Hong Kong: First day!

So I have now settled in Hong Kong! I arrived at 5pm yesterday local time and caught the bus to my accommodation, which is in Mong Kok; right in the heart of Kowloon (bustling, populated living/working area of Hong Kong). For those who don't know, Hong Kong is separated into different parts. Kowloon, which then extends northwards into outer Hong Kong territories and then Mainland China. Lantau Island, which is mountainous mostly and holds the airport and Disneyland. Hong Kong island, is south of Kowloon and holds the most touristy attractions of Hong Kong and is far more affluent and wealthy.

The temperature was noticeably cooler which I was pleased about. Singapore tired me out very quickly with the humidity. I met the host, who helped me up to my room...I went to bed almost straight away as I was absolutely shattered! First thing this morning, my host and the other two English guests staying in the apartment went for Dim Sum. Dim Sum is small bite sized authentic dishes served in steamer baskets. For example, I ate shrimp dumplings, barbecue pork bun, sticky rice with chinese sausage and deep fried chicken. It was like nothing I have ever experienced before, it was amazing! The place was packed with locals which is always a good sign! On the down side though, my chopstick skills really need work haha! Nic my host even paid for us all! Very generous :)

I then made my way down to the Tsim Sha Tsiu promenade which boasts amazing views of Hong Kong Island... I wondered along the harbour and stumbled across the 'Avenue of Stars', which celebrates the Chinese film industry and it's actors/actresses' and directors. Like the Hollywood walk of fame, the floor is plastered with the names of the famous...As a little extra though, it also has the handprints of the stars imprinted into the concrete! The one everyone was taking snaps of was Jackie Chan..He was born in Hong Kong, but I didn't realise he was so loved! Whilst walking along, I saw the national art museum was hosting a special exhibition of Andy Warhol's pop art. I've never been an artist (those who know me well will know exactly what I mean), but I have become slightly more appreciative of it in the last few weeks having gone to some museums. Pop art is a fairly easy medium to enjoy as it isn't as sophisticated as other forms of art. I couldn't take pictures inside but it featured his early drawings, his classic Campbell's soup pieces, his iconic portraits e.g Marilyn Monroe and also a room completely transformed to represent the Silver Factory. I learnt a lot, and his character and work really does interest me, much to my surprise!

This evening I spent the evening walking the local streets and checking out the 'Ladies Market', which sells mainly sportswear, electronics and clothing. Hong Kong is one of the most populated places per space in the world. It was absolutely packed. It's like Oxford Street in London, but everywhere! The bright lights and the vibe of 'Nathan Road' and it's smaller side roads, is something I have never seen anything like. It is a completely different world to that back home, but also to that of Singapore or Dubai. The markets are full of people trying to flog stuff, all armed with calculators to bargain prices with. One man was even being pulled back by the arm in order to get the sale! They won't take no for an answer! I grabbed some street food from a stall which was selling fried chicken. It was really nice... It's common that the locals here eat the street food as it is extremely cheap and accessible. I have never seen so many places serving food as here...

Tomorrow, I am going to Hong Kong Island to see what that side of the river has to offer :) Should be a good day!