PINOY BOY JOURNALS: hong kong

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ALL-TIME FAVORITE POST FROM 2011 RE-BLOGGED:
There's always something about Lang Kwai Fong. I cannot imagine any trip to Hong Kong without at least checking out what shaking there. Whenever people ask me what's there to see in Hong Kong, i always find myself sharing my incredible stories of this place. I always find myself happiest somewhere around the corner where I'm drinking Heineken and then, getting some more. The chances of having an awesome night-out here is close to definitely YES! Although, i must say that Tsim Tsa Tsui is a close contender with a few hip joints, and low-key pubs. But to know the undisputed king of nightlife in Hong Kong, just say three magic letters: LKF!

Whether you have a few hundred Hong Kong dollars to spend or just about a few spare bills to buy yourself the cheapest drink (beer) at any bar, spend it here. During my first trip, i told myself once i go back to Hong Kong, I'll make it a point to get drunk and walk, and head to the next lively spot. This time around, i did just that.

During daytime, this central district is teeming with assortment of shops and gadgets right next to each other. But at night, the mood changes, the neon colored signs are all lit up, and well, the people are in the mood party. It shows! If you're sold on the idea of having a night-out and painting the town red in LKF, here are a few tips from yours truly to make your gimmick night extra LKF special!

1. Get Dressed.

Whether you're single, in a relationship, it's complicated or married, there's no reason for you not to get dressed up for the night. I know that people traveling to Hong Kong are always in their most comfortable attire. After a day of walking around, it gets the best of you. But if you're up for a cool night, Hong Kong style, wear your most stylish clothes and be seen. People in Hong Kong love to party, and their clothes, nothing short of fancy. If you want to hook up with the singles, polish your leather shoes and wear your favorite designer jacket. Save up your Hong Kong dollars in buying souvenir key chain holders, card holders, etc. that will just gather dust at the back of your chest drawer. Instead, use that money to buy yourself a well-deserved drink for today, you will get... uhmmm wasted! lol

2. Spend Wisely.

And i mean...know your means and your way around. Spending 80HKD on a big bottle of Heineken is cool. But if you can buy it for less than half the price at 7-11, you're cooler. As i walk pass the convenience store, i thought to myself these people value their money. They've converted this one stop shop into a bar. People buy cans of Heineken and San Miguel and chat the night away with their friends, flings, and acquaintances while drinking. Then, when they're all fueled up, it's time to hit the bars. Total number of beer purchased at the bar: 1-2. Clever idea, eh?

3. Guiness. Some people love it like it's their water, i totally hated it. I thought this was the worst beer i've ever tasted. To each his own. But knowing i spent 65HKD on a mug of beer i totally hated was the worst draw for me. But i guess, i needed to experience it to actually criticize it. I am no beer connoisseur. What i am trying to say is, when you're here and knowing alcoholic drinks aren't priced cheap like those sold in Manila, do your research. Lesson for the day: when you're spending so much on drinks, better be sure you know what you're ordering.

4. People Watch.

Everywhere i go, people watching is one of my most favorite travel past time. I would exchange a trip to the museum in a heartbeat in replace of feeling the beats of the city. As i sat and watched hundreds upon hundreds of people walk up and down, get drunk and then get sober, hook up or try to get away from a drunken bastard, i felt the sudden urge to write why everyone's so fascinated with LKF. Going here makes you feel young and alive.

5. The Party Never Stops.

Because it's the truth and there's nothing you can do about it. lol Bar hop all you like, spend that extra money you have and pay the expensive entrance fee to LKF's hottest club, Beijing. The beauty of partying in LKF is that you know the next day while having your breakfast, all you can say is that... It's WILD out there! You don't care anymore how much you spent, because none of that matters, anyway.

ALL-TIME FAVORITE POST FROM 2010 RE-BLOGGED: Lady Gaga's poster is plastered all over Lang Kwai Fong. Arguably, Hong Kong's most famous district is also the center of shopping, dining and drinking. Whenever i am in Hong Kong, i always make it a point to drop by this spot. It's where the young kids dress up and shop. It's where the expats cheers beer and make merry. It's where the creme de la' creme of Hong Kong social scene converge and show off their latest wears. What can i say? What is Shibuya in Japan is Lang Kwai Fong to Hong Kong!

My experience in Lang Kwai Fong is truly one of the highlights of my recent trip to Hong Kong. I cannot explain how awesome the experience was. I arrived midday and the sun was up but the coolness of the air was sure enough to make me last long time. I felt really good dressing up because everyone's ridiculously chic and dapper here. I've seen many cool high-schoolers showcasing their latest fashion style. I stopped for a bit to smoke and watch as the youth channel their rock star status. Along with them are a few businessmen in three-piece suit meeting up with other businessmen. I've seen women rushing for their luncheon in designer ensemble and half a million worth purses. After having a really tasty lunch at Shakeys (I know...), i walked for more and discovered this uphill strip of shopping delight.

Walking around is a breeze and shopping is a seriously addicting stuff in Lang Kwai Fong. I've seen one of a kind merchandises: from trippy hats, straw belts, quality leather goods and even iPhone and Blackberry accessories. Prices are affordable and competitive. If you decide to stay in Hong Kong Island, you can find the best quality and prices for those cheong sam and key chain souvenirs. For those who are into gadgets, there's a good number of shops selling brand new and second-hand dslrs, cellphones and tablet PCs.

Four floors of shopping delight, H&M flagship store is not to be missed. I've been lucky that whenever i go and shop, a lot of items are on sale so i get the items for cheap. If you should decide to splurge, nearby Elements and Landmark mall will get your fix of the limited edition Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Longchamp, Goyard, YSL and Hong Kong favorite, Shanghai Tang.

With an impressive array of merchandises, it's not surprising a lot of expats and visitors call Lang Kwai Fong or LKF, a home away from home. But after an exhausting day of shopping, you don't have to go too far to experience the best of Hong Kong's nightlife! Up next, get drunk, crazy and absolutely seen in LKF!

How to get there:

Lan Kwai Fong: Exit D2, MTR Central station, 5 minutes by foot will lead you to Lan Kwai Fong

SOHO: Take the Central Mid-levels Escalator, follow the road sign.

Apart from Lang Kwai Fong, Mongkok is a personal favorite of mine. How can you not like a place where you want to buy everything you see? The goods are well-made, the design is topnotch and the price is affordable. Frequented more by locals, i always think Mongkok deserves its reputation as one of Hong Kong's most favorite shopping destinations.

Known the world over as Hong Kong's most densely populated area, Mongkok is crowded but beautiful. On my last day in Hong Kong and still eager to buy everyone home a present, this is where i went. I knew that heading to Mongkok for a few hours of shopping is a convenient way of finishing off my check list of goods to buy.

ALL-TIME FAVORITE POST FROM 2011 RE-BLOGGED: What's nice about Mongkok is that the intersection of Nathan Road and Argyle Street is beyond borders in terms of shopping choices. Whether you fancy buying electronic gadgets - head to Mongkok Computer Center, the latest kicks - head to Sai Yeung Choi, iPhone accessories - Ladies' Market (BlackBerry users - there's not much here), or even just wandering around Langham Place (my favorite mall in Hong Kong), is an experience worthy of a trip.

I bought three pairs of shoes, a rockin' iPod Touch casing reminiscent of the cassette tape design, and other souvenir goods.

I remember during my last trip, i've always wanted a black leather jacket. And so i did find it in Mongkok. I skipped and told myself, i shall look for another shop with a cheaper price. I guess, that made me realize one important lesson in shopping and walking around Hong Kong. Because as soon as i arrived at my hotel, i went back to where i was just to purchase this jacket which up until now earns a nod from everyone i know.

I haven't written this tip before so i will write it here. When buying knick-knacks, i always gravitate towards the convenience store. I bought two big plastic bags of crackers, chips, candies and chocolates. And some of which are buy 1 take 1! Take that! So, always be on the lookout for merchandise on sale.

I wanted to write a how to get here, but i guess the only thing you need to remember is the name itself, Mongkok. There's a train station in Mongkok and count 1-50, you're there! Happy Shopping, people!

ULTIMATE THROWBACK POST FROM 2008 REMEMBERED: Roughly two months ago, i went to Hong Kong for the first time. I availed of a tour package to Hong Kong. Point in case, it's the most practical package i know of considering i canvassed for other tour packages from different agencies. Sadly, i expected the accommodations to be rough and tough. Lo and behold, i was so right. Firstly, if not for the low fares of this low-cost airline, i wouldn't fly with them. Their respondents over the phone no nothing about traveling.

I wanted to share a review on where we stayed in Hong Kong. We booked for four days at the Yau Ma Tei's Bridal Tea house. The hotel has some pretty damn good reviews online.

Not only do they have numerous branches across Hong Kong, Bridal Tea house is also a so-so one for me. And it's funny 'coz i thought the hotel would be like favorite for honeymooners, couples... all i can see are local Chinese families staying for the night. Like a motel, you know.

I was dropped of a few blocks away from the hotel because the streets are quite narrow, the tour bus can't pass by the street. Anyway, the hotel location is right where numerous scaffolding (yeah right?!), and all the silver ware whatever is being sold. Although what's nice is that it's a few steps away from the money-changer. And the cheapest exchange rate i think so far. Cheaper than the MTR's, cheaper than Tsim Tsa Tsui.

What greeted me was silence. As in no one was there. I was waiting for roughly 20 minutes till the lady showed me the real entrance of Bridal Tea house, right where the restaurant is. Like duh? Anyway, what greeted me upstairs is a very narrow, walkway, like dorm-type leading to my room near the fire exit.

The room where I stayed was simply fit for small people. I'm pretty petite for my size, but at least i think I deserved a medium-sized room good for normal people to sleep in. Anyway, armed with my trolley (This is 2008, people.), the room was so narrow for me. Imagine Edsa during Friday nights. Traffic. Like my stuff covered half of my bed. Same as with my friend. What I did was, placed our trolleys horizontally covering the very little space in between the two single beds.

The next day, i woke up at 8AM to the sound of a fire alarm. Yes. A fire alarm in the morning, in Hong Kong. I panicked. Wearing only my boxer shorts, i braved to leave my room. I saw many Chinese women, still wearing the nighties and white-faced filled with beauty creams. We were heading for the fire-exit. But fuck psyche... it was locked. I am now deeply worried. I know right, getting burned in Hong Kong is not my idea of a leisure vacation. More so, my first international trip. But in the span of 5 minutes, i heard already the sound of the fire-trucks approaching. Yeah, props for the local government.

I was able to go down to the lobby. Ashamed of what i was wearing, apparently, what i was not wearing, I froze to death in embarrassment. I asked a fellow traveler what happened? She didn't know. I saw her carrying with her a duffel bag, and her laptop. This reminded me, WTF, i left everything in my room. What if the fire pushed through, the hotel burned? My newly stamped passport, gone, and my, then three hundred dollars, gone. WTF! I'm in deep trouble! Only to find out... the cause of the fire alarm... a Chinese lady steaming her face in the morning apparently caused the alarm.

If not for the atmosphere of the hotel, a noodle-restaurant, a few steps away is the market, a few more steps away would be Nathan Road and you can get a taxi or ride the MTR fast, i would be long gone.

The front desk wasn't helpful either. They knew little English. And conversing with them is quite hard. A feat if they get what you want to say. Yeah i know, the hotel per day is cheap but i think i can get better value in another hotel. If you ask me the next time i'm in Hong Kong, will i stay in Bridal Tea House? The answer is NO.

Because i know i can find better deal in Tsim Tsa Tsui where i know, not only most shopping places are located, your neighbor is also a bar I'm dying to go back again because... someone's waiting for me there. I hope I'm remembered.

ALL-TIME FAVORITE POST FROM 2011 RE-BLOGGED:

Most people who go to Hong Kong maximize their MTR pass by shuttling from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island through its efficient and superb train service. When I went there the second time around, I was tipped to ride the star ferry going to Hong Kong Island. And boy was I right with my decision. The view was spectacular and the cool breeze was so refreshing. I had a grand time walking around to all directions and effortlessly wait for a few minutes before the boat docks to Hong Kong’s financial district.

Next time you're in Hong Kong, better make sure you skip one ride to the MTR and head to the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier. It takes about 9 minutes of pure joy as you cruise.

TIP: Best time to ride the Star Ferry is early morning and late at night, avoiding the crowds while having the best uninterrupted view of the harbor. Enjoy!

Check out the schedule here!

Map and schedule sourced from here.

ALL-TIME FAVORITE POST FROM 2011 RE-BLOGGED:

So you've just arrived in the pulsating country of Hong Kong. It's been a short, or long flight and chances are, you didn't like the food the airline served you for breakfast. You just exited the train from Hong Kong International Airport, and you're in the throbbing unofficial capital of Hongkong, Kowloon. You can't wait to roam around and shop for awesome finds but your starving already. You're now on the hunt for the best food for your first meal.

GOOD NEWS:

Finding good food this side of the world shouldn't pose a problem, because there's just so many restaurants offering authentic and world-class cuisine. Whether you fancy sushi, buckwheat noodles, a slappy high grade burger, or whatever delectable is in your mind, you will find it on the next block for sure.

BAD NEWS:

The bad news is that if you arrive early in Hong Kong, most restaurants won't open until noon. That's what happened to me during my last visit. I starved and waited for them restaurants to open. On the hunt for any restaurant open, i discovered other alternative places to check out when you're already crazy hungry in Kowloon.

I've survived a few hours with growling tummy. After a few bites of tasty bread from 7-11, i started looking for food. I am not connoisseur! But i guess, food in general is subjective. As long as i find the food ridiculously tasty, then i am writing it. I want to leave fancy critique to other bloggers out there. I'll just take you here at Pinoy Boy Journals on a walking tour around Kowloon, searching for the tastiest food in Hong Kong.

Because backpackers will die of hunger if there's no 7-11! For backpackers, 7-11 stores are a staple to find go-to-meals that won't burn a hole in the pocket. I've managed to drop by a few times there to buy soda and crackers. Sometimes, when I'm too tired to scout for some more places to eat, I'll buy microwavable food there and just re-heat it at the hotel.

Some of the food they offer are forgettable like those beef curry strips but the clubhouse sandwich and pasta supreme are good value for your money. Prices aren't cheap but i've managed to buy discounted chips. Yes! You've read that right. Sometimes, if you buy one, you get the other for half the price. What i love about Hong Kong is that they serve Vitamin C water which is a perfect alternative to bad, bad soft drinks.

The story of the duck

A friend once told me for a globetrotter, i am quite the picky eater. I couldn't agree with him more. Firstly, i don't eat pork unless of course it's "siomai", "sisig" (google it), bad processed food like hot dogs and spams. I don't eat peking duck at all. During my last visit to Hong Kong, I've narrowed down my list of top five best experiences, and the duck isn't even included. Although i think I've tried it once for experience but it surely it isn't palatable to me. In Hong Kong, there's tons of food places where you can sample the best peking duck ,whether it is fried or broiled and served with rice or in a sandwich. Of course, i had to leave it to some people to experience that.

While roaming around Tsim Sha Tsui, i was looking for a nice and affordable place to eat. It's my first big meal in Hong Kong and i want to make it special. It's been a long time since i last came to this country, and i felt as if i was traveling to Hong Kong for the first time. I had my favorites like the lunch to-go at the basement of IFC Mall and one of those quaint noodles shops in Lang Kwai Fong. Other than that, my recommendations are pretty slim.

My Captain, Old Captain!

And then i stumbled upon a restaurant named Old Captain's. It's not an authentic Chinese restaurant. It's actually a Chinese owned, Vietnamese restaurant serving authentic Viet food with a fusion of Chinese and Continental delicacies. Prices are shown in the menu outside the restaurant so it's not intimidating. The food produce is fresh and cooked right when you order it. Those manning the restaurant are a friendly bunch who would make sure every customer is served well. All in all, i found myself making the most out of the money i spent, maybe even more. If there's one place to eat that i can really recommend in Hong Kong, it's this place. I ate there almost three times because the food was so good. Check out some pics i took, guys!

seafood fried rice

lemon chicken

fried spring rolls

garlic shrimp

Food isn't necessarily cheap in Hong Kong. I know there's tons of other places in Kowloon where you can dine for cheap. But if you want to experience the real deal, you need to shed a few dollars, i guess. It's a hit or miss, actually. I've eaten in a fancy restaurant and spent a grand total of $50USD for three people, and i can still taste how awful the food was. So the next day, it was time again for some Old Captain's food trip. While walking at night, the scent of jasmine and garlic being cooked in oil is enough to whet anyone's appetite. It sure did to me. I've eaten in other restaurants during my stay but only Old Captain's made me write another food blog entry.

Now that I'm done eating, it's time to walk around errr... shop!

Old Captain's

G/F,Woon Lee Commercial Building,7-9 Austin Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui

Hong Kong

STORY: Because Hong Kong is only a few hours by plane from Manila, chances are you’ll find Filipinos there. Actually, all one hundred forty thousand of them are now based and working as household help, IT specialists, bankers and musicians, nonetheless. I remember the first time I went to this place. I was tagged along by a Greek solo backpacker I met in 2007 at Tsim Tsa Tsui. She wanted to take me to this great club in Central, Hong Kong Island. Little did i know, i will be heading to Sticky Fingers. Recently, I came back and the place looked different. The interiors have changed for the better, but it's the same cool and chill vibe which is always pleasant and exciting. So many expats were amped for the night, dancing and singing to famous tunes covered by Filipino cover artists. I couldn’t help but feel proud where I am from. I felt home there.

I realized one thing, as I sip my bitter Guinness beer. If more and more people would frequent Filipino owned bars/clubs in Hong Kong or anywhere in the world, we would be helping out our fellowmen. More income for the bars/clubs mean more jobs for Filipinos. Therefore, more money for the families of these Filipinos. So I say, support Philippines in Hong Kong. We are not only helping our fellowmen, we are also helping our country prosper. Think about it.

The narrow streets, the rush of midday passers-by and the aroma of freshly cooked rice fill the air as you walk around Hong Kong. It's true, the transport system which includes the tram, the train and the bus are efficient but there's a more romantic feel to walking around, and discovering the real core of Hong Kong living by just taking time to walk around. I bought a Hong Kong train pass but i didn't maximize it to the full. I have all the reasons why. Instead, i was able to navigate along plush roads and intersecting districts in the heart of Kowloon in Hong Kong. I think that alone made a whole lot of difference. Through experience, i was able to learn a few things that i will be sharing with you on how to gracefully walk around and abound while shopping in Hong Kong, minus the swollen feet.

1. Start early to avoid the rush. Be the first customer.

Anyone who's been to Hong Kong, chances are they will tell you that the bulk of time spent shopping or roaming is in the afternoon. Mornings are usually left for far-flung out hots pots like the Tian Tan Buddha, Wong Tai Sin Temple and Po Lin Monastery. Why not exchange times? Afternoons have far lesser number of people in temples and more people on the streets. I suggest adjusting your schedule and waking up at 7AM and having your breakfast al fresco. Gear up with comfortable clothing. Girls, no peep toe heels please. Guys, you won't have a problem, i guess. Be right there when the shops open around 9AM. Please be advised that some shops open not until noon.The first customer who bargains and asks for a cheaper price usually gets it. It's for good luck! Brush up on your bargaining skills and start planning on that piece you've been meaning to buy.

2. Grab quick bites in between to rest and sample the best cuisine.

Around lunch time (after 12NN please), head out to street markets to sample the freshest produce. Whether you fancy dumplings or croissants, it's your call. The tip here is to get as many small bites during the day as possible. It's not only good for those who want to diet, it's also a good tool to sample every good food from world-class restaurants. A good tip is to grab a quick brunch around 10AM. During lunch time, while everyone's eating, you go for the kill on that awesome leather bag. Around 3PM, you go get yourself some steak and fries. Before dinner, you order fresh milk tea and other sweets. Then, you'll have a fancy dinner by the bay around 10pm. An option after that luxurious dinner is to go out for drinks at one of the many stylish clubs in Lang Kwai Fong. You eat when there's not a lot of people, you shop when they're all eating. It's that simple!

3. If you see something you like, buy it.

On many occasions that i have been scooting Tsim Sha Tsui and Lang Kwai Fong, i always find myself salivating on precious items that i want to purchase right away. But the mindset that i can always find it somewhere else always pops in my head. I forgo the item and next thing i know, I'm leaving the airport ended up, not buying anything at all. When you see something you like, and within a few meters you still haven't found a cheaper alternative, buy it! Yes you can bargain but if the lady owner is giving you a hard time, let this be your chance to walk away from the item. But if in the next few minutes, you still can't stop thinking about, it's a sign my friend. You know what to do.

4. Schedule your trips wisely. Shop for souvenirs at night. Big purchases the next day. Shoes in the afternoon.

Shopping is the national sport in Hong Kong. And no matter where and when, there's always something to buy. Plan ahead and schedule your shopping expedition wisely. Don't purchase big items in the morning and end up carrying it until late at night. Shop for souvenirs at night when market sellers are about to close. Bargain! During this time, an item sold whether it's cheaper than that in the tag is still an item sold. As always, learn to purchase shoes in the afternoon when your feet has already swollen. You don't want to commit the same mistake as i did before, buying it first thing in the morning. As advised, some shops open at noon, so never schedule an all out shopping spree in the morning.

5. Do your homework.

Nothing beats someone informed of shopping hot spots. Study the routes to where you want to shop. Concentrate on same district shops and visit them accordingly. Buy guidebooks and grab that free map which you can get at the airport and train stations. Invest time reading and familiarizing yourself at night so that in the morning, you don't have to worry whether you're going in the right direction. You don't want to spend an incredible amount of time trying to get direction from a clueless man.

6. Walk out of the way, and you'll find hidden gems.

Shopping for awesome finds in Hong Kong works in mysterious ways. There are hidden gems tucked away in out of the way places. You'll be surprised how much you can find for more than half the price. The beauty about doing this is the many discoveries and enchantment you will unravel. Remember, stores that are found along Nathan road and Pedder Street offer a marked up price compared to those found in little out of the way stores like in Jordan and Argyle. These places aren't easy to find for first timers but the experience of discovering a vintage awesome piece for 80% less is enough to make you say wow!

Photo of Pedder Street taken from the over pass

Almost anywhere in the world, you're bound to meet a con artist. Life is tough, money is sometimes hard to find. He/She is set to get your money! Nowadays, there's brilliance in their master plan and execution. You will often credit them for their creativity. They think of the wittiest and most brilliant ideas on how to get your travel money. If you're traveling to Hong Kong and you're around Pedder Street, keep yourself alert at all times. If you see a charismatic Hindu Guru going your way, stay away from him.

Not the real Hindu Guru of Pedder Street. Sourced from here

The Project:

"I can see in your eyes...a bright future. You look happy but a part of you is sad...What is wrong?"

For someone like me who values teachings of the gods and believes in destiny. These became fruits of the tongue. I was with my sister and it's her first time around Hong Kong. He must have spotted these two camera toting tourists lost. Little did he know, we're not newbies anymore.

He showed us an image of a Hindu God. He asked us to pick a paper from his props which he then started to flicker in the air. Little by little, the tattered pieces of paper were blown in the air.

He asked us for our birthday and he promise to tell us our future.

At this point i was getting interested. Not because i believe him but because this act is getting more and more complex.

Okay.

After a few minutes, there goes the catch. He again showed us the image of the Hindu God and signed us to donate money.

We don't want trouble, we don't want to fight.

We gave 5HKD which is about $.50 SD or P25. He said, "do you have bills?".

I laughed a bit and we tried to leave him.

Are you friggin' kiddin' me? I live in Manila. We are used to these kinds of things.

Well, just a friendly reminder to you guys. If you have similar stories of con men and women, whether in Hong Kong or other countries around the world, please do share them with me so that others will know.

Interesting stories in Hong Kong Island

Those who can make you believe absurdities
can make you commit atrocities.
~ Voltaire, Author and Philosopher, ( 1694 - 1778)

ALL-TIME FAVORITE POST FROM 2010 RE-BLOGGED: It's crowded, it's hectic and it's the most traveled destination in Hong Kong. But still, i love every single time I'm here! I've always been fascinated with Hong Kong Cinema and my most favorite films of all time like 'In the mood for love' and 'Chungking Express' among others have been written, directed and shot in this country. So, going to this massive tourist hot spot in Hong Kong is like going to my mother ship. It's my fourth time in total, exploring the famous Avenue of Stars. I felt my creative veins pumping blood of stories as i walked along this avenue. I felt the energy and i am so inspired.

"I sat at one of the wooden benches, finding inspiration for a film i've been meaning to write. I didn't have a premise nor a storyline. It didn't have a beginning nor an ending. But it was such a beautiful day to dream and realize that i found myself traveling far and wide in my mind. I soon discovered that there are four types of people in Hong Kong which i would like to share with you all.

The fun loving tourist

In Avenue of Stars, all tourists flock to have their photos taken right on the very same spot where a million others have already snapped their souvenir photos. It's not unusual but it's certainly isn't wrong, even for extreme backpackers. The tourists find themselves amazed by the beauty of the location, they pulsate towards out of this world structures like for example, this director statue. I have a photo with this guy too. I just realized how each and everyone of us dream of becoming superstars. We just don't admit it but by the way we actuate, we love the limelight. We aspire for the Hollywood celebrities' life whose photos are plastered all over the world. We crave for attention.

The busy-ness men and women

They walk in Avenue of Stars because it's the closer route going to the train station. They walk around amidst a crowd of European and Asian men and women. They don't think about them tourists. They don't care about where they're from or how long they are staying. Sometimes, they even get irritated for us tourists have already taken a few seconds of their precious time by just walking in front of them. These people live for the time spent not stopping by and taking it all in, but living the real world. The world whose life starts once you clock in at work. The amount of time spent at work equals the value of one's life. Sometimes, they walk in tandem but most of the time they only say a few lines like "the weather is good today!" or "what should i have for dinner?" They are busy and they actually enjoy it!

The lonely soul-searcher

You could be a 20-something fresh graduate and you're soul searching or you could be a 70-year old widower and you're soul searching, too. These people are quiet, calm and dreaming. They live for every second time spent wondering and wandering about their past, their present and their future. I am like them most of the time. I am proud of that. The soul searcher will never find what they're looking for because on the hindsight of things, they have nothing to look for. They are secretly happy about their life, trying to find meaning in their supposedly sad life. Next time you see one of them, don't feel sad for they have truly upped their way of thinking. They are living the best days of their lives.

The Hungry-hippies

They look for the latest exchange of USD to HKD, they are eager and aggressive to climb the corporate ladder. They aren't careful of other's feelings, they are hungry for power and money. They walk care-freely because they are irreplaceable in the company. Who cares if they are late for half an hour or an hour, no one knows how to do what they do. They are far superior among their colleagues and they like to keep it that way. But deep inside, they try to achieve what others cannot because they are afraid, very afraid. They need to invest in money and power because they don't want to come back home in the far west empty handed. Yes, they will rule the world in the greatest sense, but they will never rule themselves.