Hong Kong from the Peak

It was with some trepidation that we headed off on our summer holiday this year. The growing unrest in Hong Kong was of a concern however the holiday was booked, there was no backing out. We stopped short of packing hard hats and gas masks but did make sure we had plans for data for the mobile phones.

Hong Kong is an amazing place, with contrasting sights and sounds. The hustle and bustle of the shopping areas to the calmness of the temples. The sights and smells of the markets to the flavours and ambience of the restaurants and diners. It really is an awesome place.

Chi Lin Nunnery The fantastic thing was that the disruption didn't stop us doing anything we wanted to, not without a constant eye on social media and the news to see what was happening, however finding spots like the Chi Lin Nunnery was awesome.  What a place. An oasis of calm in this bustling city of millions. 

HK Neon-5

The city is renowned for neon but they are disappearing fast and with the ever greater need for energy efficiency, LEDs are replacing the old fashioned neon signs at a rate of knots. 
HK Neon-13 HK Neon-6

HK Neon-8

In addition though there appears to have been a growth in the numbers of murals, since we last visited, particularly in the Central area.

There were so many stunning murals and with a lot of fab places to get a cold beer it was great to hangout here.

HK Graffiti-4 HK Graffiti-11 HK Graffiti-3 HK Graffiti

             Four examples from the area.

With other amazing experiences, from visiting the Giant Buddha to finding a cheeky instagram spot, from haggling in the jade market to enjoying some of the worlds cheapest Michelin Star food at Tim Ho Wan's, from the experience of seeing wild monkeys at Kam Shan Country Park to the Pandas of Ocean Park, thank you Hong Kong for an amazing experience. It was sad that there was always that edge, that need to keep your wits about you. I hope that this amazing city can get back on its feet. That it can overcome the trouble and heartache that it is feeling at this time and regardless of what the politics are that Hong Kong will find peace once more.