Mr Shallot has already seen quite a bit on his reconnaissance missions so armed with his experiences, the trusted Lonely Planet and also some advice from my neighbours, I’ve set out and about.
I’ve seen / been to the usual tourist spots such as Stanley Markets, Temple Street Markets and The Peak and I have also done some more unusual things such as a trip to Shenzheng as well as some hiking (the latter two will be in another posting).
Stanley Markets during the week and early in the morning is surprisingly quiet and unless you want to encounter a crowd and a ‘true’ market experience, this is actually the best time to go. It is a stark contrast to my Shenzheng experiences in that you’re not hassled to buy anything and there is very little bargaining. Overall, quite a relaxing market experience. I went with one of my neighbours and while eating lunch, we began chatting with a fellow diner and found that he’s from Paradise Point. The longer I am here, the smaller the world seems! I’ve lost count of how many Australians I seem to have met.
Temple Street Markets are best seen in the evening. It looks like a row of stalls that go on forever. It is in a typically HK looking area with the bright neon signs overhanging the street and the smells of food coming out of all the side shops. Looks great! Different things are on sale here than at the Stanley Markets. It’s a great place to bargain and a lot cheaper than the Stanley Markets for some clothes. Temple Street Markets tend to have more electrical gear and some clothing whereas Stanley Markets seem to have more jewellery, knick-knack things, woodwork, linen and clothing. The markets also differ in atmosphere so I think it’s worthwhile to go to both. We had a great meal at the Temple Street Markets of wanton noodle soup for less than AUD2 each! Our meal at Stanley Street Markets was more western and about AUD20.
The Peak is a must for any tourist to HK. In particular, the tram to the top at an angle of 45° (or thereabouts) is amazing. I found myself being quite impressed with the brakes on it given that it stops a number of times on the way up. I was lucky to have chosen a really clear day to do this so the view was stunning. From the summit, I could see most of HK island itself and felt quite overwhelmed at one point with the size and congestion of it all yet it is so quiet up there. The buildings look amazing and very modern which is in contrast to when I’m standing next to some of them. At street level, I find some of the buildings to look quite depressing as there are rows of the same older structure with air-conditioners hanging off them and laundry in every window. 
It’s a massive contrast to the Central area and random other areas which have some really modern buildings yet even these have some slum like buildings near by which is quite sobering to see. It is best to come here during the week as there are apparently less people and there is also specials offered on food at a number of the restaurants there.
And the race to find a job and see the sights continues…….
