Finally, Hong Kong!!!

March 8
Beijing from the plane

We boarded the plane in Bangkkok at 12:30 am headed for Beijing. I was so excited because I had a whole row to myself. But my excitement soon disappeared the plane did not move for 2.5 hours because of mechanical troubles. I was scheduled to land at 6 am in Beijing and get my connecting flight at 8 am for Hong Kong. I landed 10 mins late and I missed my flight. The flight attendant had me get off first with my backpack (12 kg) and told me to get to the transfer desk as soon as I could to get the next flight out. Now, I haven't run since November and add 12 kg to that.... I was exhausted. The transfer desk moved me to the front of the line.

She had me flying out on the next flight..... I had 15 minutes to get to my gate as they we're boarding already. I had to get through 2 security points....so I budded in. Most people were great in letting be go ahead of them.

First impression of Hong Kong from the plane

After all that, I was only an hour later. Went through customs and headed out for the Airport Express Line train to the HK stop where I waited for a free shuttle to my hotel.

Checked in and was given a free smart phone to use while I stayed there. Free internet and free calling to Canada!!! (It's not an iPhone so I'm not working it too well).

I went out looking for an eyewear store. It seems I lost both my nose pads off my glasses. Got them replaced and then went shopping....now this place is real retail therapy! I walked to a shopping area called Time Squuare - all designer stores... Jimmy Choo, Burberry, Kate Spade, Yves St. Laurent, Channel - just to name a few.

Around the corner, I found these stores - a sharp contrast between new and old.

Tomorrow I am meeting up with a friend (Roma) of a friend (Neko). Neko lives here in HK and had planned an exciting tour day for me. Stay tuned!