework at 9pm.

I arrived at noon time and left around 7pm and managed to complete the following 8 games / show plus sightseeing on the Main Street and shopping.
1. Fantasyland Train 幻想世界火車
2. Cinderella Carousel 灰姑娘旋轉木馬
3. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh 小熊維尼歷險之旅
4. Mickey’s PhilharMagic 米奇3D立體電影
5. Mad Hatter Tea Cups 瘋帽子旋轉杯
6. It’s A Small World 小小世界
7. Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters 巴斯光年星歷險
8. Festival of the Lion King 獅子王慶典

The MTR Disney Station is very beautiful and modern.

Some General Information About Disneyland Hong Kong
Opening Hours: 10am – 9pm
Firework: 9pm
Parade: 1pm and 4pm
Transportation: MTR, take Tung Chung Line, change at Sunny Bay, get off at Disney Station.
Official website: Disneyland Hong Kong

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Disneyland Hong Kong

Dragon Boat Festival in Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 12:49:00 +0000

Dragon Boat Festival – the 5th day of May in the Chinese calendar, falls on the 6th day of June in 2011. It is an important festival in Chinese tradition. In Hong Kong, the two most important traditions are the eating of Rice Dumplings and Dragon Boat Races.

It is a festival in memory of the patriot poet Qu Yuan who committed death exhortation to the emperor by drowning himself in 277 BC. The origin of rice dumplings were meant to be thrown into the water so fishes eat the dumplings and won’t eat the body of Qu Yuan. Likewise, the dragon boats were there to create noises to scare away the fishes.

Grand Dumplings (裏蒸糉) - with lots of stuffing

Alkaline Water Dumplings (碱水糉) - on the right hand side, yellow in color

If you were a food lover, you may want to know that there are three major categories of sticky rice dumplings to be eaten at Tuen Ng Festival, which is also known as the Dragon Boat Festival. The default dumplings (咸肉糉) were generally made of sticky rice, boiled green bean with stuffing of stewed pork and typically a salty egg yolk. The grand dumplings (裏蒸糉) are usually larger in size and have more stuffing like mushrooms, chicken and many others. The sweet dumplings are named alkaline water dumplings (碱水糉) in Chinese, usually with some lotus seed paste as stuffing. They are generally longer and slimmer in shape.

Unlike other festival foods, rice dumplings are available in restaurant throughout the year. Of course, most people would love to eat them around Tuen Ng Festival. Some people made them at home, some choose to eat at restaurants. I am someone in between. I bought them as take-away and eat at home. Here were the default dumplings that I ate at home yesterday, which was the day of the Dragon Boat Festival.

Click here to find out how rice dumplings are made.
Just a few photos on dragon boat race

Participants compete in a dragon boat race to mark the annual Tuen Ng or Dragon Boat Festival at Hong Kong's Aberdeen fishing port June 6, 2011. The festival is commemorated in memory of Chinese patriotic poet Qu Yuan, who drowned himself on the day in 277 B.C.
(photo source: news.nationalpost.com)

Click here to find out more about Dragon Boat Race in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Dragon Boat Festival

Red Trees in Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Sat, 28 May 2011 13:43:00 +0000

If you visit Hong Kong in the months of May or June, you are going see sights like these. Red trees everywhere. Being a native Hong Konger, I just can't stop myself behave like a visitor. Today (May 28, 2011) I go to the Victoria Park and take these photos. Hope you like them.

I am trying to take some close up of the flowers, but I'm not a professional photographer. And my camera is not professional also. But if you want to take a good look of the flowers, visit my friend Gao Lao's blog, his flowers are brilliant.

The building behind is Hotel Park Lane. If you want to have a good view of the Victoria Park and the red trees, do book a room with a park view.

Red Trees in motion.

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Red Trees at the Victoria Park

Lamma Island Outing and Seafood

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Mon, 09 May 2011 14:55:00 +0000

If you ever have an afternoon to spend in Hong Kong, what would you want to do? Shopping? Sightseeing at the Peak or Ocean Park or Disneyland? Well I would like to suggest a leisure eco walk combining with a live seafood dinner, which is a 'must' dining experience in Hong Kong.

Lamma Island Outing and Seafood Dinner
Take the 3.15pm ferry from Pier 4 in Central to Lamma Island Yung Shue Wan. If you stay at the Four Seasons or Mandarin Oriental, it is just a 5-10 minutes walk to the Pier. In about 30 minutes, you will arrive at Lamma Island. Take a very scenic walk to Sok Kwu Wan. The route is easy to walk, even you have kids with you. Admire the beautiful landscape and beaches on the way and you will arrive at Sok Kwu Wan between 5.30pm and 6pm, depending on how quick you walk. Enjoy a live seafood dinner and take the 7.35pm ferry back to Central. In about 30 minutes, you are back to Central again. You can still make time to explore Lan Kwai Fong, if you have the energy.

Last Friday, I just went through the above itinerary. Here is a pictorial report of my journey.

On the way, make sure to enjoy the very traditional authentic 'tofu fa' dessert. Hot and cold available at HK$9@

Beautiful landscape around Lamma Island

There are beaches and observations decks where you can take a little rest on the way. When you are about to arrive Sok Kwu Wan, you'll see some fishing sampans.

When you pass by the Tin Hou Temple (Godess of the Sea), you will arrive Sok Kwu Wan in a few minutes. Feel free to visit the temple.

When you pass the temple, you'll see many seafood restaurant lining up along the seafront. Don'f forget to buy some dry seafood souveniors.

Pick a restaurant, sit down and start to pick your favourite live seafood from the tanks.

The restaurants are nearby the sea. Enjoy seaview and breeze while having dinner. Restaurants are generally available. No advance booking required.

OK, here come the dinner: Deep Fried Squid

Lobster

Garoupa duo - meat for stir fried with vegetable

below are the head and bones for steaming

Clams with Garlic and Jelly Noodle

Stir Fried Spicy Crabs

We also had fresh prawns, fried rice, vegetables, desserts and fruits

NOTE: Try to avoid June, July and August which are the hottest months in Hong Kong. October and November are the best months to do this.

Recommended restaurant: Lamma Hilton (You don't have to find it, when you arrive Sok Kwu Wan, you'll see it.)

Dinner expenses all depend on the kind of seafood you choose, but you should budget for at least HK$200 (US$25.6) per person.

More ferry and travel information about Lamma Island

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Lamma Island and Seafood

How to Eat Cheap and Good Food in Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 04:27:00 +0000

Many come to Hong Kong and eat. If that's you, then you need to find out what to eat and how to pay less while enjoy great food here. Eating in Hong Kong doesn't need to be expensive if you can master the time you go and eat. Also some restaurants offer discounts to holders of certain credit cards. In order not to limit your choice of food and at the same time paying less, be sure to ask the waiter when you are settling a bill.

In any case, I don't recommend to eat in 5-star hotels. They are expensive and they don't offer discount. Some 3-star or 4-star hotels do.

What to eat in Hong Kong?
Here are my list of recommendations:
* Live seafood
* Dim Sum
* Buffet
Click the links to view details from my food blog.

Dim Sum - Go for Early and Late Discount
If you are not bond to any schedule, simply avoid the peak hours (generally noon to 2pm, but it varies according to restaurants) and there are lots of advantages of doing so. Many dim sum restaurants offer great discounts beyond hours. Restaurants are less crowded and you will enjoy more intensive customer service. As for dinner, some restaurants offer late night discounts. If you arrive after 9pm (or may be 9.30pm), you will pay less.

Discounted Buffet
Buffet fans must be very happy with the wide range of foods available in Hong Kong. Indian buffet, Italian buffet, Japanese all-you-can eat, international buffet, weekend tea buffet, late night dessert buffet....etc. Again don't go to 5-star hotels. Some 3-4-star hotels are much cheaper and they offer discounts. Some offer early departure discount or one-day advance booking discount. Be sure to check when you make a booking. Generally discounts are applicable on weekdays and not weekends, holidays and festivals.

Note: 10% service charge for fine dining restaurants. No service fee for casual restaurants.

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Eating Tips

Hong Kong Botanical Garden

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Sat, 02 Apr 2011 13:21:00 +0000

Just went to the Botanical Garden and took a few photos and videos. Weather was good. So it was rare chance to be able to take these photos. At the central fountain, all the most beautiful and famous Hong Kong commercial buildings are served as the backdrop. Enjoy.

I could rarely take such a good video - in terms of weather.
It's really a beautiful day.

I love these ring-tail monkies. The Park noticeboard said that there was a new born baby still under parental care. But I had no luck in seeing the baby.

1911 Revolution at HK Museum of History

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Sat, 26 Mar 2011 11:33:00 +0000

Centenary China's 1911 Revolution
Hong Kong Museum of History
March 2 - May 16, 2011

Hey, if you are visiting Hong Kong these days, there is one exhibition I highly recommend. 2011 marks The Centenary China's 1911 Revolution, the epoch-making event that had far-reaching consequences for the fate of Chinese people.

As a matter of history, Hong Kong was under British control since 1842. Therefore it played an important role in the revolution and served as a safe backup place for the reformers. Revolution leader Dr Sun Yat Sin was educated here and established the first revolutionary alliance here.

Celebrating the centenary of the 1911 Revolution, this exhibition showcases 140 sets of exhibits from the Hubei Provincial Museum and other collections as well as historical images, videso and maps to chart this milestone in China's modern history and also highlight the immense contribution that Hong Kong made to the revolution.

Entry fee HK$10 (Free admission on Wednesday)

Hong Kong Museum of History 1911 Exhibition

Watch Soccer Games Online in Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 06:27:00 +0000

The most popular sports games in Hong Kong are horse racing and football. Unfortuantely betting of both are available and managed by the Jockey Club.

The other time when I wrote about horse racing, I offended some animal rights organisation, my apologies.

This time, I try not to offend any anti-gambling organisation. Let me talk about how to watch premier football online in Hong Kong.

At the bars around Lan Kwai Fong in Central, Lockhart Road in Wanchai and the tourist hot spots in Tsimshatsui, large screens presenting live sports games from all over the world are available. These places are usually crowded with sports fans and they all looked very enjoyed watching premier football together with glasses of drinks in hand.

People with a home theatre also do the same by inviting friends to watch soccer games online altogether. I was once invited to a friend's house and he had a 65" flat screen being hooked up to his computer.

I was amazed by the HD quality and the numerous sports channels available. More astonishing was that he didn't even need a satellite dish. He said he made a one-time payment of US$49.95 to download a software. Once he became a member, he received instructions of how to connect his computer directly to his TV set. Strange but true. Check out this website if you want to do the same: Satellite Direct.

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Watch Soccer Games Online in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Chinese New Year 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 14:03:00 +0000

Hong Kong Chinese New Year holidays are just over. Most people go back to work today. Let me report on what's been going on here.

CNY Foods
Here's what we eat. Every family assembles a platter of assorted candies to welcome their visiting friends and relatives. Roasted mellon seeds are among the musts.

CNY Candies Platter 全盒

There are many types of roasted mellon seeds - black, red, white - of various sizes and flavour. 瓜子

Even when we eat dim sum, the names all carry good meanings. This dish is called "Great Profits with Surplus" and it contains - pig's tongue (profit), fish balls (surplus), hairy vegetable (lucky money), osyter (good business).

發財好市大利

Home-made Turnip Pudding (growth)
View my food blog to see

how I make turnip pudding at home.
蘿蔔糕

CNY Activities

Here's what we do.

Preparing for a lion dance. This is one of the most traditional Chinese festival celebrations.

Floral decorations everywhere - home, offices, public areas...

Tao Hua is the most popular

Visit the year-end flower market.
Buy souveniors...

Buy Chinese handicrafts...

And of course buy flowers....

Tangerine is also very popular in Chinese New Year.

Hong Kong Chinese New Year 2011

Kung Hei Fat Choi !

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:59:00 +0000

Hong Kong is going to celebrate Chinese New Year this week - February 3, 2011. It's year of the Rabbit. If you happen to be here during the CNY week, please make sure to learn to speak this simple Cantonese phrase:

Kung Hei Fat Choi

恭喜發財

You're going to hear everybody greeting each other with this simple phrase. In short, it means "wish you luck". But a direct translation would be "wish you making lots of lucky money". Interesting - Cantonese treat "money" and "wealth" the most important in the new year. Anyway, you'll hear this a lot. To share the fun, it's better to learn to say this as well.

Apart from Kung Hei Fat Choi, you'll see a lot of CNY decorations everywhere.

Tao Hua is the most popular seasonal flower for the Chinese New Year. Shopping arcades usually decorate their lobbies with it.

Lions are also another happy symtom in Chinese culture. So you'll see it quite a lot during the CNY season in Hong Kong.

In my next posts, I'll talk more about new year flowers and new year food. Be sure to come back to my blog.

Happy New Year

Kung Hei Fat Choi !

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Chinese New Year

Kayaking in Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 03:42:00 +0000

Kayaking in Hong Kong? Right. Kayaking here in Hong Kong. You might have planned to come to Hong Kong to do shopping, sightseeing or even a day trip to Macau and win (or lost) some money at the casinos. In terms of water sports, you may think of swimming at the pool of your 5-star hotel. What above kayaking or snorkelling? Perhaps you never consider Hong Kong as a place for this kind of outdoor activities. Fact is, you are wrong.

In Hong Kong, cruising is very popular, but never kayaking. As a local Hong Konger, I had never dreamt of kayaking here. Not until a colleague of mine told me. This colleague came from Australia, no wonder she loves water sports. She had to spend a month or so in Hong Kong for a special project and so she had to look for activities to spend her weekends.

When she told me that she went on a kayaking tour in Sai Kung, I was a bit surprised and started to check out the details with her.

It was a mini tour of less than 10 pax from 9am to 4pm. What was included in the fee was power boat transfer to the kayak base, kayaking, short hike and snorkelling. I forgot to check the price. So you’ll have to make an enquiry from this website: http://www.kayak-and-hike.com/adventure-escape-explore/Home.html

Here are some highlights of the tour:
You don’t need kayaking experience, but have to be able to swim.

· View the unique and stunning volcanic coastline, sea caves and arches and many other geological wonders at Sai Kung.

· Look out for HK’s rare White Bellied Sea Eagle.

· Safety equipment and double kayaks provided, tuition given before the trip.

· Snorkel and short walk to the ridge of Bluff Island to get an arial view.

· Get a real feel of ocean kayaking, if conditions are favourable, paddle into caves and sea arches.

· NO LUNCH or F&B will be provided. But you can have seafood lunch at the nearby fishing village which is quite an experience in Hong Kong; or bring your own packed lunch.

Last but not the least, you only need to find your way to Sai Kung. The easiest is to take MTR to Diamond Hill Station, change to bus 96 or taxi. If you don’t mind spending a little more, simply take a taxi from wherever you are, but the money will depend on the distance and is likely to be over HK$100.

So, next time when you are in Hong Kong, consider an eco tour to Sai Kung.

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Kayaking in Sai Kung

Horse Racing In Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Sat, 16 Oct 2010 14:56:00 +0000

If you visit Hong Kong between September and June, please make horse racing a must-go on your agenda. Racing course is the only place where you are licensed to yell as loud as you can without receiving any complaints. Enjoy the fun and excitement here.

Races are usually held on Wednesday nights, Saturday or Sunday afternoon, in either Shatin or Happy Valley racecourse. Visitors with valid passport can enter the Members Stand at a fee of HK$100. You need to be at least 18 years old. Minimum bet is only HK$10. Beginner’s guides are available at the entrance. Test your luck.

Sa Sa Ladies’ Purse Day - charm comes alive at Sha Tin this Sunday(17/10)
There are special racing days throughout the year. Tomorrow (October 17) is the annual Ladies Purse Day. Sa Sa Cosmetics has been sponsoring this for the 6th year.

Racegoers will receive an exquisite brooch as a free door gift upon admission (see photo at bottom). Befitting the tradition of this highly popular raceday, fans may enjoy an array of oncourse attractions in this year’s theme of “Charm Comes Alive”.

NOTE: PLEASE DRESS UP FOR THIS EVENT. It’s a great time to show off your taste and style.

Other Highlights Of The Day Will Include
· Guess the winning horse to win fabulous prizes
· Equestrian medallist Jasmine Lai to present The Ladies’ Purse
· Best Hat Award winners take home Sa Sa Gift Coupons
· Fashion show features dazzling beauty
· Join Sa Sa Make-up Workshop for a look to impress
· Star-gazing and make-up demonstrations at Café Corner
· Shetland ponies photo opportunities
· Limited editions themed merchandise on sale
· Hat boutique at Members Stand

Related Website: 2010 Sa Sa Ladies Purse Day

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Horse Racing and Ladies Purse Day 2010

Roger Federer in Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 15:12:00 +0000

Roger Federer ready to "beat the best"

Celebrities travelling to Hong Kong usually attract lots of attention. Today is Roger Nederer's turn.

Before heading to Shanghai for his upcoming matches at the ATP Masters tournament, Roger Federer stopped by Hong Kong to meet the press.

When talking about his rivalry with Rafael Nadal and the world's No. 1 spot, the Swiss star showed great confidence despite slipping to No.3 in the world rankings for the first time in nearly seven years.

"Obviously he (Nadal) is a stronger player today than a few years ago but the same counts for me even though the ranking has slipped maybe a little bit.

"With a few minor adjustments I think I can really beat the best without a problem. Without being arrogant but I know I have the game and I'm playing really well right now," he said.

.....The tennis star also opened up to the media about how well he's adapting to family life, looking after his 15-month old twin daughters.

"The role as a father is a very important one too, not as important as the mum in the beginning but nevertheless I'm the guy that's catching my daughters from doing naughty things or hurting themselves, so it's very interesting. It's a lot of fun. I'm learning a lot everyday." He said.

The tennis star also opened up to the media about how well he's adapting to family life, looking after his 15-month old twin daughters.

"The role as a father is a very important one too, not as important as the mum in the beginning but nevertheless I'm the guy that's catching my daughters from doing naughty things or hurting themselves, so it's very interesting. It's a lot of fun. I'm learning a lot everyday." He said.

Full story @xinhuanet

Photo source: uk.eurosport.yahoo

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Celebrities Visit

Cultural Contrast at Sai Kung

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 11:50:00 +0000

If you want to have a day’s outing in Hong Kong, Sai Kung is quite a good destination.

Apart from the National Geo Park which I recommended previously, there is couple of other locations of interests. The ancient culture Tin Hau Temple and the contemporary culture Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST).

The HKUST is one of the most expensive architecture among universities in Hong Kong and it is having quite a high ranking internationally. Go to Diamond Hill MTR Station, you can take bus to Sai Kung Pier. Enjoy a typical Hong Kong style seafood lunch and then continue your journey to the HKUST and the Tin Hau Temple.

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

An ancient clock at the campus

Taking a taxi from Sai Kung Pier to HKUST and Tin Hau Temple is not expensive at all.

View detailed transportation guide and map of the HKUST

The Tin Hau Temple at Sai Kung is the largest among all Tin Hau Temples in Hong Kong and has the longest history. Locals call it 'The Grand Temple 大廟'. All Tin Hau Temples are facing the sea as Tin Hau is the God of Sea, safe guarding the fishermen’s life in ancient times. Here you’ll witness how wonderful the location of the Temple is. Apart from superb seaview, you can sense tranquility and peacefulness here.

Tin Hau Temple at Sai Kung

A very classic Chinese architecture

Excellent Seaview
A superb choice of site for Tin Hau Temple

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Sai Kung Outing

Classic Hong Kong Mahjong Game

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 11:37:00 +0000

Playing Mahjong is a classic leisure game for Cantonese in Hong Kong. Nowadays, even people from the western culture love this game. On any weekend, get together four playmates, and you can start playing the game.

The games are winned at different levels, generally ranging from basic to Level 4. However players have to agree the rules of the game before starting.

Winning rules: Last weekend, we had a beginner in our group, so we allowed Basic. For experienced players, some start at Level 1 or even Level 3. You would need to set the ceiling for some special winnings.

Money rules: You would also need to agree on how much you are going to bet, such as $0.1, $0.5 or $1 per point.

Notes: If you allow Basic and less than $1 per point, that is really for fun. However if you set a minimum of Level 3 and $1 per point, that's marginally gambling. Beyond that is really gambling - I don't recommend that.

Last Sunday, I had a classic Level 8 win which I won 128 points. We played for HK$0.1 per point, so my total win was HK$12.8. However if we played for $1 per point, I would have won HK$128 in that single game.

清一色對對糊, 八番雙辣, 清一色最高典範

8 Fān - Highest Merit! Win-Win

I have worked out an illustrative table to demonstrate the winning amounts according to different levels of winning. The numbers grow in geometric series, so the amount involve will be tremendously huge if we don't set a ceiling. We had a ceiling of Level 8 and also decided to skip Level 6 and 7 (paid at Level 5 only).

It may sound complicate if you are new to the game. Once you get to know the it, you'll fall in love with it.

WARNING: Don't get addicted to it.

Hong Kong Mahjong Winning Table

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Mahjong

Macau Day Trip

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 07:10:00 +0000

Macau is just an hour jetfoil from Hong Kong. There are lots of fun whether you go on a day trip or overnight. I have a recent overnight trip to Macau. Here is a summary.

Go to casinos in Macau is a MUST. We went to the Sands where there were huge and beautiful casinos. We loved only the slot machines. After that, leaving at the coach station exit, we took a 5-minute walk to the Macau Cultural Centre.

There were paid and free shows. Anyway the entrance fee was only MOP5 and we went through all the shows.

Pottery Show at the Macau Cultural Centre

Paintings as well
Enjoy some Portuguese food is also a MUST. There are lots of shops and Portuguese restaurants at the downtown of Taipa Island.

Portuguese Green Vegetable Soup

Baked Mussels

Fried Rice with Portuguese Bacalhau

Take bus No.33 to the downtown of Taipa Island to the Portuguese House Museum. There are announcements and displays on board the bus, so you won't get lost. Very cool and comfortable even on a summer evening. At this little hill, you can also oversee the Macau landmark Venetian at a moderate distance.

Portuguese House Museum

Closed by 5.30pm. We were late, but still managed to take photos outside.

So our Macau trip consisted of casino, Macau food, museums and sightseeing. Why not give it a try? On weekdays, a package inclusive of one night hotel and return jetfoil tickets for two people will be HK$1,100 up. Quite a good deal. You may even win some lucky money at the casinos.

Venetian Macau

View from the Portuguese House Museum

on Taipa Island

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Macau Day Trip

National Geo Park, Sai Kung, Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Sun, 30 May 2010 07:58:00 +0000

You may not aware that Hong Kong has this type of geography - volcanic rocks - hexagonal pillars at Sai Kung, Man Yee Reservior. The journey is a little long to get there, but it is certainly worth it.

Getting There:
From Diamond Hill MTR Station, change to bus 92 (HK$5.8/person) to Sai Kung Pier Terminus. Change to green taxi to go to Man Yee Reservior East Dam. The taxi ride is around HK$100, averaging HK$20/per person if you have 5 in a group. Make sure to ask the taxi driver to wait and take you back, or ask for a paging number to page a taxi to take you back to Sai Kung bus terminus. Otherwise, it is going to be a 3-hour walk. If you are an eco fan, you can try to walk.

Spend about an hour or an hour and a half for a scenic walk. It's going to be a leisure walk, easy to walk even you have kids with you.

The landscape here is pretty impressive!

Sea Caves

Volcanic Hexagonal Pillars!

Try Rock Climbing
Beware of Rocks Rolling Down!

Seafood Lunch After the Geopark Visit

It is highly recommended to have a seafood lunch at the Sai Kung Pier after your geopark visit. There are plenty of seafood restaurants around the bus terminus and you can pick your favourite live seafood - a unique dining experience in Hong Kong.

View photos of my Sai Kung seafood dinner

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Sai Kung National Geopark and Seafood

Luxury Coffee Shops in Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Mon, 03 May 2010 09:36:00 +0000

For coffee lovers, you may find Hong Kong a paradise when you want to sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee. If you are fond of Italian coffee, these are the coffee shops you should never miss: Cova, Cafee Vergnano and Cafee Habitu are the luxury coffee shops I like most. Apart from their superb coffee quality, they provide luxury environment and wireless internet services. You would provide your own computer and sit on comfortable sofa or working table to work while enjoying a cup of coffee.

The disadvantage of these luxury coffee shops is that they don’t have many shops around. Click on the links and find a shop close to where you are.

On the contrary, internationally renowned coffee shop Starbucks, have plenty of shops here. Once you land in Hong Kong, you’ll find one when you leave your aircraft. Pacific Coffee, a relatively regional brand also have plenty of shops in town. Most of these luxury coffee shops are equipped with wireless internet services. Though some of the shops provide computer terminals, it is best to bring your own.

Luxury Coffee Shop at Top of Hong Kong
Among the luxury coffee shops here, there is one I like the most: Pacific Coffee at the Peak Tower. Get a corner table at the outdoor section – A perfect place to enjoy a breathtaking view of Hong Kong while discussing some personal or confidential matters, and of course with a cup of lovely coffee in hand.

Pacific Coffee at The Peak Tower

Hong Kong Travel Blog

Unique Foot Massage in Hong Kong

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 09:06:00 +0000

For SPA and foot massage lovers, there are couple of unique places you may want to check out.

Chinese Foot Massage & Body Treatments
Want to get a taste of Hong Kong Chinese style of foot massage? Here is the place - Foot Joy Club soaks your feet in hot Chinese herbal water first before a therapist provides foot reflexology and massage. Generally they will treat your shoulders quite a bit. Just sit back, relax, enjoy TV or read a magazine with a cup of drink.

This foot SPA is just next to the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Wanchai. Hotel guests can enjoy discounts. Even without discount, the prices here are quite reasonable. I really love the environment. I remember that they open round the clock, but it is better to make a booking first.

This place is just opposite to the Happy Valley Racecourse. You might want to give your feet a treat after the excitements at the horse races.

Cosmopolitan Hotel
387-397 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 3552 1111

Wonderfish SPA
I just tried it last week – wonderful experience. I was told that this is the only fish SPA in Hong Kong. The little fishes namely Garra Rufa have a unique dietary habit as to gently nibble away the hard and dry skin on your feet whilst they give you a delightful foot massage. The process will also help improve blood circulation.

They have two calming pools containing Garra Rufa fishes. Once you put your feet in, the fishes will start ‘treating’ you. I yelled at first because of the itchy feeling and went on laughing after a few seconds. This same scenario happened to the other guests too. After all, we all left the SPA with a smiling face. HK$180 for 30 minutes.

Wonderfish SPA
Shop 25, Level 2, The Peak Galleria, Hong Kong

Once I put my feet in, the fishes start working.

The fee includes one free drink.

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Unique Foot SPA

Rugby 7 - Hong Kong's Top Event This March

noreply@blogger.com (Anna) — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:40:00 +0000

March 26-28, 2010 (Friday to Sunday)

Ticket Info
Internationally, ticket and accommodation packages will be sold through the HKRFU's overseas Official Travel Agents and Cathay Pacific Airways, the tournament's co-title sponsor and official airline.

Venue Info
Hong Kong Stadium

General Facts 2010

Brief History
The world's premier Rugby Sevens Tournament was born over pre-luncheon drinks at the venerable old Hong Kong Club on a misty spring day in 1975.

As the Tournament grew throughout the 70's and 80's in both supporter popularity and the number of participating teams, which had now progressed from club sides to representative teams, the Tournament moved from its original home in the Hong Kong Football Club to the Hong Kong Government Stadium. By the beginning of the 90's, with demand for tickets having outstretched the capacity of the Stadium for over five years, it was time for a larger facility. The Stadium that had been the Tournament's home for 12 years was re-built in 1994 and a 40,000-seat Hong Kong Stadium is now its current venue.

Hong Kong was awarded the prestige of hosting the 2nd Rugby World Cup Sevens in 1997, which was a huge success in a memorable year for Hong Kong as it was handed back to China and became a Special Administrative Region.

During the years after the Rugby World Cup Sevens it was apparent how important the game of Sevens rugby had become in the development of good rugby players. Players such as Jonah Lomu, Christian Cullen, George Gregan to name a few first demonstrated their speed and agility in the Hong Kong Sevens. The iRB, recognising the value of the game of Sevens, launched its inaugural World Sevens Series in 2000 - the 25th year of Sevens Rugby in Hong Kong - to enable more players to benefit from Sevens competitions. A core of 10 to 12 of the world's top teams now participate in tournaments in Dubai, South Africa, South America, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and Asia.

The Hong Kong Sevens Tournament itself has a wonderful history. It is now considered the iRB's "Jewel in the Crown" in the Series and still continues to grow in popularity with players and spectators. Rugby World Cup Sevens 2005 was the second time Hong Kong has hosted RWC Sevens and this year marks 32 years of sevens rugby in Hong Kong - a remarkable achievement.

Hong Kong Travel Blog - Rugby 7, 2010