My first weekend in Hong Kong has been a busy one, and I'm starting to get to know my way around and meet some new friends.
Saturday
Laura picked me up at my hotel and showed me how to navigate the MTR (the subway), then we headed to the mid-levels area for coffee and some pampering in the form of foot reflexology. I got to see a little of what will soon be my new neighborhood, which apparently is called "Boho."
Later that evening we met up with a group of coworkers and their significant others for dinner at a members-only restaurant and bar called "Kee Club." The menu was confusing but entertaining - all the dishes were described with an odd series of hyphenated words that left us scratching our heads in several instances. But the food turned out to be great, in spite of names like "Veal - new peas - tuna - lard - pepper."
After dinner we headed out for an unintentional bar crawl. Unintentional in that we kept trying bars that were either holding private parties or had all the tables reserved or were so overcrowded you couldn't make it through the front door. We ended up in a very cool little French bar that specializes in chocolate martinis and fruit daiquiris, which would have been great if it wasn't so damn crowded.
Sunday
It turns out July through September are Typhoon season in Asia, which means most days are overcast and oppressively hot and humid. Today I was inspired to get outside when I awoke to a hint of sunshine, so I took the tram up to Victoria Peak, the highest point on the island of Hong Kong.
Unfortunately, the views were a little lacking, due to a heavy mist that often shrouds the island. I enjoyed puttering around the nature trails at the peak though, and on my way back took a jaunt through Hong Kong Park, which includes a beautiful aviary with lots of cool birds.
Of course, by the time I got back my clothes were soaked with sweat thanks to the heat and humidity, so I headed to the hotel pool for a swim and lunch (can I just say I'm really going to miss the hotel amenities when I move into my apartment next weekend?).
Anyway, tonight I'm meeting up with a couple coworkers for dinner, and then tomorrow will be my first day in the office.
FYI, for more photos visit http://babas.typepad.com/photos/hong_kong/.
I always enjoy your commentary, but those pictures knock me out. I especially enjoyed the animal pics. Jan
Posted by: Jan | September 11, 2005 at 09:56 AM
You've always been a giant among women - now you've proven that both figuratively and literally. I'm glad you're enjoying the posh accomodations (thus far) and wonderful food. The photos, too, are fabulous. Miss you loads!
Posted by: Laura | September 12, 2005 at 02:08 PM