Arrival in Hong Kong

After spending 26 hours to get from my home in Wisconsin, USA to my hotel in Hong Kong, I can finally enjoy the beginning of my journey.  My flight was the best international flight I’ve ever experienced, it was very smooth and comfortable. However, after my flight is when the adventures really started…

The airport was fairly easy to navigate, which I was very thankful for.  Shortly after entering the airport, I was amazed to see the beautiful and unexpected view of mountains. I absolutely love the character that mountains can give to a foreign land.

To get to the main part of the airport I had to take a very fast train/subway.  Again, it was very easy to get around.  I have been very *lucky* (I don’t want to jinx anything) that whenever I’ve traveled, the airline has never lost my luggage.  After picking up my two 49 pound bags from the claim, I went through a very quick customs line.

I found the entrance to Hong Kong very different from my previous entrance to the Shanghai airport in 2012. In Hong Kong they did not use any security as I was leaving the airport. In Shanghai every bag and piece of luggage is thoroughly screened, I had to negotiate with the officers to keep my camera battery!

I made my way through the airport looking for a spot to catch a taxi. Google told me that my hotel should be about a 17 minute ride from the airport; but I could not find any signs for taxis, I did however see easy directions to the bus system at the airport. I decided to take a chance and try the busses, although I was tired.  I only had to pay 20HKD, about $2.60, for the ride! I took line E21 and made a friend on the bus ride, who helped me figure out the correct stop for me. After a lot of help from the bus driver I finally got off the bus, after about a 40 minute ride.

I proceeded to hurry off the bus and tried to maneuver my ridiculous about of stuff. After wandering near the highway for a good 15 minutes, I just wanted to get to my room to shower and sleep. I found a taxi stand, and gave my hotel address to the driver. He said, “You don’t need a taxi, it’s right over there.” I thanked him and tried to navigate myself towards that direction. After another 25 minutes of wandering and asking 7 more strangers for directions, I finally found my hotel.

I haven’t felt that accomplished in a very long time. I flew across the North Pole, navigated the airport, used public transportation, FOUND MY HOTEL FINALLY, and all while lugging around 2 huge suitcases, an overweight backpack and a full purse.

Side Note: Sorry this was such a long post. I don’t think I will typically write this much. I’ve been awake since 1:45am Hong Kong time, thanks a lot jet lag!

Thanks for reading! Now for some sightseeing these next few days 🙂