Yim Tin Tsai

If you visit Hong Kong, you also have to visit the many outlying islands. Obvious picks are Lantau Island and Tai O. But for something quieter and smaller Yim Tin Tsai is great. A short boat ride from Sai Kung, it took 2 hours to walk around the island. There isn't much to see but salt pans, the lone church and a cluster of abandoned houses. Regardless, it provided some much needed respite from the bustling city and a chance to exercise.

Hong Kong Protests

I was born in Hong Kong and moved to Australia when I was two. Even though I am not fluent in Cantonese, and not well versed in the traditions, I forever identify myself as being from Hong Kong. Not from China, from Hong Kong.When the protests first begun, I wished there was more I could do. I felt guilty being safe in Australia whilst so many people were fighting for my rights. I had planned a trip to Hong Kong prior to the protests, and with the travel date approaching I considered cancelling. But, what better way to support the city than visiting?

The city has changed, but the underlying feeling remains the same. Hong Kong is still fast paced, the people are courteous and the food amazing. However, the civil unrest has left obvious marks - ripped up pavements, pro-democracy graffiti, early train station closures. Previously stores were open til late, now closing times of six were usual - if the stores opened in the first place.Even with the obvious difference to the Hong Kong I used to know, I never felt unsafe. Wary and cautious, yes. But never dangerous.

With the recent election results (sweeping support for pro-democracy parties), I hope the future of my home remains free.

  

Centennial Park Picnic

Trying to make the most of a weekday, Kyle and I went for a picnic in Centennial Park. There were parking and picnic spots galore, and a quiet breeze making it perfect for some reading.

For Benson there were many trees to wee against, grass to sniff, and just places in general to drag us to.

Pricey, but super smooth, soft serve ice cream.

Instead of being at home and doing nothing, it was great to be outside and do nothing.

Catmosphere

I've started to value experiences instead of things, so for my last birthday I requested a visit to Catmosphere Cafe - a cat cafe! You book a session time, which includes a drink, in either the mellow cat room (1 hour sessions), or have the zoomy kitten experience (30 minute sessions). They are now also offering cat cinema and yoga with cats :O

Since this is my first visit, I opted to hang out with the cool cats. There were 13 cats and although around half of the them were sleeping, a good handful were happy to be patted and played with. 

With my want to pat cats satiated, we headed to Kura for birthday ramen and then strolled through Darling Harbor.

Plants With Bite

Attempting to do something other than play video games for the entirety of the Christmas break, Kyle and I checked out the current exhibit at The Calyx - Plants With Bite. Carnivorous plants sits in a weird place of being a plant, but also being a bit more, and with the chance to purchase my own I was more than excited to go.

Considering The Calyx is right next to the Royal Botanic Garden, it was an obvious choice to have a stroll through. It was wonderful as usual.