This morning was very overcast and made seeing the islands coming into Hong Kong
Harbour very difficult. However the skyline was interesting and it was amazing to see how easy
the Arcadia docked at the Ocean terminal. We were greeted by some drummers and entertained
by a welcome lion dance. Hong Kong is a special region of the people's Republic of China and
is some 424 square miles that includes Kong Kong Island, Kowloon, the New Territories and 260
small islands. It was returned to Chinese control on the 1st July, 1997 but it does have a
limited degree of autonomy.
Then it was off to shop! We walked up to Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui, which was not far away from the terminal,
and began to check out the electronic shops first. Not a great deal we needed here so off on a long walk up to
the Ladies Market to check out the bargains. There were lots of people around the small streets here and
many bargains to be had. Lots of bartering took place and it was a good experience all round.
Back on board we were entertained by a laser light show from the buildings opposite us on the shore.
The night was very dark so the lights stood out and we enjoyed it very much. Then off to dinner and then
an onboard cultural show performed by a local group. Wonderful performance, first a musician then two
ribbon dancers and last a fantastic face changing dance. This fellow had a wonderful costume and kept
changing masks as he moved. Absolutely fantastic! We were impressed!
A trip over to Hong Kong Island by Star ferry was first on the agenda today and as older citizens we were
surprised to find it was free. Once there we found our directions and headed towards the main trolley bus area to
catch one to the Peak. We soon realized that it was only a short walk so we continued on.
The Peak Tram has been operating since 1888 and travels between Central and the Peak. The view on the way up
is amazing at the angle it climbs but again the day was very overcast and it was hard to see it all. Once at the top
we had a panoramic view over the city and enjoyed some quality time here. After a little souvenir shopping time to
return by ferry and go back up Nathan Road to check out the park, shops and markets again.
Tonight there was another laser show but not quite as spectacular as the lasers were on different buildings
and not nearly as colourful. Great end to a lovely visit however...
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