It was truly a blessing to flew out of the country last July to visit mainland China for the first time. My visa preparation was fast phased as I had to travel in a week's time. The flight had a 6 hour lay over in Xiamen before we land to Sanya, Hainan. Upon landing, I thought of going around Xiamen for a quick tour, but I feared that I will be lost. I decided to just be stuck at the airport and discover some establishments.
A very expensive lunch - authentic soy chicken
I was entertained by the name, but upon taking a peek inside - EXPENSIVE spells everywhere!
I was able to endure the waiting time by trying to shop for goods. Too bad, there was no starbucks in the area so no tumbler for me. It was finally time to travel to Sanya, and I just can't wait to check out my hotel as I googled it prior the visit, and my expectations were quite high.
Agoda doesn't disappoint. Hotel was grandeur. It was majestic. I cannot believe I am staying alone it my room! I literally jumped from one bed to another. Another good part is the tub in the balcony overlooking the pool and private beach. I was very grateful to at least experience this kind of lifestyle once in my life.
The hotel's Lobby
Panoramic view of my Home for 3 days
Room is all good for staycation. My weakness is really the soft, comfy beds!
The tub I was talking about. No worries, there is a blinds that could automatically be pulled down in case you want some privacy.
This is the view from the balcony. Oh paradise! :)
Another view that could melt my heart...
This shot was taken around past 7 already but the sun had not set completely.
The private beach of the hotel.
There was an authentic Thai restaurant inside the hotel. Lucky to have tried it.
This dish was not spicy enough for them, Oh boy, imagine me eating this! :)
Hainan trip needs to come to an end and my flight back to Manila was via Hong Kong so I decided to re-book my flight and stay in HK for another 3 days.
Upon arriving in Hong Kong, I was so nervous to start my solo adventure without any guide this time around. Good thing wifi is readily available, so I double checked the direction going to Chungking Mansion where I booked my budgeted stay.
Upon taking a glance of the infamous Chungking Mansion, all the reviews were validated. Of course, I have to show courage since I am a woman travelling solo. I cannot show fear, but I kept telling myself "what have I gotten into?", "why not stay in a hotel?". After settling in and calming myself, I reviewed the map I downloaded and braved myself to explore Hong Kong.
First stop was the avenue of stars. It was just a walking distance from Chungking Mansion. It was a Saturday afternoon, so lots of locals and tourists were there appreciating the views.
I think Hong Kong really has one of the most beautiful skylines.
After being lost for quite some time, because I cannot find the direction to their MTR, I bumped into a person who guided me to the right direction. My next stop was to visit Victoria's Peak. I never anticipated that the queue would be that long. (Took me forever, like 3 hours before I could ride the tram up). At the end of the day, it was worth it. The view was splendid! Wished though that I had spent it with someone. It was breath taking.
If given the chance, I would love to share this view with someone worthy of my time! :)
Lots of establishment inside this great architectural work, but too bad I was too shy to dine in alone.
I was able to catch up the MTR back to my place (just in time before 12 MN). I was too tired to even have my late dinner since my itinerary the following day was to visit the happiest place on earth. So I dozed off to dreamland right away.
I could not believe my excitement to finally be able to visit Disney land. I woke up early and navigated my way to the happiest place on Earth. I have to make a stop over though to buy myself a breakfast. Upon transferring to the Disneyland train, I cannot hide my happiness already upon seeing those mickey mouse safety handles! The train experience was already that magical!!!
I am not dreaming anymore!
Happiness while watching Mickey goes up and down...
My ticket to enter the magical world of Disney!
A quick glance of Mickey and Minnie Mouse...
She's truly an artist! I was amazed on how she was able to make this street art.
I just randomly enter whatever attraction I could encounter! :)
I had no idea that this was an indoor roller coaster! Imagine my shock and fear.
It's a small small world. Could stay inside all day to balance the heat.
See that tarsier?
I realized I did not have a good shot of the castle...
I was hoping to bump into the real ms. potato though...
Yes, I was able to try this and had a video of me going up and down with this ride. :)
I was not that afraid when I tried this. Maybe I already mastered the art of courage.
I was really tired after a long day at Disney Land and I wasn't able to witness the fireworks already. I dragged myself back to the hostel to have a quick break before heading out again for a late dinner and shopping.
I tried this authentic noodle and milk tea at Canton's Kitchen upon walking around Tsim Sha Tsui
My last day in HK was spent for a last minute shopping before heading to the Airport. I had my breakfast at the must dined Cafe de Coral then walked along TST to check for shops that are open. I ended up in the Giordano Shop where i found good buys.
Cafe de Coral Breakfast Meal
It was an amazing experience to be able to explore the culture of Hong Kong on my own. The first time I visited HK was 16 years ago. This visit reminded me why HK continues to be a progressive country. This blog cannot justify the beauty of the county, so I invite you to see for yourself what the it has to offer.
"We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment"
