What a life!

Wednesday 21 September 2011

The African Safari

As mentioned in my post on Passion and being a passionate traveller among other things, I thought it would be a good idea to publish, some of my travel related adventures. I started with Hong Kong in Asia and am now shifting to the African continent.

The idea

It usually is a rather simple conversation that strikes off a decision to go somewhere, isn't it? In this case, it was a discussion among friends in a book shop about where would be an exotic place to go, during a forthcoming holiday. One of my friends held up a guide book on Africa and that's when the idea got generated.

The thing with a good idea, is that once it takes seed in your head, it tends to grow roots and flower and eventually turns into a fully matured tree, which you can't afford to ignore any more. And so began the discussion. Finally three people, including I, had decided that we would go to the East African country of Tanzania - probably one of the oldest known inhabited areas on Earth. The United Republic of Tanzania was derived from the two states of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, united in 1964.

As luck would have it, my American and the Hong Kong companions left it in my hands to do the research and organising the trip. With the week long Eid holidays coming up in Muscat, where we all were stationed, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to visit a land that none of us had ever been to. Also, there was another angle to consider.

While US and Hong Kong citizens are privileged in that, their passports are good enough for most countries to welcome them with a free or paid visa on arrival, it is not so the case with the Indian passport. Most often than not, I have had to apply for a visa well in advance. Not in the case of Tanzania, where the Indian passport was considered good enough to be provided with a paid visa on arrival. Given the few weeks left for the public holidays to start, this seemed a great, not-to-be missed opportunity that could be really accomplished.

Africa. The dark continent. The launch pad of human evolution. Exotic cultures, customs and cuisine. Wild animals. Majestic mountains. Parks and ranges that most of us have only so far seen on a Discovery or National Geographic TV channel. It was a thrill just to think about it, imagining how truly exciting it would be to have a real safari. A once in a lifetime kind of thing.

The Research

Starting with turning to Google search and various forums where other world travellers had provided information and feedback on services and other such things to keep in mind, I got into some quantitative and qualitative secondary research.

One organisation came across as quite decent. And as it turned out for us, Base Camp Tanzania, owned and managed by Achmed and Zainab Phillips was the best choice we made.

The feedback on the forums about Achmed, his responsive nature, professionalism and ability to adhere to indicated costs, while providing the best economies of scale turned out to be correct. I started by corresponding with him. It was impressive in that he responded to every request I made - information, domestic flight tickets, itinerary, etc. I also checked out the best and economical way to get to Africa from the Middle East. I wouldn't say that the overall costs were cheap, but were they worth it? A resounding yes! I had to literally push one of the trip companions as the person was having some difficulty in confirming the choice, despite having made the decision. Finally, we agreed on the trip details. I went ahead and booked the flight tickets. It also meant, some of the excitement started off in Muscat itself.

As we discovered, it was necessary for travellers to get a Yellow Fever vaccination prior to reaching Tanzania, else it would a jab at the airport and 100 US dollars down the drain. As with most African states, various diseases are always a possibility and thankfully today we do have a plethora of preventive medication available to ensure we do not suffer during or after such a trip. Since all the hemming and hawing on the trip had happened, while we were supposed to get the vaccination about 10 days prior to the trip, we eventually ended up getting it a day before we were supposed to leave! Luckily, it was September and a good time to go with low instances of mosquitoes and therefore fewer chances of being infected.

The Start

Finally it was D-day. Backpacks with essentials and sleeping bags were packed. Anti-mosquito and basic medications in our survival kit was assembled. Tickets were re-confirmed. Travel money had been converted into US dollars. Passports were in hand. And with big smiles on our faces, off we went to the airport.

Our itinerary was quite packed. We were to land in Dar-es-Salaam the capital of Tanzania. Take a domestic flight to the town of Arusha. From there we would be taking a private safari vehicle, with a guide and a cook to various parks, ending up back in Arusha almost a week later. Then it would be a quick flight to Zanzibar. A sea ferry back to the capital. And return to Muscat.

Flight to Dar-es-Salaam was uneventful. Landed at the airport. One terminal building contained both the international and domestic sections. Security and infrastructure were minimal. We had a gap of a couple of hours before we boarded the domestic flight. So we headed out of the building, and waited.

It was also the day of Eid. And kids from a nearby ghetto were being provided free access to the airport and tubes of ice candy. As a bonus, here was an American, a Chinese origin and an Indian trio just outside. I had gone for a short walk to take some shots of the building. When I started walking back, I couldn't see my companions. Instead, I only saw a multitude of bobbing heads! Turns out the kids were gazing and feeling the exotic looking visitors sitting in front of them.

I was laughing a lot. It was really crazy, watching these kids stroking the white skin of one person and the straight hair of the other. Maybe they had never seen such exotic creatures before! Finally had to wade in and 'rescue' my companions, got the kids to move off and we trundled up the domestic section for our journey to Arusha.

Arusha

It is not a very long flight - about an hour or so. And interestingly it was a turbo-prop aircraft that was to transport us. It was branded - Precision Air and the emblem on the tail wing of the aircraft was a jumping antelope. The colours also looked really nice. As we were walking up to board the aircraft, one of my companions had a 'eye-opened' look, for having never seen an ATR-type plane before. Gave me the opportunity to inform that there are plenty of these in India. They tend to bob up and down a bit, especially if there are air pockets, but it was generally safe.

The airport, near Arusha, where we were going was called Kilimanjaro - the famous African mountain that has been written about by just about anybody who has ever been enchanted with this beautiful continent. Interestingly the beer served on board was also called Kilimanjaro!

It was night by the time we landed. We were met on time by our guide - Abombe. A very interesting character, whom I came to know quite well over the next week. He was in a largish vehicle - the indefatigable Land Cruiser. Again, a vehicle we all got to know quite well as we spent most of our time in it. Abombe took us from the airport to Arusha and the drive was pretty decent. But when he took the turn off the main road to take us to the resort, where we were being camped for the night, it felt like we were in the real Africa. A non-existent road, houses and shops inches away from the body of the vehicle, people standing and looking. Finally we end up in front of a large gate and inside was a really lovely resort. And Achmed, who was waiting to meet and greet us.

Now, I had only corresponded with Achmed and given no other indication, had assumed he was a full blown Tanzanian. Well he was Tanzanian alright, having married his wonderful wife Zainab from the country and having settled there. But the accent and look was as British as it gets! With a handle-bar moustache, twinkling eyes and a penchant for straight faced jokes, he was an interesting character. It seems he fell in love with this place and the people and decided to settle down. Even changed his name to Achmed and would not disclose what his full name or previous name was. He regaled us with some stories and a briefing, as dinner was being prepared and served to us. Here was the first time, that I had a taste of a local refreshing beer 'Safari' and an interesting carbonated ginger ale called 'Stoney Tangawizi'. The place was enthralling in the type of furniture and furnishings used. Especially worth noting was the roof made from banana plantation bark, after curing and drying. All in all, a great trip so far. It was a bit cool as well and I certainly looked forward to the shower and the bed. As the 'real' adventure starts the next day.

From thrilling vistas, to open expanses of land never seen before teeming with wild and free life, it was majestic Africa that was to open up in front of my eyes. Coming up, in the next post.

Tuesday 20 September 2011

The passionate worker

This post is based on a very interesting point of view that author Adam Singer talks about in his post - A secret of the social web: Passion.

An excerpt

"In the frenzy of marketers drowning the web in their ultra-proofed and overly refined messages, there is something that is severely lacking: passion. And, passion is the largest driver motivating people to produce, share and remix content online.

What motivates someone to share her recipes with the world every day? What motivates a tech blogger to write about the latest gadget? What motivates a web guru to talk about the latest startup or e-commerce site? Simple – it is pure and raw passion for the subject matter."

Why, really, does passion matter?

One of my favourite authors, Ayn Rand wrote a huge tome about this particular subject - Atlas Shrugged. She talked about "the role of man's mind in existence" as well attempted to showcase how the world needs 'prime movers'.

In other words, what both the writers above had touched was - Passion. Pure. Simple. Engaging. And one of the great 'oils' that move many a human to go beyond what could be called the ordinary. The pursuit of excellence, as it were.

image credit: Shutterstock

I am a firm believer in that most people are smart enough to see beyond the chaff. A passionate person's work will clearly shine through all the dazzle that keeps hitting your eyeballs. When you do something for the love of it, others can't help but recognise it. Unless, they deliberately turn a blind eye towards that expression of passion.

Many of us out here, have at some point or the other, conducted interviews to select a person for a particular post. Beyond all the regular questions, is the mind's eye trying to discern how passionate a worker will the interviewee be.

Passion matters a lot. Most people are passionate about one thing or the other. Sometimes, many things, sometimes just one. Maybe it was running hard to be the first in that school race, maybe it was the attempt to get out of a vicious economic circle, maybe it was trying to create a better product, maybe it was the attempt at being self-sustained, maybe it was bringing up kids. Whatever may have been the cause, at some point or the other we all have experimented and quite often stayed passionate about something that so truly engaged us.

Passionate worker or Workaholic?

How do we differentiate between a passionate worker and a workaholic? The true difference is that passionate work does not let us drop dead or destroy ourselves in the process of creating a superior output - be it a work of art or simply greater quality of service. And, not to forget, it is not being passionate about the company we work in, it is being passionate about our profession.

Having been exposed to the advertising industry for a bit now, I have seen some of the most passionate people engaged in creating, debating, fighting, and finding solutions to many a normally insurmountable problem. It never is about how late you stay at work. It is about when you go to sleep, having either the satisfaction - I did the best I could or having the dissatisfaction - I can do better and future action - I will make it better.

Passion breeds value

Ideas are quite often the base and cornerstone of innovation, evolution and that edge which differentiates us and lets us lead. For a bit, at least. When you are passionate about something, working hard and coming up with fruitful ideas is easier. And with great ideas come great rewards. A virtuous cycle instead. Now imagine, harnessing this power multiplied by the number of employees working together in an organisation. This is what successful companies like Apple, Canon and Singapore Airlines, to name a few, have done.

Yet for every one of these smart companies, there are thousands out there who do not even begin to realise how important it is to have passionate and motivated people working in harmony to take the organisation to extremely high levels of achievements including profits. This is sadly true of most Governments that I have been exposed, not all though. I do believe firmly in the profit principle. Passion should be rewarded. And usually is. Not because of anything else, but simply the response that we the consumers and customers show to the ideas and product emerging from such hubs of excellence. For it remains a fact that all a customer has to do is go and spend her/his money and attention elsewhere to bring down a company or for that matter an economy.

This blogger's passion

I do love to share my thoughts, opinions and emotions. While this medium does not have the same level of interactivity that a face-to-face opportunity brings, it still has enough for you to let me know what you think about whatever I express through these blog posts.

This particular post is purely a random thought process that I decided to pen down. The Culture, Cuisine, Customs that Travel lets me experience, forms one of those passions of mine and as seen before in the Hong Kong series, there is another series about a different trip to a different continent - coming up. So be on the lookout here and do feel free to express your opinion at any stage, as I do value your feedback.

Track code: AG4FBQ8UFF8T

Sunday 18 September 2011

A short lived pleasure?

The pleasure

I like to fly. No, make that - I love to fly! I have flown on many airlines to various continents and countries. Each has been a different experience. Long distance flights, usually do mean a stop in between, giving the benefit of being out of the tube for a bit, stretching the legs, gazing at the products on sale, people watching, etc. Shorter distance flights mean smaller aircraft usually lesser leg room, but more take-off and landings. Either way, being in a flight from 100-40,000 feet above mean sea level, means many things to me. From the excitement of actually having lifted off, the destination, the beautiful working people on board i.e. the Flight Attendants, the conversations that happen between total strangers who are bound together in a flying tube for a few hours, the movies watched or food consumed, all of it brings a different sort of sensory pleasure in the 1-2 kilos of soft jelly-like substance inside my skull.

Maybe it, really, is about the whole 'movement' principle. If you are moving, chances are, you are doing something meaningful, in some manner, so to speak. Driving long distances is an equally good example. Love it too. Managing the steering wheel, keeping a fine balance of safety and speed within regulated limits, listening to music, watching places, people and objects go by - all bring that sensory pleasure. Maybe it really is true that life is about searching and experiencing the little and large pleasures. Maybe it is the seeking that is the pleasurable part. Either way, making sure that you live life to the fullest has to be an objective that you would agree with, wouldn't you?

All of the above now seem like a short lived pleasure!

Having spent some time in the Gulf, where fuel prices are really low in comparison to the rest of the world, and link infrastructure - especially roads, are in fantastic condition, I could say, I was spoilt with the consumption of the sensory pleasures of driving or flying. Even on a visit to Hong Kong, using public transportation that moved me efficiently was a pleasure. And while the price of owning vehicles is quite high due to limited land mass and congestion, the price of fuel, or travel, is not.

The Pain

Having been back home in India, for a bit now, reality has started sinking in to my dismay. I feel like that hungry child from whose hands, the treat has been snatched away. Make no mistake about it, I am an Indian and happy about being one. But am discontent with the way in which the policies of this country's government are created or implemented. Sure, I understand that there are 1.2 plus billion people in this land and that it is the 7th largest country in the world. But that, is no excuse for 60 years of ridiculous action or reaction, by the people's representatives, elected by the masses to govern, with the hope that these people will make life easier rather than almost impossible.

The latest blow to the Indian, has been the pricing of fuel. Regular petrol now costs: R 70 per litre equivalent to USD 5.7 per gallon (3.8 litres). It costs approximately USD 2.5 per gallon in America which is one of the largest consumers of fuel. An article by the Times of India, indicates that after taking into account the purchasing power parity after accounting for international fuel prices and currency exchange rates for India, petrol is still more expensive than all other countries in the world, barring 3 small countries! Diesel is more expensive than 136 other countries. In my opinion, fuel prices in some of the European countries are also higher than India. Whatever way the statistics are read, fact remains that Indian fuel pricing strategy is an anomaly that needs some serious attention from all of us. And not be misled by the publicly pronounced massive subsidies that the government claims to provide.

The policy mess

It is not merely foolish, it is downright crazy! Even if we import 70% of fuel from outside India, we have a pricing mechanism that ensures we pay far more than necessary. Over 50% of the cost of fuel in India is added taxes. This mechanism in reality, hurts everybody and everything - economically, financially and personally. Every time, fuel prices are increased there will be spate of activities ranging from strikes to protests to violence - which itself has a huge cost to all of us. And a few days later, we go back to our lives, grumbling and groaning in pain. Maybe this is because we are the great Indian democracy. Or maybe it is our ability to soldier on, thinking it is really beyond our control. Or maybe we are being extremely foolish.

First the government taxes fuels way too much. Then it claims to provide subsidies to keep prices down. Then it adjusts for inflation by increasing interest rates. The government does not create quality infrastructure from these taxes. This results in more bottlenecks as the number of people out in the market increases. Thus consuming even more fuel. This leads to even higher fuel imports. It is a vicious, never-ending cycle. Unless, the government can actually focus on streamlining the whole tax and fuel pricing mess. But who actually cares? Who actually wants to do anything about it? We can have a nation marching together for an anti-corruption crusade, but is there anybody out there who wants to sort this mess out?

The solution

Irrevocably, free the pricing. Privatise the oil supply and marketing firms. Less than 1% of Indians are employed in the government oil firms. Offer them the option of 3 years pay, until they either secure a job in the private firm or let them go. Let the market and currency exchange rates decide the price on a daily basis. Realistic taxation on the sold market prices of fuel, not the current rates which are unhealthy. Can you believe that over 65% of the Indian GDP basket taxes is from fuel alone? Imagine if for one month, none of us actually used our vehicles? Many of the government plans to spend money would be down the drain, without the easy revenue generated from fuel taxes. And note, it's only plans for reality is a different matter.

Whenever the price for crude goes down, the prices will come down automatically. And vice versa. Averaged out, the Indian will still pay much lower that what we do, right now! And by paying, I am not referring only to the actual price paid for fuel, but the indirect and direct taxes as well as inflated prices for various products and services, that also contribute to the way the policy makers currently mess up the whole supply and pricing equations.

Saturday 17 September 2011

The Hong Kong sojourn - 5 [end]

From the previous post: "...Finally, it was time to head home, with the indication given by my friend that tomorrow, I would be literally touching the sky!

The next and last post in this series, comes up next."

The sky is the limit. Really.

In a city of skyscrapers, it is quite possible to see high rises that touch the clouds. So you can imagine, living/working a 180 floors above ground level is quite similar to being in the sky. All the time.

As my friend and guide had promised, this day began on a lovely note, post her half day work got done. So once again, I walked around the streets off Nathan road, soaking in the atmosphere, browsing through shops that offered deals which made me work really hard at not reaching for my wallet.

It was time to get to the Mong Kok MTR station, meet my friend and then leave for a leisurely journey to touch the sky. Yeah!

I have to observe here, the behaviour of the MTR passengers, which I have witnessed on multiple occasions during this trip. As much as the transportation systems in Hong Kong are efficient, so are the passengers. It is crowded, but still every person manages to wedge in, without stepping on anyone else's toes. Waiting at the station for my friend to arrive, it was an engaging site to watch the metal snakes arrive, within minutes of each other, engorged with passengers, who spewed out in a rush to the nearest exit or waiting train. It was disciplined, organised and efficient, yet cold.

An interesting factoid: none of the MTR trains have a toilet on board. The system has been designed to ensure that people get on board and leave within the shortest possible time! My friend has a huge aversion to sweat as a result of the MTR and its crowds. To that, all I had to say was, please do take a local train in Bombay and you will soon realise how much better off the MTR is. Really. My experience in Bombay had taught me that we humans can contort our bodies in completely different angles for long periods, while silently suffering the smells, oils and perspiration of fellow passengers at 0 distance! The MTR with its air conditioning is a huge improvement. But then, it is a matter of perspective. Always.

Finally, my friend arrived, we boarded an appropriate train and reached a destination which was a bit further than expected. Exiting the MTR, we headed up to reach a massive shopping mall, which I could say was on par with any of the sprawling malls in Los Angeles, Paris or Dubai. Walking through it is like a running the half marathon, it never seems to end.

Looking down never looked better!

After gazing around the splendid brands on display, we finally arrived at a lift. The maximum height that I have ascended in a building was 10 floors (obviously I have not been in the Burj Al Arab, Dubai - another destination to go). When we step into the lift and it shows only two buttons. One marked 112 and the other 118. Realisation dawns on me. Oh boy, this is going to be high.

And what a ride. Of course, the lifts are designed to 'take off' and stop slowly, while reaching maximum speed in between so passengers do not feel the strain. But my popping ear drums announced clearly to me, that we were ascending heights that were anything but normal for most people.

View from floor 118

We arrived at the Ozone pub, part of the Ritz Carlton. A 118 floors above ground. I chose to go out on the viewing partially covered terrace. There was a good 10 degree temperature difference! And the view - f.a.n.t.a.s.t.i.c.

Ritz Carlton

Yes, we do get to see a somewhat similar sight, when in a plane that is above to descend or ascend. The difference is, we are moving, whereas here one is standing absolutely still, trying to not to jump up and down in front of all the classy folks around, yet the eyes and the brain is racing with adrenaline pumping strongly through the heart, as the view develops and engages you with its soaring majesty. I must also add here, that it was one of the priciest Long Island Ice Tea, that I consumed at this place. Was it worth it? Definitely. Would I go back? Possibly.

After this, it was back to the ground. And a cab ride to a restaurant which was the designated place for a large bunch of old friends and some friends of friends. Reason: a welcome to Hong Kong dinner. Oh man, did I feel special or what? Such sweet, nice, caring friends are what make this world a better place. A lovely dinner, with lots of different kinds of food, after which the only thought was to somehow crawl back to the hotel bed.

The last day (sigh)

Woke up with the realisation that this beautiful and exciting journey was coming to an end. And that this day presented the opportunity to make the most of the time left. So any guesses for what I had for lunch? Dim sums of course! A restaurant on Nathan road that was filled with people who liked to enjoy their food. A lovely multi-dish meal, it was once again gastronomic pleasure, which could be experienced only in Hong Kong. Of this, I am now convinced. Until someone showcases to me a place that could better this one.

To walk off the lunch, we went to the nearby Langham Palace shopping mall. Again, it was affirmation of Hong Kong's love with tall buildings and the people's love of shopping, anywhere, any time, anyhow.

I managed to snap a rare picture of an escalator that was not full of people. Note, how it looks like it is descending right from the heavens. It may look like an optical illusion, but I guarantee you, it is not. This is one long, high rise, escalator.

Today's highlight was a balloon ride. Now, never having experienced anything but holding a balloon in my hand, as a child, this was thrilling to say the least. No, it is not a hot air balloon ride over Hong Kong. It is a helium filled balloon that takes you a 100 metres up in the sky, for a panoramic 360 degree view of this city.

While on board this pulley and lever contraption, which by the way is completely safe for up to 15 people at a time, I noticed an something that widened my already wide eyes. It was the sight of a helicopter flying at half the level of the massive International Financial Centre - Hong Kong's second tallest building. It was almost like the laws of physics had been reversed. Planes and helicopters fly above buildings. Not below. Not beside. Yet here was this view that so simply characterised this city of skyscrapers. It was about the most effective and efficient usage of all the available space on land, air and water.

Ride over, it was that time of the journey when your heart wearies at the thought of having to leave this enchanting tour behind and return home. With a sated mind and stomach, it was only the blips coming from a corner of my soul that I tried hard, not pay any heed to, by reassuring myself that this is not the first and last time time that I would be here.

Hong Kong had entered into my psyche. It is a bustling, expensive and efficient spectacle of what humans can achieve. Now I understood, why people love this place and try to be part of it in whichever way they can. A clichéd but effective thought - I will be back, as I soar off into the sky, on the return back to India.

Friday 16 September 2011

The Hong Kong sojourn - 4

From the previous post: "...A bit of drizzle, but not much to bother. Stopped at a viewing point on the walkway to snap off some nice shots. And it was time to go back to the hotel.

Another day, another adventure. Coming up."

Leaving Hong Kong island

Yummy dim sums!

The day started like any other day, as you may have seen in my previous posts (HK-1, HK-2, HK-3). Today's highlights really were the trip to a huge mall, near the airport and the lovely lunch that followed at the food court. Have I said before, that I simply can't have enough of steamed dim sums? Any day, give me any number and I will be happy as a hungry baby with a bottle in its mouth. Have a look at the trays in the picture, delicious isn't it? And have to mention that the spicy chicken - a Sichuan province speciality, was a tongue bomber to say the least. I was left sweat soaking wet from head down, with paroxysms of pain and pleasure alternating on my facial muscles. Was it worth it? Yes. Would I repeat it? Maybe.

After having picked up more clothes and other necessities, it was finally time to leave the mall, get back to the hotel, pack up and leave Hong Kong island. As I am blindly following my friend and guide, I have absolutely no clue where I will be staying for the night. And it does turn out to be a good choice.

Lamma island

We end up at Aberdeen dock on Hong Kong island, and realisation dawns on me that I will be experiencing one more mode of transportation of this city - boat! And guess what? The octopus card works here too. Incredible. So off we go on an approximately 45 minute sea ride, ending up at a resort on Lamma island. This island is known to the Chinese as Pok Liu Chau or simply Pok Liu. It is the third largest island in this city/state. Interestingly, the island is named based on its shape of the limb of a tree and its similarity to the Chinese character resembling Y.

Lamma island

It was a wonderful resting place. And the next day morning, waking up, sitting on the balcony and watching the far away skyscrapers minus the hustle and bustle of city life - it really felt like a chilled out holiday. Even the fishing boats and trawlers, seem to be crawling at a leisurely pace. There are many things to engage in, on this island. From trekking around the island, to visiting the authentic villages, still populated by fisher folk. Spending a day there was the absolute balm to the hectic lifestyle that the city somehow ingrains into your system, irrespective of whether you are a visitor or a resident.

After spending the day on this beautiful island and enjoying the breezy but calm beach, sights and people it was time to head back to the city once again. And this time, it was going to be Kowloon that was the destination.

Kowloon

Being back in the city, after the island was akin to stepping in through a time warp. One moment, it is the gentle breeze and calming sounds of steady waves landing on the beach, the next is the whizzing around of all modes of transportation carrying copious amounts of women, children and men, intent on reaching their destination at the earliest possible time. What a difference.

Finally, I ended up in a place called Mong Kok, which is quite famous for the extremely great deals on electronic products that one can find there. As I discovered first hand. But first, was meeting up with some more old friends for dinner. And if you are in Hong Kong, I strongly recommend that you should try to visit, at least once, a dai pai dong (classified as cooked food stall), before they completely disappear from Hong Kong. For the authentic Cantonese food and atmosphere. Do try to visit in a group, it's much more fun. The dai pai dong, we were ensconced in hardly looked like a stall on the street, as it had a full roof and was covered from four sides. But the tables, chairs, quick service all attested to it being one. And it was yet another gastronomic delight. Prawns in garlic sauce, fried beef strips seasoned with vegetables and an assortment of other food dishes were laid on the table, thanks to the skilful ordering by my friends.

Street market entrance

Wading through offers galore

Finally, a walk through the street markets was undertaken. I could see pretty much everything and anything would be sold in these tented shops, neatly lined up in front of concrete shops. As my friend and guide had to go work, I had plenty of time browsing through various streets, looking at some exotic and inexplicable food products to stand knick knacks and souvenirs.

Also managed to find some of the latest electronic products and I discovered that negotiation works. I really have no issues negotiating, as long as there is mutual respect at the end of it all and both the trader and I have a satisfied countenance.

A tired but happy traveller, I was by the end of this day. And the next day promised to be even more interesting as my friend had agreed to take me to the very well known and popular hangout, followed up with the famous sound and light show.

Just a few more days left here, but the thought in my head as I dozed off was, I could so happily live here. How was I to know that the next day, would make this thought, nearly a resolution?

Lan Kwai Fong or LKF as it is popularly known. What a place to walk through. A jazzy, posh watering hole for the thirsty minded, would be the first thought that comes to mind. Having a beer and interacting with the staff at the classic Hard Rock Cafe was a pleasure. Exiting from here, we moved on to ferry that shuttles between Hong Kong island and Kowloon. We timed it just right. Everyday between 8-8.20 PM, many of the buildings lining by the sea shore, light up and gives an aura of beauty that could possibly be found in a concrete jungle.

Tsim Sha Tsui

Night view

Arriving on the ferry pier at Tsim Sha Tsui, often abbreviated as TST, we took a nice long walk by the sea front. Akin to Hollywood, there is a boulevard of stars (with hand prints) of popular actors and cinema producers like Jackie Chan. All that walking, left us hungry enough to go to the local version of a fast food joint, where I came to realise that toasted break with honey and sprinkled powdered sugar was a local favourite, apart from the soupy noodles. Finally, it was time to head home, with the indication given by my friend that tomorrow, I would be literally touching the sky!

The next and last post in this series, comes up next.

Thursday 15 September 2011

The Hong Kong sojourn - 3

From the previous post: "...A nearby bakery also beckoned for a look at some exquisite creations, but was already full so just ended taking a snap.

The adventure continues, in the next post. "

The story continues

The first place, I went to was Times Square (of the Hong Kong variety). I discovered that it really does not matter, what time or day it is - people love to browse and shop in this city. Maybe it is the fact that more than 7 million people are crammed into a small portion of the available land makes the density seem so high, but it certainly leads to efficiencies in use of space. Maybe only Tokyo does a bit better, but there is no denying the energy on display.

Or for that matter wasted. Walking on roads, especially in Kowloon, you are likely to suddenly feel a nice cool breeze, particularly emanating from one direction. Look around you, and chances are you will notice a shop with two sides open and air-conditioners in full swing. A spectacle, that wouldn't be normally experienced anywhere else in the world. Make no mistake, it is a selling point for the merchant. Get out of the hot, humid street and buy my wares, screamed at a subliminal thought level.

Sweet Basil Thai restaurant

After a walk around the place, soaking in the atmosphere (thank goodness for air conditioning), it was time for lunch. And it was my choice to select Thai food as the preferred cuisine on this occasion. Off we went to 'Sweet Basil' Thai restaurant. Words fail me here. What a sumptuous meal! Gastronomic delight is all I could gasp out at the end of the leisurely drawn out lunch. Interestingly, I thought that as a traveller I had time to take it easy, but it seems, even working people were drawn to this place to spend some quality time eating and talking with each other.

Flute player idol

There was a beautiful idol of a flute player intricately carved in traditional Thai style. So alive was the statue that I could almost hear the flute playing in my head.

Now, it was off to shop! And it was a rather forced choice, due to the incident I mentioned in the first post of this series.

Shopping and eating

Shopping in Hong Kong is an activity that is as easy as blinking your eyelids. The plethora of shops enticing me to have a look is near bewildering. The choices, aplenty. The range, enormous. The deals, exciting. If you travel to this place, and you know that, you are the sort who has a penchant to pick up products, impulsively, be prepared to part with cash! Way more cash than you may have imagined. Of course, all for a good reason, eh?

Another realisation was that this city is extremely good for picking up amazing deals on electronic products, but when it comes to clothes, it is a different story. Your size may be considered quite normal where you are from, but it is not likely to be the case here. Especially not, if you are bargain hunting. It took me ages to pick up a shirt, because my usual size is L or XL, and when the design I chose would be brought to me for a trial, I would realise on trying that it was not meant to be worn on my kind of size. And I can't even claim to be a really large person!

The eatery

The menu!

Finally, picked up a few clothes, and it was time to try something, I never had before - tortoise shell gelatine. Another thing, to keep in mind while in south east Asia is an open mind to the kind of food that is available. Locally, the tortoise shell gel/soup is favoured for its medicinal properties. The shell is only one of the many ingredients that go into the soup. It is quite bitter to taste, can be had hot or cold, has a smooth jelly-like texture and a layer of sugar syrup can be added to make it more palatable. Interestingly, there were clear visuals of the ingredients used. All were reared and grown in farms - how sustainable, no idea. The entrance of the eatery had these huge samovars that were used for keeping the product hot.

The walk through the Park

Map of the Hong Kong park

Finally, we left the area and proceeded to a destination, usually on the 'must visit' list, for travellers to this city - The Peak! Thanks to my friend and guide, we chose to take a short hike through the Hong Kong park on the way to the peak. It is a point, on top of a mountain, that gives some of the best views of Hong Kong. But first, the walk. It was a very soothing walk through the park and as you can see from some of the pictures that I have put up here, very green, calm and quiet - in total contrast to the rest of the city.

Man made waterfall

Birds chirping, turtles and fish swimming calmly, walkers strolling leisurely, enchanting fragrances - all in all, a true breath of fresh air in the city that hardly relaxes, really.

Where all to go?

The Peak as it is locally called is actually the Victoria Peak, also known as Mount Austin is located in the western part of Hong Kong. While the actual summit is occupied by a radio telecommunications facility and is closed to the general public, much of the surrounding areas consist of parks and extremely pricey residential buildings.

The park walkway

The iconic Bank of China building

To think back to the old days, when those few people who used to live on the mountain had to be hand carried on 'sedan chairs' before the funicular tram was built.


The peak layered waterfall

With the tram opening up way back in 1888, more and more people started building residential units, which later on got converted into today's modern high rises. Today residency in this location is purely a function of how rich you are and has got nothing to do with the beauty of the place or the arresting views that the peak/mountain side offers.

Crowded tram entrance

At last, we made it to the peak tram entrance. With tickets priced at HK$ 40 for a same day return on the tram, it is a must see, must do activity.

See the print behind

And the crowds were teeming. So much so, that it took us nearly half an hour to get to the point where we could board the tram. The return journey was equally bad. But that is just the way it works in this city. No complaints.

The weirdest feeling while riding the tram is the optical illusion that all the buildings on the mountain are horribly tilted, and seem likely to fall off any moment! Reality, though, is actually a matter of physics.

The tram is the world's steepest funicular system, and while only a short 1.4 kilometre journey, the angle at which one sits is half way between sitting and lying down on a normal bed, leading to this optical illusion.

The Peak

Hong Kong at night

Finally, we reached the top. It had not been a sunny day and by the time in the evening, when we got there, the misty rain heavy clouds would keep on reducing visibility to nearly 0 at times. Initially, we went through the steep high rise building housing the shops.

It had been many months since I had a nice juicy hamburger. And Burger King beckoned alluringly. So it was off to dinner. Ah the joy of a nicely cooked, soft, juicy, spicy burger. Then followed up, by a walk just outside the building. The walkway could also be used as jogging track, since it goes around the mountain, but jogging was the last thing in our minds after that burger. A bit of drizzle, but not much to bother. Stopped at a viewing point on the walkway to snap off some nice shots. And it was time to go back to the hotel.

Another day, another adventure. Coming up.

Wednesday 14 September 2011

The Hong Kong sojourn - 2

From the previous post: "...It was not a write off. Not at all. Many more interesting experiences were going to happen. This was only a small blip in the other wise beautiful experience. And yet another lesson learnt.

The rest of the experience continues in the next post."

...and here we go.

Day 1, first half had been extremely exciting to say the least. Hong Kong, as with other cities is only a part of the larger city. Actually New Territories is at the far end, close to the China boder, then Kowloon, further down is Hong Kong island and still further down is Lamma island.


Happy Valley racetrack spectator stand

Finally ended up at a very nice and comfortable hotel in a place called Happy Valley, formerly known as Wong Nai Chung Valley. Predominantly residential in nature, there was a lovely horse racetrack nearby as well, and as I was informed, the area is rated as one of the posh ones in Hong Kong.

My friend had decided that I was to be subject to as many culinary treats as possible and I was only happier for it. For my objective of going to any new place is assimilate as much as possible about the Customs, Culture and Cuisine, followed locally. So just about 30 metres away from the hotel was this traditional, wonton noodle soup eatery. A tad expensive, but what a lovely treat. It was a pleasure consuming shrimp wontons floating in a soup filled with glass noodles. I did wonder along, why was it so expensive (apart from the now understood Hong Kong factor). I was informed that this is an old, well established, up scale and popular eatery and as we were sitting there, across the table sat one of the, apparently, most popular Hong Kong singers!

Efficiency - a hall mark of Hong Kong

Back to the hotel, feeling comfortable and full. Rested a bit. Then it was off to the Sheung Shui, New Territories for a 'hot pot' dinner with my friend's family. And this is where I discovered the power and utility of 'Octopus'. My friend had already purchased an Octopus card for me. Now, I have to reminisce a bit about it. I found it to be a typical, representative Hong Kong product, fully geared towards the concept of efficiency! And it truly is. It is a pre-paid card, called Octopus simply because it was an enabler for anyone to smoothly commute across the various types of transportation as well as use it for purchases at the ever present 7-Eleven stores.


The HK version of the tube map

It is essentially, a rechargable contacless stored value smart card. It can be used to make electronic payments in offline and onlien systems across Hong Kong. And as I discovered over the week, just hold your purse containing the card near and reader at an appropriate time and the barriers to the Mass Transit Railway (MTR) or buses or trams and many more would open up. Way better than having to carry around notes and loose change all the time. And I will write a bit later on about the transportation system in Hong Kong. Impressive, to say the least.

The first dinner

Back, to the dinner plan. This was my first ever hot pot (also known to some as 'steamboat') and apart from meeting the family, I was so looking forward to the experience, having heard a lot about it earlier.

Hot pot at Sheung Shui

Oh man. It was some culinary experience. I fell in gastronomic love with it. The concept is so interesting, easy, full fledged, group oriented and overall very fulfilling. There was a huge variety of meats and vegetables. There was a deep bowl with split sections, which was continuously being heated by a butane gas burner. One side had plain water, without many condiments, the other side was spicy. And much to my chagrin, I realised that despite being an Indian, there was only so much spice I could take!

To quench the thirst was some very delectable bamboo shoot drinks. Spread over nearly a couple of hours, it was an extremely enjoyable and sociable evening, cooking, talking, eating, talking, drinking, talking. So much so, that at the end, I wanted to walk back to Hong Kong island given the amount of food and beverages in me. Realisation dawns: people in Hong Kong really love to eat and drink.

And then it was back to hotel, for some rest until the next day morning which my friend indicated was going to be equally fun filled. Exciting!

Thoroughly tired, by the time I got back to the hotel, after having been travelling since the previous day (delayed flights onward to Delhi, time dilly dallied at the IGI airport, actual flight time, lost a bag, and criss crossing Hong Kong - see my previous post), when I hit the bed and opened my eyes, it felt like it was just a minute ago, but a full 8 hours had passed!

The next day

It was mid-morning and time to go off and explore some more of Asia's world city. First thing out, was to stop at a nearby semi-street joint for some rice, roasted pork and chicken, with soup brunch. A nearby bakery also beckoned for a look at some exquisite creations, but was already full so just ended taking a snap.

The adventure continues, in the next post.