18/10/07 - A short break in Hong Kong

Our stay in Hong Kong was made possible by two organizations that I can’t praise enough.  The new airline Oasis Hong Kong charged us only £75 each way from Gatwick so, even after the addition of the various taxes imposed by the government, it was an incredibly cheap deal.  No corners were cut either.  The seating was comfortable, with more leg room than on many airlines and there were seatback TV screens, complimentary meals and very friendly and helpful cabin crew.

The YMCA of Hong Kong provided us with 4* comfort for a fraction of what we would have paid in the posh Peninsula Hotel next door.

Our en suite rooms on the 16th floor of the South Tower had a superb view over Victoria Harbour.  There was a haze most days.  According to the South China Morning Post (delivered free to our rooms every day) the pollution comes down the Pearl River from industrial plants in China.

There was no rain during our visit.  It was warm and humid and we had no need of jackets, even in the evening.

Public transport in Hong Kong is so good that hiring a car would have been pointless.  We bought Octopus cards and made full use of the KCR and MTR, buses, trams and ferries to get around.  Crossing the harbour on the Star Ferry costs next to nothing.

The crossing is particularly magical at night when all the skyscrapers are lit up and reflected in the water.  From 8 o’clock each evening during our visit there was a 15 minute sound and light show.

Looking down from the Peak at night is surreal.  Even more so is the view from the Peak Tram.  The slope is so steep in places that the skyscrapers seem to lean at 45 degrees.  Standing up is very uncomfortable and it’s best to wait for the next tram if all the seats are full. 

N.B My photos are pretty conventional.  For a quirkier set, take a look at Richard’s website.  If you find any duplication, it’s because he’s generously allowed me to take my pick of the many shots he took during the week.

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