Hong Kong: Kowloon

Hong Kong skyline

During our stay in Hong Kong one of our highlights was visiting Kowloon for the day. After taking the underground from Causeway Bay to Central, Kowloon was only a short boat ride away on the Star Ferry.

Star Ferry

If you’re visiting Hong Kong I’d definitely recommend taking a trip on one of these boats. At only HK$2.20, the Star Ferry is surprisingly cheap for the city and is a great way of seeing the Hong Kong skyline. it’s about a ten minute ride from Central to Kowloon and ferries run frequently and on a daily basis.

Things to do:

Chungking Mansions

Indian lunch at Chungking

 

1. Chungking Mansions

The district of Kowloon is also a must-see for anyone visiting the area. We were staying in a hostel in Causeway Bay but regret not braving the accommodation in the infamous Chungking Mansions. We had heard horror stories before hand about how unsafe the building was in terms of fire hazards and thefts so we expected it to be far worse than it actually was. Entering the Chungking mansions was an experience in itself and we spent a good amount of time browsing the jewellery shops, electronic merchandise and Indian/West Indian food stalls. We have heard the building is famous for samosas so we decided to have lunch in a very small Indian restaurant within the building. The price of the food was cheap in comparison to the rest of the city and it was definitely the best meal we had during our whole time in Hong Kong.

Temple Street Market

2. Temple Street Night Market

Visting the night market was a highlight for us when we were in Kowloon. it has everything to offer from knock-off Dr.Dre Beats to traditional Cantonese handicrafts. The street food stalls also offer good food and fairly cheap beer. If you’re into your markets the daily Jade Market in this district is also good but be prepared to haggle to get the prices down.

Symphony of Lights

3. Symphony of Lights show

Every day at 8pm the Hong Kong skyline puts on an impressive show of lights that can be viewed via Kowloon harbour. This was definitely the highlight of our trip in Hong Kong. Some people say it’s best to see the lights whilst on the Star Ferry but you could be at risk of missing it if there are queues. I think the harbour is probably the best way to enjoy the show but get there early to get a good seat and expect crowds.

Hong Kong and Lantau Island

As part of our round the world trip, we decided to make our first point of call Hong Kong. We thought this would be a great place to start our travels before continuing our journey onto South East Asia.

We are only into our second day here but Hong Kong has so much to offer that we’ve been spoiled for choice as to what to do. We are staying in a great hostel called Yesinn (would definitely recommend it!) located next to many shops and restaurants in the Causeway Bay district.

THINGS TO DO:

Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak skyline

If you’re limited for time and only have a few days in the city I’d suggest going up going up Victoria Peak for amazing views of the skyline and bay. It’s 40$HK for a return ride to the top on the peak tram, or you can pay 75$HK to include a sky terrace pass. We did this but to be honest, I wouldn’t bother with an extra sky terrace pass next time. There are many nature walks at the peak that are less busy and show exactly the same stunning views. If you’re peckish as well there are a few restaurants and bars at the top but they’re  a bit pricey so not great if you’re on a tight budget like us!

Lantau Island

Big Buddha, Lantau Island

You can get to Lantau Island from Central Station in Hong Kong really easy using the MTR to Tung Chung. From here you can get a cable car (an experience in itself!) to Lantau Island for 150$Hk. At the top you’ll be able to walk the steps to the Tian Tan Buddha for free and see some stunning views of the island along the way. If you’re feeling brave (or just broke) you can opt out of using the cable car and instead walk it. However, this is not for the faint hearted and during our trip up we saw many struggling hikers trying to negotiate the steep slopes.

Alongside the Big Buddha, there are also many nature walks but if you’re looking to take it easy I’d recommend the ‘Wisdom Walk’. Other sites include the Po Lin Monastery and the Tai O Fishing Village.

We are off to the Kowloon District tomorrow so I’ll keep you all posted on how that goes!

 

Top Five Things to Do in London For Free

In my opinion, my home city of London is one of the best cities in the world. Unfortunately it has developed a reputation of also being one of the most expensive cities in the world. However, I think London has been unfairly misjudged. If you know where to go in this city, you rarely need to spend a penny to have a good time. Here are my top five favourite things to do and they are all completely free!

1.     Art Galleries and Museums

One thing that London doesn’t lack is free museums and art galleries. Both the Tate Modern and the Tate Britain are extremely popular and house some of the finest artworks in the world. The good thing is they can accommodate nearly everybody’s taste with the Modern focusing on contemporary art, and the Britain displaying art from the sixteenth century to the present day. Other major London art galleries include the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery, in Trafalgar Square. If you are visiting the Square it’s definitely worth having a look inside. In terms of museums, my favourites include the Natural History Museum and the Imperial War Museum. The best thing about those are that they are completely free!

2. Changing of the Guard

If you’re a first-timer to London, no visit is complete without seeing this military tradition inside the gates of Buckingham Palace. The Queen’s Guard changes in the Forecourt inside the gates at 11:30am every day in the summer and every other day in the winter. This is a great way to see a bit of British tradition and culture, and you never know – you may even catch a glimpse of the Queen herself in one of the palace windows. Just don’t build your hopes up too much!

3. London Parks and Gardens

If you’re lucky enough to catch London on a rare sunny and hot day, it’s definitely worth spending your time in one of the city’s parks or gardens. The best of what London has to offer are definitely St. James’s Park, Kensington Gardens or Hyde Park. When the sun is shining there is no better way to enjoy London than to take a picnic to one of these parks, sit on the grass, and people watch.

4. Street markets

London is well known for its cool, bohemian street markets and if you decide to check one out during your visit, then you are definitely spoilt for choice. The most popular are Camden Market and Portobello Market, following closely by Greenwich Market. If you really are tight on cash then I suggest visiting Camden Market purely for the hipster atmosphere. It’s a great way to spend a London afternoon.

5. Street Performers

Convert Garden is notorious for its street performers and always hosts a variety of acts on a daily basis. Good acts can create huge crowds and the performers love to get the audience members to help them with their act. Convert Garden has become so famous for its entertainment that all performers are licensed and have to have passed an audition to perform there. If you’ve got a spare couple of pounds in your pocket it’s definitely worth visiting the Punch and Judy pub in the center of the square, and to have a drink on the balcony whilst you watch the performers.

7 wacky places to lay your hat: quirky accommodation from around the world

When thinking about going away do you ever long for something a bit different? Something a bit more adventurous? When planning that all important break from day-to-day life, spending your time researching the same predictable and generic hotels can sometimes fail to create enthusiasm.

We have all been there. I’ve lost count of the number of humdrum hotels I’ve spent past summers in. Don’t get me wrong, they can be the perfect solution to a week or two of relaxation from work or study. But sometimes these ‘conventional’ hotels can merge into one, and all your past holiday memories can merge into one, and soon all the countries that you have visited have merged into one, leaving you with a huge ball of ‘sameness’.

If the picture of you lounging beside the pool drinking a strawberry daiquiri, and snoozing to the tunes of Bob Marley is starting to get a little old, why not try something a little different and opt for a one-of-a-kind place to stay.

Staying somewhere a little different can bring excitement and adventure back to your holiday. Though I am the first to admit my love for a good old fashioned pool/sunbathing holiday, it’s nice to get out of your comfort zone every once in a while and try something new.

Stepping away from the sun-lounger and onto new territory, you will create fantastic new memories that will not be forgotten anytime soon. Plus, when you do decide to book that much needed week of pure relaxation, you will enjoy and appreciate it so much more.

The Hobbit Motel, Otorohanga, New Zealand

If you are a Lord of the Rings fanatic, this may just be your slice of heaven. Situated in Woodlyn Park, are exact replicas of the Hobbit homes that are in the movie. However there is no need to crouch wherever you go as the inside is considerably more contemporary, ensuring comfort.

 Hotel Igloo Village, Kakslauttanen, Finland

 

Hotel Igloo Village is one the coolest and quirkiest places I have ever seen, and actually makes me feel giddy at the thought of staying here. Imagine sleeping in an igloo made of snow, in the middle of a wintry forest, with the Northern Lights dancing above your head? Complete snowy bliss! Surrounded by Lapland’s stunning scenery, Hotel Igloo Village offers 31 cabins near the vicinity of UrhoKekkonen National park, along the road leading to Nordkap and the Arctic Ocean. In addition to the accommodation, whoever stays here is in for a treat and a truly action-packed break. Think dog-sledding, ice fishing and vodka. I will go there. One day…

 

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

 

Perfect for those who are seeking something a little different but love their comfort. If you ever wanted to sleep 20ft under the waves of the Indian Ocean, surrounding by vibrant coral reef and exotic sea creatures, then this is the perfect place for you. This suite is located at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and is usually open as a restaurant. However, for its 50^th anniversary the Conrad has converted the restaurant into a glass-encased suite, but at a price. It can cost between $10,000 and $15,000 per night, so this slice of underwater heaven is definitely for rich people. Oh I can dream…

 

Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel, Cappadocia Turkey

Fantastic for nature and history lovers, the Yunak offers guests a choice of six different cave houses and thirty different cave rooms that date back to the 5^th and 6^th centuries. All the rooms are furnished with respect to their environment, while still offering modern comfort and charm. The more luxurious suites come complete with Jacuzzi and steam shower. Perfect for those who want to step back in time…

The Mangrove, Koh Chang

In a far flung corner of the east is Koh Chang national Marine Park, where you can find an array of 50 or so islands. At the center is Koh Chang Island itself, which offers lush jungles and exquisite beaches. The Mangrove bungalows are situated in woodland over looking the sea. Everything is low-key and natural, and you can find hammocks, outdoor bathrooms and cushion-clad hideouts. For those who are a fan of The Beach and want to experience what being shipwrecked truly feels like.

 Spherical Tree House, Vancouver Island, Canada

Living in these spherical pods high up in the tree-tops, it is easy for your imagination to run wild with fairies and elves, and other woodland creatures. For those who love nature, this is the ultimate place to stay. You can feel the forest all around you, and the sphere gently rocks when the wind blows, creating the ultimate sleeping experience.

 The Ark, Wiltshire, England

For those Brits who are looking for adventure a little closer to home, inventive woodworker James Noble’s latest incredible creation should be the top of your list. This gothic-inspired structure, which much resembles an old fashioned gypsy wagon, sits by a river and under an apple tree on a quiet corner of a Wiltshire farm, with views of the nearby village. This is a fantastic ‘glamping’ experience and is complete with a campfire and all other amenities to ensure your seclusion. However, don’t be fooled into thinking there is nothing to do here. The site is fantastic for walks and hikes, and guests can visit the surrounding areas of Stonehenge and traditional English market towns; the perfect ‘staycation’.

How To Survive A Shark Attack

 

Sharks scare me. This may sound dramatic, especially from a girl currently living in a rural (non-picturesque) village in England, but they do. I have lost count of the amount of childhood nightmares I have had of flesh-eating beasts, with their mighty jaws snapping at my little feet as I desperately swim for my life. I don’t know exactly what it is that gives me the creeps about these giant fishies, but I think it may have something to do with their beady all-seeing eyes, or the fact that they have WAY too many razor-sharp teeth for their gums. I mean seriously, is there any need for that many?

After watching many National Geographic documentaries on Sky Plus about shark attacks I have developed a perpetual fear of the ocean; especially the one which surrounds Hawaii. Sharks seem to love Hawaii don’t they? Or is that just me? Whatever the case, I’m scared of swimming in Hawaii, which is a shame as I’d love to visit the place. It looks nice.

And God, don’t even get me started on surfers. I mean they are just gambling with their lives aren’t they? I’d love to surf. It’s what cool people do. But in my state of sharky fear I can only view surfers as playing with death. With their surfboards they are merely pieces of dangling bait for the human-killing-machines which lurk within the murky depths. Just waiting.

So anyway, I have decided to be productive about my fear and compile a survival guide. You know, just in case a shark attacks. It really could happen. I wouldn’t under-estimate the monsters.

To prevent a shark attack:

Stay within a group. Don’t be the dickhead who wanders off on his own. They are always the first to die in horror movies.

 

Don’t wander too far from shore. Don’t be a show-off and try to show people your inner fearless diver. Just have a nice paddle.

 

Avoid water at night. It’s murky and scary. You don’t know whats happening underneath.

 

Don’t enter the water if you’re bleeding. Pretty basic knowledge really. You’ll just be a swimming ‘eat me’ advertisement for hungry sharks.

 

Avoid bright bikinis and shiny jewellery. It attracts sharks. So to avoid being on the buffet menu, don’t splash about in the waves done up like you’re the next Naomi Campbell.

So if none of these tips have worked and a shark is on you like its buffet time (poor sod), all is not lost…

Fending off a shark

 

Hit him. Just pummel the shark in it’s most sensitive areas, i.e. eyes and gills. Simple.

 

Reduce the shark’s angles of attack. If you are lucky enough to see the shark coming towards you, back up against the nearest rock or coral. That way you only need to fight him head on.

 

Find a weapon. Use anything close at hand such as rock, swimming-goggles or snorkels. You can even buy a shark ‘billy’ for this occasion, which is a three-foot stick with a sharpened point, made especially for these moments.

 

Get out of the water. Try to get to shore as fast as you can and search for help. The shark won’t follow.

And lastly never give up. If you cause the shark enough trouble, you may get lucky as he may get bored and seek his meal elsewhere.

Hopefully you will never need my advice. Let’s pray that you don’t. But I’d rather be safe than sorry. And if I ever get to visit Hawaii I’ll now be more likely to have a little paddle knowing I’m an expert in shark attack survival. Just imagine if you did survive a shark attack. That would make a great story down the local pub.

 

Trinidad and Tobago: Two Islands, Two Unique Experiences

Heralded as the true Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago offers great value, beauty and a genuinely friendly culture. Sighted by the explorer Christopher Columbus in 1498, it is one of the wealthiest nations in the Caribbean due to its large reserves of oil and gas. Music, colour, culture and ethnicity unite the dual nation. Though many have hailed it as the ultimate carnival destination, there is much more to Trinidad and Tobago then a good party. Mesmerizing beaches and coral wonderlands cover its coast while luxuriant rainforests are perfect for hiking and bird watching.

Carnival celebrations are notorious on the larger island of Trinidad, with calypso music and steel drum bands reigning supreme. The Port of Spain is especially the place to go for a party. Soca music plays in the street, while women covered in bright feathers and beads gyrate to the music. Crazy steel-pan players can be found everywhere, proving a testament to the island’s love of music. As an island of colours, Trinidad is where you will find the party-loving carnival fans. However, don’t get me wrong – there is much more to be seen in Trinidad than what you see through the customary beer goggles. The island also has a rich array of natural wonders that invite bird watchers and hikers alike. It is home to hiking trails which lead you to cascading waterfalls and deserted lagoons, and the coast is home to untouched, rugged beaches. However, it is ultimately the Port of Spain and its carnivals which has become something of a legend on this island and is definitely worth a visit.

On my own visit to the island I experienced Trinidad’s carnival and fun-loving nature. My tour guide gleefully explained to us the absence of wildlife: ‘as you can see there is no wildlife here in this forest. That is because we have eaten them all!’ This statement simply epitomizes the Trinidadian’s laidback and hedonistic outlook on life. While she may have been joking, Trinidad and Tobago seem to have a rich cuisine with an array of food sources; while I visited I was persuaded to try a shark burger, which in all honesty did taste like chicken… I’m not even joking.

Home of carnival, calypso and limbo dancing, this little nation packs a punch in diversity. Trinidadians are relaxed and integrate tourists in a natural way, making it clear that the tourist industry is not just what the nation is about. They specialise in liming (talking for talking’s sake). They are masters in all of life’s pleasures; dancing, partying, playing cricket and simply relaxing. Trinidad is definitely worth a visit for cricket fans as it boasts a good team and cricketers such as Brian Lara.

On the other hand, the quieter island of Tobago is the perfect destination for diving enthusiasts and nature lovers. It is peaceful and relaxed in comparison to its lively and densely populated neighbour. While Trinidad booms and party’s all day and night, the tiny island of Tobago (just 42 km across) bathes in the sun,pina colada

 in hand, with the picturesque view of its pristine beaches. It’s an island that should be proud of its rainforests, nature reserves and fantastic dive sites, and yet it seems perfectly content away from the tourist limelight. This is what makes it special. For someone who wants to experience the tropical beauty of the Caribbean without feeling like they are in the backdrop of Billy Ocean’s ‘Caribbean Queen’, Tobago is the perfect escape. While the island accepts tourists, it also allows them room to breathe and choose how to make the most of the tropical paradise; from laughing with the locals at an open-air bar, living bare feet in tiny guesthouses to experiencing luxury at the postcard perfect plush resorts. However, it seems sleepy Tobago is being woken up by the tourist industry of late so I’d suggest not to hesitate in visiting if you’re interested.

The islands are so diverse that on Trinidad you may also come across flamboyant temples or smell the rich aroma of curry, as you see how East Indian culture has been absorbed in the Caribbean. The two-island state is inhabited by mostly African and Indian descent. Whether you decide to visit sleepy Tobago or vivacious Trinidad, or both, you are guaranteed to experience the Trini way of life. Due to the booming oil and gas industry, Trinidadians tend to treat tourist in a blasé manner, which in a way creates more of an adventure away from the traditional tourist trappings.

For those who are looking for a taste of Caribbean partying and want to experience calypso dancing and colourful carnivals Trinidad is the place to be. For those who are looking to escape to a tropical paradise away from the tourist stereotypes, Tobago with its idyllic rainforests and untouched beaches is the perfect escape. Of course, for those who like a bit of both, why not combine both islands for a true Caribbean experience?

How To Choose A Caribbean Island

 

The Caribbean is extremely diverse with many nationalities, languages and cultures. Many make the mistake of believing pristine beaches, reggae music and cocktails are what epitomize the many islands of the Caribbean, but there is more to these islands then white sand and turquoise waters, with each island celebrating its own unique way of life. For anyone who is interested in visiting the paradise islands (and I highly recommend that you do!) it is best to make sure you pick the island which best ‘fits’ you.

 

For Diving Enthusiasts:

 

Bonaire

A government-protected Marine Park ensures that diving in Bonaire is Caribbean diving as it should be – untouched and unspoiled. This means that Bonaire is renowned for its pristine reefs and diverse marine life. For those visiting, it is definitely worthwhile to scuba dive or snorkel and experience the island’s inviting warm water (78 to 84 F all year round) and unsurpassed visibility.

Cayman Islands

The three islands of the Caymans are often considered the birthplace of recreational diving in the Caribbean. The three islands are essentially an exposed top of an underwater mountain which provides extraordinary diving locations. The intense variety of marine life, historic shipwrecks, still, warm waters and 100-feet-plus visibility means it is difficult to find a better diving location in the region. After visiting, I would highly recommend taking a tour of ‘Sting Ray City’ – where you will come face to face with wild stingrays and even feed them as you snorkel.

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

The resting place of HMS Rhone, which sank in 1867 off Salt Island near Virgin Gorda, has become one of the most glorious dive sites in the world. Schools of tropical fish swim by the spectacular coral and sponges and for the more adventurous divers an exhaustive selection of caves, reefs and pools are guaranteed to quench their thirst of underwater exploration.

 

For Beach Lovers:

 

While the Caribbean boasts a lot more than exotic beaches, there is a reason why people picture white sand, turquoise waters and palm trees – with the exception of Saba (which has rocky shores) and Dominica (where the few beaches have dramatic black sand which absorb the sun; be careful of blisters!). Wherever you go in the area, the shorelines will not disappoint. Here are a few which, in my opinion, stand out from the crowd.

Antigua

Legend has it that there is a beach here for every day of the year. Most major hotels open directly onto a good beach, so you can’t miss the stunning shore. However, Antiguans claim their two best are Dickenson Bay, in the northwest, and Half Moon Bay, which stretches a mile along the eastern coast.

Palm Beach (Aruba)

This famous beach is what, some argue, put Aruba on the tourist map. Certainly, many publications have hailed it as one of the best beaches in the world. However, be careful as it inevitably does tend to get crowded.

The Gold Coast (Barbados)

Also called the Platinum Coast, some of the finest beaches in the Caribbean lie along the coast of Barbados. Certain beaches open to the public which are popular include Paradise Beach and Brighton Beach. You will also find here some of the swankiest and deluxe hotels in the Caribbean.

 

For Party Animals:

 

While night-time is simply sleep time for a majority of the island, there a few jewels which boast an extremely diverse and fun-filled nightlife that will not disappoint.

Trinidad

The home of carnival, the vivacious island of Trinidad boasts one of the loudest music scenes in the Caribbean. The Port of Spain especially is known for its calypso music and steel drum bands. Head here to witness for yourself the dazzling and glittering female dancers who take part in the carnival festivities.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico contains all the ingredients for a great party, including bars and taverns, casinos, dance clubs which often feature a diverse range of music from western imports to salsa and meringue, and cabaret shows filled with feather-clad and glittering girls. This is definitely the place for the more hardcore who wish to stay up all night and nurse their Bacardi hangovers the next day on the beaches.

Curacao

Known as one of the Caribbean’s hotspots for gamblers, Curacao is known for its casinos. Salinja, situated in Willemstad, has lively bars where locals and tourists mingle and drink until the early hours of the morning, while live jazz often fills the air.

 

For Nature Lovers:

 

The Pitons, St. Lucia

One of the most iconic vistas throughout the entire Caribbean, the twin volcanic Pitons rise dramatically from the sea and can both be seen by a bus tour or alternatively, a boat tour. The Pitons management area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, includes tropical forests, coral reefs, waterfalls and hot springs. For the more adventurous you can take the challenge of hiking to the top of the 2,619 foot Gros Piton.

The Baths, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Along the coast of Virgin Gorda there are a jumble of ancient underwater boulders that form a series of caves, pools and grottos. The calm and sheltered waters mean that even the most novice snorkeler can experience this magnificent natural wonder of rock formations.

El Yunque Rain Forest, Puerto Rico

The Caribbean’s most famous rainforest, its 28,000 acres include staggering biodiversity – home to thousands of plants and hundreds of animal species. The park can often feel overwhelmed with visitors but quieter experiences can be had. For those who truly want to immerse themselves in the rainforest experience, hiking, fishing and camping are also available.

 

For Explorers:

 

Saba

For the more adventurous types who wish to travel a little off the beaten track, the island of Saba offers a unique and hidden experience. Saba is known as ‘The Unspoiled Queen’ and is accessible from St. Martin via a fifteen minute plane ride or an hour and a half ferry ride. Saba does not have the sandy beaches which have made the Caribbean famous; instead, it’s a volcanic island with cliff faces and rocky shores. There are four small villages on the island meaning Saba really does allow you to escape from the many tourist trappings of the area.

Jamaica

Music is the heartbeat of Jamaica, and this is, of course, the birthplace of reggae and its most famous star Bob Marley. Avid fans can tour the places most significant in his life. Visit Gee Jam in Port Antonio, the ultimate base for aspiring musicians and get some studio time yourself. Alternatively, visit the colourful childhood home of Marley in Nine Mile, in the rural heart of Jamaica. The singer lived here until he was 13 and it includes the inspirational stone where he supposedly sat upon to meditate. For avid fans of reggae it is worth a visit to Studio 1 and the famous dancehalls of Kingston.

Wherever you decide to go the Caribbean offers a unique range of travel delights from picturesque beaches and dive sites to colourful carnivals and pulsing dancehalls. Whether you decide to indulge in the Caribbean stereotype, pina colada in hand, or decide to venture further afield for a truly shipwrecked experience, I am sure the Caribbean will never disappoint.