Around HK

It's really neat to be able to come back to a bustling city like Hong Kong. This was my third week-long visit (previously in 2004 and 2008) and they get better everytime. I can see why some folks enjoy going back to the same place for vacation - you don't get lost every turn and you still find new excitements each go-round. Here are a few things I noticed:

Where you lodge is the area you're most familiar and know best. Don't get me wrong, you go out and see sights and such, but you usually end up discovering the best foods and drinks around your accomodations. My only point is when you're only somewhere for a week at a time make sure you pick a good location - it's not really worth the extra trekking no matter how much you save.

The "shock factor" decreases. I remember my first step in downtown HK - boy did it STINK! This time the smell didn't even phase me. Being familiar with the smells of trash in 100 degree weather, consistent sounds of cars driving by, or the random drips of AC water on your forearm allows you to be more comfortable. Which leads to having more fun... i mean, who hates fun?

You learn interesting facts that you just don't get the first time around.

• You can charge your cell phone battery for 30 minutes at ANY 7-Eleven for $1US
• If you see a tall, skinny model-ish looking woman she most likely is a model, but they apparently haven't "made it"... yet
• The airport is outside of the city, so you can check into your flight at the downtown mall (IFC) - this is especially nice when your check-out is at 11am and you leave at 8pm.
• It's more convenient to get off a metro stop further away and taxi home because of the one-way streets
• Pulling your luggage up the Central-Mid Levels Escalator is fine - carrying your luggage down the stairs is not so fine (my, how my arms hate me...)