4 days in Hong Kong

• Time of year traveled:January 
• Weather: No rain or humidity (positive), however cold weather 
• Visa: Not required for South Africans 
• How to get there: Direct with SAA or via Dubai with Emirates. The latter is much cheaper (approx. R 7500 pp) 

Day 1: 

Ocean Park

As soon as you arrive in Hong Kong you realise how densely populated the place is. Yes, space is a problem but the sights, sounds and smells are very unique. The trains run with the same efficiency as Swiss Rails but once again they are busy. Getting from the airport is easy with the Airport express and free shuttle that drops you off at your hotel, provided its on the route.

View from Cable Ride

Hong Kong has two great amusement parks - Ocean Park and Disneyland. We chose the former as it combines thrilling rides, zoo, cable car ride, underwater train, aquarium and a firework and laser show. That's not bad for R 450. That is also about R 300 cheaper than Disneyland. TIP: Check online or at the 7-11 for great admission rates. 

Getting to the park is clearly described on the site and is quite accurate. Don't miss the last bus leaving the park or else you have to catch a cab (which are pricey). 

Ocean Park is an entire day activity. Halaal food is not available at the park, so you have to fill up on drinks and snacks. 

Day 2: 

Macau Tower

We took a ferry from Hong Kong to Macau at a cost of approx. HK$ 150 pp. The ride is smooth and the entry into Macau is quick and painless. We decided to take a tour from the airport. A personal tour guide took us around Macau to see the various sites. You can also use the free Casino shuttles but the sites are limited. A must see is Little Portugal, Macau Tower and the Dragon show. 

Views from the top of the Peak

Day 3: 

After 2 hectic days, we take it easy and visit Hong Kong Park,a free park in the middle of the concrete jungle. From here its a quick walk to the Victoria Peak tram, which is a must do, for awesome views of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. When leaving here, you can also pop by a few HK Island markets. We then took a walk on the promenade and walk of fame, before waiting for the Symphony of Lights show. TIP: Make sure you take a boat from Kowloon to HK Island (bring exact change). 

Stanley Beach

Day 4: 

We took a bus to Stanley Beach, which is really beautiful and serene. There are some nice markets on this side of Hong Kong. Less crowded but slightly more expensive. We end the day with a visit to some of the malls and markets in Kowloon. 







... Me

  

Switzerland in South Africa

View from the top of the resort

Amidst the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, resides the very picturesque resort of Little Switzerland. The resort did lack some of the finesse of a Swiss hotel and while we were impressed with the location and layout of the resort, the rooms were very basic for the price we paid (almost $150 per night). The Drakensberg itself is definitely a place to visit in groups as it can get quite boring during the evenings, unless you want a nice romantic getaway.

 

...Riaz