Monday, February 29, 2016
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Thinking back about recent events, I realized that I have done stupid things and have hurt a lot of people. A word of sorry would never be enough since the hurt was already done. Strong anticipations leads to disappointment and setbacks.
We are humans and humans make mistakes after all. Sometimes I think I have the situation under control and I can manage the people. Sometimes I think I should make decisions for others so as to protect their emotions. But is that always the case? Will they like it if they know they're being manipulated? What if multiple people gets affected in one decision?
I know I am supposed to act in a way, but I just didn't manage it well. Worse, I am slow to think, and cannot act in the moment. This has greatly affected me as a person for a very long time. Yet, no matter how hard I try, I cannot correct this.
For someone who tries so hard, it sometimes is so difficult to forgive yourself. Can I blame it on my personality? Sometimes I think I am a walking emotionless zombie incapable of empathy. Am I really going to be destined to be a person like that forever? You can learn and try to apply it in your life. However, it never really becomes part of you. When you're tired, you bounce back.
I have always wanted to be a nice gentleman, I really do, but I end up either not doing things right, or doing inappropriate things that make people disappointed or sad. Would my friends accept me for who I am and forgive me for my mistakes? (and... would someone understand why I sometimes make bad decisions at the moment, and then regret later...? Would someone finally accept me for who I really am, a broken and weird person who only tries to be nice?)
These are such great regrets. 2015 brought so much set backs and realizations. Hopefully, the realizations and lessons stay with me. May I be a better, stronger and emotionally wise person in 2016.
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Guang Zhou
Guang Zhou is said to be China's most tourist friendly city to visit, and this trip proves it to be true. However, it's not exactly English friendly, so if you can't read Chinese, you should get a guide. It is a city of delicious authentic Chinese food, night views and traditional Chinese shopping streets. Not so much on the sight-seeing however, This trip was inspired and planned in most parts by my almost sister-like friend. A trip inspired by roasted geese. Also a trip of realization.
19 December 2015, Clear, Lychee Bay > Chen Clan Academy > Beijing Road > Zhujiang
Arrived at Guang Zhou Baiyun Airport in the wee hours, so I had to 'willingly' get scammed by taxi to arrive at my rented place. Rested for 3 hours before meeting with Joyce. A happy reunion. Our first stop was Lychee Bay and a very famous yum cha restaurant with a long history in China: Pan Xi Restaurant, where we had super excellent dim sum with tea, a typical 'yum cha' style brunch. Dim sums were one of the best I have ever had, but according to Joyce, this is only just above average.
After being full, we walked around Lychee Bay park to look at old people do old people things... Fishing, water calligraphy, dancing, etc.
Next, we went to eat fish skin. Not my favourite food, but is one of her favourites. Next, we ate the Cantonese version of 'Hong Dou Bing'. I was surprised it came in a cup and was meant as a drink. Ours was topped with coconut ice-cream, which was a great compliment to the red bean drink. We had lunch at a Chinese restaurant which serves steam chicken. We ordered their chicken, plus some veggies. I still like the steam chicken of Singapore more. In the afternoon, we visited Chen Clan Academy. If you know the Chinese name, you would find that it is translated wrongly. This place was constructed with funds raised from many families with the family name of Chen. Over time, it became a repository for books, and hence its name. The roofs were all carved extremely intricately to the maximum detail. It was truly a spectacular sight.
Our next destination was Beijing Road, where we only walked past to take a look at ancient paths and roads that was preserved. We walked on to have dessert at a famous sweet soup restaurant. We ordered tang yuan since it Winter Solistice is coming. I ordered an additional almond pudding. They all taste awesome. The soup was sweet, but my tour guide was sweeter (only you'll read this!). In the evening, we walked around ZhuJiang New Town area and took a few shots of the modern city scenery of Guang Zhou.
After resting for a bit on a cup of Gong Cha, we went to take the Pearl River Night Cruise. When you are on top of the cruise, you get to see the CBD from a different perspective. I was enjoying every part of it, soaking up the night cruise atmosphere.
20 December 2015, Cloudy, Huang Pu Old Harbour > Shamian Island > TianHe
My tour guide was sleepy today. Perhaps visiting when she needs to work isn't that good an idea. We went to take a tram and walked to Huang Pu Old Harbour. The area around the harbour is less developed. Many make-shift shops were set up on the side of the road, selling stuff from vegetables to pets, fish, meat, etc. Our destination was a shop that sells good porridge. We ordered Lotus Root Cake and sweet potato leaves to go with the porridge. The porridge tastes really authentic, nothing like what I had before. We then went to the remains of the harbour and took some pictures. Next, we went to eat the ginger milk curd, known in Chinese as 'jiang zhuang nai'. The chemistry behind this dessert is interesting: when hot milk is added to the ginger juice, the milk curdles into a solid after about a minute. My best guess is that there must be an enzyme in the ginger that can denature the protein in the milk. This is the softest 'curd' style dessert I have ever ate in my life! We passed by a post shop and Joyce helped me to prepare post cards. You wish to escape from my mailing list. In the afternoon, we took a ferry to Shamian Island. We visited Sun Yat Sen University for a bit since the ferry only operate at half an hour interval. Shamian Island has a mystic aura around it. The island features old colonial style buildings and cafes. Joyce said this used to be her favourite place until it became so popular that it's so crowded now.
True enough, I can imagine it to be a quietly peaceful and charming place for coffee or tea when there's less people. So many couples take their wedding shots here. Nevertheless, we sat down in Lucy's Cafe for coffee, tea and chips. Dinner was at Wu Xi Hong Kong Restaurant in TianHe district. This is the place where I tried goose meat for the first time (I think). It really tastes like duck, but with an extra flavour to it. Really yummy. The restaurant's polo bun was also way better than the one I had in Hong Kong. After dinner, we went for a shot window shopping before going back because TianHe is a shopping district. With a tinge of sadness, we parted ways again. Hate the feeling of good byes. Felt that this was the end of the good part of the trip.
21 December 2015, Rain/Cloudy, Guang Zhou various areas.
Without my tour guide, and with my luggage, I travelled to many places around Guang Zhou like a lost sheep (my typical solo travel day, a day of spiritual relaxation). Total mileage today was 13 km. My first destination was decided spontaneously: Dong Hu. This destination was chosen because one of my friends recommended it, and because the weather isn't suitable for Baiyun Mountain. Dong Hu makes a place for a good stress release, only I was like the youngest person there...
Being adventurous, I tried to walk all the way from Dong Hu to BeiJing Road. This walk is really crazy and long. I walked past some of the less developed areas of Guang Zhou, which was also a sight. Ate at a Chao Zhou noodle restaurant near BeiJing Road, which is decent. I then find a shop that sells Guang Zhou made snacks. This will be the souvenirs for my colleagues and family. I then decided to travel to Shang Xia Jiu (Up Down 9 Street) to have a look at the place. Before reaching the place, I passed by cultural garden, where there were cartoons on display.
Shang Xia Jiu turned out it looks remarkably similar in style to BeiJing Road, except with a little difference in flavour, due to the shop signs and building designs. Deposited my post cards here, and got more snacks. At this moment in time, I was lost for places to go. I decided to go to Bai Yun Garden Station to take a look. This expedition paid off, because the garden that is next to the station was made into a Children's Garden. I entered as a tourist and observed many mums and dads and their children play in the complex. This place also featured traditional Chinese style architecture, which till today, I find it strangely beautiful and appealing. I like the Chinese style concrete bridge spanning over the lake, just like what a Chinese poem paints.
After a short rest, I decided to walk over to Lantian Road. Just because of the road name, and the affiliation to a little joke that me and Joyce has. Turns out I can't even take a picture of the road name because there was no road sign for it. Disappointment. In the evening, I decided to go to HuiFu East Road. On the way there, I passed by People's Park, so I decided to enter. Many old folks are gambling in the area. Pictures turned out bad since it's night time. After I walk to HuiFu East Road, I realized that this road connects itself to BeiJing road, so I found myself back in BeiJing road! Should have stared at google maps more often before actually flying here like a lost lamb! At least at night, the ancient street was lighted, allowing me to take this.
After having dumplings for dinner, I decided to head to the airport early for my flight back. On the way back, I walked past XiHu Road and saw a beautiful palace, though I don't know what it is!
I hope I won't miss Guang Zhou too much.
Guang Zhou is said to be China's most tourist friendly city to visit, and this trip proves it to be true. However, it's not exactly English friendly, so if you can't read Chinese, you should get a guide. It is a city of delicious authentic Chinese food, night views and traditional Chinese shopping streets. Not so much on the sight-seeing however, This trip was inspired and planned in most parts by my almost sister-like friend. A trip inspired by roasted geese. Also a trip of realization.
19 December 2015, Clear, Lychee Bay > Chen Clan Academy > Beijing Road > Zhujiang
Arrived at Guang Zhou Baiyun Airport in the wee hours, so I had to 'willingly' get scammed by taxi to arrive at my rented place. Rested for 3 hours before meeting with Joyce. A happy reunion. Our first stop was Lychee Bay and a very famous yum cha restaurant with a long history in China: Pan Xi Restaurant, where we had super excellent dim sum with tea, a typical 'yum cha' style brunch. Dim sums were one of the best I have ever had, but according to Joyce, this is only just above average.
After being full, we walked around Lychee Bay park to look at old people do old people things... Fishing, water calligraphy, dancing, etc.
Next, we went to eat fish skin. Not my favourite food, but is one of her favourites. Next, we ate the Cantonese version of 'Hong Dou Bing'. I was surprised it came in a cup and was meant as a drink. Ours was topped with coconut ice-cream, which was a great compliment to the red bean drink. We had lunch at a Chinese restaurant which serves steam chicken. We ordered their chicken, plus some veggies. I still like the steam chicken of Singapore more. In the afternoon, we visited Chen Clan Academy. If you know the Chinese name, you would find that it is translated wrongly. This place was constructed with funds raised from many families with the family name of Chen. Over time, it became a repository for books, and hence its name. The roofs were all carved extremely intricately to the maximum detail. It was truly a spectacular sight.
Our next destination was Beijing Road, where we only walked past to take a look at ancient paths and roads that was preserved. We walked on to have dessert at a famous sweet soup restaurant. We ordered tang yuan since it Winter Solistice is coming. I ordered an additional almond pudding. They all taste awesome. The soup was sweet, but my tour guide was sweeter (only you'll read this!). In the evening, we walked around ZhuJiang New Town area and took a few shots of the modern city scenery of Guang Zhou.
After resting for a bit on a cup of Gong Cha, we went to take the Pearl River Night Cruise. When you are on top of the cruise, you get to see the CBD from a different perspective. I was enjoying every part of it, soaking up the night cruise atmosphere.
20 December 2015, Cloudy, Huang Pu Old Harbour > Shamian Island > TianHe
My tour guide was sleepy today. Perhaps visiting when she needs to work isn't that good an idea. We went to take a tram and walked to Huang Pu Old Harbour. The area around the harbour is less developed. Many make-shift shops were set up on the side of the road, selling stuff from vegetables to pets, fish, meat, etc. Our destination was a shop that sells good porridge. We ordered Lotus Root Cake and sweet potato leaves to go with the porridge. The porridge tastes really authentic, nothing like what I had before. We then went to the remains of the harbour and took some pictures. Next, we went to eat the ginger milk curd, known in Chinese as 'jiang zhuang nai'. The chemistry behind this dessert is interesting: when hot milk is added to the ginger juice, the milk curdles into a solid after about a minute. My best guess is that there must be an enzyme in the ginger that can denature the protein in the milk. This is the softest 'curd' style dessert I have ever ate in my life! We passed by a post shop and Joyce helped me to prepare post cards. You wish to escape from my mailing list. In the afternoon, we took a ferry to Shamian Island. We visited Sun Yat Sen University for a bit since the ferry only operate at half an hour interval. Shamian Island has a mystic aura around it. The island features old colonial style buildings and cafes. Joyce said this used to be her favourite place until it became so popular that it's so crowded now.
True enough, I can imagine it to be a quietly peaceful and charming place for coffee or tea when there's less people. So many couples take their wedding shots here. Nevertheless, we sat down in Lucy's Cafe for coffee, tea and chips. Dinner was at Wu Xi Hong Kong Restaurant in TianHe district. This is the place where I tried goose meat for the first time (I think). It really tastes like duck, but with an extra flavour to it. Really yummy. The restaurant's polo bun was also way better than the one I had in Hong Kong. After dinner, we went for a shot window shopping before going back because TianHe is a shopping district. With a tinge of sadness, we parted ways again. Hate the feeling of good byes. Felt that this was the end of the good part of the trip.
21 December 2015, Rain/Cloudy, Guang Zhou various areas.
Without my tour guide, and with my luggage, I travelled to many places around Guang Zhou like a lost sheep (my typical solo travel day, a day of spiritual relaxation). Total mileage today was 13 km. My first destination was decided spontaneously: Dong Hu. This destination was chosen because one of my friends recommended it, and because the weather isn't suitable for Baiyun Mountain. Dong Hu makes a place for a good stress release, only I was like the youngest person there...
Shang Xia Jiu turned out it looks remarkably similar in style to BeiJing Road, except with a little difference in flavour, due to the shop signs and building designs. Deposited my post cards here, and got more snacks. At this moment in time, I was lost for places to go. I decided to go to Bai Yun Garden Station to take a look. This expedition paid off, because the garden that is next to the station was made into a Children's Garden. I entered as a tourist and observed many mums and dads and their children play in the complex. This place also featured traditional Chinese style architecture, which till today, I find it strangely beautiful and appealing. I like the Chinese style concrete bridge spanning over the lake, just like what a Chinese poem paints.
After a short rest, I decided to walk over to Lantian Road. Just because of the road name, and the affiliation to a little joke that me and Joyce has. Turns out I can't even take a picture of the road name because there was no road sign for it. Disappointment. In the evening, I decided to go to HuiFu East Road. On the way there, I passed by People's Park, so I decided to enter. Many old folks are gambling in the area. Pictures turned out bad since it's night time. After I walk to HuiFu East Road, I realized that this road connects itself to BeiJing road, so I found myself back in BeiJing road! Should have stared at google maps more often before actually flying here like a lost lamb! At least at night, the ancient street was lighted, allowing me to take this.
After having dumplings for dinner, I decided to head to the airport early for my flight back. On the way back, I walked past XiHu Road and saw a beautiful palace, though I don't know what it is!
I hope I won't miss Guang Zhou too much.
Wednesday, December 09, 2015
Batam, A Short Getaway
This trip was planned solely by me, but the presence of my dad made everything a whole lot easier. Kudos to him for picking up Indon after working there. Being able to communicate with the locals really helped us get the best deals and getting to places! Resort lifestyle by the beach refreshes both the mind and spirit. In this trip, we enjoyed fresh local seafood and I got to enjoy exhilarating sea sports. Mosquitoes annoyed us throughout the trip. Nonetheless, another trip succeeded!
7 December 2015, Sunny, Singapore > Batam Turi Beach Resort
We woke up early in the morning to travel to Batam. Things dragged a bit because I am travelling with my mum! Moreover, I forgot to bring our Groupon tickets, so we had to go back home, then cab to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. The ferry ride gave us a headache. Note: Sitting on the lower deck will prevent this problem. We arrived at Turi after a short bus ride, then ate at the only restaurant available before checking in. I decided to test the pool in the resort. It is quite dirty! In the end, I did some suntanning. Late in the evening, I went to the gazebo by the sea. We then ate our steamboat dinner and retired for the night.
We woke up early in the morning to travel to Batam. Things dragged a bit because I am travelling with my mum! Moreover, I forgot to bring our Groupon tickets, so we had to go back home, then cab to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. The ferry ride gave us a headache. Note: Sitting on the lower deck will prevent this problem. We arrived at Turi after a short bus ride, then ate at the only restaurant available before checking in. I decided to test the pool in the resort. It is quite dirty! In the end, I did some suntanning. Late in the evening, I went to the gazebo by the sea. We then ate our steamboat dinner and retired for the night.
8 December 2015, Sunny, Turi > Nagoya Hill Shopping Centre >Turi
We consumed our free breakfast in the resort. It was reasonable. We then took a taxi and went all the way to Nagoya Hill Shopping Centre. We then did a lot of shopping. I bought a set of clothes. Too bad no shoes caught my attention. Had our lunch in this restaurant called ZA Cafe. The Ayam Penyet that I had only cost $1.20 in Singapore dollars, and it tasted nice! After lunch, I went to try the arcade. Since smoking is allowed, the entire arcade is full of cigarette smoke. I only played a few rhythm games before leaving. Really cannot stand the smoke and poor ventilation although the arcade is really cheap. A token costs 10 cents! After that, I found another arcade by the cinema where smoking is not allowed. Spent a long part of my afternoon playing Time Crisis 4 there since one credit only costs 37 cents. Really enjoyed the arcade session, played till my heart's content! Dinner was at Reseki Seafood Restaurant, one of the recommendations by TripAdvisor. The seafood here is really fresh since all of them are live. My dad commented that their cooking skills are actually not that good, but I am contented. We had a large variety of seafood: Indonesian crab, groupers, gong-gong, small prawn, scallop and crayfish! This meal costed us a million dollars! (in rupiah)
9 December 2015, Sunny, Turi Beach Resort > Singapore
Today is the day where I did sea sports. I finally got the chance to try para-sailing, and at a reasonable price. After being all harnessed, the instructor counted down from 3, then I ran towards the sea and jumped. I was immediately lifted off the ground and ascended together with the kite. It was simply exhilarating. The view of the resort when you're up in the air is just different. Staring down, you can see your own shadow cruising over the sea at great speeds. The landing is a bit stupid however, just land into the water and get fetched back on a jet-ski. I then rode around the area on my rented jet-ski. After fumbling around with the balance, I finally got used to the machine. In no time, I start to speed around the waters at max throttle. This particular jet-ski was faster than the one that I tried in Gold Coast. Every max speed I achieved is a lot of adrenaline released. I then did some standing-speeding in the sea haha! The feeling is just great! Makes me forget all my troubles and woes temporarily. After a small lunch of fish and chips, we took the ferry back to Singapore.
Till the next trip, which actually isn't so far away from this one.
9 December 2015, Sunny, Turi Beach Resort > Singapore
Today is the day where I did sea sports. I finally got the chance to try para-sailing, and at a reasonable price. After being all harnessed, the instructor counted down from 3, then I ran towards the sea and jumped. I was immediately lifted off the ground and ascended together with the kite. It was simply exhilarating. The view of the resort when you're up in the air is just different. Staring down, you can see your own shadow cruising over the sea at great speeds. The landing is a bit stupid however, just land into the water and get fetched back on a jet-ski. I then rode around the area on my rented jet-ski. After fumbling around with the balance, I finally got used to the machine. In no time, I start to speed around the waters at max throttle. This particular jet-ski was faster than the one that I tried in Gold Coast. Every max speed I achieved is a lot of adrenaline released. I then did some standing-speeding in the sea haha! The feeling is just great! Makes me forget all my troubles and woes temporarily. After a small lunch of fish and chips, we took the ferry back to Singapore.
Till the next trip, which actually isn't so far away from this one.
Friday, November 20, 2015
Time and time again, it has been proven right that the people around you will be friends with you when you are nice to them and when you serve a purpose. When they no longer need you, the distance just drifts apart. It is not their fault, as they might not even realize it themselves. I might even be guilty of this myself...
My aunt once told me this is the way of life. You meet different friends at different stages of your life. You cannot prevent this from happening. How do I comfort myself? Friends who are meant to be with you will stay with you. Those that won't stay, would not. Let the past be the past. Focus on those currently around you. Those that need you now. Be prepared to face them leave you one day, however. It takes two hands to clap, just like in any form of relationship. You can care a lot for others, but if they don't, you just can't force them. Note to self: it is not their fault.
I have many friends around me, but yet, I feel more lonely than ever before...
My aunt once told me this is the way of life. You meet different friends at different stages of your life. You cannot prevent this from happening. How do I comfort myself? Friends who are meant to be with you will stay with you. Those that won't stay, would not. Let the past be the past. Focus on those currently around you. Those that need you now. Be prepared to face them leave you one day, however. It takes two hands to clap, just like in any form of relationship. You can care a lot for others, but if they don't, you just can't force them. Note to self: it is not their fault.
I have many friends around me, but yet, I feel more lonely than ever before...
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
I am broken, I am weird, strange and different from others, or so this is what I picked up from other 'normal's. I am freak whose mind operates differently from others. It is difficult to get into my wavelength. Should it be a matter?
I am different from you, I am unique. I am true to myself. Love me and hate me the way I am. I do not need to change myself and blend into the crowd to become 'normal'. I do not need to do what everyone is doing. No social conformism is necessary at all. I am unique. I can do things differently. I surprise.
I am broken, but I am still whole. That is why I never needed to find 'another half'. The world is mine to explore, to face. To pursue and excel with the strength that comes from within me. I am my own supportive pillar of strength.
I am different from you, I am unique. I am true to myself. Love me and hate me the way I am. I do not need to change myself and blend into the crowd to become 'normal'. I do not need to do what everyone is doing. No social conformism is necessary at all. I am unique. I can do things differently. I surprise.
I am broken, but I am still whole. That is why I never needed to find 'another half'. The world is mine to explore, to face. To pursue and excel with the strength that comes from within me. I am my own supportive pillar of strength.
Monday, July 20, 2015
Hong Kong
This trip was made possible by the opportunity to attend the a summer workshop in the Chinese University of Hong Kong. I extended the trip myself so that I could explore Hong Kong 'semi-solo'. Being a developed city, Hong Kong is an excellent place to travel alone. Itinerary was planned by yours truly and modified for my new friends. It turned out to be a trip complete with academics, food, shopping, culture, sights and nature trails. Was also a trip where I took my new sony a5100 camera to see the world outside Singapore... literally.
13 July, Cloudy, Singapore > Hong Kong, Chinese University of Hong Kong
Went to Changi Airport and left without anyone sending me in. It indeed turned out to be a true solo trip. Flight was delayed by 40 minutes thanks to a miscommunication... Sometimes I wonder if I should continue to take budget airline. Spent the flight reading from my kindle. I am pretty thankful to have such a nice travel companion haha! After I landed in Hong Kong, the first thing that struck me was their customer service attitude. It was not impressive at all. It also didn't help that I do not understand Cantonese and hence could not interact with the locals with a more close manner. It just felt distant. Dinner was macs, since everything in the airport was expensive. After buying all necessary things, I took MTR to University Station. A senior student showed me to my room. The second thing that hit me was the punishing summer heat with high humidity. It IS worse compared to Singapore. I heard it is even worse elsewhere, so I guess I should be thankful. I have a roommate! The place that I stay in boasts a pretty view across the river. Pretty pleasant accommodation considering it's free.
14 July, Cloudy, Chinese University of Hong Kong
Today was the first day of the summer workshop. We had to find our own food for 3 meals, so we relied on local students to show us the way. The living expenses in Hong Kong is actually pretty high. Getting around to the place for breakfast is also horrible. The campus is pretty, but it is located on a mountain! We had to climb crazily high flights of stairs to reach places. To think Kent Ridge was bad... This is 5x worse, no exaggeration. The workshop started proper, it was the usual administrative stuff. For lunch, some of the faculty members ate together with us. It is very personal and we really have many chances to interact with them. I had the chance to talk to Prof. Amos Tai and found out more about his research focus areas. The afternoon was spent on research seminars, followed by tours to a Climate Change museum, and a tour around campus. It was a pity that I did not bring my camera for the tours. We then had an awesome welcome dinner. In all, within the first day, I realize that I do not want to stay here for a 4 year PhD.
15 July, Cloudy, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin
For the poster presentation, I realized that most people are not going to dress formally. The poster presentation went well. In a short span of 2 hours, I began to talk to many people and made many friends, as well as make the Profs there like me. The night was spent at Sha Tin New Town Plaza, where we did some shopping.
16 July, Rain, Chinese University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, various
Today was marked with nervousness and excitement. After the interview which went pretty well. I think I would get the PhD position if I were to apply for CUHK again this year, but as I said, I have my doubts now. In the afternoon, I travelled to City U to talk to a researcher for a while. We then came back in time for a farewell party for the workshop. After that, some of our local friends bring us to Hong Kong's city centre for a fast night trip to various places. We went to Kowloon public pier and have a quick view of the Hong Kong light show at 8 PM. We then split group and we took a ferry to Wan Chai and explored Hong Kong island a little bit. I tried my hands on 'trailing car light' photography here. Many of my China friends really like this picture.
We then took the MTR back to Tsim Sha Tsui to do some cosmetic shopping (the girls). Apparently, Sasa is a popular brand in China and they really bought a lot. We reunited with a group that split up. We then took the MTR to Mongkok and the hunt for street food began. After walking for sooo long tonight, we decided we were tired and went back to the university, only reaching home at about 12 midnight. After a little washing up, our gang decided to all gather in my room and we played the chinese version of polarbear/mafia/killer. It is so interesting to find this game narrated in Chinese.
17 July, Sunny, Chinese University of Hong Kong > Tsim Sha Tsui, The Peak
We just kept on playing till 3:30 AM. After checking out, we begin to say goodbye. Friendships were forged in a short span of 4 days, and some people actually were moved to tears when saying goodbye...
After asking around for people to travel Hong Kong with, I managed to convince and brought 2 girls with me so that they could deposit their luggage in my room before we went out to explore urban Hong Kong together.
The urban landscape just reminds me of Singapore... somewhat. We took the tram up to The Peak to explore the Wax Museum and the Victoria Peak garden. The queue for the tram is just crazy. We first explored the Wax Museum, where we took a LOT of pictures. I must say, the figurines are really really life-like. Among many singers, movie stars, cartoons and political figures, I also found our founding father Lee Kuan Yew. After the museum, we decided to do a little hiking up to Victoria Peak garden.
The view wasn't extremely amazing, but it was still cool to get up there. Dinner was at a random noodle place near Tsim Sha Tsui. I then had to say goodbye to the 2 girls who were going to ShenZhen, and continue the rest of the journey alone. I decided to have an early night so that I can go to many places the next day.
18 July, Sunny, Tsim Sha Tsui > Shek O > Sheung Wan > Tsim Sha Tsui
I woke up early and went to visit the Avenue of Stars, where stars have made their hand imprints. Nothing much, except it is the day view of Hong Kong CBD. I then went to One Dim Sum to try the dim sum. I over-ordered because there was so many different types I want to try, but each comes in large servings. Boo-hoo to food wastage. Recommended to come as a group. Their milk custard bun was really unique and delicious! The har kow and siew mai has prawns that are a little tougher than the Singapore's version, but very yummy nonetheless. I had to stuff myself because the next up the itinerary was a hiking trip! Took public transport to Shek O, where I began the trek. I did a near full circle there by going down the hill to Tung Ah village and continued towards Ngan Hang village, where there's a little beach. Then, from ground zero, I began the ascend up to Shek O road again, and then further up on Dragon's Back trail. The ascend was crazy. Climbing in the summer heat made me sweat buckets and develop headaches. I brought a lot of water, which I thought was in excess, but in the end, it was just enough. The total ascend was actually only 284 m. The view was totally worth the effort.
The descend was a little hike through the growth. It was also beautiful. Imagine walking on a sand path with tree branches forming a tunnel over you. This extended for about 2 km or so. The next destination was po-lo buns. I made my way to Mongkok after a quick wash up, and to my dismay, the shop was out of the buns! In the end, I ate noodles and dumplings at a place known for their dumplings and found another restaurant that also sell po-lo buns. To be honest, these buns are just a hype. Other than having a crispy top layer, there's nothing that tastes pineapple-y. (I am stupid and should have known. Why do I stay at home so much!)
19th July, Sunny, Tsim Sha Tsui > Singapore
I still had to document this day because... 1) Hong Kong airport is so complicated. I have to take a train from the main airport area to the customs office, and then another bus to the gates to board the plane. I initially thought I was very early, but all the time was wasted taking these trains and buses. Not very good a design for an airport. I wonder why it was ranked among the nice airports, many other airports are pretty good as well. 2) I was so lucky and I was assigned seat 1F on an A320! This is my favourite seat in the entire plane (and 1A, since they're essentially the same)! Oh, I just have to mention this.
Hence, this marks the end of my 7 day trip in Hong Kong. A trip that helped me in the decision making process of choosing Hong Kong for PhD. Friendships were forged (including friends with Profs), sights were seen, food was ate :p. All in all, a trip really worth it in terms of time and money spent. On a final note, don't come to Hong Kong in summer if you don't like the heat.
This trip was made possible by the opportunity to attend the a summer workshop in the Chinese University of Hong Kong. I extended the trip myself so that I could explore Hong Kong 'semi-solo'. Being a developed city, Hong Kong is an excellent place to travel alone. Itinerary was planned by yours truly and modified for my new friends. It turned out to be a trip complete with academics, food, shopping, culture, sights and nature trails. Was also a trip where I took my new sony a5100 camera to see the world outside Singapore... literally.
13 July, Cloudy, Singapore > Hong Kong, Chinese University of Hong Kong
Went to Changi Airport and left without anyone sending me in. It indeed turned out to be a true solo trip. Flight was delayed by 40 minutes thanks to a miscommunication... Sometimes I wonder if I should continue to take budget airline. Spent the flight reading from my kindle. I am pretty thankful to have such a nice travel companion haha! After I landed in Hong Kong, the first thing that struck me was their customer service attitude. It was not impressive at all. It also didn't help that I do not understand Cantonese and hence could not interact with the locals with a more close manner. It just felt distant. Dinner was macs, since everything in the airport was expensive. After buying all necessary things, I took MTR to University Station. A senior student showed me to my room. The second thing that hit me was the punishing summer heat with high humidity. It IS worse compared to Singapore. I heard it is even worse elsewhere, so I guess I should be thankful. I have a roommate! The place that I stay in boasts a pretty view across the river. Pretty pleasant accommodation considering it's free.
14 July, Cloudy, Chinese University of Hong Kong
Today was the first day of the summer workshop. We had to find our own food for 3 meals, so we relied on local students to show us the way. The living expenses in Hong Kong is actually pretty high. Getting around to the place for breakfast is also horrible. The campus is pretty, but it is located on a mountain! We had to climb crazily high flights of stairs to reach places. To think Kent Ridge was bad... This is 5x worse, no exaggeration. The workshop started proper, it was the usual administrative stuff. For lunch, some of the faculty members ate together with us. It is very personal and we really have many chances to interact with them. I had the chance to talk to Prof. Amos Tai and found out more about his research focus areas. The afternoon was spent on research seminars, followed by tours to a Climate Change museum, and a tour around campus. It was a pity that I did not bring my camera for the tours. We then had an awesome welcome dinner. In all, within the first day, I realize that I do not want to stay here for a 4 year PhD.
15 July, Cloudy, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin
For the poster presentation, I realized that most people are not going to dress formally. The poster presentation went well. In a short span of 2 hours, I began to talk to many people and made many friends, as well as make the Profs there like me. The night was spent at Sha Tin New Town Plaza, where we did some shopping.
16 July, Rain, Chinese University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, various
Today was marked with nervousness and excitement. After the interview which went pretty well. I think I would get the PhD position if I were to apply for CUHK again this year, but as I said, I have my doubts now. In the afternoon, I travelled to City U to talk to a researcher for a while. We then came back in time for a farewell party for the workshop. After that, some of our local friends bring us to Hong Kong's city centre for a fast night trip to various places. We went to Kowloon public pier and have a quick view of the Hong Kong light show at 8 PM. We then split group and we took a ferry to Wan Chai and explored Hong Kong island a little bit. I tried my hands on 'trailing car light' photography here. Many of my China friends really like this picture.
We then took the MTR back to Tsim Sha Tsui to do some cosmetic shopping (the girls). Apparently, Sasa is a popular brand in China and they really bought a lot. We reunited with a group that split up. We then took the MTR to Mongkok and the hunt for street food began. After walking for sooo long tonight, we decided we were tired and went back to the university, only reaching home at about 12 midnight. After a little washing up, our gang decided to all gather in my room and we played the chinese version of polarbear/mafia/killer. It is so interesting to find this game narrated in Chinese.
17 July, Sunny, Chinese University of Hong Kong > Tsim Sha Tsui, The Peak
We just kept on playing till 3:30 AM. After checking out, we begin to say goodbye. Friendships were forged in a short span of 4 days, and some people actually were moved to tears when saying goodbye...
After asking around for people to travel Hong Kong with, I managed to convince and brought 2 girls with me so that they could deposit their luggage in my room before we went out to explore urban Hong Kong together.
The urban landscape just reminds me of Singapore... somewhat. We took the tram up to The Peak to explore the Wax Museum and the Victoria Peak garden. The queue for the tram is just crazy. We first explored the Wax Museum, where we took a LOT of pictures. I must say, the figurines are really really life-like. Among many singers, movie stars, cartoons and political figures, I also found our founding father Lee Kuan Yew. After the museum, we decided to do a little hiking up to Victoria Peak garden.
The view wasn't extremely amazing, but it was still cool to get up there. Dinner was at a random noodle place near Tsim Sha Tsui. I then had to say goodbye to the 2 girls who were going to ShenZhen, and continue the rest of the journey alone. I decided to have an early night so that I can go to many places the next day.
18 July, Sunny, Tsim Sha Tsui > Shek O > Sheung Wan > Tsim Sha Tsui
I woke up early and went to visit the Avenue of Stars, where stars have made their hand imprints. Nothing much, except it is the day view of Hong Kong CBD. I then went to One Dim Sum to try the dim sum. I over-ordered because there was so many different types I want to try, but each comes in large servings. Boo-hoo to food wastage. Recommended to come as a group. Their milk custard bun was really unique and delicious! The har kow and siew mai has prawns that are a little tougher than the Singapore's version, but very yummy nonetheless. I had to stuff myself because the next up the itinerary was a hiking trip! Took public transport to Shek O, where I began the trek. I did a near full circle there by going down the hill to Tung Ah village and continued towards Ngan Hang village, where there's a little beach. Then, from ground zero, I began the ascend up to Shek O road again, and then further up on Dragon's Back trail. The ascend was crazy. Climbing in the summer heat made me sweat buckets and develop headaches. I brought a lot of water, which I thought was in excess, but in the end, it was just enough. The total ascend was actually only 284 m. The view was totally worth the effort.
The descend was a little hike through the growth. It was also beautiful. Imagine walking on a sand path with tree branches forming a tunnel over you. This extended for about 2 km or so. The next destination was po-lo buns. I made my way to Mongkok after a quick wash up, and to my dismay, the shop was out of the buns! In the end, I ate noodles and dumplings at a place known for their dumplings and found another restaurant that also sell po-lo buns. To be honest, these buns are just a hype. Other than having a crispy top layer, there's nothing that tastes pineapple-y. (I am stupid and should have known. Why do I stay at home so much!)
19th July, Sunny, Tsim Sha Tsui > Singapore
I still had to document this day because... 1) Hong Kong airport is so complicated. I have to take a train from the main airport area to the customs office, and then another bus to the gates to board the plane. I initially thought I was very early, but all the time was wasted taking these trains and buses. Not very good a design for an airport. I wonder why it was ranked among the nice airports, many other airports are pretty good as well. 2) I was so lucky and I was assigned seat 1F on an A320! This is my favourite seat in the entire plane (and 1A, since they're essentially the same)! Oh, I just have to mention this.
Hence, this marks the end of my 7 day trip in Hong Kong. A trip that helped me in the decision making process of choosing Hong Kong for PhD. Friendships were forged (including friends with Profs), sights were seen, food was ate :p. All in all, a trip really worth it in terms of time and money spent. On a final note, don't come to Hong Kong in summer if you don't like the heat.
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