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| promenade overlooking the Central waterfront |
Hong Kong is not a sovereign state but they have their own administrative system. It is Special Administrative Region of China (SAR). One of most popular destination among tourists. Filipinos can visit visa free plus it only takes less than 2 hours by plane from the Philippines and an hour by ferry or bus from Macau. I only had less than 24 hrs to spend in the city. Here's what I did during my stay.
China Ferry Terminal
Address: China Hong Kong City, 33 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong (1/F Departure Hall / 2/F Arrival Hall).
I booked a return ticket from Macau via klook. I heard, HZMB bus is cheaper but it will take the passengers to Lantau Island which is far from where I will be staying.Therefore, I opt for this one. Turbo jet will sail directly to Kowloon terminal. simply present your voucher to claim your boarding pass. You may leave earlier from your scheduled trip without any problem. I didn't expect the weather will be chilly even around May because spring is almost over.
The sailing was rough due to rainy weather but it was okay. Although, I saw a woman throwing up the whole trip. Boarding was smooth. They will guide you to your assigned seat. Restrooms are clean too. During the trip, the staff distributed an arrival card to the tourist. It's about an hour to get to our destination.The whole process was quick despite the long lines at the immigration. They will not stamp your passport but will give you a small piece of paper like in Macau. Stating the arrival date and the number of days you are allowed to stay. Welcome to Hong Kong.
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| My first time to board a ferry |
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| A view from the ferry. A rainy day in HK |
Accommodations
From the terminal, I exited the building without knowing which way to go to find the hotel. All I know is that it is about 15 mins walk away. I didn't bother to ask the locals for the direction because I've read they are not approachable. I stopped over at the mall and connected to the free wifi to access google map.
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| Found it. |
There are many affordable hostel in the area. I chose this one because I have read that Chungking Mansion is always busy. You have to wait in line to access the elevator. This hotel is easy to locate and not crowded.
No receptionist around but there was a guide to check-in. I called the staff to get the code. As expected, the room was small. But I was disappointed to see cockroaches on the walls. Killed them with my slipper!!!
Avenue of the Stars
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| I grew up watching his movies. |
At first, I was having second thoughts if I will go out or sleep but then again, I realized I shouldn't waste my time. I freshen up then started walking around. I went to promenade to see the view of the city. I am in awe to see the buildings that I have only seen in pictures. I am here alone and exploring the city. My excitement started to ease away my exhaustion.
You can get picturesque shot of their iconic skyline by hiring photographer in the area. In my case, I always ask a fellow tourist especially the ones holding a camera because I know they have the skills to capture the right angle. If they are alone, I would usually offer if they want a picture too.
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| kept walking then I saw this clock tower. |
I boarded Star ferry to check out the other side. its around HKD 2. I didn't stay long because the rain is starting the pour. Bought another token to take me back to Tsim Sha Tsui.
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| Few minutes sailing |
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| token for boarding the ferry |
It was raining hard. I stayed inside the mall and looked for something to eat. It took me awhile to decide because I don't know what to order. There are many choices in the food court but I was afraid I might not like the taste.
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| Congee for HKD 50 or around Php 300 |
The rain didn't stop pouring but the frugal in me doesn't want to buy a raincoat. I was touched when an old lady shared her umbrella with me. I have this thought in my mind that they are not friendly but I was wrong. Like in any other country, some people are good, some are not.
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| Mira Place. The landmark near the hotel. |
One of the reasons why I visited this area because I wanted to see the Symphony of lights. The show is on every 8 pm. I wanted to see the streets at night but I had a long day. From Olongapo to Manila to Macau then Hong kong. I decided to stay and call it a night.
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| Egg tart for HKD 6. bought 2 pcs more the next day. |
I woke up early. No free breakfast at the hotel but they provide hot water. I brought some snacks with me. Enough to fill my tummy. The shared bathroom is small. Real small. You really get what you paid for. Cleanliness can be improved too.
Kowloon Park
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| Avenue of Comic Stars |
The weather is still a bit cold. I stroll around Kowloon Park, It was perfect for those who wanted to stay fit. The park was huge and clean. You can also connect to the free wifi. I shamelessly ask a stranger to take a picture of me. :)
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| took a video of these elders doing Kung fu. Kung Fu figting! :)) |
From there I walked to the station because I'm going to check out Montane Mansion before I leave. I borrowed my friends octopus card but its remaining balance was negative 37! I bought a single journey ticket instead.
I got lost.I alighted at the wrong station. I asked someone where I was but she's Indonesian. It was difficult for us to communicate because she can't speak English well but then there's this elder who voluntarily guided me on what line to take. Again, I was surprised because I have read somewhere that the locals specially the elders are snob but no. They are actually helpful.
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| I passed by the market . Obviously, it's still cold |
Quarry bay residences is a few minutes walk from the station. This building is famous online. Even celebrities are dropping by on here for the gram. I have seen many cool pics on this spot but its just an old building and people seemed to be living quietly.
Went back to the Hotel and checked-out. I didn't do much but since I have seen Big Buddha and Disneyland in the past, I think that's enough for me. At least, I saw Hong Kong even at a glance.
