Monday, April 14, 2008

Greeting From China

We have been in China for several days and have had some of the most amazing experiences. In two days, while touring Hong Kong, we traveled by plane, bus, van, taxi, tram, subway, ferry, and on foot. We climbed along the trails of Victoria's Peak and then walked in the open markets in downtown Kowloon. The culture is rich with tradition and rooted in hospitality and grace. Everyone we have encountered has been so gracious and invested in making sure that our stay is comfortable.

The city of Hong Kong was extremely different from any other large city I have experienced. The land is limited and the buildings are excessively tall, towering on the mountain side at 30 to 35 floors high. Being accessible only by ferry has afforded the merchants in Hong Kong to price their goods at a very high rate. Bartering was not practiced in the stores we visited. As a matter of fact, one merchant stated "It is what it is".

The environment is beautiful with lush greenery and vibrantly colored flowers. The air is filled with birds and the hum of locus. The temperature is in the 70's and at night through the mosquito netting there is a cool breeze. Our experiences with cuisine have opened our eyes to how conservative we are with our eating habits. It is not uncommon to greet your meal on the way in and then bid farewell to it as it is delivered to your plate. The variety of vegetables surpasses any food guide that we would have in the United States. Meals are colorful and considered to be an extremely social experience. Having a dinner that lasts most of the evening is common practice.

My journey has only begun and I cannot wait to continue to share as we continue our travels.

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