The day began with a half day city tour. This started at Victoria peak which provided stunning views out over the Hong Kong, the harbour and Kowloon. It was slightly hazy with the pollution, but none the less the views were really great. We stopped at the Peak Galleria, a shopping complex and terminus for the Peak Tram. At its centre is an old tram which acts as the tourist information centre.
From the Peak we drove to Stanley Market for a wander and a spot of shopping. The market is quite famous in Hong Kong as being one of the better markets. It was pleasant enough, but the prices were not as cheap as a few years ago. It would appear that now the island is part of mainland China that the prices have risen. This was true not just of the market, but the upmarket and electronic stores in the city.
From the market we made a stop at Aberdeen. Here we had sampan ride around the harbour. Starting at the Aberdeen Marine Police base, we had a 20 minute ride around the fishing boats and the famous Jumbo Floating Restaurant. This was quite a disappointment really. The harbour is crammed with many boats, large commercial fishing boats as well as the usual 'gin palaces'. The harbour however is polluted and rubbish floats by, it is surrounded by modern tower blocks and really lacks any charm.
From Aberdeen we stopped off at the obligatory factory shop, this time diamonds. Needless to say we didn't buy anything!
From there it was back to the hotel for some well earned R & R !
In the afternoon we took a walk from our hotel along the harbour side back into the heart of the city. It was a very pleasant, if rather hot walk, but well worth it. We took in the Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront area which includes the Avenue of Stars. This honours the city's film stars, such as Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee.
From there it was a short walk to Nathan Road. This is heart of the shopping district. It bustles with people, traffic and shops of all descriptions. Its buildings are modern steel and glass and designer names abound. It also boasts the most touts I've ever come across! They pester you, mainly for watches, endlessly. It really becomes a pain. So much so that we made a hasty escape and headed to a local park which was as tranquil as the Nathan Road was manic.
The park had a lovely bird collection and a pond with ducks and flamingos. It was a really lovely place away from all the hustle and bustle.
The park linked the Nathan Road with the harbour waterfront where the Macau ferry arrives. It was a good spot to watch the sun go down before we headed off to find an evening meal. Another full, but enjoyable day.
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