I returned, after a good 5 years.
It came most suddenly. Suddenly, there were these cravings for dim sum. Suddenly, there was this need for a break from work. Suddenly, there was this extended invitation to tag along for a short escapade. And so, in less than 3 weeks later, I found myself surrounded with the familiar sights and sounds of this buzzling island.
Things weren't all planned out, this time around. We've decided to take it easy, no rush. There was no itinerary. We planned as we go. Fortunately for us, we had friends to guide us. So it kind of saved us a lot of hassle and a lot of time in getting around. And by the way, it was a pleasure in meeting the few of you :) The trip couldn't have been more adventurous.
This was, in no doubt, one of the most tiring trip ever. Unlike being chauffeured on most of my other trips, we had actually skip those and went on board almost every single mode of transportation that is available on the island. The MTR for commuting around the city, ferry to the outer islands, cabs to places where the MTR doesn't reach, trams for the fun of it, mini buses to specific locations, and we even rode on bicycles. If the weather hadn't been poor, we would have hopped onto the cable car too. And of course, there is the most basic form of transportation - the feet.
Perhaps a more memorable adventure was the visit to Cheung Chau island, one of the fishing villages of Hong Kong.
We weren't there just for sight seeing, but also to find a message left hidden on one of the huts on top the hills. Made me felt like Sherlock. And so, off we went on our rented bikes, riding around the island, searching for that specific stair well that would lead us right to that specific hut. Along the way, we immersed ourselves with the beaches and delicacies offered, taking in the setting and the daily ongoing of the locals. We got lost halfway through, and while we were trying to regain our bearings, we were attacked by a swarm of lethal mosquitoes, which left their mark on my legs till this day still. With the attack and the warnings signs of a downpour, we had to abandon the quest and head back. It was regretful, not only we won't know the contents of the message but we've also missed one of the spectacular views from atop the hills.
In was from this visit that I saw a different side of Hong Kong, I experienced a different side of her. Standing on the streets of Central, waiting in line a long queue, among the dense high rise buildings, squashed in between the sea of people, with the blazing hons of vehicles and the beeping sounds of the traffic lights, the metropolitan side of her has taken effect. Everything and everyone was a rush. It was a rush to finish off a meal. It was a rush to catch the train. It was a rush to cross the street. It was a rush to get off the elevator. It was a rush to snap pictures. If you move a tad slower, be sure to be left behind. And not to mention, be taunted, at times. It sure was stressful, even being a tourist.
Tourist aside, however, there was also a time where we caught a glimpse of the lives of a regular Hongkie. We visited the home of our friend who lives out of the city, To Kwa Wan, where no MTR would reach and required an extensive amount of walking. As with what was shown on television, the space in which they had to live in was indeed tiny. There was barely enough space to walk or to sit in. The corridors could only fit 1 person at a time. I had to see it for myself to actually believe it. My wardrobe alone would not fit into the space which they called a bedroom. It was all cramped and walled up. It felt suffocating. I would definitely wouldn't have lasted long there.
And then there were the eateries. Hong Kong wouldn't be Hong Kong without its food. It was said that theirs tastes better. Dim sum, egg tarts, tong sui, buns, char siew etc. I, for one, wouldn't think so. Lets just say that there are differences in flavours. Perhaps the Malaysian cooking methods are disparate from the Hong Kong ones. Or perhaps the ingredients used are different. A dish which could be found in both places do taste different. Both dishes do bring out their own local essence. They are unique in their own special way.
As the trip came to an end, I was reluctant to leave, but I was also glad to leave all the same. How contradictory. I would have wanted the holiday to be extended further. Who wouldn't like to continue having fun and forget about work? But at the same time I was pleased to get out of this hustling city. Not really my ideal spot for a relaxing holiday.
So, Hong Kong, "thank you" for the hospitality once again. I shall see you in another 5 years time. That is if I have run out of further places to visit.
