Hey

Hong Kong (HK) is fantastic. Its like London but without tramps beggars, or expensive meals. We are even too afraid to sneeze in public in case we get fined. There are signs everywhere asking you not to spread germs and if you are infected you must wear a face mask; either that or there are lots of surgeons/ Michael J fans around here!

We landed quite late the first night so found the accommodation and then wandered around a ladies market, which we knew about (thanks Amy and David!). (That's ladies selling items, not themselves).

Hostel review. In a building like a council estate flats, room the size of our bathroom (seriously), shower above the toilet, but the building has its own security guard and CCTV in lifts. Its like something out of a 1980s american cop show set in Hong Kong where the badies live. Brill!!! On the plus side it is only 8 quid a night and it has a plasma tv- we are very impressed.

The next day we went exploring along the harbour, an amazing skyline, I prefer it to New York in some ways as the harbour was so peaceful other than a few junk boats. We crossed over the water on the famous star ferry (2 HK dollars approx 10pence) and went shopping!!!

The next day we went over to Lantau island and up to a giant Buddha, see photos (will put them on soon when we find a decent computer!) It was a long climb up the steps with many other tourists having to stop for breath - no problem for half marathon champion Lindsay. The top levels of the Budha are too narrow for everyone to get to: Ian tried to be sneaky and get in the back way only to be told by someone this was disrespectful to the Budha - apparently its not disrespectful to charge people for the privilege though. Then we went shopping at an outlet to recover!

Yesterday (Monday 5th Nov) we tried to embrace some ancient Hong Kong culture by having a wicked time at Disneyland; it was so much fun although small in size. Even the train to get there had disney handles and music and mickey mouse shaped windows. The fireworks were pretty good for the 5th of November too.

Just leaving to get to Hanoi, Vietnam (flying via Singapore and Bangkok- it was cheaper taking the direct route!) It has been delayed, hence the long detailed blog, so we have meal tokens which should keep us fed for a while. WIll hopefully add the photos soon!

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