[NEVER] ALONE IN HONG KONG

When you think of travelling to Hong Kong, being alone can be one of the best options. Yes, it seems scary but sure you will get to meet new people, listen to their stories and take a step higher of self-fulfillment.When I decided to go to Hong Kong, it was a random decision I made since some friends from Iloilo who are based in another country. Sadly, with their inhuman tendencies, they ditched me.As a strong, independent human being that I am, I did not let the disappointment get the better of me. Instead, I used my head over my heart. I started studying about the place, from its topography to its railway system. It was no perfect itinerary since there is so much to see and discover in the former British colony. I listed a few and told myself, ‘whatever it is, it will be”. So, I pushed my trip since my authority to travel abroad and application for leave as a government employee was already approved.It was easy-peasy. Maybe because I have learned how to deal with other people and their respective peculiarities. In a Filipino’s layman’s tongue, I was a notch lower than “walang hiya” and “walang hiya-hiya”.More than just having somebody to help you take photos and memories, it is quite a remarkable milestone for me to open somebody else’s book and stories.First thing to secure, aside from all your documents e.g. passport, bookings, IDs etc, make sure to have their octopus card. It is accepted in almost all the establishments in Hong Kong – from transportation, to restaurants and tourism sites.

Keep loaded through 7/11 stores and MTR stations.I stayed in Chung King Mansions in Tsim Sha Tsui, one of the most famous backpacking places in Hong Kong. I arrived early in the morning so I had to wait a little bit more since the check-in time is 2 pm. But because I barely slept during the waiting time and the flight itself, I decided to check-in earlier.For an array of accommodation establishment choices, Booking.com has one of the cheapest rates if you are on budget travel. Fun experience is that, with my three nights of stay, I have met almost all the races in the world. That very first day, I met Reggie, a bank marketing officer. We first had some streetfood treats and we tried McDonald’s Gourmet Coffee Shop.We got lost somewhere and ended up taking photos in Kowloon Park, the biggest in the area and also known as the ‘green lung’ because of public gardens, paths and aviaries.We took the train going to Lantau Island to experience the cable car and visit Ngong Ping Village with the Giant Buddha while sharing stories about each other’s life stories.I booked a round trip glass cabin tour via Klook. After the long train ride, we went restaurant hunting for dinner.On my second day (August 11, 2018), I met Tita Marycris, the Aunt of my good friend, Chuckie. I was on the busy streets of Tsim Sha Tsui, waiting for her, hoping we see and recognize each other. Because if we had not met at that time, I would have the whole Saturday for myself – real me time.But among the throng of Indians and Chinese, her energy stood out. It was very contagious and it seemed like we have been long gone friends.We visited the church where she serves and gave me a Hong Kong noodle treat. Beef Brisket or Ngao Lam Ho with white noodles. Tong Lai Cha. While having the great lunch with her, she shared her life story and even invited me to go back there again (when her bosses will be on travel).Back in the Philippines on my third day (August 11, 2018), there was a storm and the weather in Hong Kong was not very conducive for travelling. But it did not stop me from visiting FOR THE FIRST TIME, the happiest place on Earth.I booked my Disneyland ticket via Klook for a hassle free entrance. No words could describe how happy I was at that time.

And on my last day, I had a chance to be with my friend’s Aunt who works in Hong Kong. Meet Tita Bebing. She was so nice and she introduced me to the other domestic helpers in Hong Kong.It was so inspiring to see them flooding the streets of Hong Kong every Sunday – the only time of the week they can be each other.Their hardwork has not only helped raise their families but generally, their remittances to the country.The Peak!My trip here might have started rough but I was able to establish new bonds of friendship and more stories to tell.I might have started this trip alone.