23

I love birthdays. My parents always made sure my sister and I felt extra special on those days. This year I was excited to celebrate mine in Hong Kong.

The Saturday before my birthday I invited a few friends to come out for drinks at a fantastic bar called Tai Lung Fung in Wan Chai.

Sunday, after recovering, we had dinner at a steak house called Wooloomooloo in tst which overlooks all of Victoria Harbour. I love steak and eating it with a view of this amazing city is something I won't forget. They made me feel extra special at the end of the meal with a decadent chocolate cake topped with a candle and best wishes.

On my actual birthday the plan had been to go to the Big Buddha on Lantau, however sudden thunderstorms prevented us from making it. Duncan made me feel like a princess all weekend and a little rain wasn't going to stop the celebrations so we headed for fancy afternoon tea at Cafe Gray. This has got to be one of the nicest hotels/restaurants I've ever been to. Located on the island side, we had the opposite view from the one we'd experienced at Wooloomooloo, which turned out to be just as impressive. The tea was vibrant in taste and warmed us perfectly on this rainy afternoon. The 3 tier platter included scones, smoked salmon, cucumber sandwiches, lemon cake, and many other delicious snacks. I didn't love all the treats but that's the best part about afternoon tea, you get a little bit of everything! 

Thank you to everyone who celebrated with me at work and outside of work, those who sent me cards and wishes from across the globe, to my family, and a special thank you to Duncan!

Stanley

Just south of Hong Kong  you will find what was once the most populated part of island. Stanley is known for its market, promenade, beach and overall European seaside town vibe.

Emma, who I lived with when I did my exchange to Paris, came to visit and we headed over on a sunny day. It was a short trip since she had to catch her flight but a lovely one.

Having loved it so much I dragged Duncan this past weekend. We didn't go swimming but instead explored more of the town and surrounding areas. I actually preferred their market to the infamous ladies market  of kowloon and although there are more beautiful beaches, the atmosphere of the town beats others.

Worth a visit!

Sai Kung

Another surprising thing Hong Kong has to offer is amazing hikes.  I'm embarrassed to admit I haven't been on many so when my cousin Jon and his girlfriend Connie invited me to Sai Kung I was ready to go!

A lot of people do the hike and then camp on the beach, something that is now on my HK Bucket List, however we made a day trip out of it. The hike wasn't too difficult and the views were breathtaking. By the time we got to the beach I was so hot from the humidity I immediately kicked my shoes off and ran into the water. Because this beach is only accessible by foot or private boat it meant it was much less crowded and polluted, as well there was much more wildlife.  We swam all afternoon, had drinks and ate in one of the few restaurants there, and then took a speed boat back to the town.

High Island Reservoir

Connie and Jon

Water Buffalo just hanging out on the beach

The best dog ever, Ling Ling.

Amazing day!! I'll be sure to go back to camp and of course write about it!